Lonely Planet's Top 10 Best Destinations in Asia for 2017
Planning your next Asian adventure? Lonely Planet's expert travel writers have explored ancient wonders, vibrant cities, and pristine islands across the continent to uncover the most compelling destinations for 2017.
Our selections blend timeless favorites with fresh appeal, emerging hotspots brimming with experiences, and undiscovered gems. Discover where to head next in Asia for an unforgettable trip.
1. Gansu, China
Gansu boasts snow-capped mountains, vast skies, and rich Silk Road heritage, featuring dramatic landscapes from Xiahe's arid peaks to the vibrant rainbow dunes of Zhangye Danxia National Geopark. Beyond the stunning scenery, its cuisine—particularly Lanzhou's hand-pulled noodles—has won a devoted foodie fanbase.
Excellent connectivity via high-speed rail and new highways makes exploration easy, with Lanzhou's upcoming metro set to further improve access. Remote sites like Bingling Monastery's giant Buddha retain a magical aura, while the Mogao Grottoes—Gansu's premier Buddhist art treasure—saw major enhancements in 2015 yet remain refreshingly uncrowded.
2. South of Tokyo, Japan
Just south of Tokyo, two standout cities deserve a spot on your Japan itinerary. Yokohama, Japan's second-largest city, is a quick 20-minute train ride away, offering bayside charm, diverse architecture, craft breweries, and delectable eats. From August 4 to November 5, 2017, the Yokohama Triennale (yokohamatriennale.jp) adds world-class contemporary art.
Or venture to Kamakura, Japan's first feudal capital, less than an hour from Tokyo. This elegant coastal town blends ancient temples and shrines amid lush hills, a thriving surf culture, cozy cafes, and its famous giant Buddha statue.
3. Northern Kerala, India
While Kerala's southern beaches draw crowds, the north has quietly emerged as a serene alternative, revealing tranquil backwaters and pristine shores.
Marking India's 70th independence anniversary in 2017, the new Kannur International Airport—Kerala's largest—opens up the region. Pristine beaches near Kannur, Thottada, and Bekal boast new homestays and resorts rivaling Goa. Inland, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary offers prime elephant spotting amid lush hills.
4. Keong Saik Road, Singapore
Transformed from a notorious red-light district, Keong Saik Road now epitomizes 'New Singapore' cool. Colonial and art-deco facades house top fusion dining spots like Meta, trendy rooftop bars such as Potato Head Singapore, and chic stays at Naumi Liora.
Nearby Neil Road and Tek Lim Road have followed suit, creating a vibrant enclave perfect for foodies and nightlife seekers in this dynamic city-state.
5. Astana, Kazakhstan
Amid Kazakhstan's endless steppes rises Astana, a futuristic skyline of glass pyramids, golden spires, and the world's largest marquee—built on oil wealth and visionary design.
From mid-June to mid-September 2017, it hosts Expo 2017 on sustainable energy. Visa-free entry for citizens of 45 countries (EU, USA, Canada, Australia) up to 30 days, plus new light rail and bus upgrades, make this modern metropolis more accessible than ever.
6. Takayama, Japan
Takayama's timeless charm endures since the 17th century: morning markets bustle, temples open to sunlight, and festivals like Takayama Matsuri dazzle in spring and autumn.
Yet modernization creeps in—a sleek new station, international visitors. Visit now to experience this 'temple town' before it evolves further.
7. Xi'an, China
Cycle Xi'an's complete Ming Dynasty walls—the only full circuit in China. As the Silk Road's eastern terminus and former Tang capital, it offers Muslim Quarter vibrancy, Hua Shan peaks, imperial tombs, Tang pagodas, and the iconic Terracotta Warriors marking 30 UNESCO years in 2017.
With a leisurely pace, new hotels, bars, cafes, and 72-hour visa-free transit, Xi'an shines brighter than ever.
8. Sri Lanka's Hill Country
Escape coastal humidity via scenic train to Sri Lanka's temperate Hill Country. Start in Kandy with its lake, sacred temples, and gardens, then explore tea-carpeted hills—visit the Ceylon Tea Museum for insights.
Nuwara Eliya evokes colonial elegance in grand hotels; Ella emerges as a hiking hub with indie cafes.
9. Melaka City, Malaysia
UNESCO status since 2008 has revitalized Melaka's historic heart into boutique hotels, eateries, and galleries.
The Melaka River now stars with boat rides and upcoming water taxis. Highlights include Zheng He Duo Yun Zuan gallery, weekend Trash & Treasure market, and Shore Shopping Gallery's Sky Tower views.
10. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
'Raja' means king, fitting for this Indonesian archipelago of white sands, jungles, and mushroom islets—a marine biodiversity hotspot with over 200 pristine dive sites.
Recent reef damage was contained; ecotourism growth ensures Raja Ampat reigns supreme among Asia's islands.
Explore Lonely Planet's curated Best in Asia list for timeless inspiration.
