3 months ago
98
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Asia is often synonymous with history and culture, and plenty of the continent’s beauty lies in the architecture. Some of the best architecture in Asia not only showcases the historical grandeur of each country but also highlights a remarkable contemporary brilliance of innovation.
List of Best Architecture in Asia
Citing TripAdvisor, TimeOut, and Design Times, the Palace Museum is named among the best architecture in Asia. Other notable landmarks include:
The Palace Museum
Taking the top spot, the Palace Museum, housed in the Forbidden City at the core of Beijing, China, is widely regarded as one of the best pieces of architecture in Asia. Spanning approximately 178 acres, this vast complex was once home to 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
As one of the prime examples of traditional Chinese palatial architecture, the Palace Museum was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. Its majestic design stands as a lasting, true testament to China’s imperial mastery and architectural excellence.
Dragon Temple
TimeOut celebrates Thailand’s Dragon Temple, or Wat Samphran, among the best architecture in Asia. This Buddhist temple, with its soft, dusty pink building, rises in an enchanting spiral, where a majestic 17-story dragon sculpture wraps around the exterior.
Located just outside of Bangkok city, a visit to Wat Samphran promises a unique experience of the glimpse of Buddhism in Thailand, where each level reveals a new layer of the area’s spiritual depth. Don’t miss the highlight of typical tourist things here—capturing a memorable photo of the temple from the outside.
Theatres on the Bay
While Singapore’s ArtScience Museum often takes the spotlight, the Theaters on the Bay is also another unforgettable sight in the city-state’s architectural landscape. Nestled in Marina Bay, the structure of this architectural icon features the Esplanade, a performance venue known for its unique spiky design, resembling durian fruits.
However, citing from Esplanade.com, the resemblance to the tropical fruit was purely coincidental. The visionary architects, DP Architects and Michael Wilford & Partners, evolved the design over time, leading to the creation of the iconic, distinctive structure.
Jockey Club Innovation Tower
Jockey Club Innovation Tower in Hong Kong truly depicts the region’s brilliance and sophistication in embracing modernity. Designed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid, this contemporary building’s fluid shape defies traditional straight lines structure, creating such organic and dynamic presence
This creative and innovative design perfectly reflects the institution it houses—the Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design and the Jockey Club Design Institute of Social Innovation. Inside, the tower is a hub of inspiration, with its fully functional labs, design studios, and versatile classrooms supporting over 1,800 students in their pursuit of creativity and innovation.
Petronas Twin Towers
At the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the Petronas Twin Towers stand as a bold testament to the city’s harmonious embrace of both Islamic values and modernity. Once considered one of the world’s tallest buildings, these soaring structures are a fully functional office of Petronas, Malaysia’s petroleum company.
To fully immerse yourself in the tower’s breathtaking exterior, take a leisurely stroll through the KLCC Park, where you can enjoy the view from every angle. Don’t forget to explore the shopping mall nestled beneath the towers, adding a touch of vibrant city life to the experience.
Green School
What sets Bali’s Green School apart from other architectural marvels on this list is the profound value it embodies—sustainability and eco-friendliness. Entirely made from bamboo, this Bali school showcases an innovative approach to both design and education.
Not only is it sustainable by the structure, but Green School is also powered by a number of alternative energy sources, showing its deep commitment to the mission of eco-conscious living. Despite its unique approach, the school operates just like any other—offering classrooms, a gym, offices, and all the essential facilities, proving that sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into daily life.
Taj Mahal
The UNESCO World Heritage Centre official website has rightfully acclaimed the Taj Mahal as the greatest architectural achievement in the entire realm of Indo-Islamic architecture. Completed in 1648 AD, this masterpiece is an unparalleled symbol of grandeur, reflecting not only the opulence of an era but also the profound love of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
The Taj Mahal’s design is a marvel of symmetry, adorned with exquisite relief work in marble and both precious and semi-precious stones, each detail carefully crafted to enhance its breathtaking beauty.
From ancient palaces to futuristic skyscrapers, these seven stunning structures highlight the region's creativity, historical depth, and commitment to innovation. If you’re inspired to uncover more of the continent’s remarkable tapestry, be sure to check out the best museums in Asia.
Editor’s Choice: Top 5 Places Where to Spend Chinese New Year 2025 in Asia
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
