There’s something uniquely fascinating about the Orient. From the breathtaking mountain peaks of Nepal to the centuries-old temples in Japan, Asian culture has been enriched over the centuries with traditions and customs. For travelers who seek to explore these rich, diverse cultures, a cultural tour in Asia is a great way to explore the traditions of the Orient.

1. Exploring the Timeless Traditions of the Orient

The Orient has been at the globally revered center of cultural renaissance for centuries now. Its timeless traditions continue to captivate and fascinate, and a closer exploration of them can be truly rewarding.

One of the most visible of these is the martial arts. These independently developed yet intertwined sets of practices have been around for millennia, spread out across Okinawa, Japan, China and many other countries of East Asia, including Korea and Thailand. From the philosophy-driven judo and aikido, to the brutal, no-nonsense combat sports of Muay Thai, these martial arts forms cut across disciplines and have been adopted by cultures around the world.

The Orient is also home to an array of instruments, sounds and music styles that have been incorporporated in classical, traditional and modern genres. Whether it’s the soulful sounds of the koto, the bright percussive strings of the shamisen, or the rising melodic flutes and horns of Chinese music, the music of the Orient has inspired millions of listeners across global music scenes.

Finally, the philosophical underpinings of the Orient, whether they be Buddhist, Taoist, Confucianist or even Shintoist, have left their mark on civilizations worldwide. Their succinct teachings on the workings of the world, and its nature, are timeless – providing signposts for people to orient and chart their journeys through life.

2. Experiencing the Colorful Culture of Asia

Asia is the largest and most populated continent on our planet, and with this comes an incredible array of cultural and natural wonders. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the sacred temples of Tibetan Buddhism, exploring Asia is a unique journey that will take you around the world in a single continent.

From steaming bowls of ramen in the Tokyo alleyways to the mountain huts of the Himalayas, exploring the cultural heritage of Asia can be an incredibly eye-opening experience. There’s no other place superior to learning about the spiritual and cultural history of this immense continent, with its myriad of nationalities and traditions.

Here are a few exciting experiences to discover throughout this colorful continent:

• Watch a sunrise over the Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic monuments in India.
• See a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, learning centuries of cultural customs in a single cup.
• Dive the incredible coral reefs of Indonesia, and explore a dazzling underwater kingdom.
• Take a walk around the Great Wall of China, one of the most magnificent engineering works in human history.

Asian cuisine is a standout amongst the best on the planet, and encompasses anything from sushi to spicy curries. Sample Chinese dim sum, or picnic on Thai fruit shakes while watching the glorious sunset over a beach paradise. Delicious treats can be found everywhere, and there’s no better way to get to know a culture than by dining with the locals.

3. Joining Cultural Tours in the Orient

If you’re headed to the Orient and you’re looking for unique ways to experience the culture first-hand, consider joining a cultural tour! Here’s why:

• You get access to many cultural events – from outdoor festivals to cooking classes, there’s usually something happening even in small towns. Joining a tour gives you privileged access to these events, so you can get up close and personal with local customs.
• You get insider tips on the best locations – an experienced guide will be able to tell you the best spots to visit and the hidden gems to look out for. That way, you can get the most out of your journey.

Whether you join a group or go with a private tour, be sure to communicate and encourage dialogue with your fellow travelers. Learning about different cultures is a shared experience, so be open-minded and try to put yourself out of your comfort zone. Ask questions and stay curious!

Exploring the Orient can be an exciting journey of exploration and discovery. Joining a cultural tour is an excellent way to get the most out of your trip, so why not give it a try? You may even learn something new about yourself along the way.

4. Discovering Unique Heritage of Asian Nations

The rich cultural heritage of Asian countries is often underestimated when compared to European societies. Unknown to many, the discovery of Asia’s unique colonial history, educational systems, music and art is an enriching experience. Here is an overview of some of the key facets of the region’s amazing culture:

• Colonial History: From India to Vietnam, Asian countries have a long and colourful history of being under the control of foreign powers. From the invasions of Alexander the Great to the arrival of European traders in the 1500s, the legacy left behind has shaped the regions identity up until today.
• Educational System: Traditional educational principles established by the Chinese and the Indians centuries ago have been adopted by leading schools around the world. Far East cultures are credited for providing the basis of today’s subjects which includes mathematics, the sciences and philosophy.

Music & Art

Asian music and Art is diverse, colourful and often times shockingly beautiful. You will find unique art forms in every pocket of the region with countries like Japan, China and India having their own distinct traditions. Paintings, carving, pottery, metal works, and textiles are all part of the wonderful heritage of Asian art.

Music is also an important part of Asian culture and each country has its own genres. Indian classical music, Japanese Gagaku, or Cambodian Pinpeat music are just a few of the many musical pieces hail from Asia’s rich historical vaults.

5. Experiencing the Splendor of Asian Customs

Asian customs have a long and colorful history, with each country boasting their own unique approaches. From traditional tea ceremonies to fascinating religious practices, there is so much to explore and appreciate. Here are two of Asia’s most spectacular customs:

Yut Nori

Originating in Korea, Yut Nori is a traditional board game played with four sticks and a board with a cross-like shape in the center. Players place their sticks within the cross-shaped space, and then roll their sticks to move their pieces around the board. The winner is the person who is able to cover the most points in the board with their pieces. This game is an integral part of Korean culture, and is often part of competitions and festivals.

Habitual Tea Ceremonies

The traditional tea ceremony is a practice that exists throughout Asia, although it is especially cherished in countries like China, Japan, and Korea. This ritualistic ceremony includes matcha tea powdered with a bamboo whisk, presenting tea and snacks to honoured guests, and a carefully choreographed set of movements. Tea ceremonies honor a variety of occasions such as weddings, funerals, and welcoming ceremonies.

These customs express the spirit of Asia, and provide an incredible insight into its history and culture. For those curious about Asian culture, exploring these customs may be an eye-opening and life changing experience.

Experience the beauty of the Orient for yourself and discover a world of fascinating traditions. Unlock the secrets of Asia on a Cultural Tour and explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. Witness the dazzling colours, incredible sights, and captivating rituals that make up the Traditions of the Orient.