Terra cotta warriors and their steeds patiently await you in China. Japan’s frenetic urban centers and its tranquil Zen gardens beckon in equal measure. Ha Long Bay’s mystical monolithic islands, hidden caves and enchanting grottoes welcome you to fall under their spell. Traveling to Asia has never been more rewarding, as the Western world has recently taken notice of the region’s growing economic and cultural influence. There are dozens of big-name attractions well worth visiting, including the Great Wall of China, the Temple of the Golden Buddha, the Taj Mahal and the temples of Angkor in Vietnam. But as with any immense region with a complex kaleidoscope of natural and cultural diversity, there are literally thousands of hidden gems for every major tourist attraction.