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Asia History and Culture

Ancient wonders of the east

Asia History & Culture Holidays

Introduction

Discover the unique cultures of Asia, from world-wonder temples in Thailand and Indochina to the monuments of the ancient Silk Road and great remnants of China's empirical past.

There's so much choice for history and culture holidays in Asia that you'll struggle to choose somewhere to focus on. The Khmer Empire covered Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam at its height. At the heart of the Empire stands Angkor Wat and the other temple complexes such as Angkor Thom, the Bayon and Kbal Spean. Capital cities such as Bangkok and Phnom Penh are full of temples and palaces, whilst cities such as Chiang Mai and Siem Reap are gateways to discover the past. Bagan's temples and ruins in Burma and the Plain of Jars in Laos are equally mysterious and worthy of exploration.

In China, the Qin Dynasty was short but had an enormous impact. Remnants of the empire include the Terracotta Army in Xi'an, which guards Emperor Qin's tomb. The Great Wall of China also stands as an historic monument to the achievements of ancient cultures, whilst the Forbidden City in Beijing showcases China's magnificent past, its opulent treasures and art.

The Silk Road stands as a living monument and the cities along its length trade on their past role as stop-off points for merchants and travellers; Samarkand in Uzbekistan and Almaty in Kazakhstan are full of spectacular sights and artefacts.

To meet the locals go in search of indigenous groups or hill tribes in Thailand and Vietnam in particular.

These are just some of the options available. You can also tailor-make your history and culture holiday in Asia by adding a city stay, Mekong River cruise, Yangtze River cruise or other excursion to your itinerary; talk to a destination specialist to see what we can do for you.

 

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Our top itineraries for Asia History and Culture

The Vietage Train, Vietnam

Unveiling Vietnam: culture, coasts & the Vietage luxury train

16-day tailor-made holiday from £6,405 pp incl. flights

This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Vietnam, blending rich cultural experiences, stunning coastal landscapes and the unparalleled luxury of the Vietage train.

Udaipur

India's royal palaces & rural charms with The Leela hotels

14-day tailor-made holiday from £4,970 pp incl. flights

Showcase India's rich heritage and vibrant culture via a harmonious blend of world-renowned sights and immersive rural experiences, alongside stays at The Leela Hotels and Palaces.

Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Eastern & Oriental Express & The Riches of the Mekong

21-day luxury rail & cruise holiday from £9,790 pp incl. flights

This exclusive itinerary combines two extraordinary travel experiences in one unforgettable holiday – a luxury Mekong river cruise and a journey on one of the world's most elegant trains.

Hiroshima Castle, Japan

Essence of Japan with Tauck

14-day escorted tour from £12,610 pp incl. flights

Delve deep into storied Japanese culture with this escorted tour with Tauck, visiting everything from the hot springs resort town of Hakone to the cultural treasure trove of Kyoto.

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Top offers for Asia History and Culture

Cherry blossoms, Kyoto, Japan

Japan's cherry blossoms on Seven Seas Explorer 2026

16-day luxury ocean cruise from £11,910 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Enjoy a 2-category suite upgrade
Book by: 28 February 2025

Join Regent Seven Seas Cruises as you explore the diverse wonders of Japan both ancient and modern, all wrapped in the vibrant colours of cherry blossom season.

Ginkakuji temple, Kyoto, Japan

Japan's traditions & temples on Seven Seas Explorer

16-day luxury ocean cruise holiday from £11,180 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Enjoy a 2-category suite upgrade on 28 October 2025 voyage
Book by: 28 February 2025

Sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises to explore the best of Japan's neon mega-cities, gorgeous gardens and multi-tiered temples, all awash in the vibrant colours of autumn.

Buddha statue next to waterway at Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Charms of the Mekong with AmaWaterways

14-day luxury river cruise holiday from £4,435 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Save up to £575 pp on selected departure dates
Book by: 28 February 2025

Enjoy a luxury cruise along the Mekong River between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap with AmaWaterways, discovering culture-rich cities and hidden gems with plenty of local flavour.

Osaka, Japan

Japan's Cherry Blossoms with Silversea

18-day luxury ocean cruise holiday from £10,300 pp incl. flights

Special
cruise offer

Save up to £2,400 pp on selected voyages in 2026
Book by: 28 February 2025

Experience Japan's cherry blossom season on this all-encompassing, all-inclusive luxury Silversea cruise, exploring the country's ancient and modern worlds surrounded by the beauty of spring.

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Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0610 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

Visit us in our London office

Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
  • Established for over 50 years
  • Tailor a holiday to your precise requirements
  • Personalised quotes and documentation

Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

  • Dedicated personal consultants
  • Free airport lounges on qualifying bookings
  • Care and guidance pre, post and during holiday
  • Full financial security: ATOL & ABTOT protected