Asian City Architecture
Though much of the world’s architecture is making leaps and strides in modern day designs, cities across Asia have been keeping traditional styles alive. This is why the Asian city architectures have continued to fascinate onlookers both near and far, who come to view the sometimes centuries-old buildings and designs. From pristine classical temples to soaring skyscrapers, here are some of the world’s most fascinating Asian city architectures.
Tokyo’s Skyline
The city of Tokyo stands out among Japanese cities with its unique architecture, including iconic skyscrapers and private residence rooflines. Many of these can be seen from Tokyo Tower, a 333-meter tall radio tower in the city center that offers stunning views of the cityscape. The Tokyo International Forum offers a selection of buildings with a variety of different shapes, from multi-level spectacle halls and atriums to striking glass and steel exteriors, that all serve multiple purposes.
Sri Lanka’s Ancient Architectural Wonders
Sri Lanka has some of the most breathtaking ancient architectural sites. The Rock Fortress at Sigiriya is a 5th century fortress on top of a 200-meter high rock with stunning frescos on the walls and intricate sculptures. The Dambulla Cave Temple is another example of ancient Sri Lankan architecture, with its five separate caves containing stunning Buddha statues, wall art and other sculptures, the oldest of which dates back to the 1st century BC. Built in the 17th century, the Dutch Reformed Church in Colombo holds its original Dutch-influenced structure and architecture, with an impressive octagonal tower and incredible marble floors.
Singapore Architectural Landscape
Singapore is a bright and vibrant city that is packed full of life as well as an array of buildings with varying modern architectural styles. The Sands Sky Park is one of the most remarkable pieces of engineering in the city, a 150 Meter-long bridge that is supported by three steel towers and covered in tropical foliage. The hotel district is filled with impressive skyscrapers, standing out among the glass and steel facades of the Shoppes at Marina Bay.
Notable Modern Structures In China
The eastern parts of China are known for their traditional architecture, but some of the most impressive modern buildings can be found in the west. The Atelier of the Three Shadows in Beijing is an eye-catching steel structure with a cube-like design. The Canton Tower a 604-meter tall structure in Guangzhou that looks like an hourglass, is the tallest observation tower in Asia. The Shanghai World Financial Center is an incredible 101 story skyscraper that can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.
Modernizing Traditional Structures In Japan
Japan has managed to modernize its traditional structures in order to keep them alive. The Osaka Castle has been fully renovated and equipped with elevators, making it easier to access the top floors that once housed ancient Samurai. The Tokyo SkyTree is the world’s tallest free standing tower at 634 meters, designed to look like an ancient Edo-style woodwork construction. The 94-meter-tall Nara Lighthouse is a modern structure built to resemble a traditional Japanese pagoda.
India’s Ancient Hindu Temples
India’s architectural marvels have been around for thousands of years and are just as impressive today as they were in ancient times. The Taj Mahal stands out among other monuments, an ivory-white marble mausoleum southwest of Agra, built in the 17th century. The Ajanta and Ellora caves are Buddhist rock-cut temples near Aurangabad that feature intricate floor plans and ornately decorated walls and ceilings. The Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur was built in 1010 and is one of the largest Hindu temples in India.
The cities of Asia are home to some of the most awe-inspiring architectural wonders in the world. From traditional structures that have been revived and modernized to metallic structures that blend old and new, one can only admire these pieces of history and art that are found throughout many cities of Asia. Whether it’s Tokyo’s skyline, Sri Lanka’s ancient architectural wonders, Singapore’s architectural landscape, China’s notable modern structures, Japan’s modernization of its traditional structures, or India’s ancient Hindu temples, each of these Asian cities is a treasure trove of architectural masterpieces, ready to explore and enjoy.
