JENS BENNINGHOFEN-ALAMY

In TIME's annual look at the region's most remarkable places and experiences, we try to avoid equating the best with the most luxurious, the most popular and the trendiest. Instead, we seek out surprising stories that illuminate Asia's spectacular diversity of cultures and environments, told by correspondents who know the terrain. We hope you'll enjoy these slices of color from the Asian Mind, Body and Soul. More »