Most Amazing Tall Buildings in Asia: A Tourist’s Guide
Asia is home to some of the most Amazing Tall Buildings, the tallest and most iconic skyscrapers in the world. These architectural marvels are not just feats of engineering but also cultural symbols. Below is an expanded guide featuring 15 incredible skyscrapers, complete with their height, history, functions, and nearby attractions to enhance your visit.
1. Burj Khalifa (Dubai, UAE)
Height: 828 meters (2,717 feet), 163 floors
Completed: 2010
Function: Mixed-use (residential, commercial, observation decks)
History:
Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the Burj Khalifa redefined Dubai’s skyline and remains the tallest building in the world.
Tourist Perspective:
- Visit “At the Top SKY” on the 148th floor for breathtaking views.
- Enjoy the Dubai Fountain, the Dubai Mall, and Souk Al Bahar nearby.
2. Shanghai Tower (Shanghai, China)
Height: 632 meters (2,073 feet), 128 floors
Completed: 2015
Function: Mixed-use
Tourist Perspective:
- The observation deck on the 118th floor offers stunning views.
- Nearby: Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, Yu Garden, and The Bund.
3. Lotte World Tower (Seoul, South Korea)
Height: 555 meters (1,819 feet), 123 floors
Completed: 2016
Function: Mixed-use
Tourist Perspective:
- Explore “Seoul Sky” observation deck and Lotte World Mall.
- Nearby: Seokchon Lake, Olympic Park, and Gangnam District.
4. Ping An Finance Center (Shenzhen, China)
Height: 599 meters (1,965 feet), 115 floors
Completed: 2017
Function: Offices, retail, hotel
History:
A symbol of Shenzhen’s rise as a financial hub, it boasts a sleek, modern design.
Tourist Perspective:
- Visit the observation deck for views of Shenzhen Bay.
- Nearby: Huaqiangbei Electronics Market and Splendid China Folk Village.
5. Abraj Al-Bait Clock Tower (Mecca, Saudi Arabia)
Height: 601 meters (1,971 feet), 120 floors
Completed: 2012
Function: Luxury hotel, prayer spaces
Tourist Perspective:
- Access the Islamic museum and prayer halls.
- Nearby: Masjid al-Haram, Jabal al-Nour, and Mecca Museum.
6. Petronas Towers (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Height: 452 meters (1,483 feet), 88 floors
Completed: 1998
Function: Commercial offices
Tourist Perspective:
- Explore the Skybridge and observation deck.
- Nearby: KLCC Park, Aquaria KLCC, and Bukit Bintang.
7. Taipei 101 (Taipei, Taiwan)
Height: 508 meters (1,667 feet), 101 floors
Completed: 2004
Function: Mixed-use
Tourist Perspective:
- Visit the observation deck and tuned mass damper.
- Nearby: Elephant Mountain, Ximending, and Raohe Night Market.
8. Marina Bay Sands (Singapore)
Height: 206 meters (679 feet), 57 floors
Completed: 2010
Function: Luxury hotel, entertainment
Tourist Perspective:
- Experience the Skypark and infinity pool.
- Nearby: Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park, and Chinatown.
9. CITIC Tower (Beijing, China)
Height: 528 meters (1,732 feet), 108 floors
Completed: 2018
Function: Offices
History:
Known as “China Zun,” its design is inspired by ancient Chinese ritual vessels.
Tourist Perspective:
- The skyline view from nearby Chaoyang Park is spectacular.
- Nearby: Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Wangfujing.
10. Kingdom Centre (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
Height: 302 meters (991 feet), 41 floors
Completed: 2002
Function: Luxury apartments, offices, hotel
Tourist Perspective:
- Visit the Skybridge for panoramic views.
- Nearby: Al-Masmak Fortress and National Museum of Saudi Arabia.
11. Jin Mao Tower (Shanghai, China)
Height: 420 meters (1,380 feet), 88 floors
Completed: 1999
Function: Offices, hotel
Tourist Perspective:
- Dine at the Grand Hyatt’s restaurants with a view.
- Nearby: The Bund and Lujiazui Financial District.
12. International Commerce Centre (Hong Kong, China)
Height: 484 meters (1,588 feet), 108 floors
Completed: 2010
Function: Mixed-use
Tourist Perspective:
- Visit Sky100 for panoramic views.
- Nearby: Victoria Harbour and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.
13. The Landmark 81 (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
Height: 461 meters (1,512 feet), 81 floors
Completed: 2018
Function: Mixed-use
Tourist Perspective:
- Enjoy the observation deck and luxury shopping.
- Nearby: Saigon River, Ben Thanh Market, and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica.
14. Tokyo Skytree (Tokyo, Japan)
Height: 634 meters (2,080 feet), 29 floors
Completed: 2012
Function: Broadcasting, observation, retail
Tourist Perspective:
- Explore observation decks and the shopping complex.
- Nearby: Asakusa, Senso-ji Temple, and Sumida Aquarium.
15. World Trade Center (Manila, Philippines)
Height: 518 meters (1,699 feet), 110 floors (planned)
Expected Completion: 2026
Function: Mixed-use
History:
A future addition to the Philippine skyline, it aims to elevate Manila’s status as a global city.
Tourist Perspective:
- While under construction, explore Manila Baywalk and Intramuros.
- Nearby: Rizal Park and SM Mall of Asia.
Conclusion
From Dubai’s futuristic skyline to Tokyo’s blend of tradition and modernity, these skyscrapers are not just buildings but experiences. Each one offers unique attractions nearby, allowing visitors to explore the culture and lifestyle of the cities they dominate. Plan your trip carefully to make the most of these architectural wonders and their surroundings.
