Asia is the largest continent when measured by landmass and human population. Following is an overview of Asia.

Asia is considered one of the seven continents. This continental definition, however, is far broader than many people think. Under the seven continent methodology, Asia stretches from Japan in the East through Russia in the West. It encompasses Saudi Arabia and everything above Asia. While it doesn’t always make practical sense, there is no denying this definition of Asia makes it the home of over 60 percent [4 billion] of all humans. China and India, of course, are the locations of a vast majority of these people.

In modern times, geographers recognize there really is no dividing line between Asia to the west and Europe to the East. This has resulted in the entire area being called Eurasia, but thousands of years of terminology aren’t about to pass into antiquity. Today, most people refer to Europe as a continent so far as it extends to the Ural Mountains in Russia. Everything to the east of that mountain range is considered Asia. For instance, Israel is considered a country in Western Asia!

Russia has even picked up on this theme with the two heads on the national flag. The west facing head refers to the European part of Russia while the East facing head refers to the Asian part of the country. Within Russia, it is almost as if there are two countries with Moscow and St. Petersburg having heavy European influences. Cities in the Far East, such as Vladivostok, are much more oriented to China and such.

To resolve the boundary issue, the powers that be have started defining Asia subcontinents. The areas are:

Central Asia - Kazakhstan Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.

1. East Asia - China, Japan, Mongolia, Taiwan, North and South Korea.

2. North Asia - Russia.

3. India Subcontinent - India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka.

4. Southeast Asia - Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar [Burma], Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

5. Southwest Asia - The Middle East including Turkey, Iran, Cyprus, Israel, Lebanon and sometimes Egypt.

Given the problems defining the boundaries of Asia, you can imagine it is also difficult to define certain characteristics regarding the continent. After all, life in Turkey is much different than in China. Conversely, customs in India are completely different than those in China. In fact, most people living in Asia take offence when someone uses the word “Asians” to refer to them. The word implies a similarity among all people in Asia, which simply isn’t true.

Economically, things are a bit easier to categorize. The largest economy in Asia is China as a measure of gross domestic product. Officially known as the People’s Republic of China, this country remains communist in name only when it comes to economic issues. With massive economic growth over the last 10 years, China is the second largest economy in the world after the United States. Another heavily populated area, India, is now the fourth biggest economy in the world, while relatively small Japan is the third. Put in practical terms, Asia is home to three of the four biggest economies on Earth. The three dominant financial centers are Hong Kong, Tokyo and Singapore.

With so many countries, it is hardly surprising to find a wide variety of religious practices in Asia. There are a wide variety of belief systems, but Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam have the largest number of adherents.

Figuring out exactly what constitutes Asia is largely a matter of opinion. Among many assertions about Asia, the undisputable one is it is the home to the largest percentage of humans on the planet.

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Buddhist art forms were born and flourished in the Indian sub-continent where the Buddhism itself originated. In accordance with the growth of Buddhism, it became popular all around the Asian countries including Japan as a result of its interactions with other cultures.

The growth of the Buddhist religion and art was very fast in Asia. It entered all corners of the continent including northern, central, eastern and south-east Asia.

Before the arrival of Buddhism in Japan, various other cultures and movements had made impacts on the Japanese art. Especially the Kofun and Yoyoi times had a great influence on the culture and art style of Japan.

In the 6th century, Buddhism took up its residence in Japan. As it was fading away from India, Japan was becoming its capital. The Buddhist priests succeeded in attracting the ordinary people with their art works and statues. Consequently, Japan became the largest country of Buddhism in the world.

Soon after the introduction of Buddhism in Japan, it began to influence the Japanese life and art. Numerous monasteries and temples were built up. The Kofukun-ji temple in Nara, the five story pagoda and the Golden Hall of Horyuku are the existing examples of the Buddhist art forms of those times.

Buddhist art also improved in the form of paintings and sculptures. The government was involved in sponsoring a lot of artists in order to create numerous paintings and sculptures. The art of the time revolved around realism and had a very graceful appeal. This was the result of Korean, Chinese and Hellenistic impacts that had come together to form a unique style.

The Buddhist art had a greater development between the 8th and 13th century. In the periods of Nara and Heian, it became supreme in Japan. Hindu and Shintoist effects also were found in the Buddhist art forms. Most of the art works were portraying Buddhist deities and were exceptional because of their diversity and individuality.

Around the 13th century, the Zen art which was introduced in Japan by Eisai and Dogen began to replace the conventional Buddhist art. A large number of art works of those times including painting and pottery illustrated their intention to expose the life’s reality. Japanese martial arts and the art of flower arrangement named Ikebana also had a greater improvement in this period.

Today Japan is home to around 80,000 Buddhist temples. Most of these temples have been constructed from wood and have undergone massive restoration for the purpose of preservation.

Buddhist art from Japan is an integral component of the nation’s heritage. If you would like to see Buddhist influences in common Japanese tattoo symbols please click on the links.

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Thangkas are one of Tibet’s most famous art forms, and they have fascinated generations of art fans around the world. Developed during the Songtsan Gampo era of Tibet, they incorporate elements from both Nepalese art and traditional Chinese paintings. Valued for their exquisite craftsmanship, they are also admired for their unique beauty and practical function. When traveling to other places, Tibetan monks will often carry a thangka to communicate with their gods. On a good tour in Beijing, you can find exquisite thangkas made by great Tibetan artists.

Thangkas are a type of scroll painting that can be easily rolled up for storage. Most thangkas are either hung on the wall of a house or carried by a monk or traveler when moving around to different places. Because Tibetans are traditionally a nomadic people who are also deeply religious, they need an easy-to-carry item like a thangka to help them communicate with gods on their journeys.

In many ways, thangkas are like Buddhist statues. Both of them are used as a medium through which people pay tribute to their gods, say prayers, and make requests. But the difference is also obvious: whereas a Buddhist statue only represents a certain deity in Buddhism, a thangka shows the deity and depicts his/her life stories, important events, and the Buddhist teachings associated with the deity. Such depiction is aimed to educate, enlighten, and enhance the contemplative experience of the Buddhists who study them.

On a thangka, no detail is too small to ignore. Everything, like the color, the clothes, and the positions or postures of the people, contains bits of information that contribute to the profound symbolism of the overall image. For a Buddhist, the teachings of Buddhism can be learned by memorizing these details and imaging the image in their minds.

When used by monks traveling from place to place, thangkas can serve as an excellent educational tool. Tibetan monks who carry thangkas have been traveling to remote regions and teaching Buddhism for hundreds of years. As a tradition, monks living in monasteries display their precious thangkas to the public during ceremonies or festivals.

Thangkas are either painted by hand or embroidered with high-quality threads. Some extremely valuable thangkas are made of precious pearls and gold. Making a thangka is not an easy task. Usually it takes five properly trained artists to finish one thangka. Paint made of natural minerals is commonly used, as it gives a touch of vividness to the picture. Painting a thangka requires a mastery over a variety of drawing skills and an in-depth understanding of Tibetan Buddhism. Subtle hints are incorporated into every detail on the image.

Depending on the method of production and materials used, thangkas can be grouped into two main categories: “Bris-Tang” and “Go-Tang.”

“Bris-Tang”: Thangkas that are painted are called “Bris-Tang.” The five specific types of this category are: Multi-Colored, Gold Background, Vermilion Background, Black Background, and Block Printing “Bris-Tang.”

“Go-Tang”: Thangkas that are made of silk or decorated with embroidery are called “Go-Tang.” This category includes: Embroidery, Applique, Glued Applique, Hand-Woven, and Block Printing “Go-Tang.”

All thangkas are made to conform to a strict standard concerning the use of colors. Different colors are used to show different themes or different characters. Red is the main color for thangkas that depict the life stories of the Buddha. Black is the main color for thangkas depicting gods who fight against evils. Blue is used to represent joy. Green is used to represent activity. And white is the symbol for peace and compassion.

In the amazing local shops of Beijing, there are authentic thangkas made by master painters from Tibet. When you are in the city, be sure to check out these exquisite products. If you are not familiar with the local business, it’s best to find a tour guide in Beijing to help you shop.

A. Lao writes about Chinese culture and history. He assists a Beijing personal shopper who helps tourists find unique Chinese items. Sometimes he personally tailors Beijing tours.

Tags: Asia, beijing, Buddhist, China, embroidery, handicraft, painting, religious, shopping, thangkas, tibet, tour

Thangkas are a unique, popular Tibetan art form that originated in the Songtsan Gampo era of Tibet. Initially a type of painting designed based on the Nepalese style, it later developed into a mesmerizing, full-fledged art form with its unique beauty and function. In its last stage of development during the 18th century, it was heavily influenced by the elements of traditional Chinese paintings. To pay tribute to their gods, Tibetan monks and commoners alike carry a thangka with them as they travel from place to place. When in Beijing, remember that some local shops here have exquisite thangkas for shoppers and tourists like you in Beijing.

Much like a scroll painting, thangkas can be easily rolled up for storage and unrolled for display. Travelers and monks like to carry a thangka when they travel to other places because it is very lightweight. Home-dwelling Tibetans also like to use thangkas in their homes because they are beautiful and can be easily be put on a wall.

Serving as an object for worship and meditation, thangkas often have images that depict prominent figures of Buddism, like the Buddha, bodhisattvas, and other gods. These figures, along with the depictions of their life stories that usually appear in the background, are intended to educate, enlighten, or enhance the contemplative experience of the people who study them.

For people who understand Tibetan Buddhism, the complex picture on a finely made thangka has a profound symbolism that reveals itself through very exquisite details on the picture. People can learn the teachings of Buddhism by carefully studying these details and finding out the intricate connections among them. One of the most common items depicted on thangkas is the Wheel of Life, or the universe in Buddhism.

When used by monks traveling from place to place, thangkas can serve as an excellent educational tool. Tibetan monks who carry thangkas have been traveling to remote regions and teaching Buddhism for hundreds of years. As a tradition, monks living in monasteries display their precious thangkas to the public during ceremonies or festivals.

Most thangkas are painted by hand on a cotton canvas or silk, but a few of them are embroidered or made of precious materials like pearls and gold. Making a thangka is usually an extremely complex process that employs a variety of techniques and paints. Paint made of natural minerals is often used, giving the pictures a bright and unique color that can last hundreds of years. Such paintings require a mastery of different drawing skills and a deep understanding of Buddhism and Tibetan culture. Since every detail on a thangka contributes to the overall symbolism through subtle hints, only a properly trained artist can make a thangka.

Depending on the materials used and the way it was made, thangkas can be divided into two main categories: “Bris-Tang” and “Go-Tang.”

“Bris-Tang”: Thangkas that are painted are called “Bris-Tang.” The five specific types belonging to this category are: Multi-Colored, Gold Background, Vermilion Background, Black Background, and Block Printing “Bris-Tang.”

“Go-Tang”: “Go-Tang” is the name for thangkas that are made with silk and adorned with embroidery. This category also has five specific types: Embroidery, Applique, Glued Applique, Hand-Woven, and Block Printing “Go-Tang.”

All thangkas are made to conform to a strict standard concerning the use of colors. Different colors are used to show different themes or different characters. Red is the main color for thangkas that depict the life stories of the Buddha. Black is the main color for thangkas depicting gods who fight against evils. Blue is used to represent joy. Green is used to represent activity. And white is the symbol for peace and compassion.

When in Beijing, check out the beautiful, authentic thangkas in many of the city’s shops. For shoppers unfamiliar with the local business, it’s best to find a Beijing tour guide to help with the shopping.

Tags: Asia, beijing, Buddhist, China, embroidery, handicraft, painting, religious, shopping, thangkas, tibet, tour

Beijing has been a focal point for China’s most important religious observances since it become the country’s capital in 1420. Of all the temples built to worship the mighty forces in nature, the Temple of Heaven in southern Beijing is easily the most significant one.

Running an empire that held the worlds largest population, the Chinese emperors couldn’t just rely on intimidation and an effective government. They had to rule by legitimacy from Heaven.

Once forbidden ground, the Temple of Heaven is now ready to welcome you in and reveal all its mystery.[I:http://buddhisminfo.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/DavidCheng49.jpg]

On the west side stands the Hall of Abstinence. This was where the emperor stayed to prepare himself for the ceremonies. He abstained from meat, onions, garlic, alcohol and sexual relations. Everything looks very simple in the hall. Here, the emperor didn’t have the luxurious furnishings and ornaments found in the Forbidden City.

Standing opposite to this, on the east side, are the Animal Slaughtering Hall and the Divine Kitchen. Cattle, sheep, pigs, and other sacrificial animals were slaughtered and prepared for the ceremonies here. Almost 50 workers would have to work for quite a few days before they could get the job done.

Music was also an important facet of all ceremonies in the Temple of Heaven. In the Hall of Divine Music Administration, imperial orchestras practiced compositions day and night. When rituals were held, they would play all throughout. Sometimes rituals lasts a whole day and into the night!

The number of antique instruments displayed in the hall is a big hit. And be sure to enjoy the mock performances, which are staged every two hours.

Soon you’ll be standing before the Circular Altar, the most significant structure in the temple. The altar was built to worship Heaven. You can’t miss taking a picture here, for it was believed to be the center of the universe.

And this was where the emperor would bow on his knees to take vows and confirm his legitimacy to rule China. A Chinese philosopher once wrote:If the ruler is right, then the creative energy of the universe will be harmonious and compliant. The rain and wind will be timely. Auspicious stars will appear, and then, the yellow dragon will descend.

The ritual gave the emperor absolute power to rule his empire.

Tags: altars, Asia, Beijing attractions, Beijing temples, Beijing tour, Beijing travel, buddhism, China, religion, temple, Temple of Heaven, Tiantan park, tourism

When traveling to Laos, there are many places and sights to see. But one of the most unique and interesting destinations has to be the Pak ou Caves. Located near Luang Prabang you can hire a boat or songthaew to take you the 25 km down river.

Located directly on the Mekong River, the Pak Ou Caves are one of the most sacred sights in the country. They are actually still used as a place of worship. Every New Year people from Luang Prabang make a pilgrimage to visit the caves containing over 4000 Buddha images and statues.

Of the 4000 plus buddhas, the majority are in the form of the tall Luang Prabang Buddha’s. The boat ride across the river is sensational as the caves come into view. White stairs stand out against a dark black hole that cuts into the high cliffs towering over the river.

There are two levels to the caves Tham Ting the lower cave and Tham Pheung higher. Tham Phum is dark but it is filled with more statues. Make sure you bring a flash-light, it can be quite dark inside the Caves, especially Tham Pheung.

The Pac Ou Caves make for a great day trip from Luang Prabang as you take a break from exploring the cities ancient architecture. But once you are back in town, make sure to check out everything that Luang Prabang has to offer. Rent a bike or go for a walk along the Mekong river to explore the day away.

Luang Prabang is filled with intricate temples. A World Heritage Sight, you can explore its rich history for days. Check out the former Royal Palace a.k.a. Haw Kham, one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. Examine the ornate interiors filled with reclining Buddhas, carvings and tapestries.

There are coffee and pastry shops to stop for lunch, and you will feel very civilized as you sip a caf latt while enjoying a croissant. If you are lucky, you may stumble into a temple at a time when Monks are playing their drums.

An event that must not be missed is a walk up Phou Si hill. This is a steep walk, but well worth it to view the incredible sunset. A temple stands at the top of the hill giving you a panoramic view of the countryside.

Not to be missed is the Night Market. Crammed with tourists it is a popular destination to buy your statues and paintings before you leave the country. It is a bit pricey, but a savvy shopper can find a good deal if they bargain hard. After you have worked up an appetite, you can simply hop into one of the many restaurants that are located on the edge of the market.

It wasn’t long ago that very few people visited Laos. Now Luang Prabang has become a very popular destination on the tourist route, so get there fast before the rest of the planet discovers this hidden gem of a nation.

Tags: adventure, Asia, buddhism, Laos, Luang Prabang, Pac Ou Caves, South east asia, Temples of laos, things to do in Laos, Travel, travel in Asia, world heritage sight

Beijing has been a focal point for China’s most important religious observances since it become the country’s capital in 1420. Of all the temples built to worship the mighty forces in nature, the Temple of Heaven in southern Beijing is easily the most significant one.

To run a country of hundreds of millions, the emperor needed more than just intimidation and an effective government. He had to obtain his legitimacy from Heaven to rule.

As you enter this tremendous temple, a mysterious world once closed off from the average person is now ready to show all its mystery.[I:http://buddhisminfo.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/DavidCheng49.jpg]

The Hall of Abstinence is on the west side. The emperor used this area to prepare himself for the prayers to Heaven. He would keep himself away from alcohol, meat, garlic, onions, and sexual relations. The hall was kept simple, for a luxury-loving emperor wouldn’t be favored by Heaven.

On the east side of the complex are the Animal Slaughtering Hall and Divine Kitchen. Sacrificial animals such as sheep, cattle, and pigs used to be slaughtered and prepared in these two halls. It would take many workers several days to prepare all of the food.

Also, music was essential to the ceremonies. In the hall of Divine Music Administration, imperial orchestras practiced compositions day and night so that no mistake was made when the rituals were held.

The number of antique instruments displayed in the hall is a big hit. And be sure to enjoy the mock performances, which are staged every two hours.

The Circular Altar, standing at the center of the temple, is the most important structure in the Temple of Heaven. A radial terrace, the altar was built for the emperor to worship Heaven. Dont skip your photo opportunity here, as in ancient China this was believed to be the center of the universe.

Each year, the emperor would pray to Heaven and validate his right to rule the kingdom. It is said that the weather would be good if the emperor did things right, while there would be death and natural disasters if Heaven rejected him.

The ritual gave the emperor absolute power to rule his empire.

Tags: altars, Asia, Beijing attractions, Beijing temples, Beijing tour, Beijing travel, buddhism, China, religion, temple, Temple of Heaven, Tiantan park, tourism

When traveling to Laos, there are many places and sights to see. But one of the most unique and interesting destinations has to be the Pak ou Caves. Located near Luang Prabang you can hire a boat or songthaew to take you the 25 km down river.

Located directly on the Mekong River, the Pak Ou Caves are one of the most sacred sights in the country. They are actually still used as a place of worship. Every New Year people from Luang Prabang make a pilgrimage to visit the caves containing over 4000 Buddha images and statues.

There are all sorts of different Buddha’s but the majority are the standing tall Luang Prabang Buddha statues. It is sensational. Approaching the caves from the opposite side of the river is a beautiful view. The white stairs can be seen leading into the dark hole cut into the side of the limestone cliff.

There are two levels to the caves Tham Ting the lower cave and Tham Pheung higher. Tham Phum is dark but it is filled with more statues. Make sure you bring a flash-light, it can be quite dark inside the Caves, especially Tham Pheung.

While the caves make for a great day trip from Luang Prabang, there are many things that you can do in town. The city is beautiful and there is no better way to see it than by bicycle.

A World Heritage Sight, Luang Prabang is not to be missed. As you ride your bicycle from temple to temple, be sure not to miss Haw Kham, the former royal palace. The bright colours of the temples are a treat to the eyes against the lush green vegetation. The inside of the temples are as impressive as the outside containing Buddha images, tapestries, jewels and artifacts.

As well as temples there are Monasteries to visit. Monks walk all over town and you can actually get a glimpse of what life is like inside one. All of that sightseeing can wear a person out, so take a break at one of the many coffee shops in Luang Prabang. You will feel like you are suddenly in France as you sip an espresso by the side of the river.

If you want to witness a beautiful sunset be sure to make the journey up to Phou Si. A popular spot in the evening, this hill offers an unobstructed view of the land. Relax and mingle as the sun goes down between two mountains. It is truly an incredible sight.

End your day at the busy if not overpriced night market. Vendors sell everything you could possibly want and you can even grab dinner at one of the many restaurants nearbye.

Laos is a wonderful country to visit and you should make it top on your list before it is discovered by the rest of the world and overrun with tourists.

Tags: adventure, Asia, buddhism, Laos, Luang Prabang, Pac Ou Caves, South east asia, Temples of laos, things to do in Laos, Travel, travel in Asia, world heritage sight