Top 5 Scenic Routes in Asia Pacific
Taking a long road trip with family and friends can be a lot of fun, but has the drawback of contributing to air pollution. Fortunately BASF's automotive solutions are making driving more sustainable. By making the most of high-performance technologies, we can make cars go farther on the same amount of energy and with less emissions.
Feeling inspired? Check out our list of the most beautiful scenic routes in Asia Pacific. See which location will become your next vacation destination?
The Nullarbor Plain and Eyre Highway, Australia
The Nullarbor Plain is a flat, almost treeless, limestone plain that stretches across remote parts of Australia. It is home to the world's largest single exposure of limestone bedrock, which occupies an area of around 200,000 square kilometres (km2).
The road that links Western Australia and South Australia, via the Nullarbor Plain, is known as the Eyre Highway. At almost 1,700 km long, it is the longest stretch of straight road in the world. The Nullarbor Plain and Eyre Highway are home to a vast amount of unique wildlife including kangaroos, emus, wombats and even camels.
For a true taste of the Australian outback, head east to the Nullarbor Plain.
Mileage: 1,657km, takes approximately two to three days to cross.
Hakone, Mount Fuji, Japan
Looking for a day trip near the bustling city of Japan and be able to enjoy a nice scenic drive? The drive from Tokyo to Hakone will be the best option. Not only is Hakone a famous tourist attraction, it is also known as the town of Onsen (hot spring).
Don't forget to take the ropeway over the Owakudani Valley to the Togendai beside the Ashinoko Lake to enjoy a view of the mountain and the seemingly endless forest. The magnificient Mount Fuji with its mirrored image floating on the lake makes it a spectacular photo-taking spot. Along the scenic drive to Hakone, you can stop by Owakudani, famous for its hot springs and volcanic activity and their black boiled eggs.
Mileage: 90km, takes approximately 1.5 hour to drive from Tokyo.
*Owakudani area is now closed due to volcanic activity in May 2016
HeHuanShan, Taichung, Taiwan
"Joy Mountain" (Hehuanshan) Road at Line 14A can take you to the highest point of Taiwan's highway, Wuling. It reaches up to an altitude of 3,000 meters. The Hehuanshan Highway boasts distinct and fascinating sceneries from day to night, and through the four seasons. For instance, the snow in winter that forms a large silver carpet covering the mountain ranges, beautiful sunrise, magnificent sea of clouds, winding mountain roads with towering ridges. No wonder this scenic road was hailed as one of the most beautiful roads in Taiwan.
Mileage: Line 14A Highway: 111km; takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to drive from Taichung city to HeHuanShan vista point.
Mt Hallansan, Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island is a nice getaway location for Koreans, and a popular tourist destination. Jeju Island, created by volcanic activity, is known for its unique volcanic features. The size of the island is about 2.5 times the size of Singapore.
The best way to explore this island is by driving. There are several nice coastal roads that you can take to enjoy the beautiful coastline and mountain views. Go hiking at the famous highest peak in South Korea, Mt. Hallasan. Explore the west scenic coastal drives of Sagye- RI, Gosan- RI to Ilgwa-RI, Hagwi to Aewol and visit the places of interest along the Mt Sangbangsan / Songaksan / Yongmeori route. Along Highway 1131 where the famous ‘Forest Tunnel’ is located see long stretches of tresses standing on both sides. In 2011, Jeju Island was named one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.
Mileage: 181 km coastal ring in Jeju lsland; ideal to spend 2 to 3 days to explore.
Shangri-La, Yunnan Province, China
Explore one of China's most magical areas. Taking a drive from Kunming to Shangri-La in Yunnan Province brings you back in time traveling through the old ancient kingdom and cities such as Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La. During the drive, you will see beautiful alpine sceneries of lakes, mountains and ancient architectures from the Qing Dynasty such as Songzanlin Monastery (first constructed in 1679). Visit the northeast of Shangri-La (The Lost Horizon) which is 30km from the city, you will reach two peaceful lakes: Bihahai and Shudu where the sun rays make reflection like a mirror on the calm lake surface. There are many snow-capped mountains surrounding Shangri-la. The three famous ones are Meili, Balang, and Haba mountains. Meili Mountain is famous for its highest peak: Kang Karpo, at 6,740 meters above sea level. The Tibetans consider all three mountains sacred. Looking for an adventure travel to ancient China? This scenic route is a good choice you will not regret.
Mileage: 635km; it is a 9-hour drive from Kunming