UNESCO Global Geoparks in Asia – Verdant Sanctuaries

Gorgeous Jeju Island was born out of volcanic eruptions which were active up to recent times. The island is a gorgeous landscape of well conserved volcanic rock formations and stunning landscapes born of geological formations that contribute to fascinating scientific studies. It joined the worldwide network of Geoparks in October 2010 & is a spectacular region of nine geological sites. These are Mount Hallasan, Seongsan IIchulbong Tuff Cone, Manjanggul Lava Tube, Seogwipo Rock Formation, the Colunmar Joints at Jeju Jungmun Daepo Coast, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Sangbansan Lava Dome, Suweolbong Tuff Ring and Yongmeori Tuff Ring. Each one of these locations is made up of bewitching landscapes. Jeju Island was formerly known as Cheju and is locally referred to as Island of the Gods. It is located of the southern coast of Korea. The island is a favourite amongst tourists & locals especially for honeymooners. Fishing is a common income earner around the island with women predominantly engaged in this activity.

Called the Jewel of Keddah Langkawi is one of the stunning 64 Geoparks located across the world. It is definitely one of the most beautiful Geoparks, home to amazing rock formations, aged jungles, stalactite and stalagmite caves, sea caves with winding tunnels, verdant mangrove forests, an abundance of wildlife and lush waterfalls. Head over to Laman Padi in the Cenang area home to a rice garden museum which is made up of 8.6 acres of paddy fields. There you can learn about both traditional and modern techniques used in rice farming. Take a cable car ride to the summit of Machinchang Mountain and you will be awe struck by flora & fauna thriving amongst verdant jungles and waterfalls. It is this gorgeous attraction that makes Langkawi resorts so popular. The area spans a total of 10,000 hectares and comprises of 99 islands exuding ecological harmony and geological importance. Burau Bay home to the Berjaya Langkawi Resort is of immense beauty offering a backdrop of lush rainforests and sandy shores to bask in.

Lake Toya and Lake Shikotsu located in the northern region of Japan is one of the country's ice free lakes. The average circumference of each lake is about 40km with the deepest parts measuring depths of 179 metres. Both lakes are located within the Shikotsu Toya National Park. Nakajima are four islands located in the middle of Lake Toya and is a protected wildlife sanctuary home to the Ezo deer. Surrounded by hot springs the lake is a very popular tourist resort. Takinoue Camp located close to the lake is a lovely area to explore. Best of all the area is home to a small beach where you can enjoy swimming.