Wellness tourism continues to be a popular trend among international travelers in 2025, especially in Asia, known for its traditional healing practices. Detoxifying amidst Hoi An's heritage, forest bathing in Japan, and similar experiences are highly regarded for combining relaxation with physical and mental restoration. Many destinations in the region have developed this tourism type with a holistic approach, catering to both individual travelers and families seeking a healthy lifestyle.
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Thu Bon River in front of the Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An Ancient Town. Photo: Nguyen Dong |
Thu Bon River in front of the Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An Ancient Town. Photo: Nguyen Dong
The Times of India, a widely circulated English-language daily newspaper in India, has compiled a list of notable wellness destinations in Asia, offering travelers suggestions for restorative retreats that combine mental and physical therapies.
Hoi An
Hoi An, a coastal ancient town in Vietnam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is recognized by the Times of India as an affordable destination offering relaxation therapy within a historic setting.
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Tourists experiencing a wellness treatment at a resort in Hoi An. Photo: Namia River |
Tourists experiencing a wellness treatment at a resort in Hoi An. Photo: Namia River
In Hoi An, visitors can experience various services, including yoga classes, detox packages, and traditional Vietnamese spa treatments. The town’s tranquil atmosphere, the blend of Asian and European architecture, the lantern-lit streets at night, and the slow pace of life create a unique charm, ideal for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation.
Bali
Bali (Indonesia) stands out with its natural beauty, featuring rice terraces, sacred temples, and a meditative atmosphere. The Ubud area is a hub for yoga centers, vegan cafes, and holistic treatment facilities.
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Tourists practicing morning yoga amidst nature in Ubud. Photo: The Luxury Signature |
Tourists practicing morning yoga amidst nature in Ubud. Photo: The Luxury Signature
Visitors can start their day with sunrise yoga, indulge in Balinese massages, dine on organic food, and visit ancient temples. The dry season (from April to October) is the ideal time to visit.
Kerala
In India, Kerala is renowned not only for its captivating landscapes but also for its traditional Ayurveda therapies. Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old traditional Indian medicine system, offers potential benefits from both Eastern and Western medical perspectives.
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Tourists experiencing Shirodhara therapy, a traditional Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala, India. Photo: Medical Travel Market |
Tourists experiencing Shirodhara therapy, a traditional Ayurvedic treatment in Kerala, India. Photo: Medical Travel Market
In addition to treatment packages, visitors to Kerala can experience wellness through cuisine, from vegan dishes served on banana leaves to flavorful fish curries. The Kovalam area allows tourists to combine yoga, Ayurveda, and beachside relaxation.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai (Thailand) offers an alternative for those seeking a mountain retreat. Located in northern Thailand, this city features mountain scenery, ancient temples, and a relaxed lifestyle.
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Tourists experiencing Thai meditation in Chiang Mai. Photo: Luxe Wellness Club |
Tourists experiencing Thai meditation in Chiang Mai. Photo: Luxe Wellness Club
Here, visitors can enjoy traditional Thai massage, healthy organic meals, and relaxation amidst rice paddies. Chiang Mai is also considered affordable for many travelers.
Minakami
In Japan, Minakami town in Gunma Prefecture is an ideal destination for those seeking "forest bathing," a popular form of mental therapy in the country.
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Tourists hiking and enjoying nature in Minakami, Japan. Photo: RakutenTravel |
Tourists hiking and enjoying nature in Minakami, Japan. Photo: RakutenTravel
Visitors can hike through cedar forests, admire Mount Tanigawa-dake, and unwind in outdoor hot springs (onsen). Minakami combines nature, tranquility, and Japan's unique wellness culture.
Tuan Anh (Times of India)
