The 10 Creepiest Locations in Asia

While you may anticipate exploring ancient temples and indulging in delicious cuisine on your journey through Asia, there's an eerie dimension to the continent. For those intrigued by ghost tales, Asia boasts some of the most chilling stories. After all, many of the most terrifying horror films originated from Asian filmmakers, including Thailand's 'Shutter' and Japan's original 'Ring.' From a WWII prison in Indonesia to a haunted fortress in India, dare to incorporate some of Asia's spookiest destinations into your travel plans.

Bhangarh Fort, India

This magnificent fort, which dates back centuries and is situated in Rajasthan, was once the residence of royalty. Today, according to the Rajasthan Tourism Office, it ranks as one of the most haunted locations in India. In the 18th century, the fort and its neighboring town were deserted, leaving behind vacant temples and abandoned markets. Numerous tales circulate regarding the reasons for the hasty departure of its inhabitants. One story claims a curse was placed upon it due to its shadow falling over someone's home, while another suggests that a failed love potion led to its downfall.

Lawang Sewu, Indonesia

Constructed in the early 1900s as a post for the Dutch East Indies Railway Company, this building was later seized by Japanese soldiers and repurposed as a prison during World War II. It subsequently became the scene of a violent clash involving Dutch, Japanese, and Indonesian forces. While it’s known for its ghostly inhabitants, one spirit particularly stands out: a young Dutch woman who is said to wander the grounds after taking her own life. As noted by the Indonesia tourism authority, the building's name translates to 'a thousand doors' in Javanese, highlighting the numerous doors and similarly styled windows that create a captivating architectural allure.

The Forbidden City, China

For five centuries, the Forbidden City served as the residence of Chinese emperors and stands as one of the most renowned palaces in the world. Typically closed to the public after dark, its allure is enhanced by an air of mystery and spookiness. A popular legend tells of a spectral woman in white whose weeping can be heard echoing within the palace walls, with reports of her presence tracing back to the 1940s.

Old Changi Hospital, Singapore

Few places are as eerie as an abandoned hospital. Singapore's Old Changi Hospital, operational from 1935 to 1997, is notorious for its hauntings, said to be filled with the spirits of former patients and those who suffered during the Japanese Occupation when it was utilized as a military hospital. The rumored underground bunkers beneath the hospital contribute to its haunting reputation. Though closed to the public, daring individuals often find a way inside, leaving behind graffiti as evidence of their visit.

Sathorn Unique Tower, Thailand

Bangkok's incomplete Sathorn Unique Tower has earned the nickname 'Ghost Tower' for several reasons, primarily its haunting aesthetic. Originally intended as a residential high-rise, construction was halted in the '90s due to a financial crisis and never resumed. Now standing at only 80 percent completion, the skyscraper lacks exterior walls. Despite the dangers and its restricted access, the open-air structure lures thrill-seekers, along with a pack of stray dogs reported to inhabit the ground floor. The building has also been the site of at least one death, fueling its haunted reputation.

Gonjiam Psychiatric Hospital, South Korea

Regarded by many as the most haunted location in South Korea, this deserted psychiatric hospital is situated in Gyeonggi-do province. Following its closure in the '90s, legends began to emerge surrounding the mysterious circumstances of patient deaths and doctors descending into madness and suicide. In reality, the hospital was shut down due to sewage problems, yet that hasn't deterred urban explorers and paranormal enthusiasts from attempting to glimpse inside. In 2018, a found footage-style film inspired by the hospital became South Korea's third most-watched horror film.

Khara Khoto, China

This ancient site in the Gobi Desert was once a significant Mongolian city along the Silk Road, but many of its inhabitants perished in the 14th century at the hands of a rival Ming Dynasty army. Legend has it that the invaders redirected water from a nearby river, rendering the walled city uninhabitable after conquering it. Today, Khara Khoto lies mostly buried in sand, but tales persist of strange sounds rising from the ruins and fires that seem to burn without a source. Tour companies like Silk Road China Tours offer trips to this remote location in Inner Mongolia from Jiayuguan in Gansu Province. The drive takes about seven hours, but the sight of ruins emerging from the desert is hauntingly beautiful.

Himeji Castle, Japan

Situated near Kobe, this castle is a renowned tourist destination, but it is perhaps most famous for inspiring the story of 'Ringu,' the original Japanese film that led to the blockbuster horror movie 'The Ring.' The castle is home to the notorious well where a servant girl named Okiku met her tragic end after being falsely accused of a crime. Visitors can still view the well, and it is said that Okiku's spirit occasionally appears on the grounds, hauntingly clad in white with long, dark hair.

Teacher's Camp, Philippines

Despite its seemingly harmless name, many Filipinos consider this to be the most haunted location in the country. Situated in Baguio City, this site was originally established by Americans in the early 1900s to train teachers and continues to host various events and retreats. However, during World War II, it was seized by Japanese forces and used to detain prisoners. Reports of ghostly encounters include a headless priest, a wandering lady in white, and a blood-soaked woman who may appear standing over you as you sleep.

Genting Highlands, Malaysia

In the resort town of Genting Highlands, known for its 26-acre theme park, the abandoned Amber Court may harbor some supernatural activity. Constructed in the '90s, the hotel was left vacant following a financial downturn. During its abandonment, algae began to cover the building's exterior, contributing to its eerie reputation. Visitors have reported sightings of a woman who roams the area, only to vanish into thin air. Although the site has since been renovated and repurposed as an apartment complex, the ghost stories endure — much to the annoyance of the current residents.