films filmed in Asia

Team YLBB

 

July 13, 2025
July 13, 2025

12 Movies Filmed in Asia That Will Spark Your Wanderlust

Dream away at the most beautiful bounty beaches of Thailand, relax in India or wander among the large buildings of BangkokIn these films, we not only see all the adventures the characters experience, but we also get a deeper look at the various locations where these films were shot. From Thailand to IndonesiaIndia and Cambodia—these 12 films set in Asia will provide you with plenty of wanderlust inspiration. Enjoy watching!

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Come with me to get breakfast in Taipei 🥢 Straight from the airport to this little spot to taste soup dumplings and so much more! That's what I call a soft landing 😉
Just back from Catalonia and I thought: I'll share some tips right away. During our road trip, we stayed two nights in the Ebro Delta. An incredibly fun stop for families and foodies alike, where there is plenty to do. · A boat trip to the Musclarium is a must! Here you eat oysters and mussels straight from the farm, in the middle of the sea. · Admire the flamingos and black ibises that can be found here all year round. · Rice is grown in the Ebro Delta all year round. For paella, but Kensho also makes sake and miso from it! You can visit them during a tasting. · Cycling along the rice fields, canoeing on the Ebro River, and visiting various beaches. It was still a bit too cold now, but there is plenty to do. · The towns are very low-key and not that exciting, but you can find fantastic local food there. From the Michelin-awarded Les Moles* to local eateries like Vermuteria Bonmarisc and Lo Tinglado. We ate a lot of fish, but also anemone fritters (a first!). Now back to work, and I’m going to create an extensive travel guide of this road trip through Catalonia, but you’ll want to save these tips for a future adventure. ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck { In this post, I share tips for the Ebro Delta in Spain (Delta de l'Ebre). More tips for Catalonia can be found at www.yourlittleblackbook.me }
PUUR JONNIE, an ode to Jonnie Boer. Today I had the honor of being at @delibrijezwolle for the book launch of @jonnie_en_therese. I spent the entire evening reading and browsing. WHAT A BOOK. What stories. WHAT AN ODE. Love, Nature, Pioneer, Fatherhood, Music, Jonnie's Foundation, Friendship, Suppliers, Local products, Relaxation, Entrepreneurship, Humor & The pure human being. Everything is covered, beautifully written by @joel.broekaert. With contributions from, among others, @nelsontanate, @rekkebus, @ronblaauwtje, @jorisbijdendijk, @sidney_schutte & @hvw043. Thanks for the wonderful afternoon @jonnie_en_therese 💚 PUUR JONNIE, Available from April 14 at your local bookstore (and online) 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
This is your ticket to Japan without taking a plane 🥢 @tewatashi.ams in De Pijp serves an authentic Edo-Mae Sushi Experience and is super consistent in their quality. It's the place we keep going back to when we have something to celebrate <3. In this video I'm sharing the 2 hour experience in 60 seconds. Still dreaming about the buttery ika nigiri. 🤤 ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck { one of the best authentic Japanese restaurants in Amsterdam serving premium sushi omakase in De Pijp }

12 Movies Filmed in Asia

Lion

In Lion, five-year-old Saroo gets lost on a train that takes him thousands of miles from his family. Years later, after being adopted by an Australian couple, he embarks on an emotional search for his family. The film showcases the beautiful landscapes of India, from bustling cities to villages, and may just inspire you to discover this diverse and vibrant country for yourself.
IMDb rating: 8.0/10 // Drama, Biography // 2016 // Showing on Prime Video & Pathé Thuis

Memoirs of a Geisha

This film tells the life story of Chiyo, a young girl who grows up to become a legendary geisha in pre-war Kyoto. You'll be transported to serene Japanese gardens, traditional teahouses, and historic architecture. These beautiful images bring Japanese culture to life and only increase your desire to experience it all for yourself. After seeing this film, you'll want to book a ticket to Japan immediately.
// IMDb 7.3/10 // Drama, Romance // 2005 // Showing on Netflix & Prime Video

The Hangover part 2

This film takes place in one of our favorite Asian cities. In the second installment of The Hangover, the guys travel to Thailand for Stu's wedding. But as expected, everything goes completely out of control, and they find themselves in the middle of Bangkok's chaotic nightlife. The hectic and vibrant scenes offer a glimpse into Thailand's vibrant capital.
// IMDb 6.5/10 // Comedy, Crime // 2011 // Showing on Netflix 

Paradise Beach

A group of criminals escapes to the paradise of Thailand to leave their criminal past behind. The film features plenty of tropical beaches, crystal-clear seas, and beautiful jungles that will make you want to travel to Thailand yourself.
// IMDb 4.9/10 // Action, Crime // 2019 // Showing on Netflix

more movies filmed in Asia

The Impossible

This gripping story follows a family struggling to survive the devastating 2004 tsunami in Thailand. Based on a true story, the film shows how overwhelming the forces of nature can be and how human resilience is revealed even in the most impossible situations. Besides the intense narrative, the images of the Thai coastline and landscape are a reminder of the beautiful yet unpredictable nature of Southeast Asia.
// IMDb 7.5/10 // Drama // 2012 // Shown on Netflix & Amazon Prime

First day killed my father

This film, directed by Angelina Jolie, tells the true story of Loung Ung, a young girl growing up during the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia. It follows her journey of survival, fighting, and trying to save her family during one of the darkest periods in Cambodian history. The film depicts not only the stark reality of war but also the beauty of Cambodia—from vast rice paddies to ancient temples like Angkor Wat. The images transport you to the heart of this country and invite you to learn more about its rich culture and history.
// IMDb 7.2/10 // Drama // 2017 // Shown on Netflix

Eat Pray Love

In Eat Pray Love, Elizabeth Gilbert travels the world in search of balance and inner peace. In Italy, she enjoys delicious food and culture, in India she immerses herself in spirituality and yoga, and in Bali, she finds love and peace in a tranquil setting. The scenes in Asia, from temples to rice paddies, will make you dream of your own journey of peace and connection.
// IMDb 5.8/10 // Romantic, Drama // 2010 // Available on Netflix & Prime Video

 | TIP: Fun series on Netflix set in Asia include: The Serpent, Singapore Social, and Squid Game.

Slumdog Millionaire

Jamal, a boy from the slums of Mumbai, is about to win a fortune on the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? His answers are based on the heartbreaking experiences of his life. The film depicts the contrast between the harsh reality of the slums and the glamour of the quiz show. The chaos of the Indian streets, the bustling markets, and the vibrant culture are all depicted. The story not only evokes emotions but also piques your curiosity about the diversity of India.
// IMDb 8.0/10 // Drama, Arthouse // 2008 // Showing on Prime Video

more movies filmed in Asia

The Lunchbox

A misplaced lunchbox leads to an unexpected exchange of letters between a lonely widower and a housewife in Mumbai. The film offers a glimpse into the city's daily life, with scenes of chaotic streets, bustling markets, and steaming curries.
// IMDb 7.8/10 // Drama, Arthouse // 2013 // Showing on Prime Video

Lucy

An experimental drug gives Lucy superpowers and allows her to use all her brain capacity. Much of the film takes place in Taipei, Taiwan, where many scenes were filmed. From the chaotic night markets to the futuristic skyline, the city provides the perfect backdrop for this thrilling story.
// IMDb 6.4.10 // Action, Thriller // 2014 // Showing on Prime Video

The Beach

This classic starring Leonardo DiCaprio takes you to the tropical islands of Thailand. A backpacker discovers a hidden paradise on a remote island, but soon discovers that life there isn't as perfect as it seems. The film will have you dreaming of turquoise waters, white beaches, and jungle landscapes. A must-watch for anyone longing for an adventurous trip to the Thai islands.
// IMDb 6.9/10 // Adventure, Drama // 2000 // Shown on Amazon Prime & Disney +

Crazy Rich Asians

Crazy Rich Asians might just be my favorite film. This romantic movie is set in Singapore and offers a glimpse into the extravagant world of the elite. From lavish parties to traditional markets and authentic hawker centers with delicious street food. In 2019, we had a delicious meal at the hawker center featured in the film. The film is full of fun hotspots you'll want to discover during your trip to Singapore.
// IMDb 6.9/10 // Romantic, Comedy // 2018 // Showing on Netflix & Prime Video

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