There are 48 countries in Asia today and the continent is home to the world's oldest civilizations. It is also the world’s largest continent, containing some of the world’s largest countries by area and population, including most part of Russia, China and India. The Arctic Ocean is north of Asia, the Pacific Ocean is to the east and the Indian Ocean is to the south.
The Himalayas is home to Mount Everest, the highest mountain on Earth, and also the lowest natural point: the Dead Sea. The three longest rivers in the continent flow through China: Mekong River, Yellow River and the Yangtze.
Asia is known for its economic and quality of life inequalities. Some countries, such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore and the oil-rich countries of the Arabian Peninsula, have achieved high living standards. Others, such as Bangladesh and Myanmar, are among the poorest. More: Maps of Southeast Asia ►
