Collection: Asian Flags

Across a sprawling continent, Asian country flags span an enormous range of cultures and countries, from the Middle East to China, from Southeast Asia to Russia, and also include less visible nations like the Maldives, Bhutan, and Yemen.

Flags from the predominantly Arabic countries that make up the Middle East are typified by commonly shared symbols: the star and crescent moon motif, central to the Islamic faith, is prominent in nearly all of them, and the colour green, which symbolizes paradise, is a prominent colour theme.

In contrast, many of the other flags of Asian countries follow a traditional geometric pattern, using horizontal or vertical bands of colour for identification – like Russia, Thailand, and Armenia, for example. Many of these also incorporate distinctive central motifs, such as a yin / yang symbol (South Korea), a cedar tree (Lebanon), and a spinning wheel (India).

Then there are the truly unusual and original designs, like the flag of Kyrgyzstan, which features what looks like a yellow cricket ball on a red background. However, it’s not a ball – it’s the view you have of the sky through the top of a traditional Yurt, or nomad tent!

Another beautifully imaginative design that truly stands out is that of the tiny kingdom of Bhutan (which is also rated as the happiest country on earth). The Bhutanese flag features a diagonal saffron and gold backdrop, with a majestic white Thunder Dragon, flying across the heavens, and holding precious jewels in its claws!

Similarly, the Sri Lankan flag proudly features a golden lion holding a sword against a multicoloured background, and in the corners, four leaves, symbolizing the universal qualities of loving kindness, compassion, equanimity, and happiness.