Baguio is TOP 7 Asian destination for Traditional Music Lovers

Baguio City, Philippines - Known for its cool climate and scenic mountain views, Baguio has earned another international recognition as it has been named one of Asia’s top travel destinations in Agoda’s Top Destinations for Traditional Music Lovers on October 1, 2025.

Located in the heart of the Cordillera region, the City of Pines has made its way onto Asia’s list of top destinations with its unique indigenous melodies resonating deeply with travelers from around the world.

Among the instruments famous in Baguio are the gongs or locally known as gangsa; kullitong, a tube zither instrument; and the tongatong, a percussion instrument made with varying lengths of bamboo, among others.

With the Baguio’s inclusion as the only Philippine city in Agoda’s prestigious list, the city’s vital role in preserving and promoting indigenous music and culture is emphasized, not just as a top tourist destination but as a living hub of tradition and artistic expression in Asia.

In celebration of the International Music Day, Agoda—a Singapore-based digital travel platform that offers great value deals on a global network of over 6 million hotels and holiday properties worldwide, plus flights, activities, and more; unveiled Asia’s top destinations for traditional music lovers.

Topping the list is Hue, Vietnam for its royal court music, Nhã Nhạc, followed by Jodhpur, Rajasthan India’s Rajasthani folk music; Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture Japan’s traditional percussion or Taiko and Ubud, Bali Indonesia’s traditional ensemble music, Gamelan featuring metallophones and gongs, among others.

Other Asian destinations that topped the ranking are Chiang Mai Thailand for its traditional Northern Thai style use of khene and saw u, the Lanna music; and Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do South Korea’s Pansori, a traditional Korean musical storytelling genre.