The Asian continent is the largest and most populous continent on Earth, covering about 44.58 million square kilometers. It is home to diverse cultures, languages, and religions, with over 4.6 billion people living in countries such as China, India, and Japan. Asia is known for its varied geography, which includes the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest, and vast deserts like the Gobi Desert. The continent also features major rivers, such as the Yangtze and Ganges, which are vital for agriculture and transportation.