is japan or south korea better to visit

Japan vs South Korea: which impressive East Asian destination should you visit?

Apr 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Take the plunge at a Japanese onsen, or join the hallyu (“Korean Wave”)? © Stocksy; Xinhua News Agency/Getty Images

At the easterly side of East Asia, Japan and South Korea are perennial favorites of savvy travelers – and for good reason.

But if you had to choose just one (we’re sorry), which one would get the nod? Below, two of our regular writers on the region make the case for their favorite.

It’s just Japan

Regular Japan visitor and rail expert John Walton expounds on the many ways – both fast and slow – to explore his favorite country to visit. His top Japanese journeys include following rural rail lines up to relaxing hot spring towns and exploring local foodways.

I’ve traveled in both Japan and South Korea, and both are wonderful. Yet the former is the country I return to again and again.

Japanese trains are irresistible

The incredible railway network that blankets all of Japan is one of the country’s top draws – and wins out over South Korea’s trains, which I’ve also taken. Even with its recent price hikes , the Japan Rail Pass offers a fabulous value for shuttling between cities at up to 200mph (320km/h), relaxing on a comfortable Limited Express, exploring tiny local branch lines or enjoying cultural experience on the special Joyful Train excursion services.

If I had to pick a few favorite train trips, I’d go with the Tohoku Shinkansen’s top-speed section north of Omiya, the single-car branch line between Abashiri and Kushiro in Hokkaido, the Limited Express Yakumo from Okayama to Matsue and the SL Ginga steam trains from Takasaki.

A country for all seasons

Japan is several times the size of South Korea, and crosses a lot more climatic zones – from tropical Okinawa to the northern island of Hokkaido , snowy in winter but delightfully cool in summer. 

This means there’s not only simply more to do, but that there’s more variety, as well as a wider range of seasons of pleasant weather.

Since I’m no great fan of the rain and humidity of the tsuyu early-summer season, I’ll head north to Hokkaido then, where the temperatures are balmy but not muggy, to enjoy the freshest of fish in historical Hakodate. Come autumn, I love to head southwest to Kyūshū to extend short-sleeve weather: Kumamoto and Kagoshima are delightfully sunny and warm even into late November.

Relaxing ryokan and onsen culture

Formal appearances can be deceiving: Japanese people love to relax, and they’re great at it. They’re also excited to share their traditions with visitors. Traditional ryokan hotels, especially those with attached onsen hot-spring baths , provide the perfect way to build intensive relaxation time into your trip.

From the moment I arrive at a ryokan , my worries melt away and all I have to think about is what book I want to read sitting by the scenic window in my room. In a picturesque onsen town I fancy going for a little wander in a yukata robe as I ponder which of the often multiple onsen baths I want to slip into to soak away my cares (and relieve my sore traveler muscles). Gunma ’s Kusatsu-Onsen is famous for a reason, yet tiny Bessho Onsen near Ueda in Nagano  – up the side of a mountain reached by a tiny private railway – is my favorite hidden gem.

Thousands of onsen can be found around Japan, from the famously beautiful one in Matsuyama that inspired Miyazaki’s Spirited Away to the one inside the railway station at Echigo-Yuzawa. I love dipping my tired toes into one of the stone public foot baths that you’ll find in many tourist areas.

Hiking, skiing and nature

An antidote to a very urbanized society, Japan’s outdoor activities are many and widespread. Once you get out of Japan’s cities, the natural beauty is a stunning surprise – accessible by both Shinkansen and local trains. Hiking is incredibly popular, while so many people love skiing that there is a special seasonal spur of a Shinkansen bullet train line that goes directly to the Gala Yuzawa ski resort .

Don’t miss the gorgeous Sanriku Coast in the Tohoku region, with its rugged yet human-scaled peninsulas and promontories. Rugby-loving Kamaishi or sleepy Miyako, with its stunning Jōdogahama Beach , are great starting points for exploring this region. 

If you’re interested in it, Japan has it.

South Korea takes the crown

Tom O’Malley has ventured both north and south of Korea’s DMZ, and worked on the current editions of the Korea and Seoul Lonely Planet guidebooks. His favorite Korean dish is sundubu-jjigae (spicy tofu, pork and kimchi stew).

For this throw down of east versus slightly more east, I’m fighting in the K-corner – though in full disclosure I really love Japan, too. Still, in the spirit of partisanship, here’s my take on why South Korea deserves to be your next adventure destination. 

The “It” culture

First, a question: how far would you have gotten in Squid Game ? I reckon I’d have made it past the terrifying giant doll and then died trying to nibble the dalgona (sugar candy biscuit) without it breaking. The fact that you almost certainly know what I’m on about illustrates something: Korean culture is crushing it right now. From Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite winning Best Picture at the Oscars to girl group Blackpink blowing up Coachella, the world can’t get enough of South Korea. It’s a phenomenon dubbed hallyu (the “Korean Wave”), and it’s been building for years. 

If you had the chance to time travel back to Belle Époque Paris, say, or London in the swinging ’60s, you’d go, right? Japan peaked in the 1980s before the bubble burst, yet South Korea’s golden age is happening right now. Why not go and be a part of it?

I appreciate that’s all a bit abstract, so let’s go head-to-head, starting with size. Japan is almost four times bigger than South Korea. And while there’s arguably more to see in Japan overall, that’s part of the problem. Itinerary planning is a headache, and getting around is expensive.

No such worries apply in South Korea, however. You can travel the length of the country – from the electric capital Seoul to the bustling southern port city of Busan – in just a couple of hours by high-speed train, with side forays to any number of incredible places, like the ancient tombs and temples of Gyeongju , or the dreamy peaks and waterfalls of Seograksan National Park . Or why not venture right to the edge of North Korea with a trip to the DMZ ? 

Fiery flavors

And then there’s the food, to my mind always one of travel’s chief pleasures. Japanese cuisine is elegant, subtle and often…well, raw. Are those really the best food adjectives? Personally, I want my meals to slap me around the face with flavor, heat and spice – and that’s exactly what you get from Korean cuisine.

Whether you’re cooking up galbi (beef short ribs) on a tabletop grill, going hard on chimaek (fried chicken and beer) or slurping down a fiery kimchi-and-pork stew, eating is a hearty, visceral pleasure in Korea. And a word about banchan , those little side dishes of delicious treats you get with most meals: they’re both free and refillable. What’s not to love?

Delightful people

A final word has to go to the true highlight of any trip to South Korea: the Korean people themselves. It’s as if hospitality, helpfulness and respect are hard-wired into their DNA. You can guarantee that as you travel through the country, you’ll have encounters with locals that will leave you feeling that little bit more positive about this planet we all share.

Sure, it could happen in Japan as well, but they’re probably too busy reading manga.

South Korea for the win.

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Japan vs. Korea: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Help You Decide

• Post author: cuppa
• Post published: January 27, 2024
• Post category: Knowledge Base

Deciding between a trip to Japan or Korea can be quite a pickle! Both countries offer rich cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and unique attractions. It’s like choosing between two equally tempting dishes on a menu.

Japan, known for its blend of tradition and tech, offers a journey into the future and the past all at once. On the other hand, Korea, with its K-pop culture and historic palaces, provides a vibrant and dynamic travel experience.

So, how do you choose? Well, I’m here to help you make that decision. Let’s delve into the unique aspects of both Japan and Korea, and see which one aligns with your travel aspirations.

Table of Contents

Japan: A Blend of Tradition and Tech

When it comes to the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’, it’s hard to overlook its reputation as a powerhouse of technology. While one might also associate Japan with its lush Shinto shrines, verdant tea gardens, and serene Zen temples, it’s equally recognized for its gleaming skyscrapers, bustling cityscapes, and high-speed Shinkansen or bullet trains.

A visit to Japan is practically a time travel adventure. You’ll walk amid centuries-old castle towns in the morning and witness futuristic robot restaurants at night. You’re constantly torn between the charms of the past and the allure of the future.

One of the prominent aspects of Japan is its advanced tech scene. Consider Akihabara in Tokyo, where I found electronics stores galore. One moment I was marvelling at the latest cutting-edge gadgets, the next I was lost in the colorful chaos of Manga and Anime. This blend of Japanese pop culture and technology is infectious, making you yearn for more.

Yet, Japan is not all about shiny new toys. There’s an undercurrent of tradition that binds even the glitziest cities. Take Kyoto , for instance. This former imperial capital perfectly marries the old and the new. From its ancient temples and traditional tea houses to avant-garde architecture and stylish boutiques, Kyoto simply captivates. It’s a testament to Japan’s ability to balance reverence for the past with an insatiable quest for the future.

Japanese cuisine is another area where tradition collides with innovation. It’s not just sushi and ramen. It’s also about using umami (savory taste) to its full potential. Michelin-star restaurants co-exist with quaint local food stalls, each pushing culinary boundaries while adhering to the age-old principles of Japanese gastronomy.

Lastly, I cannot overlook the role of technology in enhancing Japan’s tourism experience. There is no shortage of modern conveniences. From railways that always run on time to advanced tourist translation apps, Japan is at the cutting edge of travel convenience.

In short, a trip to Japan is a kaleidoscope of experiences. It’s a place where traditions and high-tech wonders are seamlessly woven into everyday life.

Korea: Vibrant and Dynamic Travel Experience

Another exciting destination to consider is Korea. Similar to Japan, Korea offers an interesting blend of modernity and tradition.

My first touchpoint with Korea was its fast-paced and vibrant capital city, Seoul. Walking through Seoul is like stepping into the future – bustling neighborhoods like Gangnam and Hongdae radiate with bright neon signs, skyscrapers, and people navigating their routine in the embrace of cutting-edge technology. Yet, nestled among these modern marvels, you’ll find places like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong, where the rich scent of history and culture pervades. Tradition and modernity coexist flawlessly , much like in Japan, demonstrating Korea’s rich cultural tapestry.

Then, there’s Korean cuisine – a tantalizing roller coaster ride of flavors. From the fiery yet comforting Kimchi stew, to the savoury delight of Bibimbap, and down to the street-food haven, Korea is a gastronomic paradise. Food, in these parts, perfectly echoes the local culture – a unique mix of time-honoured recipes and today’s culinary innovation .

Korea’s tech scene is also a force to reckon with. Boasting big names like Samsung and LG, Korea stands out with its futuristic concept stores, robot cafes, and advanced tech showrooms. Tech enthusiasts are sure to appreciate sights such as the Samsung D’light Store or Starfield Library in Seoul.

Natural attractions are also aplenty in Korea. Jeju Island, for instance, offers serene landscapes, fetching waterfalls, and hiking trails that lead to awe-inspiring volcanic craters. The healing forests of PyeongChang and vibrant Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae further amplify Korea’s natural allure.

Weaving in Korea’s dynamic pop culture, such as K-pop and K-dramas, will enhance your travel experience, ensuring an immersive introduction to this fascinating country. To say that a trip to Korea offers a vibrant and dynamic travel experience would be an understatement.

So, as you weigh the merits of Japan and Korea, remember that each country offers a unique tapestry of experiences that’s as enriching as it is enlightening. It’s a tough choice, no doubt, but isn’t that what makes travel planning all the more exciting?

Cultural Experiences in Japan

Traveling opens up a windshield wiper-like perspective, where every sweep brings a fresh view right before your eyes. In Japan, a lot more than the usual awaits an eager explorer. Hold onto your hats because it will be a dizzying yet mesmerizing ride.

Every traveler, whether a history fanatic, a religious explorer, a pop culture addict, or even a foodie, will find something endearing in Japan.

Historic Sites and Heritage: There’s an overflow of historical sites in Japan with over 20 UNESCO World Heritage sites. From the ancient castles of Himeji and Matsumoto to the beautiful temples of Kyoto, it’s like stepping backwards into a time when samurai roamed and the shogunate ruled.

Japanese Cuisine: I’m not only talking about sushi here! Japan’s cuisine, or what they call washoku , goes far beyond sushi. Whether it’s slurping soba noodles in Tokyo, savoring Kaiseki in Kyoto, or relishing the tang of Okinawan sushi, your palate will enjoy this culinary journey.

Art and Crafts: In Japan you can’t evade art and craftsmanship. With inspiring rural landscapes and bustling urban centers, it’s a hotbed for artistic expressions ranging from ancient pottery and woodblock prints to contemporary forms like manga and 3D art.

Religious Practices: Japan’s Shinto and Buddhist practices are fascinating. Participation mandatory matsuri (festivals) held all year round, visit hallowed grounds like the Meiji Shrine, or witness the awe-inspiring O-Bon Festival.

Truly, Japan is not just a country—it’s an experience. Next, I’ll delve into how Korea’s culture offers equally vibrant and enriching experiences.

Cultural Experiences in Korea

As we explore further, let’s delve into the captivating realm of Korean culture. Like Japan, Korea has an intricate tapestry of time-honored traditions and innovative trends that weave together to provide a rich, full-bodied cultural experience for every visitor.

While you might’ve been introduced to Korea via the vibrant sounds of K-pop or the irresistible draws of K-dramas, the nation’s cultural depth extends far beyond these popular facets. Going from bustling Seoul to the serene countryside, you’ll come across a juxtaposition of modern marvels and storied spectacles that narrate Korea’s grand history.

You cannot discuss Korea without mentioning its opulent palaces and historic sites. For instance, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a significant fixture in Seoul that showcases the regal aura of past Korean dynasties. Or venture a little further afield to the historical city of Gyeongju – often referred to as “the museum without walls” – where relics and ruins of the storied Silla Kingdom lie.

Korean arts and crafts offer another layer of cultural intrigue. The mesmerizing art of crafting Hanji – traditional paper made from mulberry trees – to the detailed and delicate process of creating traditional Korean Hanbok will have you appreciating the skill and precision involved.

Lastly, but by no means least, we have Korean food. Korean cuisine is a roller coaster ride of flavors. From the fiery heat of Kimchi and unique taste of Bibimbap, to the soul-warming Stone Pot Rice and spicy Buckwheat Noodles. Each dish tells a story and offers a taste of the country’s cultural diversity.

No doubt, traveling to Korea will heap cultural enrichment upon your senses. From historic sites to traditional arts, every day spent here offers unique insights into this fascinating culture. It’s not a matter of if you should visit Korea, but when.

Remember, you’re not just sightseeing, you’re making memories for a lifetime! And with that, it’s time to head over to our next segment: Korean festivals. Buckle up, because we’re about to delve into the heart of Korea’s vibrant public celebrations.

Cuisine: Japanese Delicacies vs. Korean Delights

Many travelers plan their journeys around culinary explorations. If you’re among that league, both Japan and Korea offer a wide array of delectable treats.

Journeying through Japan unearths culinary gems such as sushi & sashimi, known internationally. Yet, there’s so much more to discover: sumptuous ramen noodles, expertly grilled yakitori, and sweet mochi. Meanwhile, the country’s extensive palette also offers diverse regional dishes and local specialties. Cold Hokkaido has its fresh and delectable seafood while Okinawa down south is famed for its goya champuru, a unique stir-fry using bitter gourd.

On the other “table,” Korea tantalizes your tastebuds with dishes like bulgogi, sweet marinated beef barbecue, and kimchi, the famous fermented vegetable dish. Yet perhaps, the real specialty lies in regional varieties of kimchi, ranging from refreshing, crisp water kimchi in the North to hot and fiery versions in the South. And let’s not forget Korea’s comfort food, bibimbap: a bowl of warm white rice topped with sautéed and seasoned vegetables, chili paste, and usually a raw or fried egg.

If street food is more your style, both cultures won’t disappoint. In Japan, there are yatai (food stalls) located in city street corners offering takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes). Over in Korea, street food vendors sell everything from spicy tteokbokki (rice cake) to fluffy hotteok (sweet pancakes).

Importantly, it’s not just about the food. Both countries offer immersive dining experiences that focus on more than simply satiating your hunger; they incorporate elements of their ancient cultures and modern innovations.

Deep dive into Japanese cuisine with traditional customs: meticulous food arrangement speaks volumes of their aesthetics, while the tea ceremony articulates a story. In Korea, experience traditional dining called Hanjeongsik, a course meal with a spread of small side dishes or take a hands-on cooking class to learn the art of Korean cuisine.

Attractions in Japan

Venturing into Japan, one thing becomes immediately apparent: there is a harmonious blend of the old and the new. The country’s ability to maintain its ancient heritage while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of modernity is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

In both urban and rural settings, you’ll find temples drenched in history and enormous skyscrapers touching the clouds. This unique combination makes Japan an intriguing destination from a cultural and architectural standpoint.

The City of Tokyo offers an abundance of attractions that could keep you busy for weeks. The Tokyo Skytree – currently the tallest tower in the world – is an architectural marvel providing 360-degree views of the sprawling metropolis. The ancient Sensoji Temple , located in Tokyo’s traditional district of Asakusa, gives a glimpse into the nation’s spiritual heritage.

Away from the urban vibe, the scenic Mount Fuji stands high as a testament to Japan’s gorgeous landscapes. It’s not just a sight to behold but a popular hiking destination, with individuals from all around the world taking on the adventure to reach its summit.

The city of Kyoto , a former imperial capital, is another must-visit place in Japan. Here, one can immerse themselves in Japanese tradition by visiting Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine , famous for its thousand red torii gates.

But Japan isn’t restricted to its temples, cities and nature alone. The country also offers unique experiences like Onsen Bathing at natural hot springs, and Bullet train rides – traveling at speeds that defy human comprehension.

A peek into the daily life of a Sumo wrestler at a morning practice session, a stroll through bustling authentic Fish Markets , and a visit to a traditional Geisha district also add to Japan’s allure.

Fascinating indeed, Japan is mach more than sushi and ramen. It’s an amalgamation of a distinct past, striking landscapes, and futuristic innovation that pulls everyone under its charm.

Attractions in Korea

Exploring South Korea unveils a panorama of dynamic cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and impressive historic sites. Let’s delve in and discover South Korea’s must-visit attractions.

The capital city, Seoul , is an exhilarating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. At the heart of the city is the Gyeongbokgung Palace , a striking symbol of Korea’s proud history. Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, this palace provides a serene respite from the bustling city life. Talking about gardens, don’t miss out on visiting Namsan Park , home to the iconic N Seoul Tower that offers stellar views of the cityscape.

Seoul’s Myeongdong district is a paradise for shoppers with an array of retail outlets from high-end designer boutiques to street markets. At night, the scene transforms into an open-air food market teeming with mouthwatering Korean delights.

History enthusiasts would find the coastal city Gyeongju fascinating. Known as the “Museum without Walls”, this city is studded with ancient temples and royal tombs that narrate the stories of the Silla Dynasty. Uncover the millennia-old history at Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto , both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

For breathtaking natural sights, head over to Jeju Island . Its outstanding natural beauty, featuring volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches, will leave you in awe. The sunrise view from the peak of Hallasan Mountain is truly a sight to behold. The Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes are recognized as UNESCO Natural Heritage Sites, magnifying the island’s idyllic charm.

Once in Korea, immersion into their local culture cannot be overlooked. Try out traditional kimchi making or the tea ceremony for an authentic Korean experience. Korea’s unique blend of culture, history, gastronomy, and stunning landscapes certainly ensures a fulfilling trip that caters to all interests.

Choosing Based on Your Travel Aspirations

Wondering whether to pick Japan or Korea for your next travel experience? Don’t fret! Your personal interests and travel aspirations should guide your choice. Considering these, let’s delve into the unique characteristics of both destinations to help you make an informed decision.

If you’re a history enthusiast, both Japan and Korea have a lot to offer. Japan’s historical sites like Tokyo’s Sensoji Temple or Kyoto’s golden Kinkaku-ji are renowned world over. Korea counters with sprawling palace complexes, such as the grand Gyeongbokgung in Seoul and antique royal tombs in Gyeongju. For those yearning for a taste of times gone by, you’ll be enthralled in both countries.

For the foodies among us, which country has superior cuisine is a hotly debated topic. Japan is famous for sushi, ramen, and yakitori while Korea stakes its culinary claim with bulgogi, kimchi, and bibimbap. Street food culture is vibrant in both nations, offering a smorgasbord of delights to tantalize your taste buds.

If technology and modernity excite you, then Tokyo’s neon glow and unmatched innovation will be irresistible. Contrastingly, Seoul is a city where tradition and technology intertwine seamlessly, offering a unique blend for the discerning traveler.

Natural beauty? Both countries shine! While Japan lays claim to iconic mountains like Mount Fuji and scenic onsen towns, Korea boasts of unparalleled beauty with volcanic landscapes in *Jeju Island and breathtaking panoramas in rural countryside.

There are endless opportunities for unique experiences. Be it onsen bathing in Japan or a traditional tea ceremony in Korea, there’s always something new to learn and immersive experiences to enjoy.

Choosing between Japan and Korea isn’t an easy task. Both offer a rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine that’s sure to delight any traveler. If immersing yourself in ancient temples, feasting on sushi and ramen, or taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji appeals to you, Japan’s your spot. However, if you’re drawn to vibrant cities, mouthwatering street food like bulgogi and bibimbap, and the serene beauty of places like Jeju Island, then Korea’s calling your name. Both countries offer unique experiences, whether that’s soaking in an onsen in Japan or participating in a traditional tea ceremony in Korea. So, it’s not about choosing the ‘better’ destination. It’s about deciding which experiences you’d like to dive into. Remember, there’s no wrong choice here. Whether you choose Japan or Korea, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the highlighted historical sites in japan and korea.

The article highlights the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, and the Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, Korea as key historical sites that add a rich cultural dimension to your travel experience.

What are some of the popular cuisines to try in Japan and Korea?

Japan is famous for its sushi, ramen, and yakitori, while in Korea, bulgogi, bibimbap, and kimchi are must-tries. Both countries also offer vibrant street food culture.

Can you suggest some unique experiences in Japan and Korea?

In Japan, taking a dip in an onsen (hot spring) can offer a unique cultural experience. Meanwhile, in Korea, participating in traditional tea ceremonies provides a glimpse into the nation’s rich traditions.

What are some architectural landmarks in Japan and Korea?

Japan is known for the intriguing blend of old and new in its architecture, with Mount Fuji being a notable landmark. In Korea, the dynamic cities, natural landscapes, and historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace are worth visiting.

What’s noteworthy about the natural landscapes in Japan and Korea?

Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji and Korea’s volcanic Jeju Island landscapes offer visitors a taste of the countries’ natural beauty.

Why are Japan and Korea recommended travel destinations?

The article emphasizes that the diversity and allure of the cuisine, attractions, and unique cultural experiences make Japan and Korea must-visit destinations for travelers.

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Japan Vs Korea: Where Should You Go On Tour Next?

It goes without saying that Japan and South Korea are two incredible destinations but deciding where you should visit on your next tour, however, is never an easy decision to make.

To save you losing sleep over choosing where to visit next, here are a few tips to help you with the decision: Japan or South Korea?

What type of traveller is best suited to Japan?

Japan is home to some of the best experiences in the world that are bound to suit the needs of all travellers. Thrill seekers can perch themselves on top of the Tokyo Tower to enjoy the sweeping views of the city from hundreds of meters in the air, or if you prefer to keep two feet on the ground, there are plenty of traditional Japanese spa experiences to be enjoyed. For the food lovers out there, of course, there are millions of new flavours and delicious cuisines that can be found across the country.

So basically, what we’re really trying to say is that anyone can visit Japan! 

See Also: Where to Take the Best Photos of Japan: As Told by a Pro

Should you book a tour to Japan?

For travellers wanting an in-depth cultural experience, a multi-day tour to Japan is one of the best ways to go to experience the country. Not only will you get to learn all about Japan from your local guide, you can surround yourself with other like-minded travellers on your tour. 

If you are determined to see Japan on your own, there’s always an option to join a self-guided tour so you can move at your own pace while exploring away from the beaten path. 

What is the best time to visit Japan?

Peak season for travel in Japan is dictated by the patterns of the colourful cherry blossom trees which causes a steep price hike during this time. The cherry blossom season is typically in full swing in early April, and between late-April to the start of May, the majority of the Japanese population take this week off work, and this is often referred to as ‘Golden Week’. If you are planning on travelling during this time, be wary that crowds at popular attractions will be much higher, and hotel rates will jump.

If you’re happy to settle for slightly cooler temperatures, late May to early June is a pleasant time to visit Japan as hotel accommodation prices will drop and crowds will lessen. Late-autumn through to early-spring is also an ideal time to visit Japan, although temperatures will be colder during this time.

• Spring – March, April and May
• Summer – June, July and August
• Autumn – September, October and November
• Winter – December, January and February

See Also: Hiking the Japanese Alps in Winter

What are the must-visit sites in Japan?

Mount fuji .

An undeniable icon of Japan is the beautiful and majestic Mount Fuji. Japan’s tallest peak can be seen up close with a drive up to the volcano’s 5th station, where travellers can enjoy the sweeping views of Japan’s countryside. Those seeking picturesque views of Fuji from afar can visit surrounding locations such as Lake Ashi.

Fushimi Inari Shrine 

An endless stream of red torii gates, weaving and guiding travellers throughout a vibrant green mountain; the Fushimi Inari Shrine is a highlight that cannot be missed when visiting Kyoto. The shrine was founded in 711 AD and is comprised of over 10,000 torii gates. Although walking through the tunnels can be time-consuming, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of Kyoto city.

Takeshita Street

Takeshita Street is a buzzing and colourful shopping lane of Tokyo, lined with unique stores, eateries and clothing boutiques. The spot is extremely popular due to its trendy stores which contain unique accessories that cannot be found elsewhere.

Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Arcade 

Sensoji is Tokyo’s oldest temple, surrounded by charming and entertaining market strips. The temple was opened in 645 AD and still stands today as a much-loved tourist destination. Visitors can enter through the temples thunder gate and amble along the Nakamise Shopping Arcade through to the vibrant and grand structure.

Enoshima Bay 

Enoshima is a small island, located approximately 1 hour south of Tokyo that can be accessed by car. Travellers can walk through the narrow shopping streets past traditional restaurants, through to the Enoshima Shrine. Trek through the shrine, respectfully participating in an array of Japanese customs before reaching the peak of the island for sweeping views of the surrounding area.

What are the must-try dishes in Japan?

• Sashimi: Thinly sliced raw meats, with the most popular being fish and seafood.
• Miso Soup: A soup made from fish stock, miso bean paste, green onion, and tofu. Commonly served alongside traditional Japanese meals.
• Tempura: Battered seafood and vegetables.
• Udon: Wheat flour noodles commonly served in soups.

What are the best local experiences in Japan that I need to make time for?

Ride the shin kasen.

Japan’s extensive bullet train system is easily the most convenient and efficient method of getting between major cities. Reaching speeds of approximately 320 kilometers per hour, the trains are comfortable, spacious and popular among locals and travellers.

Wander among a bamboo forest

The opportunity to walk through a bamboo forest is an experience that simply cannot be overlooked in Japan. Walk beneath the towering tips of the bamboo, surrounded by greenery and fresh air.

Feed the deer at Nara Park

One of Japan’s oldest parks, Nara Park is home to hundreds of roaming deer. Travellers come from all parts of the world to visit these creatures, with some even bow before receiving a treat.

Eat sushi in Tokyo

High upon many Japanese bucket lists is the opportunity to eat sushi while visiting, and Tokyo provides countless places to do just that. The city holds plenty of traditional sushi restaurants with a range of flavours to sample. 

What do you need to know before visit Japan?

Jr rail pass.

The JR Rail pass allows travellers visiting Japan to ride the country’s bullet train system, for one fixed price, over a specific duration of time (7 or 14 days). This extremely cost-effective option is ideal for those wishing to venture between major cities. However, it should be noted that the pass must be purchased from home countries and can only be activated in Japan.

Learn a few phrases

While it is often easy to get your point across without the need for English, it may be worth learning a few phrases in case you find yourself in a situation where verbal communication is needed. Otherwise, online translators may be worthwhile. Here are a few Japanese phrases to help you with your journey.

See Also: Best Travel Podcasts If You’re Travelling to Japan

South Korea

What type of traveller is best suited to south korea.

Most travellers might be under the assumption that South Korea is a conservative place, however, in reality, this is not so much the case. South Korea is built for the curious traveller; someone who isn’t afraid to navigate the busy streets or to get lost and learn from locals who no doubt have a story to share. From the vibrant city of Seoul to the Seoraksan mountain in Gangwon and more, South Korea is filled with enough experiences to keep you entertained for a lifetime. Travellers with an open mind and an thirst for new experiences would be best suited for a trip to this exciting destination.

Should you book a tour to South Korea? 

A multi-day tour of South Korea may be a good idea for those visiting for the first time. Aside from the obvious benefits of travelling with a local tour guide and a group of travel buddies,  a tour can highlight the best secret places to visit that you might not find on your own. 

What is the best time to visit South Korea?

The peak season for travel in South Korea is during the summer months of the year. During this time, crowds, hotel accommodation, and temperatures are at an all-time high.

The best time to visit South Korea is in spring and fall. Crowds are much lower than the peak season and weather is overall quite pleasant. Hotel rates are also much more reasonable.

•   Spring: March, April and May
•   Summer: June, July and August
•   Autumn: September, October and November
•  Winter: December, January and February

What are the must-visit sites in South Korea?

Myeong-dong.

The vibrant area contains big brands, department stores and charming eateries to enjoy. The streets are bustling with many tourists seeking delicious food and an energetic nightlife.

N Seoul Tower

Opening in 1980 and standing at an impressive 236m, N Seoul Tower is the perfect spot for those wanting to gain a unique perspective of the city. Some of the tower’s best features include a panoramic viewing platform, multiple restaurants, and a digital observatory.

Changdeokgung

Also located in the city of Seoul is Changdeokgung, a grand palace from the Joseon Dynasty. Within the grounds of the palace is a flourished, palace park, a rear garden and a residence for royal family members.

South Korea’s biggest theme park, Everland, is beloved by countless locals and tourists every year. The park houses thrilling rides, festivals throughout the year and a zoo. The park also features a wooden roller coaster, which is popular among guests.

See Also: Dress Codes in Asia: From Myanmar to Thailand and Beyond

What are the must-try dishes in South Korea?

• Korean spicy rice cakes (Ddeokbokki): Made of rice cakes, a fish cake, and sweet chilli sauce. The dish is popular in street markets.
• Pan fried chicken (Dakgalbi): A stir-fried, spicy, diced chicken dish served with sliced cabbage.
• Red bean shaved ice (Patbingsu): A popular dessert. The shaved ice is topped with sweet flavours, such as fruit syrup, and red bean paste.
• Stir-fried octopus (Nakji Bokkeum): Served with udon noodles and a spicy sauce. 

What are the best local experiences in South Korea to make time for?

Try korean bbq.

For those looking to indulge in some traditional foods while visiting South Korea, Seoul is home to some of the best Korean BBQ restaurants. For those unsure about what Korean BBQ is, a grill is built into the table and guests purchase raw meats, commonly beef, pork and chicken to cook.  

Noraebang (Karaoke)

A way of life for people of all ages in South Korea, Karaoke is a fun way for travellers to sing their hearts out in a unique, welcoming setting. It is very easy to come across a Noraebang when visiting, as they are scattered thoroughly around major cities.

Visit a temple

An excellent way to experience the remarkable history of South Korea first hand, the country is home to countless Buddhist temples to wander among and enjoy. Some of the must-see colourful temples include the Bongeunsa Temple and Haedong Yonggung Temple.

What do you need to know before visit South Korea?

Transportation

Getting around the major cities of South Korea is very simple due to the country’s extensive and cost-effective public transport system. Purchasing a T-money card is a wise investment, as it can be topped up and used on public buses and subways. It also allows travellers to avoid purchasing a single ticket whenever the subway is used

See Also: 12 Safest Countries in Asia for 2018

Nicholas Hastie

Nicholas Hastie is a writer located in Brisbane, Australia. He enjoys documenting his journeys through travel and photography, hoping to inspire others to create unforgettable memories. He has travelled to 9 countries himself, Japan being his favourite. Follow his adventures on Instagram via @NicholasHastie and @WonderfulRoaming

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Japan or South Korea? How to choose your next holiday destination

It turns out comparing countries isn’t all that easy to do…at least, not without a little help.

You might be under the impression that deciding which destination to travel to is the easy part, but the decision becomes a lot trickier when you’re choosing between two breathtaking Asian countries – Japan and South Korea.

Japan has the tradition and the food, but South Korea has the city of Seoul and K-pop so how are you supposed to pick one?

To help you out with this almost impossible dilemma, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide comparing the two countries when it comes to culture, landscapes, weather, cuisine, and cities so you can jet off knowing you made the right choice.

Japan might be the land of futuristic technology and vending machines that sell everything under the sun (no literally, you can buy fresh lobsters and lucky charms) but its ancient culture dates back thousands of years with traditions influenced by Confucianism (introduced in AD285) and Buddhism (introduced in AD522).

Although there are several elements of old-school Japanese culture practiced throughout major cities and rural areas such as tea ceremonies, sumo activities, bowing, geishas, and kendo, it’s actually Japan’s newer generations that are setting the cultural tone these days in a fast-paced world full of avant-garde fashion and virtual realities.

However, there’s still a focus on core traditional values such as modesty, respect, and discipline but this is more present in the older generation with the country’s young people preferring a life of flamboyancy and ostentation. 

DISCOVER JAPAN ON OUR JAPAN: LAND OF THE RISING SUN TOUR

Thinking about South Korea’s culture can be overwhelming considering it dates back to 2,333BC but it prides itself on several core values that are still practiced today: respect, fairness, harmony, and adaptability (among others).

It’s these Confucius beliefs that underpin South Korea’s society with the majority of nationals participating in daily ancestral offerings, adhering to tiered interactions (strict hierarchal roles), and respecting community elders.

However, like with many other cultures, the younger generations are forging a new, less traditional path with less emphasis on humility and more importance placed on individuality and equality among all.  

When you think of Japanese landscapes you might automatically think of Mount Fuji and while that’s definitely a landmark you have to set your sights on when you go to Japan, there’s so much more natural beauty to marvel at.

Boasting more than 6000 islands including Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Honshu, Japan’s geography consists of mountainous terrain, forested areas, natural hot springs, active volcanoes, and tranquil coastlines, as well as built-up cities, to explore.

Whether you feel like wandering through Aokigahara, a wildlife-infested forest on the outskirts of Mount Fuji, taking in the beauty of bamboo groves, or trekking up one of the many hiking trails on Mount Takao, this country’s wonders are both diverse and unique.

RELATED: NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO VISIT JAPAN

You’d be forgiven for not exactly knowing if there are any South Korean landscapes worth travelling thousands of kilometres for, but we can assure you the country is full of natural wonders from mystical forested mountain ranges to rocky and dramatic coastlines.

While Japan has Mount Fuji, South Korea has the smaller but no less impressive Halla-san – an extinct volcano that rises 6,398 feet high (compared to Mount Fuji’s 12,389 feet) and is located on Jeju Island. But that’s not all.

From UNESCO World Heritage-listed national parks like Seoraksan National Park with its unique rock formations and refreshing hot springs to Suncheon Bay with its extensive wildlife and breathtaking coastal areas, Mother Nature really did her best in South Korea.

Japan’s weather tends to surprise a lot of people with different conditions and patterns experienced in different parts of the country from sticky, humid summers to cold, snowy winters but regardless of the season, Japan offers plenty to see and do.

If heavy snow (and the snow-based activities that come with it) tickles your fancy then head to the northern region of Yamagata from December to February, but if a light dusting is all you’re after, it might be worth visiting Hiroshima in the country’s south.

If you’re travelling during the summer and you’d rather keep humidity levels to a minimum, Tokyo’s the city for you with expected average temperatures around the 27°C mark (hot but not sticky). Osaka also experiences warm weather during the summer months and a mild winter making it one of the better year-round cities to visit.

JOIN OUR JAPAN EXPRESS SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE

South Korea’s weather is much like that of its Asian neighbours – the summertime is considered the hot and rainy season and winter temperatures tend to drop below freezing in most parts of the country. For this reason, spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons to visit.

During the months of March, April, and May, as well as September, October, and November, you can expect mild but comfortable temperatures without the rain and humidity experienced during the peak summer season. However, these optimal seasons never seem to last long so you really have to make the most of this country’s good weather while you have the chance.

Your feet don’t have to do all of the exploring when you get to Japan. Embark on a culinary adventure and let your tastebuds take over with delicacies such as sushi, ramen, and okonomiyaki on the menu in most restaurants and eateries around the country.

Want to try something on-the-go? Pick up your next snack from one of the many vending machines you’re bound to see with seafood, ice cream, and hot meals all options for when you’re busy but peckish.

But a meal isn’t complete without a refreshing beverage to wash it down with; luckily, Japan has plenty of those. From traditional sake to antioxidant-packed green tea, trying out Japan’s cuisine is an experience you don’t want to miss.  

RELATED: WHAT IS JAPAN FAMOUS FOR?

It’s hard to separate Japan and South Korea when it comes to their respective cuisines, like how can you pit sushi and kimchi against each other?! Answer: you can’t. But where Japanese food is centred on variety and balance, South Korean food is generally hot and spicy with ingredients such as fermented chilli paste and powdered red chilli the star of many traditional dishes.

However, long before Korean corn dogs stole the hearts of foodies around the world, traditional dishes such as bibimbap (a concoction of meat, vegetables, egg, and rice), jeon (a savoury pancake), and mandu (boiled, steamed, or pan-fried dumplings) were what travellers immediately sought out.

Other notable meals to try in South Korea are kan poong gi (spicy fried chicken), yook hwei (South Korea’s version of steak tartare), and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls). Oh, and you can’t forget to have Korean BBQ.

JOURNEY THROUGH SOUTH KOREA ON OUR SOUTH KOREA REAL FOOD ADVENTURE

While Japan’s natural beauty can’t be denied, it’s the country’s vibrant, history-laden cities that steal travellers’ hearts the world over – think Kyoto with its ancient shrines and temples, Tokyo with its entertainment and neon-lit streets, and Hiroshima with its cherry blossoms and war memorials.

But Japan’s alluring cities go further than the popular, tourist-riddled ones. Take Nagoya for example. It’s actually Japan’s third biggest city but is often overlooked in favour of its bustling neighbours when in actual fact, it has a lot to offer in terms of attractions, culture, and cuisine.

From its collection of castles and religious monuments to the Osu district (the go-to place for second-hand goodies and delicious street food), Nagoya may just surprise you in the best way.

EXPERIENCE THIS DIVERSE COUNTRY ON OUR PREMIUM JAPAN TOUR

South Korea’s cities range from chaotic and concrete jungle-like to peaceful and history-filled with destinations such as Seoul and Gyeongju at the top of travellers’ lists – and with good reason.

Seoul is full of interesting things to see and do – Gwangjang market, Bongeunsa Temple, and Hanok Village are all must-visits – and even boasts plenty of breathtaking natural parks and gardens to wander around.

Gyeongju, on the other hand, is a slower-paced, ancient city that feels as if it belongs in a different time thanks to its UNESCO world heritage listed temples and historic monuments.

But these cities aren’t the only ones popular among tourists with several others such as Busan (a beachside retreat), Suwon (known for its impressive scenery), and Daegu (the economic hub of the country) all capturing hearts and taking up camera roll space.

The verdict

Japan and South Korea might be similarly located in Asia, but they couldn’t be more different, and to be honest, choosing between the two is pretty much impossible. Both countries offer incredible experiences thanks to their respective cultures, cuisines, and attractions – in fact, you can’t really go wrong with either of them. So, we’re calling this one a draw. 

Kate Gazzard

When I was 11, my parents asked me whether I wanted a pool for the house or a trip to Fiji. I chose Fiji, and I've made travelling as much as I can a priority ever since.

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Korea or Japan – Which is Better to Travel

With the rise of the Hallyu wave and the sustained popularity of Japanese culture globally, it’s no wonder that you’re torn between choosing South Korea or Japan for your next travel destination.

Both countries offer unique experiences, brimming with rich history, diverse cuisines, stunning landscapes, and vibrant modern culture.

This article aims to provide a balanced overview of traveling to both these East Asian giants, assisting you in deciding which destination aligns best with your travel desires.

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In this article…

A Tale of Two Capitals: Seoul vs. Tokyo

Seoul: a fusion of past and future.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a metropolis where sleek skyscrapers coexist with centuries-old palaces and temples. The city’s districts are diverse in their offerings.

Gangnam, known globally thanks to Psy’s viral song, is a place of luxury boutiques and high-tech businesses. In contrast, Insadong boasts traditional tea houses, antique shops, and art galleries.

Seoul’s palaces, such as Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, provide a glimpse into the country’s royal past. For a futuristic perspective, head to the Digital Media City or Lotte World Tower, the country’s tallest building.

Tokyo: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is equally captivating. It’s a city where you can experience Japan’s traditions and its futuristic vision side-by-side.

Historic temples and serene gardens lie minutes away from towering skyscrapers and neon-lit entertainment districts.

Visit Asakusa to experience old Tokyo, with its famous Senso-ji temple and Nakamise shopping street.

Contrast that with a visit to Shibuya or Shinjuku, bustling with life and bright lights after dark. Don’t forget to enjoy the view from the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan.

💡 Tip: Buy travel health insurance before your trip.

Check out popular travel insurance plans and choose one that suits you.

Most plans only cost less than $20 a day.

Cuisines: K-BBQ vs. Sushi

Savory delights of korea.

Korean cuisine is a paradise for food lovers, with dishes that are diverse, flavorful, and healthy.

Barbecue, or gogi-gui, is a must-try, with places serving everything from marinated beef (bulgogi) to pork belly (samgyeopsal).

Equally popular is bibimbap, a bowl of warm rice topped with sautéed and seasoned vegetables, chili pepper paste, soy sauce, and a raw or fried egg.

Don’t forget to try kimchi, the spicy fermented cabbage that’s a staple of every Korean meal. For the adventurous, there’s even a live octopus dish called sannakji!

Savoring Japan’s Culinary Artistry

Japanese cuisine, known as washoku, is praised for its balance, aesthetic, and depth of umami flavors. The most internationally recognized dish, sushi, is an art in itself.

Quality sushi restaurants, like Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo, serve sushi that melts in your mouth.

Japan’s culinary delights go beyond sushi, though.

Ramen shops dot city streets, serving steaming bowls of noodles in various broths. Don’t miss out on tempura, tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet), and street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

Nature & Scenery: Hanami vs. Jeju

Discovering korea’s natural wonders.

South Korea is home to stunning natural landscapes.

Its star attraction is Jeju Island, often referred to as the “Hawaii of Korea.” Jeju is known for its volcanic landscape, complete with the stunning Hallasan mountain, lava tubes, and beautiful beaches.

Mainland Korea is equally captivating, from the cherry blossom-lined streets of Jinhae during spring to the vibrant autumn colors in Seoraksan National Park.

For a more tranquil experience, visit the picturesque Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve.

Japan’s Seasonal Splendors

Japan’s natural beauty is world-renowned, offering an enchanting spectacle each season.

In spring, the country is awash with the soft pink of cherry blossoms (sakura) for hanami (flower viewing) season. Autumn turns the landscapes into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, providing breathtaking sights in places like Nikko and Kyoto.

But it’s not just about the seasons.

The iconic Mt. Fuji, the tranquil bamboo groves of Arashiyama, and the scenic coasts of Hokkaido showcase Japan’s varied landscapes.

The southern island of Okinawa offers tropical beaches and great diving spots, providing a contrasting experience to mainland Japan.

Culture & History: K-Pop vs. Geisha

Korea’s vibrant culture and rich history.

South Korea may be known for K-pop and dramas, but its cultural canvas is far richer. Traditional arts like calligraphy, silk weaving, and pottery are still alive.

History buffs will love visiting the ancient Silla capital, Gyeongju, often referred to as “the museum without walls.”

At the same time, modern culture is equally enticing. Seoul’s Hongdae district is known for its underground music scene, art markets, and street performances.

Visit during the annual Busan International Film Festival, and you may catch a glimpse of Hallyu stars!

Japan’s Timeless Traditions and Innovative Spirit

Japan skillfully balances respect for traditions with a constant drive for innovation.

Traditional arts such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and kabuki theatre coexist with modern manga, anime, and robotics.

The historical districts of Kyoto are the best places to catch a glimpse of geisha culture.

Meanwhile, Akihabara in Tokyo represents the epitome of Japan’s pop culture and tech advancements. Attending a sumo match or visiting during a matsuri (festival) allows you to experience traditional Japanese culture firsthand.

Final Thoughts: Korea or Japan?

The decision between South Korea and Japan ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Both countries offer unique and enchanting experiences, making them worthy additions to any traveler’s bucket list. Here’s a quick summary:

• For modern culture and lively nightlife, both Seoul and Tokyo shine.
• For historical attractions, both countries offer remarkable insights into their rich pasts, with Kyoto being a standout in Japan, and Gyeongju in Korea.
• For natural beauty, both countries have their distinct offerings, from Jeju Island in Korea to Mt. Fuji in Japan.
• For foodies, it’s a tough call between Korean BBQ and Japanese sushi. Why not try both?

Remember, there’s no rule stating you can only visit one of these fascinating countries. Who knows? You might just find yourself planning to visit the other soon after your first trip! Safe travels!

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South Korea vs Japan: Which Country Is Best For Adventure Travel?

Both South Korea and Japan are filled with adventure opportunities alongside the rich cultural experiences they offer. Deciding which country is best ultimately depends on what adventure experiences you’re looking for.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the main adventure travel activities you can do in each country to see where you should travel next.

Wherever you go, make sure that you soak up the unique culture as well!

Joining small group or private tours to Japan  is a great idea if you want to see the absolute best this destination has to offer. The same can be said of  South Korea tours  - having the logistics handled and a professional guide to show you around allows you to experience the country like a local.

If you love mountains, hiking, and outdoor adventure in general, then you’ll have a great time in either country. Just make sure that you plan your trip carefully to visit at the right season for the activities you want to do.

South Korea: Hiking Options

Jirisan national park: hiking for all levels.

Jirisan National Park is also a hiker's paradise with trails for everyone. The Baemsagol Valley Trail is perfect if you're up for a challenge, winding through lush greenery and offering a real sense of accomplishment.

For a more relaxed hike, the Nogodan Trail provides breathtaking views without the intense climb. It's a great choice for families or beginners.

This national park is covered with lush green mountains and epic views wherever you look. It’s the perfect escape into nature while you’re in South Korea.

Seoraksan National Park: Epic Hiking in Nature's Beauty

Seoraksan National Park is a dream for hikers. This park is filled with beautiful hiking trails, which are suitable for hikers of all experience levels.

The Dinosaur Ridge Course is one of the most popular trails. It’s like a rollercoaster for your legs, with steep climbs and rocky paths that keep your heart pumping. But the reward at the top is unbeatable panoramic views and a thrilling adventure.

For those who prefer a more laid-back hike, there are easier trails like the Ulsanbawi Rock Course, offering stunning views of the park's unique rock formations.

Hallasan Mountain on Jeju Island: South Korea’s Tallest Peak

Hallasan Mountain is the king of peaks in South Korea. If you’re going to go hiking in this country, then this is the peak you’ll want to conquer.

The Eorimok Trail is a favourite among adventurers, taking you through diverse landscapes to the summit. The views from the top are mind-blowing.

If you're into volcanic landscapes, the Manjanggul Cave nearby is a fascinating exploration. A day in Jeju can easily mix hiking and visiting unique natural wonders - a top recommendation if you’re visiting this part of South Korea.

Japan: Hiking Options

Mount fuji: japan's iconic peak.

Mount Fuji is the star of the show when it comes to hiking in Japan. This is Japan’s tallest peak and the country’s greatest natural icon; it’s often considered one of the best hikes in Asia .

There are a couple of different routes available if you want to climb Mount Fuji . This includes variations for hikers of all levels. The Yoshida Trail is a classic route, offering a challenging yet rewarding climb. The sunrise from the summit is legendary and attracts adventurers from around the world.

For those seeking a less crowded experience, the Subashiri Trail provides a more serene journey through forests and volcanic landscapes. Both trails promise stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.

Being one of the most beautiful mountains in the world , Mount Fuji is an incredibly rewarding hiking experience. From the base to the summit, hikers are rewarded with some of Japan's most amazing views and scenery.

The Japanese Alps: A Haven for Hikers

If you’re going to hike in Japan , then you’ll also want to experience the Japanese Alps.

The Japan Alps, divided into Northern, Central, and Southern ranges, offer diverse hiking experiences. The Kamikochi Valley in the Northern Alps is a picturesque destination with easy trails suitable for beginners. The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in the Northern Alps combines hiking with breathtaking scenic views.

The Kiso Valley in the Central Alps boasts the Nakasendo Trail, connecting historic post towns. It's a perfect blend of cultural exploration and moderate hiking. The Southern Alps, with the Senjojiki Cirque, present a challenging yet mesmerizing alpine environment.

Hikers can spend weeks here exploring the many different trails on offer. The scenery also changes dramatically with each season, with hiking being at its best during the Spring when the cherry blossoms are out.

Yakushima: Mystical Forests and Coastal Wonders

Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage site , invites adventurers to explore mystical forests and coastal wonders. The Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine is a highlight for hikers, with moss-covered trails and ancient cedar trees creating a surreal atmosphere.

The challenging trek to Jomon Sugi, one of the oldest cedar trees in Japan, is a must for experienced hikers.

The island's diverse landscapes make Yakushima a unique destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you want to go on a challenging hike or just want to soak up Japanese nature, then this is one of the best places to do it.

Japanese Via Ferratas: Scaling New Heights

Japan offers thrilling via ferrata experiences, combining hiking with rock climbing.

The Daikanbo Via Ferrata in the Northern Alps provides stunning views of the Chubu Sangaku National Park. It's an adventure suitable for both beginners and seasoned climbers.

The Karasawa Via Ferrata, also in the Northern Alps, offers a more challenging route with exposed sections and breathtaking alpine scenery.

Other Adventure Travel Activities in South Korea

Riding rapids on the donggang river.

For water thrill-seekers, the Donggang River's white-water rafting is an absolute blast.

The rapids add an exciting twist to your adventure, and you don't need to be an expert to enjoy the ride. You can take guided white river rafting trips down the river to experience the thrill of these rapids in a safe environment.

Rock Climbing in Bukhansan National Park

South Korea's adventure scene isn't just about hiking - rock climbing is another well-loved activity here.

Bukhansan National Park is a rock climber's haven with challenging routes. Whether you're a pro or just starting, the varied terrain has something for everyone.

If you want to experience the best of this park, then consider doing the 5 Summits Traverse - a classic adventure day that leads you up to an intense ridge. There’s also the Seoninbong - a tall peak known for its difficult bolted slab routes.

Baekundae is the highest peak in the park at 836m. There are fewer routes up here and it can get quite crowded. Of course, the views from the summit are awesome.

Uiam is another climber's favourite. This is a single monolith with a few routes to climb up. It’s a more moderate climbing option for those who don't want to take on the more intense climbs in the park.

Ice Climbing in Cheongsong

South Korea's adventure scene doesn't hibernate in winter. Cheongsong Valley becomes an ice-climbing paradise. Of course, you need to prepare for the cold, but the thrill of scaling icy heights is a unique experience you won't forget.

You can take guided ice-climbing trips, which include all of the gear you need for this adventure activity. This is suitable for new and experienced ice climbers.

Scuba Diving

While there’s plenty of fun to be had in the mountains of South Korea, head to the coast and you’ll also find some amazing scuba diving opportunities.

Scuba diving is mainly done along the sojourn part of the country’s east coast, as well as around Jeju Island. The waters are warm, and you can experience a range of sandy bottom dives, beach dives and reef dives.

Experiencing New Heights

If you’re after some high-flying adventure, then South Korea has a range of adrenaline-fuelled options.

You could go sky diving or hot air balloon riding over the country. Bungee jumping the country’s highest jump at Jecheon City (62m) is another thrilling option.

Adventure travellers can also enjoy a seriously impressive ziplining course at the Hadong Alps Leports. It’s possible to reach 120km/hr on this 1.5 km-long ziplining trail.

And with all of the mountains comes plenty of paragliding opportunities. You can do this across the country, with many popular launch sites existing along booking trails.

Other Adventure Travel Activities in Japan

Ski and snowboard the mountains.

Japan's adventure scene adapts to each season. In winter, the country transforms into a winter sports paradise, with skiing and snowboarding in places like Niseko and Hakuba.

There are plenty of great ski resorts around these parts of Japan, with slopes suitable for all experience levels. If you’re after some of the best winter skiing outside of Europe, then Japan should be on your list.

Shirakawa-go and the Noto Peninsula: Cultural and Coastal Adventure

For a unique blend of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure, head to Shirakawa-go and the Noto Peninsula. The traditional thatched-roof villages of Shirakawa-go are surrounded by scenic landscapes. Hiking through this cultural treasure provides a glimpse into Japan's rural history.

The Noto Peninsula offers coastal hiking with stunning views of the Sea of Japan. The Noto Kongo Coastline Trail is a great way to combine seaside exploration with outdoor adventure.

Surfing and Kayaking

Japan's extensive coastline provides excellent opportunities for surfing and kayaking enthusiasts. The beaches of Shonan near Tokyo and the Chiba Peninsula are popular surf spots, offering some great waves - especially during typhoon season.

For kayaking, the crystal-clear waters of Okinawa provide a serene yet exciting adventure. You can explore sea caves, coral reefs, and hidden coves, immersing yourself in Japan's coastal beauty from a different perspective.

South Korea vs. Japan: Which Country is Best for Adventure Travel?

So, which country is better for adventure travellers?

Both South Korea and Japan offer many thrilling activities, including plenty of mountains and hiking opportunities.

Overall, Japan is a more popular and iconic adventure destination, as it includes the impressive Mount Fuji, the tall Japanese Alps, and offers a greater range of winter sports activities.

However, South Korea still has plenty of amazing national parks, with beautiful protected mountains, and it tends to be cheaper to visit. Jeju Island is also the better option for sunny beaches and ocean adventures.

If you’re looking to tick off bucket list hikes, go to Japan. If you’re looking for a lesser-known adventure destination, consider South Korea.

About the author 

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison used to work as a guide for a 5-star safari reserve in South Africa. Today she is a full time traveller and editor for Mountain IQ. She has travelled and hiked extensively in South America, including many solo hikes in Patagonia, the Cusco region of Peru, Ecuador and Chile.

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Is Korea Really the Poor Man’s Japan?

January 7, 2023 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

When the topic of Korea vs Japan travel comes up, you might assume the discussion is historical, political or even racial—that’s not what this post is about. Rather, I’m going to explore the key differences between these two amazing countries where travelers are concerned, and help you decide which is best to visit.

Some of these will be practical in nature, whether you’re asking “is Japan expensive?” (either in comparison to South Korea , or as a standalone question), or want to know how far English will get you in either country (Spoiler alert: not very!).

I’ll also be exploring the difference between Japan and Korea in a more esoteric sense, weaving in stories from my two dozen combined trips to the two countries to entertain you a bit as you make your decision. (Assuming you don’t simply decide to extend your trip and visit both!)

When it comes to Korea or Japan, which is better to travel?

My Own Experience with Korea vs Japan

Before my first trip to Korea, a well-meaning friend of mine told me that “Korea is the poor man’s Japan” (which, side note, is a ridiculous statement, since Korea is at least as expensive as Japan—but I digress). I landed in Seoul the first time very much in love with Japan and believing Korea couldn’t possible measure up; this prophecy was largely self-fulfilling. Why is Japan more popular than Korea? Part of it may be simply because so many people ask this question.

Indeed, my views have moderated as I’ve traveled in Korea more, but I still wouldn’t say that the question of Japan vs South Korea travel is a draw. Japan is still a far superior country for travelers in my opinion, even if South Korea has more redeeming factors (and, to be sure, a slightly wider array of destinations and experiences) than I initially gave the country credit for.

Key Ways to Compare Korea vs Japan

Japanese culture vs korean culture.

Let’s be clear: A post on a travel blog is not the proper venue to have a sophisticated discussion of Korea vs Japan culture. However, from practices like the Japanese tea ceremony and the Korean hanbok costume, to the way people in Japan and Korea welcome strangers (or don’t), I prefer Japanese culture in every conceivable way. One (possible under the influence of my aforementioned) friend I wholly believed that the entire of Korean culture was a rip-off of Japan’s (and China’s), though I’ve somewhat walked that back in recent years.

Korean Food vs Japanese Food

Whether you travel from South Korea to Japan or vice-versa, you’re in for a culinary treat. Largely, I would say that Japan’s cuisine is more diverse , ranging from delicate dishes like sushi and sashimi to down-home comfort food like tonkatsu fried pork cutlet and ramen noodle soup. Korean food has some range too (beyond kimchi and bibimbap , you can enjoy kimbap rolls and dakgangjeong fried chicken), but I still give the nod to Japan overall in this category.

Destinations in Korea and Japan

Comparing Korea or Japan in terms of destinations (and experiences), there is simply no contest: Japan wins hands down! Japan destinations , for example, span several exciting regions: Tohoku , Kanto , Chubu , Kansai and Chugoku ; as well as the islands of Hokkaido , Kyushu and Shikoku ; and the Okinawa archipelago. While I’ve slowly come to realize that Korea is more than just Seoul and Busan as time has passed, it’s just got nothing on Japan in the variety department.

Cost of Travel in Japan vs Korea

Is Korea expensive? Of course it is—and so is Japan. However, while prices of some things like city hotels (say, Tokyo’s Hotel Felice Akasaka and Makers Hotel Seoul ) tend to be pretty congruent, I would generally say that Korea is slightly cheaper. Korea’s smaller cities and towns, for example, are significantly cheaper than major metro areas; this is not the case in Japan. On the other hand, Korea’s paltry rail pass falls far short of the savings offered by the Japan Rail Pass .

Speaking English in Korea vs Japan

How Long to Spend in Japan and Korea

An important practical element of the discussion of Korea vs Japan travel is how long to spend in each. Japan has significantly more regions (which are significantly more interesting, and have many more destinations within them) than Korea—your trips to Japan will be longer than those to Korea out of sheer necessity.

In general, I would say that the shortest itinerary you can get away with for your first trip is 3 weeks in Japan vs about a 10 days in Korea itinerary. Naturally, this element of Japan vs Korea travel becomes less important if you’ve already visited either country, or if you’re 100% sure you’ll be able to return to either (or both) in the future.

Plan Your Trips to Korea and Japan

Regardless of what you end up deciding RE: Japan or Korea travel (i.e. whether to visit one country or both, at what time of year and for how long), planning your trip can be a whole other animal. This is at once a matter of nuts and bolts (which cities and regions in Japan do you visit, and how do you structure your food trip to Korea) as it is an esoteric question: How do you want to feel when you step back on the plane to go home, and how do you translate that into an itinerary?

Other FAQ About Korea vs. Japan

How is korea different from japan.

The main difference between Korea vs Japan, in my opinion, is that technology is slightly more important than tradition in Korea, while slightly less so in Japan. Additionally, while both Korea and Japan are relatively xenophobic countries, I feel that the Japanese tend to tolerate foreigners better, at least in public.

Is Japan richer than Korea?

Although Japan has a higher GDP (and GDP per capita) than Korea, I don’t necessarily think that Japan feels richer than Korea in reality. There’s a certain austere manner to the Japanese, and a very profound level of dilapidation in some more rural prefectures, even in smaller cities—you don’t see this in Korea. This isn’t as obvious in Korea vs Japan travel, of course, as it is if you live in either country.

Is South Korea cheaper than Japan?

Honestly, this depends on which aspect of Japan vs Korea travel you’re talking about! While hotels in Korea are perhaps cheaper than those in Japan on an absolute basis, I think the value of Japanese hotels (at least in major cities) is better. Korea is cheaper than Japan, but Japan offers more richness as a travel destination.

The Bottom Line

Japan or Korea—which is better for holiday? The question of South Korea vs Japan travel is a contentious one—even before broaching the topic of travel, and to say nothing of the Seoul vs Tokyo debate. But while both of these countries offer travelers a great deal of return-on-investment, they’re not the same, whether because of practical factors like the cost of travel in either, or the historical and cultural differences that underlie both ancient and modern tensions between their people. Taking a short trip to Asia, but want to squeeze Korea and Japan into your itinerary? Hire me as your Travel Coach!

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3 Weeks In South Korea and Japan Itinerary

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For various reasons, Japan and South Korea are on almost everyone’s bucket list. Aside from the beautiful scenery and a variety of healthy foods, people are also fascinated with their culture, anime, manga, K-dramas, K-pop, and of course, their history.

One of the most famous beef varieties, which is Kobe beef, can be found in Japan. You can also see the world’s shortest escalator here, only five steps, and the tallest mountain. 

South Korea, on the other hand, has the fastest internet speed in the world. They have over 200 kimchi varieties, and their capital, Seoul, is where The Simpsons and South Park were processed. If it’s your first time in South Korea, these apps for Korea will help you get around and plan your upcoming trip.

You might be wondering why we’ve mentioned all of these facts. Well, it’s because this article will focus on 3 weeks in South Korea and Japan. That’s right, why travel to these countries on separate occasions when you could spend 3 weeks visiting both?

I compiled the most famous places to visit and things to do during your 3-week stay. How to spend 10 days in each country.

RECOMMENDED TRIPS: 3 weeks in the Philippines or 3 weeks in Cambodia and Vietnam

TIPS BEFORE GOING TO SOUTH KOREA AND JAPAN

We know you’re already excited and want to proceed with the itinerary. But first, there are some essential things that you need to know and be prepared first before you book anything. 

When is the best time to go to South Korea and Japan

If you are fond of skiing and seeing the snow, the perfect time to go to these countries is during their winter season, which is from December to February in Japan and late December to mid-March in South Korea .

For those who want to witness the famous cherry blossoms personally, go during the spring season , which is from March to May, in both countries. Japan’s summer season is from June to mid-September and July to August in South Korea. 

If you don’t want to go during the peak seasons, the best time to visit South Korea is from April to May and September to October because those are the months when the tourist numbers are low.

While in Japan’s off-peak season would be from late autumn through March . For those who are planning to avoid typhoon season, try not to book a flight to Japan from July to October and mid-June through September in South Korea.

Are 3 weeks enough for South Korea and Japan

If it’s your first time visiting these great countries, planning to spend 10 days on each will give you plenty of time to see all the top sites. Since both countries are small with reliable public transportation and short flights between them, you can really make the most of your time.

Remember to book your flight arriving in the first country you wish to visit first, then the flight home from the other country. This way, you don’t need to waste time flying back to the previous country.

Average cost of 20 days in South Korea and Japan

At $ 1,800, you can explore Japan and South Korea in 20 days. If you want to save a bit more, you can stay in a dorm room instead of a private one. On that low budget, you can expect to spend around $1,200 , especially if you also eat street food than dining at restaurants. If you want to splurge, $3,000 will allow you to stay in luxury hotels and try fancier restaurants.

These costs are per person, if you’re travelling with another person, you can bring the accommodation cost down if you don’t mind sharing a room.

Getting around

There are tons of ways to get around South Korea. There are trains, buses, cabs, cars, subways, and aeroplanes . If you’re planning to ride the bus, the most convenient way to do so is to buy a T-money transit card beforehand to avoid any hassle.

If the place you’re planning to visit is really far from where you currently are, then the fastest option would be to ride a plane, but it would be more expensive compared to the other modes of transportation.

Railways are the most common means to get around in Japan . They have two train types: the bullet train and the night train. Aside from that, they have taxis, buses, ferries, and offer car and bicycle rentals.

Visa/Covid policy

South Korea and Japan have quite different visa policies. Travellers with passports from North America (including Mexico), Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Suriname, French Guinea, most of European, some of Southeast Asia, most of Oceania, and its neighbour South Korea, can enjoy visa-free travel to Japan for 15-180 days depending on the passport you have. Still, you must get the K-ETA which is only about $9.

For people who wish to visit South Korea, passport holders of most of America (excluding Bolivia and Cuba), almost all of Europe, some of Central Asia, some of North and South Africa, some of Southeast Asia and East Asia, and most of Oceania can enter the country as a tourist and stay for 30-180 days.

Unfortunately, as of the first quarter of 2022, Japan and South Korea have yet to open their borders to tourists. Bookmark this Japanese government site and South Korean government site to keep updated.

Basic travel tips

Here is a list of sites and travel services I use when travelling anywhere in the world. Many of these sites offer flexible cancellations and various choices depending on your budget and travel style. If planning to visit during peak season, make sure to book at least 6 months in advance especially for accommodations.

HOW TO TRAVEL BETWEEN JAPAN AND SOUTH KOREA

The most common and fastest way from Japan to South Korea (and vice versa) is to take a non-stop 2.5-hour flight . If you take on a connection, the travel time extends up to 6 hours.

There used to be a ferry service between these countries which was relatively uncommon. The travel time takes about 21 hours, and the ports are between Busan, South Korea to Hakata/Fukuoka, Japan.

You can choose from two companies: Kampu Ferries and Camellia Line Ferries. However, in 2019, Kampu Ferries limited their services to Japanese nationals. You can read more information here .

PACKAGE TOURS

If you prefer to sit back and relax, you can book a package tour where the tour operator will arrange everything for you, including transportation, hotels, food, tours, porters, and guides. Check out this 18-day trip for Japan and South Korea.

MUST-SEE PLACES IN SOUTH KOREA AND JAPAN (pinned map)

Click the icon on the top-right to enlarge the map. Credit: Map Data: Google

3 WEEKS IN SOUTH KOREA AND JAPAN

Due to the size of both countries and the distance from each other, you can easily cover Japan and South Korea in one go. You can spend about 10 days in each place or move things around if you want to spend more or less time in the other.

Although this doesn’t mean you can’t pay for the entire 3 weeks in a single country, you can very well, which will let you see many more places and travel slower.

Day-to-day overview:

• Day 1 : Arrive in Seoul, South Korea – get transferred from the airport or take the train/bus, get a local sim card if needed and train/bus passes
• Day 2 to 4 : Go sightseeing around Seoul and the surrounding areas
• Day 4: Get to Busan from Seoul by car or train or bus
• Day 4 to 6 : Explore Busan
• Day 7 : Travel from Busan to Jeju Island by plane
• Day 7 to 9 : Explore Jeju Island with East bus tour
• Day 10 : Fly to Tokyo from Jeju Island, get pocket wifi for Japan or local sim card with unlimited data , book an airport transfer to your hotel
• Day 10 to 14 : Go sightseeing around Tokyo , nearby areas such as Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka
• Day 15 : Get to Hokkaido by plane or train
• Day 15 to 17 : Discover Hokkaido
• Day 18 : Travel to Hiroshima from Hokkaido
• Day 18 to 20 : Discover Hiroshima
• Day 21 : Get to Tokyo to catch your flight home

10 days in South Korea

Various K-pop acts are now well-known worldwide, starting when Psy’s song Gangnam Style propelled to stardom. Very recently, the movie Parasite gained numerous prestigious awards, and the web series, most recently, Squid Games, paved the way for gaining worldwide recognition.

Not only that, even some of their variety shows, including Running Man, have been famous outside of South Korea for years. Their entertainment industry drew people to be interested in their culture as well. So much so that more people started learning Hangul.

Of course, their tourism industry skyrocketed along with these positive changes. That’s why we created a South Korea itinerary for 10 days where you’ll get to stay in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju.

Seoul for 5 days

Eight mountains and the Han River border Seoul, so it’s perfect for those who are fond of hiking, go for a stroll, or picnicking by the river. Here are some other places to visit and things to do in South Korea’s capital:

• Namsan Tower
• Seoul city tour
• Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village
• Lotte World Tower – get your e-ticket to avoid any hassle
• Nanta – enjoy a day trip to Nanta or Korean Folk Village
• Demilitarized Zone – you can book a half or full-day trip
• Seoul Museum of Art
• Join a cooking class and market tour
• Attend Yeouido Spring Flower Festival – join a cherry blossom tour
• Experience South Korean nightlife – book a pub crawl
• Experience Ultra Korea, a huge music festival that happens during the summer
• Ghost stories walking tour

Accommodations in Seoul:

• Affordable: 24 Guesthouse or Good Stay
• Mid-range: Standford Hotel or Hotel Skypark
• Luxury: Lotte Hotel or Four Seasons

Busan for 3 days

The easiest way to reach Busan from Seoul is by KTX high-speed train, which takes under three hours. You can also take the slow train, which is more affordable than the KTX. It would take you anywhere between 2.5 hours to 5.5 hours, depending on the train type that you will ride.

The costs also vary. Riding a bus would take you four hours to reach your destination. You can also ride the plane, which is the fastest and most expensive option.

One of the reasons why Busan is well-known is because they have the largest traditional market and seafood market in South Korea. There is also a great variety of street foods which are perfect for foodies, their speciality being eomuk or fish cakes or tasty Korean instant noodles , which are available in grocery stores and even food stalls. With that being said, here are the places to visit/ things to do in Busan:

• Attend Lantern Festival, which they celebrate during the spring season (May)
• Book a full-day city tour
• Haeundae beach
• Gwangbokdong food street or join a traditional food cooking class
• Samjin Eomuk main storer and museum
• Enjoy an afternoon cruise
• Busan Tower & Yongdusan Park
• Day trip to Oedo Island or Tongyeong
• Visit the cool Jusangjeollidae

Accommodations in Busan :

• Affordable: No.25 Hotel or Seri Inn Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Residence Mumum Hotel or Toyoko Inn
• Luxury: The Westin Josun or Arban Hotel

If this list is not enough for you or you don’t find suitable accommodation, check this detailed article about where to stay in Busan .

Jeju for 2 days

There are six ways to reach Jeju from Busan, one of which is by ferry. The travel time would last for 11 hours. You can also ride the train or bus and then ride a plane for about a little over 3 hours. Car rentals are also an option, then riding the ferry, which would take more than 6 hours.

The most recommended option would be to take the subway and ride the plane afterwards, which would take around 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Aside from otherworldly natural scenery, Jeju is also famous because of its unusual theme parks and commercial attractions. Here are some of the places to visit in Jeju:

• Osulloc Tea Museum
• Attend the Jeongwol Daeborum Fire Festival, which usually happens during the winter season (February or March)
• Mount Hallasan – go for a hike with local lunch
• Take a Submarine tour
• Manjangul Cave – you can book a transportation to and from
• Yeomiji Botanical Garden
• Book an organised full-day tour for Jeju Island
• Explore the famous Museum of Sex and Health

Accommodations in Jeju City :

• Affordable: You&I Guest House or Bricks Stay
• Mid-range: Ganderak Guesthouse or Ventimo Hotel & Residences
• Luxury: LOTTE Hotel or Grand Hyatt Hotel

10 days in Japan

Aside from anime and mangas, Japan is well-known for the plethora of snacks and beverages that can be found in its convenience stores and vending machines. They have a wide variety of fresh foods and snacks that you seriously won’t run out of options.

Japan also have a vast expanse of beautiful natural scenery, as well as places and trinkets with a kawaii aesthetic. Japan has such visual diversity that you’ll indeed find your trip to this country unforgettable. But most importantly, tourists love Japanese cultural etiquette.

The places are clean, the trains are always punctual, and most people are courteous and polite. If you are a history buff, there’s also something waiting for you. Hopefully, we’ve piqued your interest in having a vacation in this country and for that, here’s the Japan itinerary for 10 days.

Tokyo for 5 days

Tokyo is a bustling yet organised city. Public transport is often on time, so you don’t have to worry about being late. You can get around the city pretty easily or get a hop on-hop off bus ticket or a Tokyo metro pass . There are many things to do and places to see in Tokyo, but some are only seasonal. Let’s first talk about places you can visit and things you can do in Tokyo all year round:

• Tokyo Skytree observation deck – get your ticket
• Visit Kawaguchi Lake with a Mount Fuji view – book a tour with lunch
• Digital Arts Museum – great for all ages, but for people with autism (especially with light sensitivity, this might be overwhelming) – buy your entrance ticket in advance
• Imperial Palace – join a walking tour with a local guide
• Visit Tsukiji Market (fish market) and learn how to roll a sushi – book a tour
• Enjoy a traditional Yakatube dinner on a cruise
• Learn about rame through this ramen tasting tour
• Join a half-day cycling and cruise tour

Accommodations in Tokyo :

• Affordable: Hotel Owl or bnb Hostel
• Mid-range: Hotel GrandBach or Shiomi Prince Hotel
• Luxury: The Capitol Hotel or The Gate Hotel

Here are some of the places you could visit during the winter:

• Skating rink at Toshimaen amusement park
• Tokyo German Village

Some of the things you could do during summer:

• Attend a fireworks summer event
• Try out kakigori , one of their summer foods

Things to do or places to visit in spring:

• Attend a Japanese Spring Festival
• Try out sakura-flavoured foods and delicacies
• Walk in parks to see cherry blossoms up close

Hokkaido for 3 days

Hokkaido has been included as one of the top destinations for travellers in Japan. They have various natural scenery, coastline villages, historical sights, and the freshest seafood. You could ride a plane, a bullet train, or a ferry or rent a car to reach Hokkaido if you come from Tokyo. 

Here are some of the places to visit and things to do in Hokkaido, or you can book a customised city tour :

• Attend Sapporo Snow Festival during the winter
• Take a stroll at Matsumae Park during the spring season
• Daisetsuzan Mountain Range
• Noboribetsu Onsen

Accommodations in Hokkaido :

• Affordable: Tune Hostel or Tmark City Hotel
• Mid-range: Hotel Amanek or Toyoko Inn
• Luxury: Hotel Nets or Tenza Hotel and Sky Spa

Hiroshima for 2 days

Hiroshima is known to be the first city hit with an atomic bomb, but that’s not what the city is only known for. Hiroshima is famous among museum lovers because of the abundance of museums there. They also have tons of parks, historical wonders, and festivities all year round.

To reach Hiroshima from Hokkaido, the fastest and most recommended mode of transportation would be to ride a bus, then a plane, which would last for four hours. Some other options include taking a train, driving a car, taking a car ferry, or taking the bus. The travel times for these could last between 13 hours to 32 hours. 

Here are some of the things to do and places to visit in Hiroshima once you’ve reached your destination:

• The Island Shrine of Itsukushima
• Hiroshima Castle – explore Hiroshima on a bicycle
• Shukkei-en Garden
• Have fun shooting arrows traditionally
• Hiroshima Museum of Art
• Learn about Japanese culture – book this cultural tour in a Kimono
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
• Explore the city through this cycling tour
• Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome
• Explore Hiroshima and Miyajima in a day – book a guided tour

Accommodations in Hiroshima :

• Affordable: Capsule Hotel Cube or Santiago Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Daiwa Roynet Hotel or Candeo Hotels
• Luxury: Hilton Hotel or Sheraton Grand Hotel

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN SOUTH KOREA AND JAPAN

Combining all the days spent in these places, you’ll get to stay for 3 weeks in South Korea and Japan. With that being said, here are some other additional know-how during your travels: 

When in Seoul, you could get an integrated palace ticket which will grant you entry to all five palaces and costs way less than buying separate tickets for each. You could also look on different sites for discount passes, and if you’re planning on doing physical activities, you might want to consider getting travel insurance.

You can also study some of the most common phrases used in your destination countries, purchase a travel dictionary, or download an app to make conversations more seamless. That’s about it, we hope that you’ll have a great time visiting these countries that have so much to offer and that you found this itinerary of 3 weeks in South Korea and Japan helpful in creating your own itinerary .

SAVE THIS TRAVEL ITINERARY ON YOUR PINTEREST:

Seoul vs. Tokyo: Which One Would You Go For?

If you’re looking for an Asian capital to visit, it’s hard not to think of Seoul and Toyko as some of the top contenders.

Both Seoul and Tokyo are safe, well-developed, high-tech cities that are full of wonderful sights, culture, food, and more that will have you enjoying your visit for days on end. They are a bit like the New York and London of the west, making it hard to pick a favorite.

If you have never visited either city, then you can’t go wrong by going to see one of them, as they are both frankly awesome. Both of these incredible cities are 100% worth a flight to, but if you had to choose one, which one would you go for? That’s what we’re here to find out as we compare Seoul Vs Tokyo.

Things To See And Do

One of the most important considerations when trying to pick between Seoul Vs Korea is what each city offers in terms of things to do during the day while you’re exploring. Both of these cities are drenched in their cultural history and full of amazing modern architecture as well as feeling like they are a little bit from the future.

But, since Japan and South Korea’s cultural heritages are quite different, each one has something a little different to offer. So, how do they compare in regards to historical and cultural sites as well as green areas and design?

Seoul has a wonderful balance of both new-age buildings and funky-neighborhoods plus a load of cultural and historical sites too. You can balance your day with a dash of history and culture, then dive into some green spaces and nature, followed by some drinks at the top of a skyscraper.

Some of the most popular attractions to visit are the Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Changdeokgung Palace where you’ll get a big fix of South Korea’s history. From there you can move on to Namsan Mountain Park where you can hike up the mountain surrounded but stunning trees and plants (cherry blossoms in spring) and get an amazing view of the entire city from the top of N Seoul Tower.

Once you’ve finished your little mountain picnic, you can head down to Myeongdong and Itaewon for a drink or two to enjoy the buzzing neon-lit atmosphere or take a stroll around Lotte World Tower or the Dongdaemun Design Plaza for something more low key.

Doing the above itinerary in a day is pushing it but it gives you an idea of what’s on offer in Seoul, and you will never be lacking something to do. One thing you should know though is that Seoul is very hilly and walking around the city is just like being on a hike, so consider a lot of taxis and public transport if you want to avoid them.

Similar to Seoul, Tokyo is also full of historical, cultural, and green sites that are all spliced in amongst a very modern and lively city, but there is something more about Tokyo that you just can’t put your finger in Seoul. It’s somehow a bit more alive?! If that make sense? Maybe it’s due to Toyko having a longer history or being an older city? Who knows…perhaps it’s just my opinion?! But Toyko has more of a buzz to it that captures you.

If you’re looking for some traditional experiences head down to the neighborhoods of Asakusa and take a stroll around Asakusa Shrine, Sensoji Temple, and the Textile Culture and Ukiyo-e Art Museum. From there you can hop straight to the Shibuya Crossing, probably the most iconic image of Tokyo that you have seen everywhere, the lit-up streets that outdo Times Square in New York and Piccadilly Circus in London a few times over.

You find that you’re ready for a break by this point and it might be time for a relaxing wander through the natural surroundings of Ueno Park which is full of plants, trees, and it is done in true Japanese style. You will also find the cherry blossoms in full force if you’re there during spring.

Once you have had a little peace and quiet in the park, head on over to Tokyo Skytree for some of the best views of Toyko’s vibrant and dramatic skyline.

Tokyo has a little more to offer in terms of vibe as I mentioned but it’s also a lot easier to get around as it’s flat unlike the hills of Seoul.

One of my favorite parts of visiting a new place is getting to try the new, wonderful, and sometimes not quite to my taste flavors of the local cuisine. Seoul vs Tokyo is pretty well matched when it comes to the food on offer as they are both very food-focused cities – sushi vs ramen vs Korean bbq vs? It’s an impossible comparison for my taste buds.

Generally speaking, Toyko has was more options for eating out while Seoul is the winner when it comes to street food. But, Japanese cuisine is far more diverse than South Korean cuisine giving you a range of options and tastes that you just can’t find in Seoul but you will in Japan.

As I already mentioned, Seoul is all about street food and less about restaurants which is awesome if you’re on a budget and great when you’re out exploring. The flavors are diverse, interesting, and incorporate noodles, rice, broths, and bbq. Once you have stated everything from Korean fried chicken to hotteok, Samgyeopsal, and bibimbap, you’re well on your way to having discovered Korean food.

What’s missing from this menu is a large diversity of food types/taste classes that you will find in Tokyo.

Eating out in Tokyo is all about hopping from one restaurant to the next. Most of the restaurants in Tokyo only have a few things on their menu, unlike western restaurants which I often think have too many. This means that they do things well and that you have to keep moving around if you want to taste everything that is on offer.

I love Japanese food and that you can dance your way around from Katsu curry to tonkatsu and then onto sushi and teppanyaki all within a single day. It’s this kind of depth of cuisine that one can’t quite put their finger on in South Korea’s Seoul.

It’s often been said that cities and their residents show you their true colors at night. While this might be both wildly inaccurate and accurate at the same time, you can’t go and explore the nightlife of a new city you’re visiting for the first time, especially when you have Seoul vs Tokyo to consider, both of which are pretty amazing places to stay awake in.

Seoul has a youthful vibe to it and considering it ranks and one of the countries that consume the most alcohol in the world, you can expect to find a solid party scene in Seoul. There are nightclubs everywhere all with different vibes and music that cater to the different preferences of its residents.

Karaoke is hugely popular, as you probably already know, and you couldn’t have more of a traditional South Korean night out than hitting up a private karaoke room with friends and then going to a club after. Try out the Hongdae district if you’re looking for a young night out, or for something more fancy head down to Apgujeong and Cheongdam-dong, and if you’re looking for an ex-pat vibe of rooftop bars, Itaewon is the area of Seoul to be in.

Tokyo is famous for being alive and popping 24 hours a day. The neon-lit streets are a bustle of energy that is quite addictive and energy-filling. You don’t remember that bed is an option when out on them and Tokyo’s nightlife is full of tempting options to keep you from bed until the early hours.

Tokyo doesn’t quite have the wild and young vibes of Seoul but between the clubbing areas of Shinjuku and Shibuya, you’ll find all kinds of clubs, bars, gastropubs, and more that cater to pretty much all tastes. You can also head to Roppongi if you’re looking for a more of a western night out, or if you’re buying grey goose and dropping cash, Ginza is the posh nightlife district of the city.

Remember, you have to be 20 years old to drink in Tokyo, so if you’re not and like to party, Seoul might win in the Seoul vs Tokyo clash.

Public Transport

One thing I always take a good look at when I visit any city is how good its public transport system is. If it’s impossible to get around a city, it doesn’t really matter what wonderful things you might be able to discover inside it, as stress and time-wasting will get the better of your enthusiasm.

Luckily, the public transport in both Seoul and Tokyo are some of the best public transport systems in the world. The systems aren’t that easy to work out, but no matter where you want to go, you’ll never be far from a bus, taxi, or train, or subway that will get you where you want to go pretty quickly.

The best way to travel around Seoul is on the metro and the extensive metro system will pretty much get you to wherever you want to be. The stations are well place and are always close to popular attractions and districts, so once you’re above ground you won’t have too far to walk.

The Seoul metro is far less claustrophobic and confusing than the Tokyo subway, but it can still get busy at rush hour.

Tokyo’s subway system is extensive. You won’t need to get into a taxi if you can understand how to use it. The different train lines aren’t all run by one company and therefore one ticket doesn’t give you access to different trains every time, so be careful when buying tickets.

When it comes to buying tickets, go for a daily or weekly pass as it’ll make life cheaper, quicker, and a lot easier when navigating the numerous train companies.

Cost Of Travelling

When it comes to Seoul vs Tokyo and the general costs of visiting each one, neither of them are very cheap cities when compared to the likes of Delhi or Bangkok. These are modern capitals and if you’re thinking of going for a budget holiday to Seoul or Toyko you should think again.

Seoul is generally a little less expensive than Toyko when it comes to major things like hotels or the subway. The subway is very affordable and accommodation reasonable and the restaurants are a little less expensive in Seoul too. But when you consider the savings you can find in Japan by being clever, you’ll notice that the cities are almost equal when it comes to cost.

Your hotel in Tokyo is going to cost a bit more than one in Seoul but things like the street food in Tokyo is actually more affordable when compared to Seoul, especially if you’re looking for the best of it. You can also ride the Tokyo subway for free if you use a Japanese rail pass which helps balance the costs between the two cities.

Let’s be honest though, if you’re planning a trip to either Seoul or Tokyo, you’re final decision isn’t going to come down to the costs of things when they are both pretty expensive places to visit.

Day Tripping

It’s not only what you’ll find in the city that matters when deciding between Seoul vs Tokyo, it’s also about what is available on a day trip from both capitals. Luckily, the day trips available from Seoul and Tokyo are pretty awesome, so no matter which one you choose, you’ll end with some great options.

Seoul has some excellent day trips to choose from, so much so, you want to go on two or three of them. One must-do day trip is heading out to Nami Island.

Nami island is a few hours away from Seoul and is an island that sits in the main river of the country, the North Han River. The island is stunning with beautiful plants and trees, you’ll find museums and art galleries and it’s also a host to performances and festivals across the many stages with it.

You can also head out to the old fortress called Hwaseong, a UNESCO World Heritage that is so huge it’s over 5 kilometers squared. If you want to dabble into some modern history, you can also head to the DMZ which is the buffer zone between South and North Korea.

Toyko, like Seoul, has a lot to offer with regards to day trips as well. If you’re traveling with kids, there are two Disney Worlds. Disneyland Tokyo and Tokyo Disney Sea are on the outskirts of Tokyo and next to each other, so you could even visit both in one day.

If that sounds far too touristy, then a trip up Mount Fuji is an excellent day trip from Tokyo and I’d recommend seeing the lakes that surround it too.

For a touch of history, a visit to Nikko, the famous mountain city that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site is a great day out. The architecture is nothing short of stunning and you’ll see everything from temples to shrines and villas.

The Weather

A lot of the traveling decisions I make are based on the weather, as I usually plan to escape the cold winters of Europe in exchange for the warm sunshine of Christmas in the southern hemisphere or on the equator. When it comes to Seoul vs Tokyo and the weather, they are pretty similar except for during winter.

If you visit either Seoul or Tokyo between April and October, then you can expect highs of up to 30 Celsius in summer and lows of 15 Celsius in spring and fall.

During winter, Tokyo remains a lot warmer than Seoul despite having a similar latitude. This is because South Korea experiences a cool effect by being attached to the Asian continent while Japan doesn’t as it’s an island.

If you’re planning to visit either Tokyo or Japan between November and March you can expect Seoul to be between 3 and minus 6 Celsius while Tokyo will be between 4 and 10 Celsius.

Seoul vs Tokyo – The Verdict

As you can see, both Seoul and Tokyo have a lot to offer and if you have the money and the time, you should certainly visit them both, perhaps even one after the other. But, if you have to choose which one would you go for? This is an immensely personal choice and if it was me, I would be going to Tokyo.

Tokyo, for me, has a lot more depth to it, from the age of the city to the cuisine, and even the Japanese culture. It is a little bit more expensive to visit but some extra cost for a better experience isn’t something that has ever held me back before.

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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• How to Plan a 12-Day Trip in Japan and South Korea

With anime and K-pop becoming more and more popular, visiting Japan and South Korea has become a dream trip for many children. If you're considering a trip to celebrate your child's birthday or graduation, Japan and South Korea would definitely exceed your family's expectations.

These two destinations also attract many insightful travelers to gain insights into East Asia's history as well as indulge in culinary delights.

To enjoy the main highlights, 12 days is ideal, with 7–8 days in Japan and 4–5 days in South Korea.

• 1. Which Country to Visit First
• 2. A 12-Day South Korea and Japan Itinerary
• 3. Best Times to Visit Japan and South Korea
• 4. How Much Does a 12-Day Trip Cost
• 5. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan and South Korea

Which Country to Visit First, Japan or South Korea?

Although both Japan and South Korea are conveniently connected by flights from the US or European countries, to get more of a wow factor throughout the trip, you're highly recommended to start your journey in South Korea and then travel to Japan . Japan provides more hidden gems for you to unveil.

When choosing your international flights, if you're in the US, it usually costs less for a round trip from the west of the US, such as Los Angeles to Tokyo. From Tokyo to Seoul, it takes about 2½ hours and usually costs about 200 USD per ticket.

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A 12-Day Classic South Korea and Japan Itinerary: Explore the Highlights of Both Countries

This itinerary covers the major highlights of South Korea and Japan, creating a fulfilling experience full of lifetime memories.

In South Korea, you would have the chance to explore the renowned DMZ tunnels, immerse yourself in the vibrant K-pop culture, and savor delicious Korean cuisine. In Japan, you could experience kid-favored animation elements, have fun at Super Nintendo World, unwind in onsens (hot-spring baths), admire the iconic Mount Fuji, and feed friendly deer in Nara.

Here is the handpicked itinerary, for inspiration:

• Days 1–3: Seoul in South Korea
• Day 4: Gyeongju
• Days 5–7: Fly to Osaka in Japan and then take the Shinkansen to Kyoto
• Days 8–9: Hakone
• Days 10–12: Tokyo

Start your wonderful trip in the energetic capital city of Seoul, South Korea. Stroll around the history-filled Gyeongbokgung Palace while wearing a hanbok to take memorable photos, explore the DMZ and its tunnels to learn about wartime stories and cherish the hard-won peace, attend an exclusive K-pop dancing class with a professional choreographer to groove with your teenage kids, and sample delicious Korean food, such as bibimbap and Korean fried chicken.

Head to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of South Korea. You could visit Bulguksa Temple, which has thousands of years of history, and stay for a night in a Hanok hotel to experience authentic Korean accommodation.

Continue your trip in the impressive medieval capital of Kyoto in Japan.

• For families with teenagers, you could dress up like a ninja to learn about the techniques and weapons from a ninja master. Many fathers and sons among our family clients have enjoyed this activity. Feeding the friendly deer in Nara could also be a great family moment.
• For couples, you could stroll through Fushimi Inari Shrine while wearing a kimono to admire the orange-red torii and gain an understanding of the history of the Japanese shrine. Have afternoon tea with a geisha and get an insight into the geisha culture with a story-telling explanation from an expert.

Take the Shinkansen to Hakone, which is home to onsens. Stay at a ryokan with an onsen to experience traditional Japanese accommodation. We would help you to select handpicked family-friendly or couple-friendly ryokans out of thousands. Generally, a traditional ryokan has 5–10 rooms, so it could easily be booked up. We suggest that you make a reservation at least 3 months in advance.

Complete your trip in Tokyo, the top city of Japan, which perfectly blends history and modernity. Wander through the Asakusa district to experience the Edo vibe and make sushi with the help of an experienced chef. For anime lovers, you could buy your favorite anime products in Akihabara and have a happy family time at Pokémon Center, the Ghibli Museum, or J-World Tokyo.

Taking a day trip to view the iconic Mount Fuji from Tokyo is another highlight.

Let us help you plan your trip! Contact us and we will create a trip based on your group size, time, budget, interests, and other requirements.

Best Times to Visit Japan and South Korea

Japan and South Korea enjoy similar weather in their four distinct seasons because of their close proximity.

The best times to visit South Korea and Japan are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) due to the pleasant weather and more clear days. These periods offer the most captivating views in both countries, with cherry blossoms blooming in spring and vibrant autumn foliage in fall. May has fewer crowds and decreased travel costs because the cherry blossom season will have ended in all but northernmost Japan.

Summer (June to August) is hot in both countries, with the average daily high reaching 34°C (93°F). It's the rainy season as well but it doesn't rain every day and you could still enjoy your planned trip.

Winter (December to February) is cold and dry in South Korea and Japan, with an average daily high of 10°C (50°F), making it a good time to enjoy onsens and see snow monkeys bathing in hot springs. Christmas and New Year are extremely busy in both countries and hotels are easily booked up. Therefore, we suggest that you plan ahead at least 3–6 months in advance for a festive-season stay.

Insider tips: For family groups who usually travel in the summer or winter vacation, June and January are recommended. June is cooler and less crowded than July and August (the local summer vacation months). January has a similar climate and sightseeing experience to December but you can usually get a better deal for international flights.

To make the best of travel opportunities at any time of the year, let us know your interests and requirements , and we'll take care of everything.

How Much Does a 12-Day Trip to Japan and South Korea Cost?

A 12-day trip to Japan and South Korea costs about US$7,000–8,000 per person based on a group of 3–5 people.

• Private touring in Japan costs about US$350–500 per day per person, and the cost in South Korea is about US$400–500 per day per person, including 4-star hotels, a full-day itinerary, tickets for attractions, private cars, and private guides.
• Direct flights from Seoul to Osaka are about US$100–150.

Our travel expert will customize your trip based on your requirements, and make the most of your money.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan and South Korea?

Nationals of many countries are exempt from needing a visa to enter Japan and South Korea, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Most travelers could stay in Japan without a visa for 90 days.

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• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Tokyo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Seoul or Tokyo?
• Which is Cheaper, Seoul or Tokyo? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Tokyo?

• When to Visit Seoul or Tokyo?

Should you visit Seoul or Tokyo?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Tokyo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul is a colorful, cultural, and bustling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Tokyo is a iconic, eclectic, and cutting edge city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Seoul and Tokyo: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big city activities
• Impressive beauty

Is there more to do in Seoul or Tokyo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Tokyo than Seoul. While Seoul is larger than Tokyo, Tokyo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tokyo is more touristy than Seoul and is popular for its ultramodern skyscrapers, neon lights, historic temples, lively karaoke bars, and peaceful parks. It is also home to The Sensō-ji Temple. Seoul is popular for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy.

How is Seoul different from Tokyo?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tokyo and Seoul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seoul or Tokyo?

Tokyo is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tokyo are among the most recognizable in the world. This iconic city is filled with recognizable landmarks and world class museums including the Meiji Shrine, the Sensō-ji Temple, and the Tokyo Skytree.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Seoul can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

Is the Food Better in Seoul or Tokyo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Seoul and Tokyo offer world-class local cuisine and restaurants.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Tokyo is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. With an astonishing number of Michelin star restaurants, this is one of the most interesting and impressive food destinations in the world. Not all restaurants are high end though. You'll find plenty of cheap eateries that offer their own rewarding culinary experience. Must try local dishes include okonomiyaki, ramen, and of course, sushi.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Nightlife?

Tokyo is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Tokyo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The professional urgency that you feel during the day morphs into a vibrant, laid back city at night. The neon lights turn on and locals head out to destress. There are karaoke bars, casual pubs, high energy nightclubs, and more. Popular areas for nightlife include Roppongi, Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Seoul has a large number of nightlife venues. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Music?

Both Seoul and Tokyo offer world-class live music venues.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Seoul K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Tokyo has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The music scene features both national and international artists and the music style is as eclectic as the city itself. You'll find many underground venues, vintage record stores, and local bars that have each created their own niche.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Tokyo?

Both Seoul and Tokyo are world-class shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Seoul make it a world-class shopping destination. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

Many people travel to Tokyo specifically to go shopping. The city is known for its electronics, anime products, and trendy fashion brands. Many neighborhoods are also shopping districts with malls or markets throughout. Prices can be steep, but products are generally high quality. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Ginza.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Families?

Tokyo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tokyo is one of the most popular family destinations. This is an incredibly kid-friendly city. There's Disneyland, but there are also many other entertainment centers, amusement areas, a zoo, aquarium, and more. Kids will also enjoy experiencing the city's fascinating culture. They can visit temples, museums, and the Tokyo Tower. Another fun local experience is to go to a baseball game.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Seoul. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Couples?

Both Seoul and Tokyo are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Seoul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Tokyo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This high tech city offers luxury hotels and spas, award winning restaurants, and unique date night opportunities like karaoke or sushi making classes. The city has many parks and gardens as well as malls, dynamic neighborhoods, and interesting museums.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Seoul and Tokyo are good destinations for backpackers.

Seoul is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

It's common for backpackers to visit Tokyo. Known for it's high prices, it can be a bit difficult to visit this city on a budget. There are dorm rooms available but they still come with a high price tag. Food is a bit easier as the eateries are diverse with many options on the cheaper side.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Students?

Tokyo is very popular for students. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Tokyo. The city attracts many international students and there are a number of prestigious universities to choose from. Perhaps the biggest challenge is navigating the language difference, but that is all part of the experience when studying abroad.

Seoul is a great city to visit as a student. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Is Seoul or Tokyo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Seoul and Tokyo offer world-class public transit options.

Seoul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

With a huge network, the transit system in Tokyo can get you around easily. Trains, subways, and buses make up the complex transportation system and, while it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is actually very clean, efficient, and reliable.

Is Seoul or Tokyo a more walkable city?

Tokyo is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Tokyo on foot. Many neighborhoods are very easy to explore on foot, so it's fun to just wander without a plan, seeing where you end up.

Seoul is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

For even more information, also check out Is Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Tokyo Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Tokyo or Seoul?

How long in seoul or tokyo.

Both Seoul and Tokyo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Tokyo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Tokyo than Seoul . However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Tokyo than Seoul. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tokyo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tokyo than Seoul. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tokyo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tokyo than Seoul if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tokyo.

• How many days in Seoul or Tokyo? Ideal Length of Stay Seoul 3-7   Tokyo   3-7

One day in Seoul or Tokyo?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Tokyo, many people enjoy the live music and food that this high energy big city offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Seoul or Tokyo?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seoul. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tokyo. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Tokyo?

Seoul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Tokyo is a fun place to experience. In Tokyo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Tokyo?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

In Tokyo, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this high tech big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea , The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea , The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan , and The Best Bicycle Tours in Japan .

Which place is cheaper, Tokyo or Seoul?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Seoul Prices South Korea Prices Tokyo Prices Japan Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Seoul $ 107 Tokyo $ 157

The average daily cost (per person) in Seoul is $107, while the average daily cost in Tokyo is $157. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Seoul and Tokyo in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Seoul $ 54 Tokyo $ 76
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Seoul $ 108 Tokyo $ 152

Compare Hotels in Seoul and Tokyo

Looking for a hotel in Seoul or Tokyo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Seoul

Hotels in Tokyo

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Seoul $ 15 Tokyo $ 17

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seoul

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Seoul:

• Subway Card $ 3.62
• Short Taxi Ride $ 5.07
• Metro Ride $ 0.98
• Seoul City Pass Plus $ 7.24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seoul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seoul:

• Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Gimpo Airport (1-12 pax): $167
• Private Airport Transfer: Gimpo Airport to Seoul City (1-12 pax): $167
• Private Airport Transfer * Incheon Airport <-> Seoul (1-5 people): $100
• Private Transfer l Airport to/from Seoul: $100
• Private Airport Transfer : Incheon airport to/from Seoul(~7 pax): $99
• Private Transfer To/From Incheon Airport: $99
• Incheon Airport Private Transfer between Seoul City: $98
• Private Airport Transfer: Seoul City to Incheon Airport (1-5 pax): $98
• Private Airport Transfer : Gimpo airport to/from Seoul (1~7pax): $95
• Seoul Airport: Private Departure Transfer from Seoul City Center: $87
• Seoul Incheon International Airport to from Incheon Private Transfer: $85
• Airport Private Transfer : Seoul Hotel to Incheon International Airport (ICN): $78

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tokyo

Also for Tokyo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Private One-way Transfer Tokyo To Narita Airport: $11
• Japan Railway Station Shared Departure Transfer : Tokyo City to Tokyo Station: $17
• Haneda Airport: 1-Way Shared Shuttle Transfer: $31
• Private Transfer from Tokyo Haneda Int Airport(HND) to Tokyo Port: $38
• Private Transfer from Tokyo Cruise Port to Tokyo City Hotels: $38
• Private Transfer from Tokyo city hotels to Tokyo Cruise Port: $38
• Private Transfer from Tokyo Port to Tokyo Haneda Int Airport(HND): $42
• Private Transfer from Tokyo Haneda Int Airport(HND) to Tokyo Port: $42
• One-Way Private Transfer From/To Haneda Airport (HND): $46
• Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) to Tokyo - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
• Tokyo to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) - Departure Private Car Transfer: $51
• Tokyo to Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) - Departure Private Transfer: $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Seoul or Tokyo?

Prices for flights to both Tokyo and Seoul change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Seoul $ 30 Tokyo $ 37

Typical Food Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seoul are as follows:

• Rice with Kimchi & Bacon $ 4.34
• Waffle $ 0.72
• Dippin' Dots $ 1.45
• Chicken Fried Rice $ 3.98
• Chicken Stick $ 1.45
• Drinking Yoghurt & Mi Chew $ 1.38
• Lunch Buffet $ 4.34
• Donut $ 0.72
• Mushroom Burger $ 3.76
• Green Tea Ice Cream $ 2.39
• Udon & Sushi $ 5.07
• Fresh Burger $ 3.48
• Soba Noodles Lunch $ 3.26
• Bibimbap Lunch $ 3.62
• Fried Rice $ 3.98
• Vietnamese Dinner $ 6.88
• Breakfast and Coffee for 2 $ 6.88
• Donut $ 1.81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seoul

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seoul.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace : Tour, dinner and coffee: $36
• Seoul Mangwon Market Social Night Food Tour: $43
• Namdaemun Market: the Largest Traditional Market Food Tour: $46
• Namdaemun Market Street Food Tour: $47
• Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals; Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $47
• Mangwon Market Food tour By Locals;Cheap Eats to Fancy Feast: $53
• Gwangjang Market Netflix Food Tour: $54
• Guided City Wall Sunset Hike with Korean Dinner: $57
• Seoul Ultimate Food Tour: $65
• HalfDay Seoul Afternoon Food Tour and visit 3 land Marks of Seoul: $67
• Night Market Food Tour: $70
• Energizing Korean Cooking Class in a Local Home in Seoul: $71

Typical Food Prices in Tokyo

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tokyo:

• Late Night Noodles $ 5.22
• Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack $ 5.22
• Meal at Airport $ 6.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tokyo

For Tokyo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Takoyaki cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $23
• Easy Ramen cooking experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku: $26
• 2 Hours Japanese Style Pub and Food Tour in Ueno: $33
• 【Contemporary Culture】Food tour I Always Visit in Shibuya: $39
• Ueno Private Walking Tour and Night Food Tour: $40
• Japanese Traditional Cooking Class: $60
• Wagyu and 7 Japanese Dishes Cooking Class: $61
• Tokyo Wagyu Culinary Tour Cooking Culture and Tasting: $66
• Asakusa: Sustainable Vegetable Temari Sushi Cooking Class: $72
• Private Food Tour in Downtown Yanesen and Nezu Shrine: $73
• Retro Food Tour in Yanaka: $76
• Sushi roll and side dish cooking experience: $78

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Seoul $ 26 Tokyo $ 68

Typical Entertainment Prices in Seoul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Seoul are as follows:

• Palace Tickets $ 5.79
• Movie Ticket $ 5.79
• Kimchi Museum $ 2.17

Tours and Activities in Seoul

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seoul are as follows:

• Full Day Tour Jeonju Hanok Village, Wansan Park and Gakwonsa: $72
• Private Tour Nami Island with Petite France 'and/or' The Garden of Morning Calm: $98
• 1 Day Private Full DMZ Tour in Seoul with Crystal Gondola: $220
• 2-Hour Makgeolli Tasting Experience in Seoul: $37
• 2-Hour Private Kayaking and Paddleboarding Experience in Hanriver: $30
• 2D 1N Phoenix Pyeongchang Reseot Stay + Trout Ice-Fishing Festival Tour: $144
• 3 Hour Walking Tour in Songpa Seoul: $48
• 3-Hour Self-guided Sokcho Tour with Private Transportation: $33
• 365-day DMZ Special Tour including Monday & National Holiday: $55
• ARMY must visit BTS tour in Seoul: $55
• Activity - Mt. Bukhan Hiking Guided Tour: $150
• Afternoon Half Day Seoul City Tour, visit Queen's dorm: $67

Tours and Activities in Tokyo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tokyo.

• Japan: Zen and Tea Ceremony Audio Guided Tour: $3.26
• Ancient Orient Museum Admission Ticket: $3.92
• Samurai and Bushido Audio Guided Tour: $4.70
• 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour Subway Ticket: $5.22
• Ueno Park Self-Guided Tour with Audio Guide: $6.53
• Harajuku: Audio Guide Tour of Takeshita Street: $6.53
• Akihabara (Tokyo): English Audio Guide Tour: $6.53
• Asakusa（Tokyo）: Smartphone Audio Guide Tour: $6.53
• Audio Guide Tour: Deeper Experience of Shinjuku Sightseeing: $6.53
• Ueno: Self-Guided Tour of Ameyoko and Hidden Gems: $6.53
• Shibuya Sightseeing with an Audio Guide: $6.53
• Tokyo Local Bar Hopping Tour in Shibuya: $6.53
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Seoul $ 12 Tokyo $ 33

Sample the Local Flavors in Seoul

Also in Seoul, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Chunpoong Makgeolli Brewery Tour: $10
• Seoul Pub Crawl by Absolute: $20
• The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $21
• Pub Crawl: $25
• The Seoul Pub Crawl [official]: $25
• Soju Tasting at Distillery - story of 3 pigs: $42
• Soju Tasting at Distillery - Story of Three Pigs: $42

Typical Alcohol Prices in Tokyo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Tokyo:

• Sake $ 3.91

Sample the Local Flavors in Tokyo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tokyo:

• Tokyo Pub Crawl: $24
• 3-Hour Tokyo Pub Crawl Weekly Welcome Guided Tour in Shibuya: $52
• TOKYO | Temple, Shrine, Sake Bar Crawling: $63
• barhopping tour&bar crawl in Retro Town Shimokitazawa: $85
• Toshimaya Sake Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting: $91
• Tokyo | 3 Hours Brewery Tour with Sake Sommelier: $104
• Private Sake Tasting at 300 Years Old Sake Brewery in Tokyo : $106
• 【Harajuku】Night Pub Crawl with Local Japanese: $125
• Private Local Craft Brewery Tour in Tokyo: $150
• Wooden Barrel Sake Brewery Tour and Unlimited Tasting Near Tokyo: $167
• Private Walking Tour with Sake Brewery Visit in Chichibu: $190
• Private tour: Tokyo's Oldest Sake Brewery and riverside walk.: $231

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Seoul and Tokyo, we can see that Tokyo is more expensive. And not only is Seoul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Seoul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seoul and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Tokyo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tokyo than you might in Seoul.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Seoul Expensive? and Is Tokyo Expensive? .

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Tokyo. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Tokyo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Seoul or Tokyo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Tokyo. Most visitors come to Seoul for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tokyo because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Seoul is around the same temperature as Tokyo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seoul in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Tokyo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

In the summer, Seoul often gets less sunshine than Tokyo. Seoul gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 137 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tokyo. Seoul receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul usually gets more rain in July than Tokyo. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Seoul 26°C (78°F)   Tokyo   26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Autumn?

Both Tokyo and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tokyo this time of year.

In October, Seoul is generally cooler than Tokyo. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 15°C (59°F), and Tokyo fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seoul. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during autumn. Seoul gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 129 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tokyo. In October, Seoul usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Seoul 15°C (59°F)   Tokyo   18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Winter?

Both Tokyo and Seoul during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Tokyo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Seoul in the winter. Seoul is much colder than Tokyo in the winter. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Tokyo fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Seoul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tokyo. Seoul gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tokyo receives 175 hours of full sun.

Seoul usually gets less rain in January than Tokyo. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Seoul -3°C (27°F)   Tokyo   5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Tokyo. Many travelers come to Seoul for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tokyo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Seoul is cooler than Tokyo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seoul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Tokyo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Seoul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seoul usually receives more sunshine than Tokyo during spring. Seoul gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Tokyo receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tokyo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seoul usually receives less rain than Tokyo. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Tokyo receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Seoul 13°C (55°F)   Tokyo   14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Tokyo and Seoul

Related articles for seoul, related articles for tokyo.

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Should You Visit South Korea or Japan? An Essential Guide To Exploring East Asia

Planning a trip to East Asia but can’t decide between the vibrant streets of South Korea and the peaceful temples of Japan? You’re in good company. This all-encompassing guide is here to help you uncover the secrets and joys of both countries, turning your decision-making process into an exhilarating part of the adventure.

Whether you choose to focus on South Korea or Japan, we will delve into the marvels that each nation has to offer, from bustling urban hubs and serene rural landscapes to mouthwatering cuisine and priceless cultural gems.

Cultural richness and heritage

Japan is a tapestry of ancient traditions seamlessly woven into the fabric of modern life. From the serene beauty of Kyoto’s temples to the bustling streets of Tokyo , Japan offers a journey through time. The meticulous preservation of history, seen in samurai castles and Shinto shrines, contrasts with the futuristic skyscrapers and neon-lit cityscapes.

Seasonal festivals, like the cherry blossom viewings in spring and the vibrant Gion Matsuri, provide a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. And in true Japanese fashion, there’s even a festival dedicated to celebrating the phallus (called the Kanamara Matsuri), showcasing Japan’s unique blend of tradition and playfulness.

In contrast, South Korea offers a vibrant tapestry that weaves together the ancient, the contemporary, and the wonders of nature. The historic pulse of cities such as Gyeongju and Jeonju is felt through their age-old palaces and quaint Hanok villages, while the mesmerising Jusangjeolli lava cliffs highlight the country’s natural beauty. This stands in vivid contrast to the ultra-modern vibe of Seoul , a city that epitomises cutting-edge urban life.

South Korea’s cultural landscape is also shaped by its globally influential pop culture; K-pop and Korean dramas have become worldwide phenomena, offering a modern lens through which to view South Korean society.

Natural wonders and outdoor adventures

When deciding whether to visit South Korea or Japan based on natural beauty, both countries boast diverse landscapes that cater to nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Japan’s geographical diversity is astounding – from the snowy peaks of Hokkaido, perfect for skiing and snowboarding, to the subtropical beaches of Okinawa, ideal for snorkelling and diving. The country’s mountainous terrain offers excellent hiking opportunities, particularly during autumn when the foliage turns spectacular shades of red and gold.

South Korea offers its own array of natural attractions, including the volcanic island of Jeju, known for its stunning waterfalls, lush green tea fields, and the UNESCO-listed Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes. The country’s national parks, such as Seoraksan and Jirisan, provide challenging hikes and breathtaking views, making South Korea a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Culinary experiences

The culinary landscapes of South Korea and Japan are as diverse as their cultures. Food plays a central role in both societies, offering travellers a taste of their rich histories and contemporary innovations.

Japan is renowned for its sushi, sashimi, ramen, and tempura, dishes that exemplify the precision and simplicity of Japanese cuisine. Yet, the culinary experience extends beyond these well-known staples. Regional specialties, such as Hokkaido’s seafood, Kyoto’s kaiseki ryori, and Osaka’s street food, invite visitors to explore Japan’s gastronomic diversity.

South Korea offers a bold palette of flavours, with dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and Korean BBQ taking centre stage. Street food markets, such as Seoul’s Myeongdong and Busan’s Gukje Market, provide a lively atmosphere to sample a wide array of snacks and dishes. The Korean dining experience is also unique for its communal aspect, with meals often shared amongst friends, making it a social as well as a culinary adventure.

Technological marvels and urban experiences

For tech-savvy travellers debating whether to visit South Korea or Japan, both countries are at the forefront of technological innovation and urban development.

Japan impresses with its efficient transportation systems, notably the Shinkansen (bullet train), which connects major cities at breathtaking speeds. Tokyo, a city that feels like stepping into the future, showcases the latest in technology, fashion, and entertainment, with districts like Akihabara offering everything from electronics to anime culture.

South Korea is equally renowned for its technological advancements, particularly in the realm of digital technology and the internet, boasting some of the world’s fastest internet speeds. Seoul, with its smart city initiatives and ubiquitous connectivity, exemplifies South Korea’s commitment to innovation. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene, from the stylish boutiques of Gangnam to the traditional markets of Insadong.

Top sites to see in South Korea

Whether you’re drawn to urban exploration or the tranquillity of nature, the sites to see in South Korea promise memorable experiences for every traveller. Here’s a few things to visit in South Korea:

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul: Step back in time at the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Don’t miss the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony for a glimpse into historical protocols.

2. Jeju Island: A natural wonderland famed for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and the majestic Hallasan Mountain. Jeju’s Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak offers breathtaking sunrise views.

3. Bukchon Hanok Village, Seoul: Wander through narrow lanes lined with traditional Korean houses (hanoks), many of which now serve as cultural centres, guesthouses, and tea houses.

4. Gwangjang Market, Seoul: Dive into the heart of Korean cuisine at one of Seoul’s oldest and largest markets. Sample local delicacies like mung bean pancakes (bindaetteok) and spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki).

5. DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): Experience the poignant history of the Korean Peninsula with a visit to the DMZ, offering a stark reminder of the divide between North and South Korea.

The best sites to see in Japan

Japan is a treasure trove of discovery, where the best sites to see range from serene landscapes to bustling cityscapes, encapsulating centuries of tradition alongside cutting-edge innovation. Each must-see sight in Japan offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich cultural tapestry, ensuring a journey filled with depth and diversity. Top sights in Japan include:

1. Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto: Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, this Shinto shrine offers a picturesque hike with views over Kyoto.

2. Mount Fuji: Whether you admire it from a distance or embark on a climbing adventure, Japan’s iconic mountain is a sight to behold. The surrounding lakes offer stunning reflections of Fuji-san.

3. Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing: Experience the epitome of Tokyo’s bustling urban life at one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Shibuya is also a hub for shopping, entertainment, and dining.

4. Nara Park: Get up close with friendly deer that roam freely in this park, home to historic temples and shrines, including the magnificent Todai-ji Temple housing a giant Buddha statue.

5. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A poignant site dedicated to the victims of the atomic bomb in 1945, offering a powerful message of peace and resilience.

Want to go with the best? Check out One Life Adventures!

For those eager to dive into the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Japan and South Korea, selecting the right organised group tour can make all the difference. While a myriad of options exists, including reputable companies like Contiki, G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, INTRO Travel, and Topdeck, each offering their unique take on these captivating destinations, One Life Adventures truly stands apart.

Notably, One Life Adventures is at the forefront, having earned the prestigious title of the number 1 tour in the world for their 10 day Japan trip , as awarded by TourRadar in 2019.

This recognition is a clear indication of One Life Adventures’ commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences, marked by an authentic and immersive approach to exploring the rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty in Japan and South Korea. Their tours are carefully curated to ensure a deep connection with each destination, offering travellers an unparalleled journey filled with adventure, cultural discovery, and meaningful interactions.

Excitingly, One Life Adventures is expanding their offerings, launching two new South Korea tours in March 2024. These upcoming tours promise to continue the company’s tradition of excellence, providing adventurers with the opportunity to explore South Korea’s dynamic cities, tranquil temples, and breathtaking natural landscapes, all guided by the expertise and passion that One Life Adventures is known for.

While companies like Contiki , G Adventures , Intrepid Travel , INTRO Travel , and Topdeck provide valuable and diverse travel experiences, One Life Adventures’ distinguished accolade and their anticipation of new South Korea tours place them in a league of their own. For travellers seeking an organised group tour that combines the thrill of discovery with the assurance of an award-winning experience, One Life Adventures offers an exceptional choice.

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Is South Korea or Japan safer?

South Korea and Japan are both considered some of the safest countries in the world for travellers. Low crime rates and a strong police presence contribute to a secure environment.

However, as with any travel destination, it’s wise to exercise common sense, especially in crowded areas and public transport to guard against petty theft.

Safety tips for South Korea and Japan:

• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight.
• Take care if you’re out alone late at night, especially if you’re a woman travelling on your own.
• Be cautious if someone approaches you unexpectedly.
• Road safety is paramount; be cautious as a pedestrian, as driving styles can be aggressive.
• It’s important to respect everyone’s family, friends, culture, ethnicity, and religion (that goes without saying).
• If you have valuable items, it’s best not to leave them unattended in your accommodation.
• When taking a taxi, make sure it is clearly marked as a taxi. If you’re unsure, ask your hotel or hostel to call a reliable taxi service for you.
• It’s helpful to learn basic greetings like Please, Thank you, Hello, and Goodbye and use them when appropriate.
• Tourists in Japan must carry their passport at all times, as random checks by police are common and not having it can lead to legal issues.
• Natural disasters such as earthquakes are more common in Japan; familiarise yourself with safety procedures in your accommodation.

Ditch the contraband items

Japan and South Korea have strict regulations regarding contraband items. The consequences for attempting to bring unauthorised goods into the country are severe, with hefty fines and the possibility of lengthy imprisonment.

Banned items can include narcotics, certain prescription drugs, health supplements, firearms, ammunition and explosives, as well as radio equipment and even gold!

Don’t even think about travelling to South Korea or Japan without securing travel insurance – World Nomads stands out as a top choice for young adults seeking affordable protection. You can get a quote here.

Want more Won or Yen for your buck?

When considering a trip to East Asia, many young adult travellers ponder whether it’s cheaper to visit South Korea or Japan. Both countries offer a wealth of cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life, but they do differ in terms of travel costs. Here, we’ll delve into the typical costs of accommodation, food and drinks, and transport in both destinations to help you plan your adventure.

Accommodation

South Korea: Travellers can find a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses and hostels starting at around £15-£30 per night for a dormitory bed. Mid-range hotels can cost anywhere from £50 to £100 per night, depending on the location and amenities.

Japan: Accommodation in Japan tends to be slightly more expensive. Budget options like hostels and pod (capsule) hotels start at about £20-£40 for a dorm bed. Mid-range hotel prices are similar to South Korea, but on the higher end, costing around £60 to £120 per night.

Food and drinks

South Korea: The food scene in South Korea is both delicious and affordable. Street food snacks can cost as little as £1-£3, while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant might set you back £5-£10. Dining at a mid-range restaurant can cost around £10-£20 per person.

Japan: Eating out in Japan can be more costly. Street food and snacks are usually around £2-£5. A meal at a casual restaurant typically ranges from £7 to £15. Mid-range dining experiences can cost £20-£40 per person, especially in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.

South Korea: Public transportation is highly efficient and affordable. A subway ride in Seoul costs around £1-£2, while intercity train journeys can range from £20 to £100, depending on the distance and train type.

Japan: Japan is famous for its Shinkansen (bullet trains), which are pricier but offer a fast way to travel between cities. A local subway or bus ride costs about £1-£3. For long-distance travel, Shinkansen tickets can range from £40 to over £100, making the Japan Rail Pass a cost-effective option for tourists planning to travel extensively.

Decision time: South Korea or Japan?

Deciding between a journey to South Korea or Japan hinges on personal preferences and the type of experiences one seeks. For those enchanted by cutting-edge technology, vibrant pop culture, and a dynamic urban environment, South Korea beckons. Japan, with its deep-rooted traditions, stunning natural landscapes, and a seamless blend of old and new, might appeal more to those seeking a reflective and diverse cultural journey.

Both countries offer a kaleidoscope of experiences that cater to the adventurous spirit of young adult travellers. Whether it’s the allure of South Korea’s energetic cities and cultural phenomena or Japan’s serene beauty and rich heritage, each destination promises a journey filled with discovery, wonder, and memories to last a lifetime.

In conclusion, the choice between South Korea and Japan is not a question of which country is better but rather which country resonates more with your personal travel dreams and aspirations. Each offers a unique window into the heart of East Asia, with endless opportunities for exploration, learning, and adventure. So, why not let your heart decide and embark on a journey that speaks to the very essence of your wanderlust?

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East Asia Two Weeks Itinerary: South Korea, Taiwan and Japan

East Asia Essentials: Seoul, Busan, Taipei, Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo

An epic 15-day adventure through some of East Asia’s most exciting destinations! Explore the bustling streets of Seoul and Busan, soak up the culture and history of Taipei and Kyoto, experience the futuristic cityscape of Tokyo, and much more! This itinerary will take you on a journey through three diverse and fascinating countries: South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. Get ready to fire up your wanderlust, eat amazing food, and make unforgettable memories on this trip of a lifetime!

Days 1-2: Seoul, South Korea

After your visit to the palace, head to nearby Bukchon Hanok Village , a charming traditional Korean neighborhood filled with hanok (traditional Korean houses). You can wander the streets and admire the architecture, and even try on traditional Korean clothing, called hanbok, for a fun photo opportunity.

In the afternoon, head to Namsan Tower , a landmark tower atop Namsan Mountain reachable by cable car that offers stunning panoramic views of the city, and also several attractions and restaurants to explore.

▽More things to do in Seoul!▽

After shopping, visit the nearby Gwangjang Market , one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Seoul. Be sure to try some Korean street food, such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), kimbap (seaweed rice rolls), and hotteok (sweet Korean pancakes). 

In the evening, dive into one of Seoul’s vibrant neighborhoods for nightlife, such as Hongdae or Gangnam . Hongdae is known for its indie music scene, street performances, and clubs, while Gangnam is known for its upscale bars and clubs.

Days 3-5: Busan, South Korea

In the afternoon, head to Busan Tower , a landmark tower that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. You can take the elevator to the top of the tower to enjoy the view, and there is also a museum and observation deck to explore.

After visiting Gamcheon, go to Beomeosa Temple , a historic Buddhist temple located in the foothills of Geumjeongsan Mountain , which can be accessed by cable car. The temple was first built in the 7th century and has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. You can explore the different halls and buildings, and enjoy the serene surroundings of the temple.

In the afternoon, you can go to one of Busan’s other attractions, such as Jagalchi Fish Market or Gukje Market , to experience the local culture and cuisine. Jagalchi Fish Market is the largest seafood market in South Korea, and you can try fresh seafood at one of the on-site restaurants. Gukje Market is a traditional market with a variety of goods, from clothing to food to electronics. Be sure to try some of the local street food, such as hotteok (sweet pancakes) and ssiat hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with seeds).

Days 6-8: Taipei, Taiwan

After your visit to Taipei 101, head to the nearby Elephant Mountain for a hike and even better views of the city. The hike is moderate in difficulty and takes about 30 minutes to reach the top. Be sure to bring water and wear comfortable shoes.

In the evening, visit Shilin Night Market , one of Taipei’s most famous and lively night markets. You can find a variety of food, from stinky tofu to fried chicken cutlets, as well as games and souvenirs.

After your visit to the memorial hall, head to Longshan Temple , one of Taipei’s oldest and most famous temples. The temple was first built in the 18th century and features a mix of Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian elements. You can explore the different halls and courtyards, and even make a wish at the wishing pond.

In the afternoon, visit the trendy Ximending neighborhood for shopping and entertainment. You can find a variety of shops, from local boutiques to international brands, as well as restaurants and cafes. Be sure to also check out the street performers and live music.

Start your day by visiting the National Palace Museum , one of the largest and most comprehensive museums of Chinese art and artifacts in the world. The museum houses over 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artwork, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and jade.

In the afternoon, visit Beitou Hot Springs , a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hot springs are located in a scenic area surrounded by mountains and forests. You can soak in the natural hot springs or visit one of the public or private hot spring spas in the area.

In the evening, visit the Raohe Night Market , another popular and bustling night market in Taipei. You can find a variety of food, from oyster omelets to pork buns, as well as games and souvenirs. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as black pepper buns and Taiwanese-style fried chicken.

Days 9-11: Osaka-Kyoto, Japan

Afterward make your way to Dotonbori , a famous shopping and entertainment district in Osaka. This area is known for its bright neon lights, large billboards, and a wide variety of street food vendors where you can eat to your heart’s content the local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, and shop for souvenirs.

Make sure you visit Umeda Sky Building before sunset, so you can enjoy the stunning views of the city and see the sunset from the observatory deck. You can finish the day at the nearby Hankyu Umeda Station, with an enormous underground shopping center with lots of restaurants and entertainment options. 

For more information about the best things you can do in Osaka, check the following article:

Then, head to Arashiyama , a district on the western outskirts of Kyoto. You can walk through the picturesque bamboo forest, visit the Tenryu-ji temple, and take a boat ride down the Hozu River. The district also has a popular shopping street with local souvenirs and snacks.

In the evening, visit the Gion district to experience Kyoto’s traditional geisha culture. You can stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, and try to catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to a performance.

For more information about what to do around Gion, check the following article:

After your visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, head to Nishiki Market , a long and narrow covered market in central Kyoto. You can find a variety of local foods and goods, including fresh seafood, pickles, and sweets. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Kyoto-style sushi and matcha-flavored snacks.

In the afternoon, visit the Higashiyama district to see more of Kyoto’s traditional architecture and culture. You can walk through the historic streets, visit the Kiyomizu-dera temple, and enjoy the view from the temple’s wooden balcony.

For more information about what to do in Kyoto, check the following article:

Days 12-14: Tokyo, Japan

After your visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market, go to Ginza , Tokyo’s famous shopping mecca. It’s a chic and upscale district famous for its high-end boutiques, restaurants and department stores. There are also historic landmarks such as the Kabuki-za theater and the Imperial Palace is within walking distance. 

In the evening, visit the Roppongi district, a popular nightlife spot with a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs. You can also visit the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills or the Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city at night.

After your visit to Senso-ji, go to Akihabara , also known as Electric Town, famous for its many electronics shops and anime/manga merchandise stores. You can visit one of the many themed pop-up cafes and explore the different shops for quirky and fun items.

In the evening, visit the Odaiba district, a man-made island in Tokyo Bay with a variety of shopping malls, amusement parks, and museums. You can also enjoy the view of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower from the waterfront.

If the energy allows it, try to go as early as possible, after daybreak, to Meiji Shrine , a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken. The peaceful surroundings with the sound of the morning prayers will be worth it. The shrine is located in a large forested park, and you can walk through the woods and see the traditional architecture of the shrine buildings.

After your visit to the Meiji Shrine, head to Shibuya , a bustling commercial and entertainment district famous for its Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. You can also visit the Hachiko statue, a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike.

In the evening, visit Shinjuku , another popular entertainment district with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. You can also visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which has observation decks with panoramic views of the city.

For more information about the best things to do in Tokyo, check the following article:

Day 15: Depart from Tokyo, Japan

If you have some time in the morning, you could visit the Tokyo National Museum , which houses a large collection of Japanese art and artifacts or just take a relaxing stroll around Ueno Park . 

After your final activities in Tokyo, make your way to the airport to catch your flight home. Depending on your flight time, you may need to leave for the airport quite early, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Overall, this 15-day itinerary should give you a great overview of some of the best sights and experiences that South Korea, Taiwan, and Japan have to offer. Of course, there are many other great destinations to explore in each country, so if you have more time, be sure to check out some additional places as well!

For more information about traveling around Japan, check out the following articles!

▽Related Articles▽

▼Editor’s Picks▼

Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.

Seoul or Tokyo: Which City Should You Visit?

Ever found yourself stuck in a classic traveller’s dilemma—Seoul or Tokyo? I get it; choosing between these two vibrant cities is like trying to pick whether to eat pasta or pizza for dinner! But don’t worry, I’ve got your back in this friendly showdown of Seoul and Tokyo.

In this blog post, we’re diving deep into the heart of the matter: Seoul vs. Tokyo. I’ll break down the nitty-gritty details—from costs and accommodations to the mouthwatering world of local cuisine, and everything in between. 

So, grab your virtual passports, kick back, and let’s figure out which city deserves a spot at the top of your travel bucket list .

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✔️ Flights: Book your flights on Skyscanner 

➡️ Car rental: Rent your car on DiscoverCars

✔️ Travel insurance:   I recommend World Nomads

➡️ Accommodations:   Book your stay at booking.com

✔️ Activities:   Arrange your adventure trips and tours

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo?

Deciding between Seoul and Tokyo for your next adventure? 

Let’s take a sneak peek into these two cities to help you make an informed choice. 

Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea , is a beautiful blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation, housing over 9 million people. Located amidst mountains and the Han River , Seoul’s landscape is a captivating mix of sleek skyscrapers and historic palaces.  

On the flip side, Tokyo, the capital of Japan , boasts a staggering population of over 14 million. Sprawling across the Kanto region , Tokyo seamlessly intertwines the ultra-modern with pockets of serenity, offering a glimpse into the heart of Japanese culture. 

From the cherry blossom-lined streets of Tokyo to the dynamic energy of Seoul’s sprawling city, these places are full of culture just waiting to be explored. 

⭐ Love my travel guides and itineraries? I’m here to design a custom itinerary tailored to your travel dreams! Fill out the contact form below, and let’s plan your dream trip! ⭐

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➡️  Learn more about my custom travel itinerary services here .

Seoul vs Tokyo

Let’s now dive into the nitty gritty of the key differences and similarities between Seoul and Tokyo. But before we do, here is a summary I created with my ratings of each city. 

Things To Do: Seoul vs. Tokyo

Starting off with what I consider one of the most important factors when choosing a destination, the attractions and things to do. 

From street food markets to skyline views and late-night bar-hopping, these are the top three things you’ve gotta do in each city.

Top 3 things to do in Seoul:

Buckle up for the DMZ tour , where you can practically high-five North Korea (okay, not really, but you get it).

It’s a wild ride exploring the demilitarized zone, checking out secret tunnels, peering into North Korea, and getting a front-row seat to some serious Korean history drama.

➡️ Book the DMZ tour I took here!

2. Street Food Markets

Calling all foodies! Seoul’s street food game is one of the best. Hit up places like Myeongdong or Gwangjang Market (my personal favourite) for a culinary adventure.

Kimchi dumplings, mung bean pancakes, noodles and a bunch of other traditional bites.

Pro tip : Come hungry.

3. Gyeongbokgung Palace

Feel like a royal at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Catch the changing of the guard ceremony at 10 am or 2 pm (except Tuesdays when it’s closed) for some historical drama and an Insta-worthy moment. It’s a pretty cool experience.

For the ultimate experience, rent a traditional hanbok dress, trust me you won’t be the only one! 

Top 3 things to do in Tokyo:

• Shibuya Sky

Take your Tokyo game to new heights at Shibuya Sky. It’s basically a giant elevator to awesome views. Get ready for skyscrapers, neon lights, and the city spread out like a techno-coloured dream.

It’s especially breathtaking at sunset. And don’t forget to spot the famous Shibuya crossing sitting right below the rooftop. 

2. Golden Gai Bars

Dive into Tokyo’s nightlife scene at Golden Gai. Tiny bars, snacks, and loads of character.

It’s like a pub crawl , but Tokyo style.

Each bar has its own vibe, making it a must for anyone up for a unique drinking adventure.

Speaking of a pub crawl, I highly recommend you join a guided tour for a memorable night out. This is what I did and had an absolute blast! I met so many incredible people and got a real taste of Japanese nightlife.

➡️  Book your Bar Crawl in Shinjuku here (The one I did!)

3. Harajuku

Fashionistas, listen up! Harajuku is your jam. Takeshita Street is a wild ride of fashion, accessories, and snacks.

Check out Yoyogi Park for some people-watching and soak in the crazy cool styles that make Harajuku, well, Harajuku.

And grab one of the crepes from one of the many stalls, they are everywhere and for good reason, they are delicious! 

Things to Do Scores: Seoul – 7/10 ⭐ Tokyo – 8/10

❗  Don’t forget your travel insurance! I highly recommend  World Nomads  for its affordable and comprehensive cover

Transport: Seoul Vs Tokyo

Let’s talk about getting around because nobody wants to waste precious travel time figuring out how to catch a ride. In Seoul, the metro system is fantastic– efficient, clean, and the real MVP for zipping around the city.

Plus most signs have English so you don’t need to worry about the hassle of having to translate. Buses are another solid option , connecting you to every nook and cranny. Taxis (cause there is no Uber) ? Easy to book on the Kakao app and very well-priced for a major city. 

Now, Tokyo’s transport game is also top-notch . The iconic Tokyo Metro is a lifesaver, weaving through the city. JR trains and the Shinkansen connect the city and beyond, making day trips a breeze.

Once again, I found most signs to have English . Oh, and taxis? Abundant and super reliable . No need to worry about getting ripped off!

In the end, whether you’re cruising the streets of Seoul in a Hanbok or zipping through Tokyo in a Mario Kart (hey, it happens), both cities have world-class transport options.

Transport Scores : Seoul – 7/10 ⭐ Tokyo- 8/10

Food: Seoul Vs Tokyo

Alright, let’s get down to the good stuff – food! In Seoul, it’s like a flavour explosion in your mouth. Street food markets are the holy grail . Think tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and odeng (fish cake skewers).

Feeling fancy?

Korean BBQ is an excellent choice, where you grill your own meat at the table. And let’s not forget about Korean Fried Chicken and beer , my go-to in Seoul! 

Now, Tokyo’s food scene is also fantastic but offers totally different dishes. Ramen joints are abundant here, with every slurp full of deliciousness. Sushi? Oh boy, the freshest fish you’ve ever tasted.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, izakayas serve up a mix of small bites and drinks, perfect for a night out.

One thing to note. In both cities, I found fresh produce to be pretty expensive and not very abundant.

I love my fruit and this was something I missed on my trip to Korea and Japan. On your trip, if you’re constantly indulging in Korean BBQ, dumplings and katsu curries just be mindful of your fibre intake ! You don’t want to get a sore belly like I did!

Ultimately, both cities are foodie paradises, it all just depends on what your taste buds prefer! 

Food Scores: ⭐ Seoul – 9/10 Tokyo – 8/10

Cost: Seoul Vs Tokyo

Let’s talk about the dollars and cents, because budgeting matters when you’re out there exploring.

Seoul offers a mix of affordable eats and budget-friendly activities . Street food stalls won’t break the bank , and even dining in local restaurants won’t dent your wallet too much.

Accommodations vary but include budget-friendly options without sacrificing comfort. 

Now, Tokyo is a bit more on the pricey side. The city’s vibrant energy comes at a cost, especially when dining in high-end restaurants or staying in upscale accommodations.

However, Tokyo’s street food and ramen joints are a saving grace. Accommodations range from capsule hotels for a unique , budget-friendly experience to mid-range options that are reasonably priced.

In the end, both cities cater to different budget levels. Seoul gives you more wiggle room to stretch your won, while Tokyo might make you do a bit of budget Tetris.

Cost scores: ⭐ Seoul – 8/10 Tokyo – 7/10

Accommodation

In Seoul, accommodation options are diverse. From stylish guesthouses to modern hotels and even traditional Hanok stays , you’ve got choices. If you’re looking to meet other travellers, hostels and guesthouses in areas like Hongdae are a great pick.

At least that’s what I did! For a touch of luxury, Gangnam serves up chic hotels with all the amenities.

Now, in Tokyo, you’ll find Capsule hotels that offer a futuristic, budget-friendly experience, perfect for solo travellers. Trendy neighbourhoods like Shibuya and Shinjuku boast a range of hotels, from affordable to swanky. Traditional ryokans are another option for a taste of Japanese hospitality.

To help you find your perfect stay in Seoul and Tokyo I have listed my top 3 picks in both cities. 

Accommodation in Seoul

I recommend you stay in Hongdae which is a melting pot of university students and other travellers making it a safe and lively spot.

Wander through the streets, and you’ll stumble upon unique cafes, eclectic shops, market stalls , and indie boutiques , turning a simple stroll into a full-fledged adventure.

And when it gets dark, Hongdae turns into a lively hub buzzing with live music, street performances, and options for late-night dining and shopping.

Now, let’s talk nightlife – Hongdae doesn’t disappoint . There are countless bars, clubs, and karaoke rooms.

As if that’s not enough, Hongdae’s central location is a major plus, making it super easy to hop on public transport and explore the rest of Seoul.

Here are my top picks for where to stay in Hongdae.

Budget: Bunk Guesthouse (Where I Stayed)

⭐ 9.1/10 (821 reviews)

I had the pleasure of calling Bunk Guesthouse my home during my time in Hongdae. This cozy guesthouse is the very essence of Hongdae – a neighbourhood known for its youthful energy, artistic flair, and bustling nightlife.

Staying at Bunk Guesthouse, you’ll find yourself right in the midst of the action. There are cozy common areas and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to connect with other travellers. But they also offer free breakfast, an equipped kitchen and tours that you can book as an add-on.

Although the guesthouse was quite old (and had some weird smells) you can’t beat the location. Plus there are a few private rooms (which I opted for) perfect for those who like their own space but still want to socialise with others.

➡️ Book your stay at Bunk Guesthouse here

Mid-range: 9 Brick Hotel

⭐ 8.6/10 (606 reviews)

Now, let’s dive into why 9 Brick Hotel is the cream of the crop for a fantastic mid-range stay in the heart of Hongdae.

Conveniently located a mere 6-minute walk away from Hongik University Subway Station , 9 Brick Hotel raises the bar with a restaurant and a stylish bar.

Step into your room, and you’re greeted with views of the city that can rival any postcard. Each room is all about comfort with a flat-screen TV, a desk, a cozy sofa, a fridge, and air conditioning . The private bathroom ? It’s spa-like complete with a bathrobe, slippers, free toiletries, and a hairdryer.

Now, let’s talk service. The 24-hour front desk at 9 Brick Hotel goes above and beyond, offering fr ee baggage storage, valet parking that won’t cost you a dime, and concierge services to make your stay seamless.

➡️ Book your stay at 9 Brick Hotel here

Luxury: Rhys Hotel by Marriott

⭐ 8.9/10 (1238 reviews)

RYSE stands as the epitome of luxurious indulgence in Hongdae

Located within w alking distance from Hongik University Subway Station RYSE sets the stage for opulence. Complimentary WiFi and valet parking elevate the guest experience from the get-go.

Step into your room, and you’ll find a flat-screen TV, Bluetooth speakers for a personalized audio experience, and a safety deposit box for added security. The private bathroom is a sanctuary in itself, featuring a walk-in rain shower and plush bathrobes.

Luxury extends beyond the rooms at RYSE. Staying guests have unrestricted access to the on-site fitness centre, business centre, and library.

As the sun sets, head up to Side Note Club. This rooftop bar, stands as one of the best in Hongdae, providing unbeatable views of the city. Trust me I’ve been, the views and the cocktails at sunset are nothing short of spectacular.

➡️ Book your stay at RHYS Hotel

Accommodation in Tokyo

If you’re on the hunt for a lively and downright convenient hub to kick off your Tokyo adventures, I highly recommend staying in Shinjuku .

This neighbourhood is Tokyo’s beating heart, embodying the city’s dynamic spirit with its lively streets, nightlife, and range of accommodations catering to every kind of traveller.

From the picturesque S hinjuku Gyoen National Garden to the Kabukicho entertainment district , there’s so much to dive into right at your doorstep.

Plus, getting around is super convenient with multiple subway stations in walking distance.

Now onto my top 3 stays in Tokyo.

Budget: Unplan Shinjuku

⭐ 7.9/10 (2,254 reviews)

If you’re counting the pennies, Unplan Shinjuku is your go-to in Tokyo.

This spot hooks you up with a budget-friendly and seriously fun stay, smack in the beating heart of Shinjuku.

Rocking a clean, modern design, it’s a fantastic choice for those who’d rather spend their funds on making memories than splurging on a fancy stay. Plus it’s an excellent place to meet other travellers if you’re on a solo trip.

➡️ Click Here To Book Your Budget Stay At Unplan Shinjuku

Mid-range: Hotel Matsunoi (Where I stayed!)

⭐ 8.4/10 (615 reviews)

I stayed at Hotel Matsunoi on my trip to Tokyo as it offers comfort and convenience for a very reasonable price.

If you are looking for privacy, comfort, style, and keeping things wallet-friendly, this place is for you.

Enjoy a s ingle or double room with a private bathroom right in the heart of Shin Okubo, the vibrant Koreantown on the fringes of Shinjuku.

The subway is steps away and there are loads of places to eat from Korean street food to Japanese restaurants in your neighbourhood.

➡️ Book Your Stay At Hotel Matsunoi Now

Luxury: Park Hyatt Tokyo

⭐ 9.2/10 (266 reviews)

Looking for the ultimate luxury experience in an excellent location ? You simply can’t beat the Park Hyatt Tokyo.

With its ic onic skyline views, impeccable service, and lavish amenities , it’s a stay filled with sophistication and relaxation.

The rooftop offers some of the best views of the city , making it my top choice for those seeking the crème de la crème of accommodations in Shinjuku.

➡️ Check the price of Park Hyatt Tokyo here

Accommodation Scores: ⭐ Seoul – 8/10 Tokyo – 7/10

When it comes to safety, both Tokyo and Seoul are incredibly safe destinations including for solo female travellers like myself.

Tokyo, often touted as one of the safest cities globally, boasts low crime rates, making nighttime strolls through neon-lit streets very doable.

The Japanese culture emphasizes respect and following the law, contributing to an environment where safety is a top priority.

Seoul, too, embraces a safety-first ethos . South Korea’s capital city is known for its low crime rates and well-policed streets .

The warmth of the locals adds an extra layer of comfort, making Seoul a welcoming destination for solo and group travellers alike.

Whether you’re exploring historic palaces or street markets, both cities prioritize the safety and well-being of their visitors.

I felt extremely safe in both Seoul and Tokyo as a young solo female traveller, top marks for both cities! 

Safety Scores: ⭐ Seoul Safety – 9/10 Tokyo Safety – 8/10

Cleanliness

When it comes to cleanliness, Tokyo and Seoul are both shining stars of city tidiness, each maintaining a high standard of hygiene.

Tokyo takes cleanliness seriously , and the result is evident in spotless streets, well-maintained public spaces, clean subways, and an overall commitment to tidiness.

The city’s residents actively participate in keeping their surroundings clean, contributing to Tokyo’s pristine image. Littering is really not an issue in Japan.

Similarly, Seoul places a strong emphasis on cleanliness, ensuring that streets, parks, and public facilities remain well-kept.

Efforts to maintain a clean and inviting environment are visible throughout the city. From the bustling markets to the serene palaces, Seoul’s commitment to cleanliness enhances the overall experience.

But don’t expect to find public bins on the streets , for a clean city it is so surprising that it’s nearly impossible to find a bin for your takeaway iced Americano. 

So, whether you’re strolling through the meticulous streets of Tokyo or wandering the clean, vibrant districts of Seoul, cleanliness is a top priority . Just make sure to do your bit and respect their cleaning practices!

Cleanliness Scores: Seoul Cleanliness – 8/10 ⭐ Tokyo Cleanliness – 9/10

Best Day Trips

Time to break free from the city limits and explore the wonders that lie just beyond.

In Seoul, t he DMZ steals the day trip spotlight. A journey to the Demilitarized Zone offers a truly incredible experience, standing at the border of North and South Korea.

Witnessing historical sites like the Third Infiltration Tunnel and the Joint Security Area provides a profound understanding of the country’s complex past. Plus you get to peer into one of the world’s most isolated countries. 

Or head to Nami Island, a spot known for its tree-lined paths and scenic landscapes or a little further is Busan , my favourite coastal town!

Check out my Day Trip From Seoul to Busan – 1 Day Itinerary

Tokyo, on the other hand, offers day-trippers a ticket to escape the city’s hustle and bustle with Nikko National Park . Just a train ride away, Nikko allows you to explore the world of ancient shrines, gorgeous landscapes, and the iconic Toshogu Shrine. 

Alternatively, combine Hakone’s hot springs and a picturesque Lake Ashi cruise with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Take a cable car or ropeway for panoramic views, and, weather permitting, witness the iconic peak reflected in the clear waters of Lake Ashi.

Day Trips Scores: Seoul Best Day Trips – 7/10 ⭐ Tokyo Day Trips- 8/10

Most Comfortable Weather

When it comes t o the weather, both Seoul and Tokyo have seasons for everyone’s personal preferences. Seoul experiences distinct seasons, with spring and fall stealing the show for the most comfortable weather.

Spring (April to June) brings mild temperatures, blooming cherry blossoms (yes South Korea also has cherry blossoms), and a cool breeze.  

Fall (September to November) follows suit with pleasant temperatures, vibrant foliage, and clear skies.

Tokyo mirrors this pattern with spring (March to May) offering mild temperatures and the iconic cherry blossoms blanketing the city. Fall (September to November) brings a similar comfortable climate, accompanied by stunning orange and red foliage , turning Tokyo into a picturesque canvas. 

Tokyo tends to have higher humidity than Seoul , especially during the summer months, which can make the heat feel more intense.

And while both cities experience snowfall in winter, Seoul has a more consistent downpour compared to Tokyo.

Weather Scores: Seoul Weather – 7/10 ⭐ Tokyo Weather – 8/10

FAQ’s: Seoul vs Tokyo

Moving onto some commonly asked questions that will further help you decide on Seoul or Tokyo for your next trip. 

Is it better to go to Seoul or Tokyo?

I fell in love with both Seoul and Tokyo and choosing between the two ultimately comes down to your preferences.

Seoul offers a blend of traditional and modern experiences, with a rich history, vibrant street markets, a K-pop scene, and a dynamic cultural scene. 

Tokyo, on the other hand, dazzles with its futuristic cityscape, diverse neighbourhoods, delicious food, and a mix of ancient and contemporary attractions. 

Consider what aspects of each city align with your travel desires, whether it’s exploring palaces in Seoul or diving into the high-tech ambience of Tokyo.

Is Seoul or Tokyo more modern?

Both Seoul and Tokyo stand as pillars of modernity, showcasing cutting-edge technology, efficient public transport, and contemporary architecture.

Tokyo, being one of the world’s most advanced cities, is renowned for its futuristic skyline, while Seoul impresses with its technological innovations and sleek urban design. 

The difference in modernity is subtle, and both cities seamlessly balance tradition and innovation.

But if I had to choose, Tokyo takes the crown for being the most modern and technologically advanced. 

Is Seoul more expensive than Tokyo?

Generally, Tokyo is considered more expensive than Seoul.  

While both cities can be travelled on a tight budget, Tokyo’s higher cost of living can be reflected in accommodation prices, dining, and certain activities.

Seoul offers a more budget-friendly experience, with affordable street food, diverse accommodation options, and cost-effective transport.

The Verdict on Seoul or Tokyo

The total scores: Seoul Vs Tokyo Seou:l 71/100 ⭐ Tokyo: 72/100

And there you have it– the lowdown on two of Asia’s gems, Seoul and Tokyo.

Each city boasts a distinct personality, inviting you to immerse yourself in a fusion of tradition and innovation, history and modernity.

Whether you’re captivated by Seoul’s historical landmarks, mouthwatering street food, and vibrant markets or Tokyo’s futuristic skyline, mouthwatering food, and dynamic neighbourhoods, the choice between these two remarkable cities ultimately hinges on your travel dreams.

Seoul and Tokyo, while unique in their own ways, both have a similar warmth, safety reputation, and a commitment to providing travellers with unforgettable experiences.

According to my tallies in the above table, T okyo beats Seoul by only 1 teeny point!

That’s right both cities are basically neck and neck but Japan’s world world-class transport and wide range of things to do just tip it over the edge to claim the prize! 

So, whether you’re bowing beneath cherry blossoms in Tokyo or strolling through the palaces of Seoul, the verdict is clear – both cities offer a journey filled with discovery, wonder, and memories to last a lifetime. 

So, pack your bags, choose your city, and get ready for an extraordinary adventure in either the heart of South Korea or the bustling city of Japan. 

Safe travels! 

Read more about South Korea and Japan travel:

Is Busan Worth Visiting: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Busan Seoul or Busan: Which City Should You Visit? The Ultimate South Korea Itinerary 10 Days! Is South Korea Safe For Female Travellers? A Complete Travel Guide The Ultimate South Korea Itinerary 10 Days! 4 Weeks in Japan Itinerary: For First Time Visitors Is Okinawa Worth Visiting? 10+ Reasons To Add It To Your Bucket List! Seoul or Tokyo: Which City Should You Visit? Stay in Osaka or Kyoto? Which Destination Should You Choose 7 Best Countries Near Japan to Visit: Extend Your Japan Travels! Safest Places to Stay in Tokyo: Honest Advice 2024

Olivia McDonald is the avid traveler and creator behind Defining Decade, a travel blog tailored for those navigating their 20s. As an Australian with a rich background in the travel industry, she brings her passion for exploration to life through Defining Decade. Having travelled to 20+ countries, primarily in Asia and Oceania, Olivia shares authentic stories and practical tips on her blog. Whether you work full time, are a digital nomad or an aspiring entrepreneur, Olivia will show you how to travel more in your 20’s.

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• Travel Guide
• South Korea
• Budget Travel

Japan VS Korea: Which Destination Is Better For Budget Travellers?

Cheng Sim  •  Jun 12, 2023

If you’re standing at the crossroads between a backpacking adventure in Japan and a budget getaway in Korea, you’re not alone. Exploring these high-priced travel destinations on a low budget can take a bit of work, but leave the homework to us! ? With Japan and Korea placed side by side, we cover everything from the array of free attractions to budget shopping to ease your selections. By the end of the article, you will discover one destination that is friendlier to your travel budget.

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1. Free Attractions

There’s no such thing as a free lunch, but free attractions - yes! In Japan, you can catch a real-life sumo training session, explore the Imperial Palace East Garden with a guided tour, walk amidst the bamboo forest of Arashiyama, discover the old world charm of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and more without costing any yen – and the list doesn’t stop there! Check out our handy guides to free attractions in Tokyo here .

Credit: clio1789 on Flickr

P.S. Conquer Osaka and Nara for just under RM2500 with our budget-friendly itinerary for Muslim travellers!

Brimming with cultural and historical sites, Seoul has a good amount of free attractions to keep your travel itinerary packed too. Our favourite is the free hanbok experience at Seoul Global Cultural Center. Followed by a chance to explore a traditional Hanok village, listen to Seoul-ful stories from the free walking tours, visit the bustling Dongdaemun after sundown, and catch the Seoul Lantern Festival and other festivities. And that is just a summary of our full compilation - check out our round-up of the absolutely free things to do in Seoul near halal food !

Credit: seoulculturalcenter

P.S. Heading to Seoul but not sure if you can do it on a budget? Our 5D4N Seoul Muslim-friendly itinerary under RM1800 will be perfect for you !

Verdict: Korea may have the upper hand in cultural experiences, but Japan wins this round for the huge amount of free attractions in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Whenever we have the four seasons experience in mind, it’s difficult to shake off Japan from our daydreams. Spring and autumn seasons are the best times to visit Japan, but this advice comes with an entourage of tourist crowds and high priced accommodations. If you’re fine with skipping out on the widely popular cherry blossom and koyo (autumn foliage) season, pay a visit within a week or two after the viewing weeks and public holidays.

But if you're planning to visit Japan during these hugely popular seasons, make sure you check out these tips:

• Muslim-Friendly Guide To Japan's Cherry Blossom Season
• Muslim-Friendly Guide To Japan's Autumn Foliage Season

Credit:  Yoshikazu TAKADA  on Flickr

Check out our tips to having your best cherry blossom or autumn experience in Korea:

• Muslim-Friendly Guide To Korea's Cherry Blossom Season 
• Ultimate Guide To Autumn Foliage In Seoul

Verdict: Japan may be the ideal destination for spring and autumn, but if you have a budget to care about, the equally beautiful Korea is your best bet.

With manageable flight tickets and accommodation rates, experiencing spring in Korea will be lighter on your pocket compared to Japan. Remember to research and reserve early because the cherry blossom months also remain as everyone’s favourite time to visit Korea. Other affordable months to consider include autumn and winter, where hotel rates and airfare are generally lower. Due to the array of local festivals in the summer, expect to fork out high travel expenses during that season that is subsequently a huge no-no for your tight budget.

3. Accommodation costs

Major cities in Japan are generally known for their expensive hotel rates. If you’re in Tokyo, go for areas such as Ikebukuro and Asakusa for hostels (starting from around USD16/SGD21/MYR66 per night) and budget hotels (starting from USD61/SGD83/MYR256 per night). Spending the night in Kyoto won’t cause a dent in your wallet, especially in areas like Central Kyoto and around Kyoto Station where convenient public transportation is also guaranteed. Hostels are normally priced from USD12/SGD16/MYR50 per night and budget hotels starting from USD35/SGD47/MYR143 per night.

P.S. Looking for affordable accommodation in Tokyo? Check out these 9 affordable Tokyo hotels near halal food for your next vacay !

Credit: Khaosan World Asakusa & Ryokan on Facebook

Credit:  @artravel.myeongdong  on Instagram

Staying the night in a backpackers’ hostel is a true way to keep your accommodation budget to a minimum. When in Seoul, focus on areas such as Dongdaemun, Myeong-dong, Hongdae, and Itaewon for hostels with rates starting from as cheap as USD6/SGD8/MYR25 ? If you’re planning to call it a night in Busan, popular areas such as Jung-gu (starting from USD5/SGD6/RM20 per night) is filled to the brim with affordable hostels, and same goes to Seo-myeon and Sasang-gu for budget hotels (starting from USD7/SGD9/MYR25 per night). Check this link out for 12 affordable accommodations in Seoul near halal food for the perfect stay !

Verdict: It’s a challenge for Japan to shake off their reputation for costly accommodation stays, so it’s pretty easy for Korea to take this category in the bag, in terms of their larger network of budget-friendly stays!

4. Shopping

Never let your tight budget stop you from doing a little shopping on the side. One of the best places to shop cheaply in Japan is the famous Don Quijote (for snacks, electronics, household products, and make-up), Tokyu Hands (for leather goods, packaged food, and cookware), and lastly, Loft (for quirky homewares, stationeries, and accessories). If you have more time on your hands, saunter casually around Tokyo’s Shimokitazawa for a hot cuppa in an indie cafe, as well as window shop in vintage and secondhand shops. Check out our Japan budget shopping guide to get more bang for your buck !

While you're on your shopping spree in Japan, don't forget to drop by one of their many drugstores and get these 16 items!

Korea definitely has the upper hand when it comes to the value-for-money shopping experience, and more so when you’re shopping on a budget. Hit up the flea markets in Seoul such as Seocho Saturday Flea Market (for clothing, books, and household products), Gwangjang Vintage Market (for vintage goods), the Seoul Folk Flea Market (secondhand items, leather goods, hiking/outdoor gear/Korean music CDs) and more. If you want to see what else is in store, check out our guide to 7 shopping hotspots in Seoul near Muslim-friendly eateries !

Similar to most travel destinations in Asia, bargaining is the ultimate rule to stretching your shopping money. Since we have a couple of secrets up our sleeves, here are 11 tips to help you experience the best shopping spree in the shopping area of Myeongdong !

Verdict: This is a tricky round to decide! If you’re a bargain shopper just like us, you will definitely find the utmost pleasure when shopping in both Japan and Korea .

5. Halal Food

Ah, the thought of Japanese food is enough to stir some cravings. Dining shortcuts like Family Mart and Lawson’s Station may offer very little Muslim-friendly meals, but there’s a lot of halal ramen (starting from JPY750/SGD9.50/MYR29), yakiniku (starting from JPY3000/SGD37/MYR114 per set), sushi set (starting from JPY2400/SGD30/MYR92 per set) and udon noodles (starting from JPY400/SGD5/MYR15) waiting out there. Just throw your diet out of the window and fill your tummy with the help of these guides:

• Guide to Halal Japanese food in Tokyo
• Guide to Halal Japanese food in Kyoto
• Guide to Halal Japanese food in Osaka

Rule of thumb: Lunch sets are typically priced lower than the average dinner menu. For instance, some sushi sets can go as low as JPY1300/SGD16/MYR50 Feel free to indulge in your mid-day meals and save up during dinner!

Otherwise, if you're really on a tight budget and don't wish to spend a lot on dining in a restaurant, then check out these 9 Muslim-friendly Japanese convenience store snacks that'll surely fill you up as you travel around Japan!

If you’re feeling famished in Korea, always remember that there’s a halal yeoipbap (lotus leaf rice), tteobbokki (soft rice cakes), and patbingsu (shaved ice dessert) lurking around the corner. The Muslim-friendly meal options may not be as many as Japan’s and if you're in Seoul, halal food options are mostly concentrated around the Itaewon area. Check out these halal food guides in major Korean cities before your visit:

• Guide to Halal Korean food in Seoul
• Guide to Muslim-friendly eateries in Jeju
• Guide to Muslim-friendly eateries in Busan

Credit: Eid Halal Korean Food on Facebook

For those of you who still think that dining in a restaurant can be pretty expensive, fret not! Spend your moolahs on one of these 15 Muslim-friendly Korean street snacks which are not only cheap but filling too. Or else, you can also pop by any of the many convenience stores around Korea to fill your tummy with these Muslim-friendly convenience store snacks !

Verdict: Considering the variety of Muslim-friendly local dishes and its affordability, Japan definitely takes the lead on this one.

Scoring an affordable flight ticket to Japan and Korea can be tricky because they aren’t generally cheap. However, with the right tools and a bit of luck, you can maximise your chances of snagging a good deal. Look out for mobile apps like Google Flights, Kayak or Skyscanner for trusty flight promotions. Of course, we have more secret hacks to uncover right here .

While a flight ticket to Japan in 2023, can be really pricey, If you have Tokyo in mind for your Japan trip and are travelling from Kuala Lumpur, July (starting MYR504/one way) has lower airfare prices on average while December and Mar/Apr can be rather expensive with one-way tickets costing MYR600-800+. For those travelling from Singapore to Tokyo, September seems to be the cheapest month with one-way tickets selling from just around SGD200. June, March and April can be quite expensive with one-way tickets costing at least SGD270 or even more.

Planning to go Osaka instead? The flight fares from Kuala Lumpur are known to be the cheapest in September , starting from MYR399 one-way. December and April seem to be the most expensive months, with prices hovering around MYR700-800 one-way.

If you're travelling from Singapore to Osaka, October seems to be the cheapest month with one-way flight prices starting from SGD172. March to June (spring to summer) seems to be a more expensive season as prices for one-way tickets start from SGD240 and can go as high as SGD300-400.

Travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Seoul, the months of July-August and October are the cheapest (around MYR364/one-way) while Dec and April-June are the more expensive months where flight prices can go for at least MYR600/one-way. If you’re travelling from Singapore to Seoul, September is the cheapest month with prices starting from SGD179/one-way. This is great because the heat of summer would be winding down so the weather will be pretty cooling before autumn kicks in. Try to avoid the months of December, Mar/Apr and June as prices are more than SGD230 one-way.

If you're from Kuala Lumpur and travelling to Busan, we recommend picking April as prices are the cheapest around MYR460/one-way while in May and June, prices tend to be from MYR580-700/one-way. Flight prices from Singapore to Busan are the cheapest in September, around SGD200/one-way while prices in June are the most expensive, starting from around SGD250/one-way.

For those heading to only Jeju, there's a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Jeju and the cheapest month is July with prices starting from MYR326/one-way while prices in December can be as high as MYR800/one-way.

Verdict: If you would like to maximise your chances of experiencing spring and autumn, the steady flight rates to Korea will keep your holiday affordable.

Japan and Korea may have a reputation for being one of the most expensive travel destinations, but vacationing on a budget is certainly doable with helpful research. It’s a tight comparison and judging from the verdicts alone, Korea leads only by a slight margin with affordable seasonal rates, accommodation costs, budget shopping, and yearly flight fares on their side. However, if you’re a traveller who can’t resist the temptation of local cuisine and free sightseeing tours, Japan may be the one for you.

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• Dream Studies Abroad

Japan vs Korea for international students

Are you considering to study in Japan or Korea and want to learn more about these two countries? Here we will have a look at differences and similarities between Japan and South Korea.

Study in South Korea: Everything you need to know

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I have helped thousands of students to study abroad in Japan and Korea, and I have traveled there almost yearly since 2006. Many international students are considering both these countries, but it is hard to know which is the best choice for you if you never have been there.

In this article I will give you my take on Japan vs Korea, looking at everything from sushi to K-pop, zen gardens to neon-lit streets. Here's your ultimate guide to choosing between Japan and South Korea for your study abroad adventure.

Culture : Anime vs K-Drama

National Personality : Reserved vs Dynamic

Boys to Japan, Girls to Korea : The Study Abroad Gender Divide

Food : More Than Just Sushi and Kimchi

Climate : fours seasons of magic, or three?

Safety : don't worry about your wallet

Cost of living and accommodation : from Rice Balls to Goshiwon

Language : The Three-Headed Linguistic Dragon vs The Logical Linguistic Puzzle

What can you study in Japan and Korea?

Student visas and applications : Apply on time and have patience

Final thoughts : Nihon vs Hanguk for international students

Culture: Anime vs K-Drama

Let’s get right to the point. In my experience, the youth culture is the number one reason why many young people want to study in Japan and Korea.

Japan is the Otaku paradise! The homeland of anime and manga. Akihabara in Tokyo is your go-to for all things otaku. The fashion scene, especially in Harajuku, is like walking through a real-life anime. Japan offers everything from ancient temples and serene gardens to buzzing arcades and robot cafes. The country is a blend of history and sci-fi-like modernity.

South Korea is the birthplace of K-pop and K-dramas. Gangnam is not just a song; it's a lifestyle. The youth culture here is vibrant, with music and fashion and beauty heavily influenced by pop icons. South Korea is your playground for urban adventures – think rooftop bars, hip cafes, and shopping districts that never sleep. And if you're into hiking, the landscapes outside the cities are breathtaking.

What is your preference?

National Personality: Reserved vs Dynamic

Japanese culture is known for its politeness and a certain level of introversion. It's all about respect and harmony. Maybe that is why I like Japan so much. Japanese people are seldom loud (unless they work in the fruit section in a Supermarket…) and despite all the people in the big cities you are unlikely to get bumped around. Even in big cities like Tokyo it is surprisingly easy to find privacy and quiet places on small streets, in parks, and in private booths in restaurants.

The drawback is that Japanese people sometimes can come across as a bit stiff and almost robotic in a professional role. But once you attend an afterwork with them or give them a karaoke microphone, you'll see their fun side too.

South Koreans are generally more outgoing and dynamic. It can be easier to make them smile while in a professional role, but in Korea you must also be prepared for the odd elbow on the underground.

Korea is a more extrovert society that loves socializing – whether it's in bustling cafes, nightclubs, or karaoke bars. It's all about whether you're in the 'in-group' or chilling in the 'out-group'. If you get truly accepted by some Koreans, you get access to a big part of their social network. In-groups are your ride-or-die crew – family, close friends, your work besties. They share inside jokes, unspoken understandings, and are all about deep trust. Outside this circle? That's the out-group, where things are more formal, kind of like keeping it polite with the barista at your favourite café.

Being In-group can really boost your social life in Korea. But don’t be surprised if your Korean friend’s young cousin that you have hardly met asks to come and stay with you for a week when he goes on a holiday to your home country five years from now…

Boys to Japan, Girls to Korea: The Study Abroad Gender Divide

In my experience helping thousands of students to study in Japan and Korea, there is a big gender divide between the students going to these two countries. About 75% of the international students, I have helped to study in Japan have been guys, while about 75% of the students to Korea have been girls. Why is that?

Japan is like a magnet for anything techy, gamey, and anime. Think about it: Japan is the mecca for cutting-edge tech, home to the coolest video games, and the birthplace of anime. It's a world where samurai legends meet robot wonders, and where the car scene is more Fast & Furious than a Tokyo drift race. For the guys, it's not just about hitting the books; it's about living in a place where their favorite hobbies and interests come to life in the most epic ways. And as a bonus, introverted nerdy guys are much more accepted and popular in Japan than in most Western countries.

South Korea on the other hand is like walking into a real-life drama set, where every street corner feels like it's straight out of a music video. It's the land of trendsetting fashion and beauty, where street style is just as important as what you learn in class. The Hallyu wave isn't just about catchy tunes; it's about powerful, inspiring female icons and characters that resonate with young women today. It's more than just a study trip; it's about immersing in a culture that's shaping global female trends. And as a bonus Korean guys are not as shy as their Japanese counterparts.

Food: More Than Just Sushi and Kimchi

If you are a food lover you cannot go wrong with either of these countries. Japan and Korea has some of the best food in the world, so don’t be a coward hanging out in McDonalds, go explore the local food and you are in for a real treat!

Japanese cuisine is all about precision and perfection. From sushi to ramen to bento boxes, it's a treat for the taste buds. The food quality is really high, so you don’t have to worry about getting a bad stomach here. In fact, a cheap ramen place or Kaiten-Sushi (conveyor belt sushi) in Japan will serve better food than many high-end Japanese restaurants abroad. Even supermarkets in Japan offers great ready food. If you go there in the evening you can buy it at bargain prices for a tasty low-cost meal at home.

Japan offers a great variation of food from seafood dishes like Sashimi, Takoyaki, and Tempura to meat dishes like Yakitori, Sukiyaki, and Shabu shabu to Soba, Okonomyaki, Gyoza, Onigiri and much more. The Japanese pubs, Izakaya, offer great food at reasonable prices. Forget about ordering your own plate with a big hamburger. Here you share oichi sashimi, skewers, edamame, and many small dishes with the others in your group. Tabe-nomi-hōdai (all you can eat, all you can drink) is a very popular concept with international students in Japan.

South Korean food is a spicy, flavorful journey. From Korean BBQ (hello, unlimited side dishes) to street food markets, your taste buds will be in for a rollercoaster. And yes, Korean fried chicken is a must-try – it's literally everywhere.

Who has not heard about Kimchi-jjigae, Bibimbap, and Bulgogi? And nothing beats a Korean Barbeque on an upended barrel in a back alley in Seoul. On the side you will be served an endless amount of garlic, kimchi and other accessories and you pour it all down with Cass or Soju.

So, who is the winner? This is literally a matter of taste. If you’re into strong spices and street food then Korea is your pick. If you care for a nice presentation and love seafood Japan would be your choice. Personally, I would give a small edge to Japan for offering even more variation, but both countries are fantastic when it comes to food.

Climate: fours seasons of magic, or three?

Japan is known for its four seasons of magic – snowy winters, blooming cherry blossoms in spring, hot summers, and stunning fall foliage. However, this is a truth with modifications. On Hokkaido in the north and the mountain regions in the middle of the country with the Olympic city of Nagano you can experience snowy winters with great skiing. But in Tokyo, Kyoto and many other popular student cities in Japan there is no real winter and you are unlikely to see snow.

The spring and fall are generally considered the best time to visit Japan. With perfect temperatures resembling a Scandinavian summer. The summers in central and southern Japan get very warm, wet and humid, with temperatures that often go above 30 degrees Celsius in July and August. December to February has an average temperature of 5-10 degrees Celsius in Tokyo. For people from the north this is far from cold, but with the poor insulation of Japanese houses indoor temperatures can become uncomfortably cold this season if you don’t leave your AC on.

South Korea's climate is similar, but the winter is longer and colder with icy Siberian winds coming down from the north. So, you are actually more likely to experience four seasons in Korea than in Japan. The good news is that floor heating systems were first invented in Korea and over 90% of the houses in South Korea have Ondol – floor heating, making it more comfortable indoors during the winter months.

All in all, the weather alone should not be a deciding factor between those two countries. If you are really into winter and skiing you can choose to study in a city like Nagano or Sapporo in Japan. There are also several skiing resorts close to Seoul. If you prefer warmer weather you can look at subtropic Okinawa in Japan or Jeju in Korea, but there the study options are more limited.

Safety: don't worry about your wallet

Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. We’re talking about a place where losing your wallet is more like a surprise adventure in getting it back than a tragedy. Walking home alone at night feels as safe as a cozy Netflix binge. And compared to the US, with its action-packed crime rates, Japan is a peaceful haven.

But, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows – Japan does have its share of natural drama. Earthquakes, typhoons, and the occasional volcanic hiccup remind you that Mother Nature’s got her own plans. Yet, Japan’s readiness and tech-savvy approach to disaster management are so on point, so if you ever must experience an earthquake there is no safer place to be than in Japan.

Crime rates in Korea are slightly higher than in Japan when it comes to things like assault, drug use, theft, and traffic incidents. But the good news is that South Korea is still much safer than the US and most south European countries.

Natural disasters in Korea? They’re more about dramatic weather episodes than full-on blockbusters. Sure, you've got your monsoons and the occasional shiver from a minor earthquake but they are not as impactful as in Japan.

So, in summary both countries are very safe. If you are worried about natural disasters then Korea is your pick, but if you want the lowest possible crime rates then Japan is your choice.

Cost of living and accommodation: from Rice Balls to Goshiwon

Japan has a reputation for being pricey, but this does not match my experience. Whether you go shopping for food, clothes, or camera gear you tend to get more for your money in Japan than in Europe, especially if you consider the quality of what you get. However, in my opinion South Korea is a bit cheaper than Japan, not least when looking at public transportation which by the way is excellent in both countries, no need for a car here!

Tokyo and Seoul are some of the biggest cities in the world. This also means enormous price gaps so do your research. High end restaurants and clubs can be staggeringly pricey, but if you are street smart you can also live very cheaply.

In Korea Street food like tteokbokki will keep your stomach and wallet full. Plus, you can find some cool, budget-friendly K-fashion pieces to spice up your wardrobe. In Japan your local Ramen restaurant, fantastic vending machines, and discounted ready food in the supermarkets in the evening will keep you full on a budget.

Student housing is where it can get pricey in the big cities in Japan and Korea. You usually don’t pay more than you would in many Western countries, but the standard and the size of your room might not be what you expect. From Korean mini studios (Goshiwon) to Japanese 12 square meter apartments, these countries are the masters of compact living.

As an international student you can often book dormitory accommodation through your school. But be prepared to share a room and be ready for a lot of rules and curfews. Check out our websites YourHomeinJapan.com and YourHomeinKorea.com if you want more options and get help to book independent accommodation at favourable prices.

Language: The Three-Headed Linguistic Dragon vs The Logical Linguistic Puzzle

Let’s face it many Japanese and Korean people are not good at English, so learning the local language is the key to understanding the culture, getting local friends, finding a job, and fully enjoy life in Japan and Korea.

Embarking on the Japanese language journey is like deciding to climb Mount Fuji—exciting, intimidating, and oh-so rewarding. Japanese comes at you with not one, not two, but three alphabets: the simpler Hiragana and Katakana, and the ever-daunting Kanji (“Chinese character”). It's like playing a video game where each level ups the challenge, and Kanji is the boss fight with over 2,000 characters used in daily life. But don't let that scare you! Mastering these scripts unlocks a world where ancient poetry coexists with manga madness.

Yet, Japanese has a soft side too—its grammar is quite systematic, and there's a beautiful harmony in its sounds. Plus, there's no need to wrestle with tones like in some other Asian languages. The real kicker? The layers of politeness in Japanese speech that can make you feel like you're navigating a social labyrinth. One wrong verb form and you've accidentally insulted someone's grandmother. Oops!

Now, let's swivel over to Korean, the language that walks into the club and everyone notices. Why? Because Hangul, the Korean writing system, is a marvel of logic and design. Invented by a king who clearly had a knack for user-friendly interfaces, Hangul can be learned in a day, making you feel like a linguistic superhero. It's got a phonetic system that's as straightforward as ordering a kimchi jjigae.

But don't let Hangul's simplicity fool you. Korean grammar will have you bending and twisting like you're in a linguistic yoga class. The levels of formality in Korean also take you on a rollercoaster ride of respect and hierarchy. And let’s not forget the challenge of vocabulary, where words can change their outfits faster than K-pop stars change their hair colors. Plus, Korean has its own set of sounds that'll have your tongue doing gymnastics it never signed up for.

As we discussed above learning the language is the obvious starting point. In Japan this is usually done in private Japanese Language Schools regardless of the length of your course. In Korea you can take shorter courses at private language schools like LTL Korea and longer courses with a student visa at a Korean Language Institute (KLI) in a university like Konkuk in Seoul .

But what about other subjects? While most universities offer some courses in English, full degrees in English are often limited to a few liberal arts programs such as Global Studies, Political Science, Business, and Asian studies. However, we can also help you with some other degrees in English, for example Mechatronics and Robotics at Kyoto University of Advanced Science .

Another alternative is to go as a study abroad-student where you cherry pick classes in English that match the degree you are taking at your home university. This is usually only possible if you are enrolled and have studied at least one year towards your degree in another country. In Japan your university also needs to have an exchange agreement with the school you want to study at, but in Korea our partner Korea Exchange can help you with independent study abroad-semesters at selected universities in Seoul and Busan.

Many students are also interested in practical subjects such as Anime, Manga, Fashion, Music, Graphic Design etc in these countries. However, in Japan these subjects are usually only taught in Japanese at vocational schools, Senmon Gakko , so you need to start by learning the Japanese language in a language school.

For more details about this see our articles about studying in Japan and Korea .

Student visas and applications: Apply on time and have patience

Do I need a student visa to study in Japan or Korea? Yes, for long term courses (20+ weeks) you need a student visa. Many nationalities can visit these countries for 90 days on visa waiver for tourism, business, or short language courses. For longer courses a student visa is usually needed, but some nationalities can also apply for a Working Holiday visa that lasts for one year, which gives you the permission to work (with some limitations) and take language courses.

In Korea it is basically only the universities that can sponsor a student visa, so if you want to take a long term language course in Korea you will need to apply to a KLI at a Korean university. However, in Japan private language schools and vocational colleges can also sponsor student visas which gives you a bigger selection of schools and locations.

The good news is that once you are accepted to a school that can support a student visa application, it is usually easy to get the visa. Visa denial rates are low for students from Western countries.

The bad news is that East Asian countries love their administration and paperwork. Japan are the uncrowned kings in this department where some of the paperwork you are requested to do can be just mind boggling. This means that you must apply on time since there are a number of documents to fill out. These will then be translated by your school and processed by the immigration authorities before you get the documents you need to do the final visa application at the embassy in your home country.

To Japan I would recommend applying to long term courses no later than 5-6 months before the course starts. To Korea the process is a bit easier but I would still recommend you to apply at least 3 months before the course starts. And please note that application deadlines for undergraduate and graduate programs can be much earlier than this.

Read more about student visa to Japan and student visa to Korea .

Final thoughts: Nihon vs Hanguk for international students

I hope that this has been useful to you! If you have visited these countries, I am sure that you recognize a lot of what I have written, but I also respect that your opinion and experiences might differ from mine.

Honestly, you can't go wrong with either Japan or South Korea. Both countries offer unique experiences, rich cultures, and the chance to grow not just academically but personally. Whether you're a fan of serene temples or bustling city streets, spicy food or sushi, anime or K-dramas, your year abroad is going to be unforgettable.

We can help you to realise your dream to study abroad in Japan or Korea. Fill out an info request form and let us help you to find and apply to a suitable school.

Then all that remains is to pack your bags, learn a few phrases, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the heart of East Asia! Sayonara and Annyeong!

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Most Asian Americans View Their Ancestral Homelands Favorably, Except Chinese Americans

5. korean americans’ views of south korea and other places, table of contents.

• Most Asian adults would not move to their ancestral homelands
• Majority of Asian Americans see the U.S. as the world's leading economic power in the next decade
• Chinese Americans mostly uninterested in moving to China
• Two-thirds of Filipino adults say they would not move to the Philippines, though interest differs by nativity
• Interest in moving to India differs across time spent in the U.S.
• 4. Japanese Americans’ views of Japan and other places
• Most Korean adults say they would not move to Korea
• 6. Taiwanese Americans’ views of Taiwan and other places
• A large majority of Vietnamese Americans say they would not move to Vietnam given the chance
• Acknowledgments
• Sample design
• Data collection
• Weighting and variance estimation
• Appendix: How we defined the survey’s Taiwanese sample

A large majority (86%) of Korean adults in the U.S. have a favorable view of South Korea. They see the country most favorably of all the places asked about in our survey.

“Not long ago, I went to Korea and came back after about three and a half months. Now, Korea has developed so much that I wonder why I received (U.S.) citizenship. Still, if you want to live [comfortably] with the same amount of money, I don’t think there is anywhere comparable to the United States.”

– Immigrant man of Korean origin, age 48 (translated from Korean)

Korean men and those with a postgraduate degree stand out in their positive views. Nine-in-ten Korean adults of both groups (92%) view South Korea favorably, including 61% of men and 50% of advanced degree holders who say their opinion of South Korea is very favorable.

About three-quarters of Korean adults hold broadly positive views toward the U.S.

When asked about their views of Taiwan, Korean Americans skew positive in their opinions but are more split: They are only slightly more likely to say they have a favorable view than a neutral one (52% vs. 41%). Few Korean Americans (5%) have negative views of Taiwan.

Korean Americans are about evenly split when it comes to views of Japan. Some 36% of Korean adults have a favorable view of the country, 34% have a neutral opinion and 29% have an unfavorable view.

Korean Americans hold more neutral views of Vietnam, the Philippines and India.

About six-in-ten Korean adults say their opinions of Vietnam and the Philippines are neither favorable nor unfavorable (59% and 57% respectively). Around three-in-ten see each of these countries favorably, and around one-in-ten see each unfavorably.

While around half of Korean adults (52%) say they have a neutral opinion of India, the balance of opinion is somewhat more negative (30%) than positive (17%).

A majority of Korean adults have negative views of China. About two-thirds of Korean Americans say they have an unfavorable opinion of China.

Stronger ties to the Korean Peninsula are associated with less favorable views of Japan

Korean adults are about half as likely to hold a favorable view of Japan as other Asian adults. 10 Perhaps related to the contentious historical relationship between Korea and Japan , Korean Americans’ views of Japan vary by their connection to the Korean Peninsula.

U.S.-born Korean adults are more likely to have positive views of Japan than those born abroad (50% vs. 31%). Among Korean immigrants, those who have been in the U.S. for more than two decades are more likely than those who arrived more recently to say they have a favorable view of Japan (38% vs. 20%).

Younger Korean adults are also more likely to have a favorable view of Japan than older Korean adults: Four-in-ten Korean adults in the U.S. ages 18 to 49 say their opinion of Japan is very or somewhat favorable, compared with about a quarter of those 50 and older.

Though an overwhelming majority of Korean adults in the U.S. have a favorable view of South Korea, only about a quarter (26%) say they would ever move there. Roughly three-quarters of Korean adults (72%) say they would not move to Korea.

Views do not differ between those who are foreign born and those who were born in the U.S.

Among the one-in-four Korean adults who say they would move to Korea, about half said the main reason would be to receive better health care (24%) or to be closer to friends or family (22%).

Smaller shares of Korean adults who said they would move to South Korea said the main reason is because they feel safer there, they’re more familiar with Korean culture, or because South Korea has better support for older people (10% each).

“It has been more than a decade since I first came to the United States, and in the meantime South Korea has developed a lot. Electronic devices that used to be dominated by Japanese products have now been replaced with Korean products, making me proud to be a Korean. There are many Korean cars, and K-pop and Korean food – all have grown a lot.… Talking about Korea’s rapid growth made me feel proud as a Korean.”

– Immigrant woman of Korean origin, age 41 (translated from Korean)

• To make comparisons between Korean adults in the U.S. and the rest of the U.S. Asian population, “other Asian adults” is used in this chapter to refer to Asian adults who do not report being Korean or report being two or more Asian origins. ↩

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Japan and South Korea agree to deepen trilateral ties with U.S.

Fumio Kishida and Yoon Suk Yeol also agree to maintain close communications

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said he and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol agreed during phone talks Wednesday to further promote bilateral and trilateral cooperation together with the United States, following his recent visit to Washington.

Kishida also said he affirmed with Yoon on the close communication between the two countries, including at the leader level, in the first such call after the South Korean leader's ruling party suffered a crushing setback in a general election on April 10.

Japan and South Korea join France space force drills for first time

South korea-japan thaw could backslide if ruling party turns on yoon, mlb seoul series shows promise of u.s.-japan-south korea cooperation, latest on international relations, china's wang yi touts south pacific ties in papua new guinea visit, taiwan's lai poised to build on tsai's southeast asia outreach, g7 pledges swift aid for ukraine, seeks to calm middle east, sponsored content, about sponsored content this content was commissioned by nikkei's global business bureau..

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Japan or Korea: Which Country Is Better for Expats?

• Jenny Stokes
• 11 minute read

Table of Contents Hide

Navigating the cost of living: japan vs. korea, job opportunities and salaries for expats in japan and korea, safety and crime rates for foreigners in japan and korea, cultural adaptation: fitting in as a foreigner in japan vs. korea.

Have you ever thought about moving to East Asia but can’t decide between Japan and Korea? You’re not alone.

Both countries have much to offer expats. From fascinating cultures and mouthwatering cuisines to booming economies and job opportunities – you name it, you got it.

But which one is ultimately better for foreigners looking to relocate, Korea or Japan? That’s the million-dollar question you and many others want answered.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a detailed comparison of life for expats in Japan and Korea. We’ll break down everything from visas and living costs to work culture and social life.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, family member, or entrepreneur, this inside look at expats living in both destinations will help you determine which best suits your needs and preferences.

Read on as we explore all the ins and outs to help you decide if Japan or Korea is your ideal home away from home.

As an expat considering moving to Japan or Korea, understanding the nuances of living expenses is crucial. Remember, visiting Japan and Korea differs from living in these countries in the long term.

Let’s delve into real-life comparisons to help you decide which one suits your lifestyle and budget better.

Housing Costs

Renting an apartment in Seoul is cheaper than in Tokyo. You can get a one-bedroom place in Seoul for $500 to $1000 monthly. Tokyo is pricier, with rents ranging from $800 to $1500 for the same apartment type.

If you’re considering buying, property prices in Seoul are generally lower than in Japan’s capital. That means you can get more value for your money in Seoul compared to Tokyo.

However, finding a quality place to live can be a bit tricky in both cities, especially in popular areas. You might have more options within your budget in Seoul. But, finding something affordable and spacious in Tokyo can be more challenging.

But what if you want to live in Korea but are looking for a piece of land that is cheaper? Then Busan might be the answer.

Buying property in Busan, South Korea, is reasonable. The average cost per square meter is around $9,300, which is way cheaper than Seoul. Plus, certain neighborhoods like Haeundae-gu are a bit pricier. But, others, like Sasang-gu, are more budget-friendly.

The real estate market in Busan, South Korea, is pretty stable, with a low Fragile State Index. And get this – the economy is expected to grow by almost 10% in the next five years, which usually means higher incomes and more demand for property. So, investing in Busan now could pay off big time.

Meanwhile, if you’re considering Japan, Hokkaido’s another excellent option. But it’s a bit pricier than Busan, with average costs per square meter around $12,000.

Renting is also slightly higher than in Busan, especially in popular areas like Sapporo. But Hokkaido has perks like stunning landscapes, snowy mountains, and outdoor adventures.

So, if you’re weighing your options between Busan and Hokkaido, it comes down to what you value more. You can choose between affordability and those snowy mountain views. Let me know if you need more info!

Food Budget

Compared to Japan, eating out and grocery shopping in Korea are cheaper.

In Korea, I could grab an affordable ramen or $5 to $10 Korean food, especially when I visit Gwangjang Market, which was awesome for my budget. I remember going out with friends and enjoying a hearty Korean meal without breaking the bank.

My friends and I ate at Sandeomi Bulgogi, which was a great experience.

I ordered the Sandeomi Duruchigi for 7,000 won (about $9.3), which included a generous portion of 200 grams of bulgogi. The restaurant is located in the Hongdae/Sangsu area, close to Sangsu station.

When the dish arrived, I was pleased to see the amount of food I received for the price. The bulgogi was served sizzling hot, and the aroma was enticing. The portion size was satisfying, and the beef was tender and flavorful.

The meal was definitely worth the price, and I left feeling full and satisfied.

Besides meals, even groceries were affordable – I could get fruits and veggies for a good price, making it easier to cook at home and save money.

In Japan, I noticed that meals were a bit pricier, usually around $10 to $15. So, I had to be more careful with my expenses when buying Japanese food.

Grocery shopping at AEON Supermarket in Shinjuku and Seiyu Sangenjaya in Setagaya were a bit more expensive. This is especially true for fresh produce.

Overall, living in Korea meant I could enjoy good food without spending too much. It was great for my budget and allowed me to explore more culinary experiences without worrying too much about costs.

However, alcohol and imported goods are more expensive in Korea due to higher import taxes.

Transportation

Korea and Japan offer modern, extensive, affordable public transportation systems. You can expect to pay around $2 in Seoul and Tokyo for a single-fare ticket, making it easy to get around affordably. 

Japanese and South Korean taxis are readily available but pricier, charging approximately $10 for a 5 to 10-minute ride.

Domestic flights are an option for longer distances, often costing under $100. Alternatively, high-speed rail provides a comfortable and scenic way to travel between cities in just a few hours.

This efficient mode of transportation allows travelers to enjoy the journey while saving time and hassle.

In both Korea and Japan, healthcare is comprehensive and relatively affordable. A doctor’s visit typically costs between $30 to $50 in both countries, which is quite reasonable. 

Both nations also offer national health insurance schemes. Monthly premiums ranging from $50 to $200, depending on your income level.

Regarding prescription drugs and medical procedures, costs are generally lower in Korea and Japan than in other developed nations.

This means that accessing necessary healthcare services is more financially accessible for residents.

However, I’ve noticed some differences in the healthcare systems of Korea and Japan.

For example, Korea has a more extensive network of clinics and hospitals, especially in major cities. This results in shorter waiting times for appointments and procedures. 

On the other hand, Japan is known for its excellent patient care and advanced medical technology, making it a great place to migrate to.

Teaching English

One of the most common jobs for expats in both Japan and Korean soil is teaching English. Demand is high in both countries, where English is essential for career and economic success. Salaries average around $2,000 to $3,000 per month. 

Here are a few things to remember:

• Job Opportunities : Both Japan and South Korea have numerous opportunities for English teachers. Positions available in public schools, private language academies (known as “hagwons” in Korea and “eikaiwas” in Japan), universities, and corporate settings.
• Qualifications : Bachelor’s degree and native-level English proficiency are generally the minimum requirements. But, many employers prefer TEFL or TESOL certification when looking for candidates. Some positions may also require prior teaching experience.
• Salary and Benefits : Salaries for English teachers vary depending on different factors. It includes qualifications, experience, location, and employer. In addition to a monthly salary, many positions in both countries offer benefits. They offer housing allowances or provide accommodation, health insurance, and paid vacation. Some even offer flight reimbursement.
• Work Environment : Teaching English in Japan and South Korea can offer a rewarding cultural experience. Class sizes are typically smaller in Japan, focusing on building solid relationships with students. In South Korea, English teachers often work in after-school programs or academies. I this setting, classes may be larger and more structured.
• Cultural Experience : Both countries offer unique cultural experiences for expatriates. Japan is known for its rich history, traditional arts, and modern technology. Meanwhile, South Korea provides a dynamic blend of conventional culture and K-pop entertainment.

International Companies 

Major international tech, finance, and engineering companies often hire expats for management, engineering, and product development jobs.

These roles typically pay much higher than teaching, in the $5,000 to $10,000 monthly range. 

However, they usually require several years of experience and relevant degrees. Seoul and Tokyo both have a strong presence of multinational companies.

Japan and Korea both have thriving startup scenes hungry for foreign talent. Expats with web development, marketing, and UX design skills are in high demand.

Salaries at startups vary but often include options or profit-sharing that could become quite valuable.

While risky, joining an exciting young startup could be very rewarding. Seoul is currently a hot startup hub, though Tokyo also has opportunities.

Japan and South Korea share some similarities in opportunities and salaries for expats. However, there are also key differences in their economies and cultures.

Japan and South Korea stand out as safe destinations for expatriates and visitors. Both boast lower crime rates, particularly concerning violent offenses, than many Western countries. 

However, despite their safety, foreigners must be mindful of specific considerations while residing or traveling in these nations.

• Safety Standards : Japan is renowned globally for its low crime rates and robust public safety measures. The country’s efficient law enforcement system contributes significantly to maintaining a secure environment. In 2020, Japan had very few murders, with only 0.2 for every 100,000 people. This is much lower than the United States, which had 5.3. Robberies in Japan were also very rare, with only 1.2 per 100,000 people. This is much smaller than France, Germany, and the United States, where robbery rates are much higher.
• Emergency Services : Japan provides reliable emergency services. This includes prompt police, medical, and fire response teams. The emergency hotline numbers are 110 for police assistance. You can dial 119 for medical and fire emergencies, ensuring swift assistance in times of need.
• Okinawa : Okinawa Prefecture, known for its serene landscapes and unique culture, maintains a reputation for safety in line with Japan’s standards. While specific crime data may vary, Okinawa generally experiences lower crime rates compared to urban areas.
• Osaka : As one of Japan’s major metropolitan areas, Osaka enjoys a relatively safe environment. Crime rates are comparable to other major cities worldwide. The city’s efficient public transportation and vigilant law enforcement contribute to its safety.
• Kyushu : The island of Kyushu, located in southwestern Japan, offers a tranquil setting coupled with low crime rates. Cities like Fukuoka and Kumamoto boast modern amenities and cultural attractions. But at the same time, it maintains a safe and secure environment for residents and visitors.

South Korea (included under “Overall” but not under “Japan”):

• Safety Profile : South Korea shares Japan’s commitment to public safety. In general, it has low crime rates and efficient law enforcement mechanisms. Violent crimes are relatively rare, fostering a sense of security among residents and travelers alike.
• Emergency Services : South Korea’s emergency services, accessible via the unified hotline number 112, provide swift emergency assistance. This streamlined system ensures prompt response times for police, medical, and fire-related incidents.

Japan 

Japan has an extremely low crime rate. Violent crimes, like murder, are rare. Petty crimes occur, especially in crowded cities like Tokyo, so exercise caution with your belongings.

Discrimination against foreigners can occasionally happen. Some bars or restaurants may deny you entry, and landlords may refuse to rent to non-Japanese tenants. 

Racially motivated harassment is also uncommon but underreported. The good news is that the Japanese government has tried to curb discrimination and make the country more foreign-friendly.

Japan is also very safe for women traveling alone. Sexual harassment and assault are rare, though groping on crowded trains can happen.

South Korea

South Korea, although a bustling metropolis, is also very safe. Violent crime is rare, and crimes against foreigners are infrequent. However, discrimination and racism do exist in Korea.

Some clubs and bars refuse entry to non-Koreans, and housing discrimination can be an issue. 

Racially charged harassment and hate crimes, while still uncommon, seem to be on the rise, especially against Southeast Asians.

Women should exercise caution, especially at night or when alone. While rare, sexual harassment and assault do occur. It is best to avoid sparsely populated areas and be vigilant of your surroundings.

That said, many foreigners travel and live in Korea safely and happily. As in Japan, the government recognizes issues around discrimination and is working to address them.

If you exercise standard travel safety precautions, both countries are safe for expats and travelers.

Do research on local scams or crimes foreigners may face. 

Learn some basic phrases in the local language, respect cultural differences, and feel secure during your stay in Japan or South Korea.

Making Local Friends and Dating as a Foreigner in Japan and Korea

Adapting to the local culture can be challenging when moving to a new country.

Both Japan and Korea have distinct cultures that take time to adjust to. As an expat, you’ll need to learn the cultural norms and etiquette to fit in.

Social Hierarchy and Harmony

Japan places a strong emphasis on social hierarchy and group harmony. You’ll need to be very polite, especially when interacting with someone of higher status.

Korea also values hierarchy and harmony but tends to be more egalitarian. In both countries, avoiding confrontation and open disagreement is essential, which can disrupt group harmony.

Communication Style  

Communication styles differ between the two countries. The Japanese tend to be more indirect and implicit in their communication. You’ll need to read between the lines and interpret subtle cues well.

Koreans are typically more direct and expressive. However, public displays of emotion are frowned upon in both cultures. It’s best to remain composed and avoid overly blunt or dramatic communication.

Here are some examples where you can see the difference in their communication style:

• In Japan: If your Japanese colleague disagrees with you in a meeting, they might express it indirectly by saying, “That’s an interesting idea, but have we considered…?”
• In Korea: On the other hand, your Korean coworker might directly state, “I don’t agree with that approach. Here’s what I think we should do instead.”
• In Japan: When receiving praise for a job well done, a Japanese colleague might respond modestly with a simple “Thank you” while downplaying their achievements.
• In Korea: Korean people might express appreciation more emphatically, saying, “I really appreciate your hard work. You did a fantastic job!”
• In Japan: If you need assistance from a Japanese colleague, they might not explicitly say, “Can you help me?” Instead, they might drop hints or use indirect language to convey their request.
• In Korea: Conversely, a Korean coworker might directly ask, “Could you help me with this task, please?”
• In Japan: During a disagreement or conflict, a Japanese individual might avoid confrontational language and try to find a compromise or solution without causing tension.
• In Korea: In contrast, a Korean counterpart might be more upfront about their concerns and express them directly to address the issue head-on.
• In Japan: When receiving criticism, a Japanese person might listen attentively and reflect on the feedback, even if it’s not explicitly stated. They might read between the lines to understand the underlying message.
• In Korea: A Korean individual might be more candid in their feedback, providing direct criticism and constructive suggestions for improvement.

Dining Etiquette

Dining etiquette is an important part of cultural adaptation. In Japanese culture, you’ll need to master chopstick use when eating Japanese cuisine, slurping noodles politely, and not sticking chopsticks upright in rice. 

Meanwhile, Korean culture instructs you to avoid blowing your nose at the table and know how to accept drinks and food from elders properly.  In both countries, never overindulge or get drunk on social occasions.

Koreans also wait for toast, and the eldest or most senior person at the table starts eating before the younger ones dig in.

Adapting to a new culture takes time and conscious effort. Research cultural etiquette in Japan and Korea, respect social hierarchies, communicate thoughtfully, and mind your manners, especially around food and drink.

While the cultures differ in many ways, Japanese people and Koreans, be they from south or north Korea, politeness, restraint, and harmony are valued highly.

Meanwhile, if you feel Japan and Korea are not for you, you might consider checking out Thailand. It is a noteworthy Southeast Asian country known for its urban vistas, deep connections with nature, and top-tier beach experiences.

Post written by: Jenny Stokes

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The 20 Best Airports in the World (2024)

N ot all airports are created equal. Some are soulless, clinical spaces with little more than bright blueish lighting and endless corridors. They are nothing but a functional building from which to launch your next adventure, be it a weekend away with friends or a big solo trip in a new, far-flung destination.

Others, however, can make your vacation experience special from the outset. The good airports are the ones we look forward to, despite all the lines and bureaucracy. They're the ones with appealing food and drink-a champagne bar, perhaps, or a micro-brewery with a taproom-and unique spaces that offer more than simply a place to sit and charge your devices. Perhaps they have indoor gardens, rooftop terraces with runway views, or even entire adventure playgrounds to keep the kids happy while you're waiting for your flight to be called.

These kinds of added luxuries have put 20 airports on the Skytrax World's Best Airports list this year, with Singapore Changi Airport stealing the show for the 12th time since 1999, when Skytrax launched its first airport customer satisfaction survey. Voted by travelers in a global customer satisfaction survey, which takes into account everything from public transport options and line waiting times to cleanliness, choice of food and shops, and accessibility adjustments, the Asian hub took its title back from Doha's Hamad International Airport, which was the 2021 and 2022 Airport of the Year.

Japan's aviation hubs performed well this year, with 4 of the country's main airports in the top 20, while Paris, Istanbul, and Madrid garnered spots in the top 10. Here's the full ranking from Skytrax.

1. Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore is famous for its vast and varied food scene, and this even extends into its airport. In addition to taking the top spot overall, Changi International (pictured above) won the Skytrax world's best airport dining award and best airport leisure amenities awards in 2023. When you find yourself in Singapore's gargantuan terminals, don't miss spicy Indian cuisine from Bikanervala, comfort food at Burger & Lobster (a London favorite), or traditional Singaporean flavors at Kopitiam. As for those amenities, the Jewel Changi complex is home to a glass-floored canopy bridge, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, as well as giant trampolines and slides.

If you have an overnight layover, check into the Crowne Plaza Changi Airport -it was voted the world's best airport hotel for the eighth time in 2023. Those with long layovers that aren't overnight can pay for a day pass to the outdoor pool at the Aerotel Airport Transit Hotel -it's located inside Terminal 1 so you don't have to go through customs to use it.

2. Hamad International Airport, Qatar

In 2022, Hamad International saw nearly 36 million passengers pass through its terminals in Doha. To accommodate the surge of people who traveled to Doha for the FIFA World Cup in November and December 2022, the Middle Eastern transport hub expanded to increase its capacity to over 58 million passengers per year, while also adding a second airport hotel and an indoor tropical garden called the Orchard.

If you're traveling through Hamad-which connects Washington, D.C., New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Houston with South Africa, Tanzania, and India-expect to see high-end designer stores like Burberry, Gucci, and Jimmy Choo with duty-free price tags within its terminal. (It's no surprise it won first place for world's best airport shopping.) The varied dining options include divine cakes from L'eto Caffe on Concourse C and sandwiches in Harrods Tea Room in the south duty-free zone. Best of all, the airport even has a pay-to-use fitness center and spa, as well as pay-by-the-hour sleep pods for long layovers.

3. Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), Japan

The main entry point into Japan's capital is a favorite among passengers for many reasons. This year in the Skytrax awards, Haneda's Tokyo International Airport won cleanest airport, best domestic airport, and the award for best accessibility for reduced mobility passengers. We love it for its "calm down, cool down" secluded seating areas for anxious or stressed passengers who are sensitive to light, sound, or crowds and for the numerous spas and massage chairs available throughout its three terminals.

4. Incheon International Airport, South Korea

With a spa, myriad gardens for relaxation, a movie theater, and an ice skating rink, Incheon International has been designated the fourth best airport in the world with the best airport staff overall. This vast airport is the main aviation gateway for Seoul, South Korea's sprawling modern capital, and it served over 17.8 million passengers in 2022.

5. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, France

Even if you're only transiting through the French capital's main airport, you can still soak up a bit of that Parisian culture and world-class art. In both terminals 1 and 2, you'll find rotating exhibitions by top museums, including the Louvre and Palace of Versailles. Relax in the chic Instant Paris lounge for free, or head to the spa for a massage or beauty treatment in Terminal 2E.

6. Istanbul Airport, Tükiye

In addition to being named the sixth best airport in the world, Istanbul airport also earned the accolade of the most family-friendly airport in 2023. There's a brilliant soft play area for kids, which has a pretend airplane to climb in and out of. The airport provides family-focused shuttles for getting around easily.

7. Munich Airport, Germany

In 2023, Munich Airport held on to its place as seventh best in the world. We love the free relaxation lounges where you can recline on beds surrounded by plants, and the VIP Wing lounge (starting at €382), which offers a private shuttle to your flight, high-end dining, and a biergarten serving traditional Bavarian food, such as weisswurst and dumplings.

After a two-year pandemic break, Munich Airport also brought back its Christmas market in 2022 complete with a forest of decorated firs, live music, and an ice skating rink.

8. Zurich Airport, Switzerland

Efficiency was what impressed travelers passing through Zurich Airport, which won best security processing as well as eighth best airport in the world. Considering Zurich saw more than 22.6 million passengers pass through its terminals in 2022, that's quite a feat. Facilities here are pretty good, too, with beauty salons, a hairdresser, a dental center, and a gym.

9. Narita International Airport, Japan

The largest airport in Japan, Narita is now the world's ninth best aviation hub according to passengers. It's little wonder this airport impresses, as Narita has all manner of unusual features. Terminal 2 has its own Japanese art gallery, and there's an exhibit on traditional Kabuki theater in Terminal 1. At the Nine Hours capsule hotel in Terminal 2, ideal for layovers or early morning flights, you can nap for under $12 per hour.

10. Madrid-Barajas Airport, Spain

Madrid Barajas Airport is located northeast of the Spanish capital, and from there it's a cheap train ride to anywhere in the city. But you'll want to linger in this airport that over 50 million travelers passed through in 2022. Head over to Terminal 4-with its iconic curved bamboo roof-to the two macrobiotic mini-spas from SHA Wellness Clinic. Called Esenza by SHA , each one offers therapeutic treatments as well as organic foods and juices.

And the rest of the top 20 airports . . .

11. Vienna International Airport

12. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

13. Rome Fiumicino Airport

14. Copenhagen Airport

15. Kansai International Airport

16. Chubu Centrair International Airport

17. Dubai International Airport

18. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

19. Melbourne Airport

20. Vancouver International Airport

Additional reporting by Lyndsey Matthews. This article was originally published in 2022; it was updated on March 15, 2023, with new information.

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