Northeast Asia travel guide & travel tips

The northeastern region of Asia contains most of the power, population and pollution in this part of the world. Look at any map and it would appear that China completely dominates the scene. With the biggest population on earth, and one of humanity’s oldest and greatest civilizations, China certainly deserves its place in the annals of history.

Introduction

Orientation

Where to Go

What is it?: Northeast Asia is a dynamic region known for its blend of modern cities, rich cultural traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea offer vibrant urban life, ancient traditions, and natural beauty, while Mongolia and North Korea provide unique cultural and historical experiences.

Affordability: Varies - Countries like China and Taiwan offer affordable travel options, especially in smaller cities and rural areas. Japan and South Korea can be more expensive, particularly in major cities like Tokyo and Seoul, but budget options are available, especially for food and transportation.

Safety: Generally safe - Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are considered among the safest countries for tourists. China is also relatively safe, though some areas may experience petty crime. Mongolia is generally safe, while North Korea presents safety concerns due to its restrictive and controlled environment.

Popularity: Extremely popular - Northeast Asia is a major travel destination for its iconic landmarks, modern cities, and rich cultural heritage. Countries like China and Japan attract millions of visitors each year, with tourists flocking to Beijing, Kyoto, and Great Wall of China.

Tourist Infrastructure: Well-developed - Major cities in China, Japan, and South Korea offer world-class transportation, accommodations, and services. Rural areas, particularly in Mongolia, may have more basic infrastructure, but tourism is growing in remote destinations.

Weather: Diverse - The region experiences varied climates, with cold winters and hot, humid summers in countries like South Korea and China, while Japan has a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Taiwan has a tropical climate, and Mongolia experiences extreme cold winters and hot summers.

Best Time to Go: April to October - Spring and fall are ideal for visiting, offering mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer is great for beach destinations in Taiwan, while winter is perfect for skiing in Japan.

Known For: Ancient temples, modern cities, technology, Great Wall of China, cherry blossoms, hot springs, unique culture, historic sites, and traditional arts.

Top Destinations: Tokyo • Beijing • Kyoto • Seoul • Taipei • Mongolia’s Gobi Desert • Shanghai • Busan • Nanjing • Kyushu • Xian • North Korean landmarks • Tamsui

China: A vast country offering ancient wonders like the Great Wall and Terracotta Army, booming megacities, and diverse natural landscapes, though censorship and travel restrictions can affect experiences.
Japan: A top destination combining ancient traditions, high-tech cities, scenic countryside, and impeccable public transport, though costs can add up quickly.
Mongolia: A land of vast steppe, nomadic culture, and the Gobi Desert, ideal for adventurous travelers seeking remote landscapes and traditional life.
North Korea: An isolated country offering tightly controlled tours focused on monuments and propaganda, with strict rules for visitors and no independent travel allowed.
South Korea: A dynamic mix of high-tech cities, vibrant pop culture, mountain hiking, and traditional palaces, with excellent infrastructure for tourists.
Taiwan: A friendly and accessible island with lively night markets, dramatic mountains, and a unique blend of Chinese and indigenous cultures.

Introduction

Northeast Asia is a region of powerful economies, deep traditions, and striking contrasts. China blends imperial history with rapid urban growth, from the Great Wall to Shanghai’s skyscrapers. Japan mixes ancient temples, samurai culture, and futuristic cities like Tokyo. South Korea pulses with technology, pop culture, and rich heritage seen in palaces and mountain trails. Taiwan offers a dynamic blend of night markets, tea plantations, and vibrant democracy. Mongolia stretches out with endless steppes and a strong nomadic spirit. Across Northeast Asia, old traditions meet new ideas, creating a region that is fast-moving, deeply rooted, and endlessly fascinating.

Northeast Asia includes giants like China, Japan, and South Korea, as well as less-visited places like Taiwan and Mongolia. Travelers come to hike mountain trails in South Korea, wander bamboo forests in Japan, ride trains across China’s endless countryside, or explore the open steppes of Mongolia. This part of Asia mixes the ultramodern, bullet trains, neon skylines, cutting-edge tech, with pockets of rural life that haven’t changed much in centuries.

Japan, Taiwan and South Korea have booming economies and modern cities filled with trendy people that are only just now being challenged by China. Although each country seems to slightly resemble the other they are all very different, and provide a completely different travel experience.

It’s hard to ignore China. This cradle of Asian civilization boasts some real treasures such as the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors of Xian, and Beijing’s magical Forbidden Palace. Though the Chinese are arguably the rudest people you’ll find in Northeast Asia, they number more than a billion and are hard to avoid.

Any visitor to China will be awed by the crush of people, its filthy public toilets and the glittering prosperity of Shanghai. Contrast this with the sublime order of Japan, and you’ll wonder where things went wrong. The idyllic temple-laden streets of Kyoto make it one of the world’s greatest destinations, while the giddy sleeplessness of Tokyo can humble even a New Yorker. Mt Fuji’s perfect form seems to sum it all up.

But don’t discount the smaller countries of Northeast Asia as potential travel destinations. South Korea is an ancient culture with amazing food, mountain-clad landscapes and some of the hippest Asians around. Seoul is overflowing with them, but head into the countryside and you’ll find beautiful temples and quiet rural towns.

Taiwan is equally endowed with sublime nature, a hip culture and a unique edge to its Chinese population. This surprisingly beautiful island has unbeatable cuisine and a tidy capital in Taipei. Hong Kong is always a favorite for its exciting pace and incredible setting, and Macau seems set to win the gamblers’ hearts.

At the edge of the travel scene lies the locked-down dictatorship of North Korea, the empty expanses of Mongolia and the exotic but repressed nation-in-exile of Tibet.

Traveling in Northeast Asia is mid-range to affordable, depending on the country. Mongolia and China can be very budget-friendly, while Japan and South Korea are pricier but manageable with planning. Accommodation runs from budget hostels and business hotels to luxury ryokans and modern skyscraper hotels. Food is a highlight everywhere: noodles, dumplings, grilled meats, sushi, hot pots, and street snacks dominate. Western food is widely available, especially in major cities.

Getting around is easy and efficient. High-speed trains, subways, buses, and domestic flights make moving between cities and rural areas straightforward. English is spoken at a basic level in most major cities, but knowing a few words of Mandarin, Japanese, or Korean will make a big difference. Northeast Asia is very safe, with excellent public services and some of the lowest crime rates in the world.

Families: Northeast Asia is very family-friendly , safe cities, efficient transport, and lots of attractions. Tokyo Disneyland, Hong Kong’s Ocean Park, Taipei’s night markets, and historical sites in Beijing and Seoul offer family-friendly experiences. Infrastructure is excellent across the region.

Couples: Romantic getaways are plentiful , cherry blossom strolls in Kyoto, hot spring resorts in Taiwan, beach escapes in Jeju Island, and luxury stays in Macau. Couples will find a mix of cultural charm, luxury, and stunning scenery across the region.

Backpackers: While more expensive than Southeast Asia, backpacking Northeast Asia is very doable with budget hostels, affordable food, and strong rail and bus networks. South Korea and Taiwan are especially easy for budget travelers, while Japan and China require smart planning to keep costs low.

Digital Nomads: Northeast Asia offers great potential for digital nomads. Taipei and Seoul have vibrant coworking scenes and fast internet, and parts of Japan are catching up. Hong Kong is excellent short-term but costly. Visas and long-term stays can be tricky outside of Taiwan.

Luxury Travelers: Northeast Asia excels at discreet, service-focused luxury , high-end hotels in Tokyo, sky lounges in Hong Kong, island resorts in Okinawa, and designer shopping in Seoul. Culinary luxury, private tours, and elite service are world-class.

Foodies: Culinary experiences are a major highlight , sushi in Tokyo, dumplings in Taipei, BBQ in Seoul, dim sum in Hong Kong, and regional specialties across China. Night markets, izakayas, teahouses, and fine dining options are everywhere.

Beach Bunnies: Northeast Asia has some beaches, but they aren’t the main draw. Okinawa in Japan, Jeju Island in Korea, and parts of southern Taiwan offer warm-weather beaches, though cooler seasons and rocky coastlines limit beach travel compared to tropical regions.

Nature Buffs: Northeast Asia has stunning natural areas , from Hokkaido’s national parks and Taiwan‘s Taroko Gorge to hiking trails in Seoraksan National Park in Korea. China’s landscapes, like Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou, are dramatic but can be tourist-heavy.

History Buffs: Northeast Asia is rich with historical depth , ancient temples, palaces, old towns, and World War sites abound. Explore the Forbidden City in Beijing, Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, or temples in Kyoto and Nara. The region blends ancient and modern history impressively.

Culture Vultures: Traditional and modern culture thrive side-by-side. Tea ceremonies in Japan, Confucian rituals in Korea, indigenous heritage in Taiwan, and opera performances in China show deep cultural roots. Pop culture scenes, especially in Seoul and Tokyo, add a modern twist.

Adventure Seekers: Adventure activities exist but are often more contained , skiing in Hokkaido, hiking in Taiwan’s mountains, surfing in Jeju Island, and trekking scenic areas like Yellow Mountain. Regulations and safety standards are typically high, making adventures well-organized.

Solo Travelers: Northeast Asia is one of the safest and easiest regions for solo travelers. Well-organized cities, helpful locals, efficient transport, and an openness to solo dining and solo experiences make Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea excellent for lone explorers.

Party Animals: Nightlife is lively in Seoul, Tokyo, Taipei, and Hong Kong , karaoke, nightclubs, izakayas, and late-night street food scenes keep the energy going. Macau offers gambling and late-night entertainment, though smaller cities can be quieter.

Wildlife Watchers: Wildlife watching is not a major regional highlight, though there are macaques in Japan, rare birds in Taiwan, and panda reserves in China. Most encounters are in zoos or sanctuaries rather than wild settings.

LGBTQ+: The region is mixed for LGBTQ+ travelers. Taiwan is very progressive, Japan and South Korea are socially tolerant though still conservative legally, and Hong Kong is increasingly open. China is less progressive, and discretion is often needed outside major cities.

Why Go to Northeast Asia?

Historic Cities and Ancient Sites: Walk through the Forbidden City in Beijing, explore old temples in Kyoto, or wander fortress walls in Suwon.
Spectacular Nature and Hiking: Climb the peaks of Seoraksan in Korea, trek across the Mongolian steppe, or stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Japan.
Modern City Life: Experience the futuristic energy of Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul, and Taipei, where tradition meets technology.
Food Adventures: Feast on ramen, bibimbap, dim sum, and hot pot, or dive into night markets buzzing with life and local flavor.
Cultural Traditions: Witness a sumo match in Japan, tea ceremonies in China, masked dance dramas in Korea, or Naadam Festival sports in Mongolia.
Seasonal Beauty: See cherry blossoms in spring, fiery autumn leaves, snowy mountain temples in winter, or lush green rice fields in summer.
Efficient Travel and Comfort: Ride bullet trains, enjoy clean cities, and experience some of the world’s best public transport systems.

Who Might Not Enjoy Northeast Asia?

Northeast Asia, including countries like China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Mongolia, offers an incredible blend of history, modern cities, and natural beauty. However, it may not suit every type of traveler. Here’s who might find it challenging:

Travelers Seeking Laid-Back, Spontaneous Travel: Cities like Tokyo, Seoul, and Beijing are fast-paced and structured. Public spaces are busy, schedules are rigid, and “go-with-the-flow” attitudes can feel out of sync with local expectations.
Visitors Sensitive to Language Barriers: English is widely taught but not always confidently spoken, especially outside major tourist hubs. Travelers without basic Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Mongolian phrases may struggle in rural areas.
Budget Travelers in Japan and South Korea: While affordable options exist, Japan and South Korea can be expensive, especially for accommodation, transport, and dining in major cities. Travelers expecting Southeast Asia-level costs may be surprised.
Luxury Travelers in Remote Areas: While luxury is abundant in big cities, once outside urban centers (especially in Mongolia or rural China), accommodation and services can be basic and rustic.
Strict Vegetarians or Vegans: Traditional diets heavily feature meat, seafood, and broth-based dishes. Plant-based options are expanding in cities, but in rural areas, finding purely vegetarian or vegan meals can be difficult.
Tourists Who Want Uncrowded Famous Sites: Top destinations like the Great Wall of China, Kyoto’s temples, or Seoul’s palaces can be packed with domestic and international tourists, especially during holidays and weekends.
Travelers Sensitive to Air Quality: Air pollution can be a major issue, particularly in northern China and parts of Mongolia. Sensitive travelers may find poor air quality impacts their comfort and health.
Those Wanting Vibrant Nightlife in Every City: While Seoul, Tokyo, and Taipei have outstanding nightlife scenes, rural areas and smaller cities tend to be very quiet after dark.
Visitors Needing Open Internet Access: In China, many major Western websites and apps (like Google, Facebook, and Instagram) are blocked without a VPN. Travelers relying on unrestricted internet should prepare accordingly.

What’s Cool

Fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern technology, iconic cities like Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, and Taipei, world-class food scenes from ramen and barbecue to dumplings and street snacks, stunning temples, shrines, and palaces, breathtaking landscapes like Mount Fuji, the Great Wall, and Taroko Gorge, super-efficient public transport systems, rich pop culture exports like K-pop, anime, and video games, vibrant night markets and shopping streets, beautiful cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, deep historical roots and cultural pride, welcoming and polite locals, amazing hiking and nature access near cities, strong tea cultures, safe and clean environments.

What’s Not

Language barriers outside tourist zones, crowded cities and tourist attractions, very expensive hotels and dining in places like Tokyo and Seoul, extreme summer humidity and cold winters, internet censorship and restrictions in mainland China, complicated transit systems for first-time visitors, high travel costs compared to Southeast Asia, rigid social expectations and etiquette rules, limited nightlife outside major hubs, cultural misunderstandings if not familiar with local customs, visa hurdles for some countries, air pollution issues in parts of China and South Korea.

Orientation

Northeast Asia stretches from the sprawling cities of China to the isolated mountains of North Korea and the island cultures of Japan and Taiwan. It’s a region of stark contrasts: ancient traditions meet hyper-modern urban centers, wide open steppes give way to neon skylines, and political divisions shape daily life. Each country offers something distinct, from world-famous cuisine and technological innovation to remote wilderness and layered histories.

The geography is just as varied: mountains, plains, deserts, coastlines, and islands define the region. The climate ranges from subarctic in Mongolia to humid subtropical in much of Japan and South Korea, with sharp seasonal shifts. Winters are cold and dry in the north, while summers are hot and often wet.

Travel infrastructure is generally excellent across most of Northeast Asia, particularly in China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, where fast trains, flights, and buses make travel easy. Mongolia offers rugged overland journeys, while North Korea remains highly restricted and tightly controlled.

China

China is massive, diverse, and complex. From the imperial wonders of Beijing, the ancient Terracotta Army in Xi’an, the dramatic karst landscapes of Guilin, to the modern megacities like Shanghai, travelers find history, culture, and scenery in endless supply. Rural areas like Yunnan and Tibet offer more remote experiences. Tourist infrastructure is excellent in major cities, though English is less common outside urban centers. Visas are required for most nationalities.

Beijing: The capital, home to the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Tiananmen Square.
Shanghai: A futuristic cityscape combined with colonial heritage and great shopping.
Xi’an: The gateway to the Terracotta Army and historic Silk Road sites.
Guilin: Famous for its limestone karst landscapes and river cruises.
Chengdu: The heart of Sichuan province, known for pandas and spicy food.

Japan

Japan offers a fascinating mix of cutting-edge modernity and deep-rooted traditions. Visitors come for neon-lit cities like Tokyo, ancient temples in Kyoto, cherry blossoms, samurai castles, and mountain hiking. High-speed trains make getting around efficient, and public etiquette is strong. Each season offers something unique, from spring festivals to snowy winters in the north.

Tokyo: A sprawling, buzzing metropolis with a little bit of everything.
Kyoto: Japan’s cultural heart, filled with temples, gardens, and traditional tea houses.
Osaka: Famous for its food, nightlife, and outgoing spirit.
Hokkaido: Japan’s northern island, great for skiing and summer hiking.
Hiroshima: A city with a somber history and a message of peace.

Mongolia

Mongolia is one of the last true frontiers for travelers, offering vast steppes, deserts, and high mountains. It’s a place for outdoor adventure: horseback riding across the plains, staying in traditional gers, and exploring the Gobi Desert. Infrastructure is rough outside Ulaanbaatar, but that’s part of the appeal. Summer is the best time to visit, especially during the colorful Naadam Festival.

Ulaanbaatar: Mongolia’s capital, where nomadic culture meets Soviet history.
Gobi Desert: A huge desert region with dunes, cliffs, and dinosaur fossil sites.
Khövsgöl Lake: A pristine alpine lake often called Mongolia’s “Blue Pearl.”
Orkhon Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage landscape tied to early nomadic empires.
Altai Mountains: Remote peaks in the far west, perfect for trekking and eagle festivals.

North Korea

Travel to North Korea is possible only on organized tours, and movement is strictly controlled. Visitors see a carefully curated image of the country: grand monuments in Pyongyang, historical sites like Kaesong, and natural attractions like Mount Kumgang. Interaction with locals is minimal, and travelers must obey all rules and restrictions closely.

Pyongyang: The capital, full of monumental architecture and propaganda sites.
Kaesong: A historic city near the DMZ with ancient Confucian sites.
Mount Kumgang: A scenic mountain region previously open to limited tourism.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone): The tense border between North and South Korea.
Nampo: An industrial port city often included on guided tours.

South Korea

South Korea blends ancient palaces with cutting-edge cities, Buddhist temples with K-pop concerts. Visitors enjoy dynamic cities like Seoul, historic sites in Gyeongju, hiking in Seoraksan National Park, and beach life in Busan. Transport is modern and efficient, and Wi-Fi is everywhere. South Korea is also known for its incredible food scene and warm hospitality.

Seoul: A fast-paced capital with palaces, markets, and nightlife.
Busan: A coastal city famous for beaches, seafood, and laid-back vibes.
Gyeongju: A historic city full of tombs, temples, and ancient sites.
Jeju Island: A volcanic island popular for honeymooners and hikers.
Seoraksan National Park: A top destination for hiking among dramatic peaks.

Taiwan

Taiwan is a compact island full of contrasts: modern cities, lush mountains, traditional temples, and stunning coastline. Taipei dazzles with night markets and skyscrapers, while the central highlands offer some of East Asia’s best hiking. The country is extremely traveler-friendly, with great public transport and delicious street food. Politically, Taiwan is self-governing but claimed by China, a sensitive issue to be aware of when visiting.

Taipei: The lively capital known for Taipei 101, night markets, and cultural sites.
Taroko Gorge: A dramatic marble canyon perfect for hiking and scenic drives.
Sun Moon Lake: Taiwan’s largest lake surrounded by trails and temples.
Kaohsiung: A southern port city with arts districts and seaside parks.
Tainan: The oldest city in Taiwan, famous for temples and traditional cuisine.

Where to Go

Highlights

Great Wall of China: (China) An ancient fortification stretching over 13,000 miles, offering stunning views and historical significance.
Mount Fuji: (Japan) Japan’s iconic, snow-capped volcano and a popular site for climbing and photography.
Gyeongbokgung Palace: (South Korea) A grand palace in Seoul, rich in history and traditional Korean architecture.
Forbidden City: (China) A vast imperial palace complex in Beijing, housing numerous artifacts and architectural marvels.
Tokyo Tower: (Japan) A prominent landmark in Tokyo, providing panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
N Seoul Tower: (South Korea) An iconic tower offering expansive views of Seoul and popular for its “Locks of Love” attraction.
Himeji Castle: (Japan) A beautifully preserved samurai castle known as the “White Heron Castle” for its elegant appearance.
Terracotta Army: (China) Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China’s first emperor in Xi’an, showcasing ancient artistry.
Jeju Island: (South Korea) A volcanic island renowned for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, beaches, and hiking trails.
Kyoto’s Temples: (Japan) A city famous for its classical Buddhist temples, stunning gardens, and traditional wooden houses.
The Bund: (China) A historic waterfront area in Shanghai, known for its colonial architecture and stunning skyline views.
Osaka Castle: (Japan) A historic castle in Osaka with beautiful grounds and a museum detailing its rich history.
Changdeokgung Palace: (South Korea) A UNESCO World Heritage site in Seoul, known for its beautiful gardens.
Huangshan (Yellow Mountains): (China) A mountain range famous for its scenic beauty, unique granite peaks, and hot springs.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: (Japan) A poignant site commemorating the victims of the atomic bomb and promoting peace.

Destinations

China: China, the world’s most populous country, offers a vast array of experiences from its sprawling cities to its ancient cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the iconic Great Wall, the historic Forbidden City in Beijing, and the Terracotta Army in Xi’an. Shanghai dazzles with its modern skyline and The Bund, while scenic wonders like the Yellow Mountains and the karst landscapes of Guilin captivate nature lovers. The country also boasts diverse culinary traditions and vibrant cultural festivals.

East China • Great Wall of China • Hong Kong • Macau • North China • Northeast China • Northwest China • South Central China • Southwest China
Japan: Japan, an archipelago in East Asia, is renowned for its blend of traditional and modern attractions. Tokyo, the bustling capital, features landmarks like Tokyo Tower and the historic Senso-ji Temple. Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan’s past with its classical temples and beautiful gardens, while Osaka is known for its lively food scene and the impressive Osaka Castle. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Fuji, the tranquil hot springs of Hakone, and the unique island culture of Okinawa.

Fukuoka • Hiroshima • Kyoto • Nagasaki • Nagoya • Osaka • Sapporo • Tokyo • Yokohama
Mongolia: Mongolia, a landlocked country known for its vast steppes and nomadic culture, offers a unique travel experience. The capital, Ulaanbaatar, features the Gandantegchinlen Monastery and the National Museum of Mongolia. Travelers can explore the Gobi Desert’s dramatic landscapes, visit the ancient capital of Karakorum, and experience the traditional Naadam Festival. Mongolia’s pristine wilderness, including Lake Khövsgöl and the Altai Mountains, provides opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.
North Korea: North Korea, a secretive and isolated country, offers a glimpse into a unique and controlled society. The capital, Pyongyang, is known for its grand monuments, including the Juche Tower and Kim Il-sung Square. Visitors can tour the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the historic city of Kaesong, and the striking architecture of the Ryugyong Hotel. Travel to North Korea is highly regulated, providing a rare and carefully curated view of the country’s culture and history.
South Korea: South Korea, a dynamic country on the Korean Peninsula, blends ancient traditions with modern innovations. Seoul, the capital, is home to Gyeongbokgung Palace, cool markets like Namdaemun, and the bustling district of Gangnam. Busan offers beautiful beaches and the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, while Jeju Island is known for its volcanic landscapes and natural beauty. Visitors can also explore historic cities like Gyeongju, experience K-pop culture, and enjoy Korean cuisine.

Seoul
Taiwan: Taiwan, an island nation off the coast of China, is known for its stunning landscapes and cities. Taipei, the capital, features the towering Taipei 101, the historic Longshan Temple, and the lively Shilin Night Market. Travelers can explore the natural beauty of Taroko Gorge, relax in the hot springs of Beitou, and visit the picturesque Sun Moon Lake. Taiwan’s diverse culture, delicious street food, and friendly locals make it a great destination.

Taipei

Top Cities

Beijing: (China) The capital city known for its historical sites, including the Forbidden City and the Great Wall.
Tokyo: (Japan) A bustling metropolis blending modern skyscrapers with traditional temples and vibrant districts.
Hong Kong: (China) A large metropolis known for its impressive skyline, bustling harbor, and diverse cultural heritage.
Ulaanbaatar: (Mongolia) The cultural and political center of Mongolia, featuring monasteries, museums, and a gateway to the steppes.
Pyongyang: (North Korea) The capital city, known for its grand monuments, government buildings, and tightly controlled tours.
Seoul: (South Korea) A dynamic capital with historical palaces, modern shopping districts, and lively nightlife.
Taipei: (Taiwan) The capital city, famous for Taipei 101, night markets, and a mix of modern and traditional culture.
Shanghai: (China) A global financial hub with a stunning skyline, colonial-era architecture along The Bund, and great street life.
Kyoto: (Japan) Known for its classical Buddhist temples, beautiful gardens, and traditional wooden houses.
Busan: (South Korea) A coastal city with beautiful beaches, seafood markets, and cultural festivals.
Kaohsiung: (Taiwan) A port city known for its waterfront attractions, art centers, and night markets.
Xi’an: (China) Home to the Terracotta Army and ancient city walls, a key starting point of the Silk Road.
Osaka: (Japan) A city known for its modern architecture, nightlife, and hearty street food.

Islands & Beaches

Top Islands & Beaches in Northeast Asia

Jeju Island: (South Korea) A volcanic island known for its natural beauty, waterfalls, and unique cultural sites.
Miyajima Island: (Japan) Famous for the Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic torii gate that appears to float on water.
Hainan Island: (China) A tropical island known for its sandy beaches, clear waters, and luxury resorts.
Ishigaki Island: (Japan) Part of the Yaeyama Islands, renowned for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and diving spots.
Qingdao Beach: (China) A popular coastal city with beautiful sandy beaches, beer festivals, and colonial architecture.
Okinawa Island: (Japan) The largest of the Okinawa Islands, known for its warm climate, historic sites, and coral reefs.
Kenting Beach: (Taiwan) Located in Kenting National Park, famous for its clear waters, white sand, and vibrant nightlife.
Nagasaki’s Gunkanjima (Battleship Island): (Japan) An abandoned island with a fascinating history and unique industrial ruins.
Zhoushan Islands: (China) A scenic archipelago with beautiful beaches, fishing villages, and Buddhist temples.
Nami Island: (South Korea) A picturesque island known for its tree-lined pathways and scenic beauty, especially in autumn.
Penghu Islands: (Taiwan) An archipelago known for its clear waters, sandy beaches, and historic temples.
Tsushima Island: (Japan) Located between Japan and South Korea, known for its rich history and beautiful coastline.

National Parks

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: (China) Famous for its towering sandstone pillars, which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park: (Japan) Home to Mount Fuji, hot springs, lakes, and beautiful landscapes.
Seoraksan National Park: (South Korea) Known for its rugged mountains, stunning fall foliage, and diverse flora and fauna.
Taroko National Park: (Taiwan) Renowned for its marble-walled canyons, deep gorges, and scenic hiking trails.
Jiuzhaigou National Park: (China) Famous for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and Tibetan villages.
Nikko National Park: (Japan) Known for its historic temples and shrines, scenic waterfalls, and beautiful autumn colors.
Hallasan National Park: (South Korea) Dominated by Hallasan Mountain, the highest peak in South Korea, with volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Kenting National Park: (Taiwan) Taiwan’s oldest national park, known for its tropical climate, sandy beaches, and coral reefs.
Yellow Mountain (Huangshan): (China) Renowned for its iconic granite peaks, hot springs, and ancient pine trees.
Shiretoko National Park: (Japan) A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its untouched wilderness, wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery.
Gyeongju National Park: (South Korea) Famous for its historical significance, ancient temples, and royal tombs.
Alishan National Scenic Area: (Taiwan) Known for its sunrise views, sea of clouds, and ancient cypress forests.

World Heritage

Great Wall of China: (China) An ancient series of walls and fortifications stretching over 13,000 miles.
Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto: (Japan) Includes 17 historic temples, shrines, and gardens showcasing Japanese culture and history.
Gyeongju Historic Areas: (South Korea) Known for its ancient relics from the Silla Dynasty, including tombs, temples, and palaces.
Terracotta Army: (China) Thousands of life-sized clay soldiers buried with China’s first emperor in Xi’an.
Himeji Castle: (Japan) A beautifully preserved samurai castle known as the “White Heron Castle” for its elegant appearance.
Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple: (South Korea) Renowned for their stunning Buddhist sculptures and architectural beauty.
Forbidden City: (China) A vast imperial palace complex in Beijing, housing numerous artifacts and architectural marvels.
Hōryū-ji Temple: (Japan) One of the oldest wooden structures in the world, showcasing ancient Japanese architecture.
Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes: (South Korea) Features unique volcanic formations and one of the world’s longest lava tubes.
Mogao Caves: (China) Known for their thousands of Buddhist murals and sculptures carved into cliffs along the Silk Road.
Itsukushima Shrine: (Japan) Famous for its iconic torii gate that appears to float on water during high tide.
Changdeokgung Palace Complex: (South Korea) A beautiful example of Korean palace architecture set within a large garden.
Mount Taishan: (China) One of China’s most sacred mountains, with temples and inscriptions dating back over 3,000 years.
Namhansanseong: (South Korea) A mountain fortress that served as an emergency capital during the Joseon Dynasty.
Historic Centre of Macao: (China) A former Portuguese colony with a unique blend of European and Asian architecture.