East Asia

What are the most recommended things to do in East Asia?

Explore major cities like Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul, and Taipei to experience diverse cultures and historic landmarks.
Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Great Wall of China, Kyoto Temples, and Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Experience local cuisine, street food, and traditional markets across East Asia.
Enjoy natural landscapes, including Mount Fuji in Japan, Jiuzhaigou Valley in China, and Jeju Island in Korea.
Participate in festivals and cultural events, like Chinese New Year, Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival, and Korean Chuseok.

Introducing East Asia

East Asia, short for the eastern part of Asia, encompasses five countries: China, South Korea, Japan, North Korea, and Mongolia. East Asia is one of the most densely populated regions in the world, and it leads the world in the production of cotton, peanuts, corn, sugarcane, sesame, rapeseed, and silk.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, temperate monsoon climate, subtropical monsoon climate

Most Popular FAQs for East Asia

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

East Asia encompasses countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan, each with rich histories spanning thousands of years. The region is known for its cultural heritage, ancient civilizations, and influential contributions to art, science, and philosophy. Major historical events, trade routes like the Silk Road, and dynastic legacies shaped the political and cultural landscape of East Asia.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

East Asia is a large region. Major cities are accessible via international flights to airports such as Beijing Capital, Tokyo Narita, Seoul Incheon, and Taipei Taoyuan. Within cities, public transport options include metros, buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. Walking is suitable for exploring city centers and historic districts.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Each city and attraction has its own schedule. Generally, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit East Asia due to pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Fees vary widely depending on the attraction. Major sites often range from free to around $10–$30 USD. Tickets can usually be purchased online via official websites or at the entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular attractions like the Forbidden City, Tokyo Disneyland, or Gyeongbokgung Palace, booking a few days to one week in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploration time depends on the destination. City highlights may require 2–5 days per major city, while regional tours or natural attractions may require longer.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, and Terracotta Army in China.
Mount Fuji, Kyoto Temples, and Tokyo landmarks in Japan.
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Jeju Island in Korea.
Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, and Taroko Gorge in Taiwan.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, most major attractions provide guided tours and audio guides in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great Wall viewpoints (China), Fushimi Inari Shrine (Japan), N Seoul Tower (Korea), and Elephant Mountain (Taipei).
Natural landscapes such as Mount Fuji, Jiuzhaigou Valley, and Jeju waterfalls.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Plan city tours starting from central landmarks, then branch out to nearby historic and cultural sites. Allocate full days for major landmarks and half-days for secondary sites.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, many cities offer night tours, light shows, and seasonal events, such as Tokyo Tower illuminations, N Seoul Tower at night, and Taipei night markets.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak tourist seasons like Golden Week in China, Cherry Blossom season in Japan, and Korean summer holidays are crowded. Visit on weekdays during off-peak seasons for fewer crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions provide public toilets, rest areas, food stalls, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Urban areas have extensive facilities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many urban attractions are accessible, but natural sites with uneven terrain may be challenging. Check specific site accessibility in advance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay, Apple Pay) are widely accepted. Small vendors may prefer cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Each city offers a mix of local cuisine, street food, and international restaurants. Night markets provide additional casual dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are widely available in major cities.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

East Asia offers a full range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to hostels and guesthouses, near major attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Combine nearby historic, cultural, and natural sites into day trips—for example, Beijing: Forbidden City + Temple of Heaven; Tokyo: Shibuya + Asakusa.