No Need to Go Far! One of the World's Top 3 Sunset Destinations, Kota Kinabalu

Do you really need to travel to a faraway country just to see a beautiful sunset? Only a 5-hour flight from Korea, Kota Kinabalu, home to one of the world's top 3 sunsets, awaits you. 🌇

The sunsets here are famous for their 'golden gradient' created where the sky meets the sea. On clear days, the sky is painted with layers of red, orange, and purple hues, earning it the nickname 'the most beautiful end of the day in the world.' Alongside Waikiki in Hawaii and Manila Bay in the Philippines, it is considered one of the world's top 3 sunset destinations. 💛

✨ Must-Do Bucket List in Kota Kinabalu

1️⃣ Capture the 'Sunset of a Lifetime' at Tanjung Aru Beach
As one of the world's top 3 sunsets, taking a memorable photo is a must! Under the ever-changing colors of the sky, capture the moment where the red sunset and silhouettes blend harmoniously. Even if you don't take photos, simply watching the sunset will bring a sense of calm and healing.

2️⃣ Feel like a fairy tale character – Firefly Tour
Another highlight of a trip to Kota Kinabalu is the firefly tour. After watching the sunset, take a boat along the river to witness the magical sight of thousands of fireflies glowing in the dark. It feels like stepping into a scene from a fairy tale. If you're lucky, you might even experience a special moment where a firefly lands on your fingertip or shoulder. 🌟

3️⃣ Enjoy 5-star resorts at great value
Another charm of Kota Kinabalu is that it's an affordable vacation destination. You can enjoy luxury resorts surrounded by tropical rainforests and emerald seas at reasonable prices. World-renowned 5-star resorts like Shangri-La Tanjung Aru and Gayana Marine Resort offer stays starting from around 200,000 KRW per night. Relax by the infinity pool with a stunning sunset view or stroll along the resort's private beach for a leisurely day. You'll truly understand the meaning of 'affordable luxury.' 🏝️

🍳 Must-Try Foods in Kota Kinabalu

✔️ Kaya Toast
Crispy thin toast filled with sweet coconut jam (kaya) and butter! Enjoy it for breakfast or brunch to experience the local flavor. ☕

✔️ Satay (Skewered Grilled Meat)
Malaysian-style skewers seasoned with spices and peanut sauce. Conveniently available at night markets or street stalls, it's the perfect snack after sunset. 🍢

✔️ Seafood BBQ
Kota Kinabalu is known for its fresh seafood, and street-style grilled seafood is a popular choice. Grilled shrimp, squid, clams, and more offer a delightful taste of the sea. 🦐

💡 Travel Tips for Kota Kinabalu

✔️ Best Travel Time: March to October, during the dry season for clearer skies and more vivid sunsets.

✔️ Currency Exchange: Exchange to Malaysian Ringgit (MYR); city banks and exchange offices offer better rates.

✔️ Recommended Itinerary:
Day 1 – Sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach, check-in at a 5-star resort
Day 2 – Island tour (Manukan/Sapi Island), snorkeling
Day 3 – Firefly tour + Kaya Toast brunch + Satay snack