Tokyo, Japan is exploding in popularity with travelers this year, but these two other Asian cities offer a more affordable escape.
Japan has been setting tourism records, with yet another month of over 3 million visitors, putting the Asian nation on track for a record number of tourists in 2024.
Most of those visitors flock to Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital city.
One reason Tokyo has seen so many visitors this year is because the yen is at an all-time low right now, making a trip to Japan more affordable for many visitors.
However, even with the weakened currency, Tokyo still remains a pricy destination.
Meanwhile, Seoul and Taipei are two alternative Asian capitals that are growing in popularity because they are cheaper than Tokyo while offering a similar experience for travelers.
Here’s why you should consider a trip to one of these awesome Asian cities this year:
Why Visit Seoul?
Seoul, South Korea is a great alternative to Tokyo.
It has a lot of the same things that make Tokyo such a fascinating destination, including an electric big-city energy, an amazing food scene, unique shopping, and cool cultural and historical sites.
But Seoul is a uniquely South Korean destination. It’s the home of K-pop, K-beauty, and plenty of other K-trends that have now caught on in the Western world.
This is part of why Seoul is growing rapidly in popularity with international visitors.
When it comes to things to do in Seoul, cultural attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeok Palace, and Bukchon Haok Village top the list. You can also experience a little bit of South Korea’s natural beauty at Bukhansan National Park.
Seoul is especially popular for its shopping, dining, and nightlife. You can’t miss going out for Korean barbecue followed by a night of partying in Itaewon or Hongdae while you’re in Seoul.
What Are The Costs?
The average cost of a hotel in Tokyo is around $150 a night, but the average price for a hotel in Seoul is just $110 a night, a significant savings.
Food in Seoul tends to be around 20% cheaper than in Tokyo, so going out to eat is easier on the wallet.
Around a dozen cities in the U.S. have nonstop flights to Seoul, and they’re comparable to the cost of nonstop flights to Tokyo from U.S. cities.
Why Visit Taipei?
Taipei, Taiwan is another awesome destination to consider instead of Tokyo this year.
Located on a large island off the coast of mainland China, Taiwan is an independent country that is still claimed (by China) to be a part of China.
Taipei, the vibrant capital city, is a modern metropolis surrounded by lush mountains.
One of the top things to do in Taipei is hike Elephant Mountain, which offers amazing views of the city. Other tourist attractions include Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, the National Palace Museum, and Taipei 101, the city’s tallest skyscraper with an observation deck on top.
Taipei is also an awesome destination for foodies and there are so many delicious things to try. (This is also where bubble tea was invented in the 1980s!)
What Are The Costs?
The average cost of a hotel in Taipei is $125 per night, so it’s also significantly cheaper than Tokyo.
Similarly, food prices in Taipei are quite affordable — you can spend an average of $16 a day eating out, compared to $37 a day in Tokyo.
Flights to Taipei can be a little pricier than Tokyo and Seoul because there aren’t as many nonstop flights from the U.S. yet, although airlines are launching new routes to Taipei.
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