East Asia Travel Guide

Discover East Asia's timeless wonders, where ancient traditions meet futuristic allure.

East Asia captivates with its blend of ancient traditions, futuristic cities, and stunning natural landscapes across countries like Japan, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Mongolia.East Asia is a region of fascinating contrasts, from ancient traditions to ultra-modern cities, offering a wide range of travel experiences. This guide highlights popular destinations, cultural tips, and transportation options for travelers.

East Asia Summary

1. Top Countries and Regions

2. When to visit

3. How to get around
4. Must-See Attractions

5. Accommodations and Dining

6. Essential Travel Tips
7. Find Flights

Browse by Countries

Top Countries and Regions

East Asia's prime travel hubs include Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto regions), China (Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an), South Korea (Seoul, Busan), Taiwan (Taipei, Kaohsiung), and Mongolia (Ulaanbaatar steppes).

Japan: Urban Tokyo-Kyoto corridor and Hokkaido islands for cherry blossoms and onsen.
China: Yangtze River region, Silk Road cities like Xi'an, and coastal Shanghai-Guangzhou.
South Korea: Seoul metro area, Jeju Island, and Gyeongju historical sites.
Taiwan: North-south high-speed rail route from Taipei to Taroko Gorge.
Mongolia: Gobi Desert and Lake Khövsgöl for nomadic adventures.

These spots rank high for 2026 per traveler reviews, blending culture and modernity.

When to Visit

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather across East Asia, avoiding summer heat and winter chills.

Japan: March-May for sakura, September-November foliage; avoid Golden Week crowds.
China/South Korea: April-May or September-October; cherry blossoms in March.
Taiwan: Year-round mild, best October-April dry.
Mongolia: June-August for steppes, milder summers.

November-February suits southern areas but check monsoons; 2026 peaks align with festivals.

How to Get There and Around

Fly into major hubs like Tokyo Narita, Shanghai Pudong, or Seoul Incheon; budget carriers connect regionally.

International: Direct from Europe via Emirates/Qatar; 10-15 hours from Madrid/Barcelona.
Intra-regional: High-speed trains (Japan Shinkansen, China bullet trains, Taiwan HSR); flights via AirAsia/ Cebu Pacific.
Local: Metros in Tokyo/Seoul (efficient, cheap), buses/trains in China, Grab apps everywhere; avoid driving due to traffic

Must-See Attractions

Focus on UNESCO sites and itineraries for 2-4 weeks.

Temples/palaces: Kyoto (Japan), Gyeongju (Korea), Terracotta Warriors (Xi'an, China).
Nature: Great Wall, Jeju hikes, Taroko Gorge (Taiwan), Gobi treks (Mongolia).
Cities: Tokyo neon, Shanghai Bund, Seoul hanok villages.

Sample 3-week loop: Tokyo-Kyoto > Seoul/Jeju > Taipei > Shanghai-Beijing.

Accommodations and Dining

Budget $50-150/night; boutique 4-5 stars suit your luxury focus ($200+).

Stays: Hostels in Seoul ($20), ryokans in Japan ($150), glamping in Mongolia.
Food: Street eats (ramen, bibimbap, dim sum) $5-15; upscale kaiseki or hotpot $50+.

Essential Travel Tips

Check visas (eVisa for China 144hr transit, Japan visa-free 90 days EU); carry passport copies.

Safety: Low crime; watch pickpockets in crowds, use bottled water outside Japan/Korea.
Culture: Remove shoes indoors, modest dress at temples; learn basics (arigato, ni hao).
Health: Masks in crowds, apps for translation (Google Translate); COVID rules minimal 2026.
Budget: $80-150/day mid-range; data eSIMs via Airalo.