Megacities, tradition, innovation
Far East Asia is a region of contrasts, where futuristic cities meet ancient traditions. From Japan’s efficiency and culture to China’s vast scale and Taiwan’s friendly charm, this region offers some of the world’s most memorable travel experiences. It can be easy, exciting, and endlessly varied.
Japan and South Korea are among the easiest and most rewarding catches, while Taiwan is a brilliant underrated option. China offers huge variety but needs planning, while North Korea remains one of the most unusual and restricted catches in the world.
🇨🇳 China – Vast and complex, offering ancient history, megacities, rural landscapes, and one of the most powerful cultures in the world.
So much to see but now possible self guided. Make sure you book the visit of the wall and Forbidden City in advance. Other amazing sites are Hong Kong, Guilin with a trip down the river, Xian and Shanghai. Drink bottled water only. Now visa free entry is possible from most countries. Often need to Wechat for communication and for payments, as often cash not accepted. Conservative society. Never discuss politics. English speaking getting better. Visit local markets which are unique and not for the faint hearted. Spitting is a normal occurrence. See more on China here.
🇯🇵 Japan – Highly developed and deeply traditional, known for food, design, technology, and unique social customs. Fascinating and unique culture. Food is well renowned but dig deeper than just sushi and noodles. Respect the culture of bowing and cleanliness. Bullet train is an incredible experience to catch. Can be very expensive. Book as much in advance as possible. Cherry Blossom and Autumn equivalent are very busy everywhere. Do your research of where to stay in Tokyo and beyond. Try to stay in a local inn if possible – ryokan. Catch some sumo or baseball if you can! See more on Japan here.
🇰🇵 North Korea – Extremely restricted and tightly controlled, only accessible on guided tours with heavy limitations. Remains a great curiosity for the intrepid traveller. An alluring country to catch, which remains closed and secretive. Access is via Beijing and all must be booked via a local tour operator. Respect the custom and all times including bowing and no filming unless allowed. Hard to dig deeper but remains unique nonetheless.
🇰🇷 South Korea – Modern, creative, and fast paced, with strong food culture, nightlife, and growing global influence. Very clean and efficient country. Try to use Papago app for translations and Kakao map rather than Google for directions. Transport is excellent and often buying a Seoul pass is good value. Very hot in summer and cold in winter so shoulder seasons generally the best. Interesting to visit the border with with North but no crossing is possible. Big drinking culture! See more on South Korea here.
🇹🇼 Taiwan – Friendly and open, combining Chinese heritage with modern democracy, night markets, beaches and mountain scenery. Safe city with interesting local museums and great food. Book in advance as everything can be very busy. Apps are used for most things. Public transport can be colour coded to note the people allowed to be in certain places, so respect that. Catch the rural areas if you can.
Back to Asia