East Asia combines hyper-modern cities with deep traditions. Rail networks are fast and punctual, food is a reason to travel in itself, and the four seasons are distinct: cherry blossom in spring, festivals in summer, maples in autumn and powder snow in winter. Costs are higher than in Southeast Asia, but rail passes, business hotels and convenience-store meals keep it manageable.
Countries in East Asia
Japan
Shinkansen, shrines, ramen, onsen and cherry blossom.
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South Korea
Palaces and K-culture in Seoul, Busan's beaches and volcanic Jeju.
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China
The Great Wall, the Terracotta Army, karst landscapes and a vast high-speed rail network.
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Taiwan
Night markets, mountain gorges, tea villages and one of Asia's friendliest cities.
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Hong Kong
A dramatic harbour skyline, dim sum, hiking trails and island escapes.
Explore →Map of East Asia
Top landmarks
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up a forested mountain.
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Kinkaku-ji
The Golden Pavilion, reflected in its mirror pond.
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Sensō-ji
Tokyo's oldest temple, reached via the Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa.
Discover →Mount Fuji
Japan's iconic volcano, best viewed from the Fuji Five Lakes or Hakone.
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Osaka Castle
A towering castle keep in a moated park, glorious in cherry-blossom season.
Discover →Gyeongbokgung Palace
The grandest of Seoul's Joseon-dynasty palaces, with a changing of the guard.
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