What's The Best Destination in Asia: South Korea or Japan?

Updated: January 30, 2021. 

So where to go next for an out-of-the country trip? South Korea or Japan? 

These two charming countries are some of the loveliest Asian destinations that offer a dazzling experience of adventure with its fabulous culture, spectacular scenery, great food and breathtaking landmarks.

It's been three years since my last out-of-the country travel and I'm longing to have another one this year. Hopefully. 

Plans have been in the table though.

Autumn in Nami island, South Korea

Together with my former colleagues in the university we are planning for a South Korean trip this autumn. 

I always believe that autumn or fall is the most romantic season of the year. And the most calm. 

The environment turns colorful due to brilliant foliage when autumn season comes. Japan and South Korea are known to have the most charming scenery in Asia comes Fall.

Korea is not my original choice. It has always been Japan. The countryside of Japan (my favorite is Kyoto) is so awesome during autumn season. 

Magnificent. Magical. Breathtaking. But my friends chose South Korea because it's less expensive. So I conformed.

Autumn in South Korea

SOUTH KOREA

South Korea offers a dazzling experience of wonders and amazement to travelers. It's the country of great contrasts. Ultra modern but retains its spectacular landscape in the countryside. 

With its thriving economy and beautiful infrastructure, the country is never short of things to excite travelers.


Korea is very popular in the Philippines due to the K-pop wave and the rise of Korean soap opera in Philippine television. Lots of Filipinos are enamored to Korean celebrities. 

Seoul during autumn

This fascination towards the K-pop culture has extended to Korean products. Korean brands have also invaded the cosmetics industry in the Philippines. 

So the plan has been finalized and our Korean travel is set this September in time for the autumn season. 

I'm yet to create a travel itinerary plan, I'm still checking for the best spots to visit in South Korea. 

I've learned also that for Philippine passport holders, Korean visa is free as long as the visit won't go beyond 59 days.  We're planning to visit this beautiful nation for five days only. 

JAPAN

However, I'm still longing for a Japan getaway. Though this Asian country is so amazing during spring season due to cherry blossoms, I would prefer an autumn travel to the land of the rising sun. 

Japan during autumn season

Kyoto and Osaka are my favorites. These places offer the best of Japan travel experience according to travelers. 

Osaka is home to the best authentic Japanese cuisine, while Kyoto amazes visitors with its scenic landscape, age-old tradition lifestyle and buildings, cultural wonder and magnificent countryside scenery, especially during autumn when trees turned brighter and poetic.

Autumn in Hokkaido, Japan

ANYWAY, I will just go wherever the tide of life takes me. Regardless of destination, it's the idea of adventure that excites me most. 

But I hope I can visit both Japan and South Korea during autumn season.