East Asia Travel Guide (Asia)

Introduction to East Asia

East Asia is a region in Asia that comprises of China, Japan, Taiwan, North Korea, South Korea, and Mongolia. This region is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty, ancient historical places, and modern development. Each country is unique in its own way and offers something different to visitors. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and useful tips for traveling to East Asia.

List of Places to Visit in East Asia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

East Asia is home to some of the world’s most significant historical and cultural attractions. Here are some places to visit:

The Great Wall of China: It is an iconic landmark of China that stretches over 13,000 miles. Visitors can hike on some sections of the wall and enjoy breathtaking views.
The Forbidden City: It is a complex of several palaces that was the home of the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an outstanding example of Chinese architecture and culture.
The Terracotta Army: It is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. It is one of the most famous archaeological discoveries in the world.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: This park in Japan is a tribute to the victims of the atomic bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima in 1945. The park includes the A-Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum that displays artifacts and stories of the victims.
The Gyeongbokgung Palace: It is a grand palace in Seoul, South Korea. The palace was built in the 14th century and was the main royal palace until the end of the Joseon dynasty.

Natural Attractions of East Asia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Asia is a region of great natural beauty. From towering mountains to crystal-clear lakes, the natural wonders of this region attract millions of tourists every year. Here are some places to visit:

Mount Fuji: It is the highest mountain in Japan and is considered a symbol of the country. Visitors can hike or take a train to the top and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Yellow Mountains: It is a mountain range in China known for its unique rock formations, hot springs, and scenic views. Visitors can hike through the trails, take a cable car, and stay in one of the hotels in the area.
The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site in China that inspired the movie “Avatar”. The park is famous for its towering sandstone pillars, verdant forests, and clear streams.
Jeju Island: It is a volcanic island in South Korea that offers beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and a unique culture. Visitors can hike to Hallasan Mountain, explore the beautiful waterfalls, and relax in the natural hot springs.
Taroko Gorge: It is a natural wonder in Taiwan that features beautiful canyons, gorges, and waterfalls. Visitors can hike through the trails, admire the stunning views and visit the nearby temples.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Asia

East Asia is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise. Known for its beautiful landscapes, mountains, and forests, this region offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in the world. Here are some of the best routes:

The Nakasendo Trail: It is an ancient pathway in Japan that connects Kyoto and Tokyo. The route passes through beautiful towns, mountain passes, and lush forests.
The Great Wall of China: Several sections of the wall offer amazing hiking and trekking opportunities. Visitors can explore the lush forests, steep climbs, and stunning views.
Taipei Cycling Route: It is a cycling route that passes through some of the most scenic areas of Taipei, Taiwan. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the city’s skyline, mountains, and coastlines.
Jogyesan Provincial Park Trail: It is a hiking trail in South Korea that offers gorgeous views of the countryside, mountains, and forests. Visitors can hike to the summit and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
The Gobi Desert: It is a desert in Mongolia that is perfect for biking enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the sand dunes, horseback ride, and visit the nomadic tribes.

Best Things to Do in East Asia: Activities and Tours

There are countless things to do in East Asia, from visiting ancient historical places to trying out exciting outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in East Asia:

Skiing: East Asia is known for its excellent ski resorts. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports in Niseko (Japan), Yabuli (China), and Yongpyong (South Korea).
Onsen: It is a Japanese hot spring that offers a unique bathing experience. Visitors can relax in the soothing hot water and enjoy stunning views of the countryside.
City Tours: East Asia has some of the most bustling cities in the world. Visitors can take city tours to explore the vibrant street markets, ancient temples, and modern skyscrapers.
Kimono Dress-Up: It is a Japanese cultural experience that involves dressing up in traditional Japanese clothing. Visitors can visit a kimono rental shop and try on one of the beautiful kimonos.
Tea Ceremony: It is a traditional Japanese ritual that involves the preparation and serving of green tea. Visitors can participate in the ceremony and appreciate the artistry and beauty of the tea ceremony.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Asia

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to East Asia:

Day	Activity
1	Tokyo city tour
2	The Great Wall hike
3	Terracotta Army tour
4	Taipei cycling route
5	Gyeongbokgung Palace
6	Jeju Island tour
7	Hiroshima Peace Park

Food and Drink Scene of East Asia

East Asia has a diverse food and drink scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage. From delicious street food to high-end cuisine, East Asia has something for everyone. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Sushi: A Japanese dish made of raw fish and vinegared rice.
Dumplings: A Chinese dish made of meat or vegetables wrapped in thin dough and steamed or fried.
Bibimbap: A Korean dish made of rice, vegetables, and meat, topped with a fried egg and spicy sauce.
Hotpot: A Chinese dish that involves cooking a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles in a simmering pot of broth.
Noodles: from ramen in Japan to zhajiangmian in China.

Local Beverages

Sake: A Japanese rice wine that is served hot or cold.
Soju: A Korean spirit made from rice or barley.
Baijiu: A Chinese liquor made from fermented sorghum, wheat, or rice.
Taiwanese Tea: Taiwan is known for its high-quality tea, such as oolong tea and black tea.

Where to Stay in East Asia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Asia offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses, visitors can choose from a variety of options. Here are some options:

Mandarin Oriental Tokyo: A luxury hotel that offers stunning views of Tokyo’s skyline and world-class amenities.
The Peninsula Beijing: A luxury hotel that combines traditional Chinese elements with modern amenities.
Kimchee Guesthouses: A budget-friendly option that offers comfortable accommodations and friendly service in South Korea.
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The Tower: A luxury hotel that offers beautiful mountain views and a range of outdoor activities in Japan.
Dandy Hotel Da-an: A stylish and modern hotel in Taipei that is budget-friendly and convenient.

What to Buy in East Asia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

East Asia is known for its unique cultural products, such as Chinese silk, Japanese ceramics, Korean cosmetics, and Taiwanese tea. Visitors can choose from a range of souvenirs and local products to bring home, such as:

Silk scarves and clothing: China is known for its high-quality silk products, such as scarves, dresses, and blouses. Visitors can find a range of styles and designs at silk markets.
Japanese ceramics: Japan has a rich cultural heritage of pottery and ceramics. Visitors can find a range of beautiful ceramics, such as tea cups, vases, and plates.
Korean cosmetics: Korean cosmetics are known for their high quality and unique ingredients such as snail slime, bee venom and starfish extract. Popular Korean cosmetics brands include Laneige, Innisfree, and Etude House.
Taiwanese tea: Taiwan produces some of the world’s finest teas. Visitors can find a range of teas such as Oolong tea and Tieguanyin tea at tea shops.

Local Culture and Customs of East Asia

East Asia has a unique cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, food, and festivals. Some customs to keep in mind include:

Respect for elders: Respect for elders is an important part of East Asian culture. Visitors should always address elders with respect and deference.
Removing shoes: It is customary to remove shoes when entering a home in Japan and South Korea.
Bowing: Bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect in East Asia.
Chopsticks: Chopsticks are the primary eating utensils in East Asia. Visitors should learn the proper way to use chopsticks and avoid using them to point or puncture food.

Best Time to Visit East Asia

The best time to visit East Asia varies depending on the season and the activities that visitors want to enjoy. Generally, the best time to visit is during the spring (April-March) and fall (September-November). The weather is mild, and the crowds are usually smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Asia

To help visitors avoid any cultural misunderstandings, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

Greet people with a bow: Bowing is a common form of greeting in East Asia. Visitors should bow when meeting someone for the first time.
Remove shoes before entering homes and temples: It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and temples in some parts of East Asia.
Respect local customs and traditions: Visitors should show respect for local customs and traditions and avoid offending the local culture.

Don’t:

Touch people’s heads: Touching someone’s head is considered rude in most parts of East Asia.
Blow your nose in public: Blowing your nose in public is considered impolite in many parts of East Asia.
Tip in restaurants: Tipping is not customary in East Asia.

Safety and Health

Visitors to East Asia should take proper safety measures and precautions to ensure a safe and healthy trip. Some safety and health tips include:

Safety in East Asia

While East Asia is generally safe for travelers, visitors should take standard safety precautions such as:

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid unsafe areas: Visitors should avoid unsafe areas, especially at night.
Carry a copy of your passport: In case of loss or theft, visitors should always keep a copy of their passport with them.
Use common sense when traveling: Visitors should use common sense when traveling, especially when traveling alone.

Health in East Asia

Visitors to East Asia should take proper health precautions, such as:

Ensure all vaccinations are up to date: Visitors should ensure that all vaccinations are up to date and consult with their healthcare provider before traveling.
Drink bottled water: Visitors should avoid tap water, and only drink bottled water.
Carry medication: Visitors should carry any necessary medications and a first aid kit.

Getting to East Asia: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Asia is well-connected by air, land, and sea. Visitors can choose from a range of transportation options that suit their preferences and budget. Here are some options:

Airports in East Asia

Narita International Airport (Japan): Located near Tokyo, Narita International Airport is the primary international airport for Japan.
Beijing Capital International Airport (China): Located in Beijing, Beijing Capital International Airport is the busiest airport in China.
Incheon International Airport (South Korea): Located near Seoul, Incheon International Airport is the largest airport in South Korea.
Taoyuan International Airport (Taiwan): Located near Taipei, Taoyuan International Airport is the primary international airport for Taiwan.
Chinggis Khaan International Airport (Mongolia): Located in Ulaanbaatar, Chinggis Khaan International Airport is the largest airport in Mongolia.

Bus Stations in East Asia

There are several bus stations in East Asia that offer affordable transportation:

The Narita Express (Japan): A train service that connects Narita International Airport to Tokyo.
The KTX (South Korea): A high-speed train service that connects major cities in South Korea.
The China Railways (China): A train service that connects major cities in China.
The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (Taiwan): A high-speed train service that connects major cities in Taiwan.

Other Options

Ferry: There are several ferry services that connect Taiwan, China, and Japan.
Metro/Subway: Major cities in East Asia have efficient metro and subway systems that offer convenient transportation.

How to Get Around in East Asia

Getting around in East Asia is easy, thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. Visitors can choose from a range of transportation options such as:

Train: Train travel is a popular and convenient mode of transportation in East Asia. Visitors can choose from high-speed trains or local trains.
Bus: Many cities in East Asia have efficient bus systems that offer affordable transportation.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in most parts of East Asia and are the most convenient mode of transportation within cities.
Metro/Subway: Major cities in East Asia have efficient metro and subway systems that offer convenient transportation.

Conclusion

East Asia offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and modern development. Visitors to this region can explore ancient historical places, enjoy outdoor adventures, and try some of the world’s finest cuisines. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has been helpful in planning your trip to East Asia, and we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey.