Japan or South Korea: Which destination should you choose?

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Are you planning a very special trip but still unsure whether to choose Japan or South Korea? Both destinations are beautiful, exciting, and offer unique experiences that you definitely should not miss. To help you avoid any confusion, iVISA will clearly break down the strengths of each country so you can make the decision that suits you best.

What are you unsure about when choosing between Japan and South Korea?

This season, you may be wondering whether to travel to Japan or South Korea, right? Japan feels like a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity: the peaceful old town of Kyoto, the majestic Mount Fuji, and the vibrant Tokyo. Meanwhile, South Korea offers a youthful and dynamic vibe with its lively culture, tempting street food, and colorful winter festivals.

Why do many Vietnamese travelers find it difficult to choose between Japan and South Korea?

Many Vietnamese travelers remain unsure whether to choose Japan or South Korea because each country has its own unique charm. Japan captivates with its magnificent nature, peaceful Kyoto, majestic Mount Fuji, and deep cultural experiences. South Korea attracts visitors with its energetic lifestyle, K-culture, street food, shopping, and hit K-dramas like Crash Landing on You or Squid Game.

According to the Korea Tourism Organization 2024, about 45% of Vietnamese travelers choose South Korea for its K-culture, while Japan attracts 35% thanks to its natural landscapes and traditional experiences. The cost for a 5-7-day trip to both countries is nearly the same, making it hard to determine which destination suits your budget more. Visa procedures for both are manageable, though Japan requires more meticulous documentation, while South Korea offers more flexibility, especially for first-time travelers.

Common concerns include:

Fear of high costs and going over budget
Complicated visa paperwork
Language barriers
Worries about not liking the local food or cultural differences

Should you choose Japan or South Korea if you can only take one trip?

If you want to experience traditional culture, nature, and scenic landscapes, Japan is the ideal choice. Over 40% of international tourists visit Japan for its natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. Spring offers cherry blossoms, while Japan autumn features vibrant red leaves. You can explore Kyoto, Mount Fuji, and stay in ryokan or enjoy an onsen. Japan suits families, couples, and those who prefer calm, meaningful journeys with cultural depth.

If you enjoy youthful energy, K-culture, and shopping, South Korea is the perfect destination. Around 45% of Vietnamese travelers choose Korea for its vibrant lifestyle and exciting city atmosphere. You can Korea travel independently during fall or winter, shop in Myeongdong, enjoy street food, K-pop cafés, and join South Korea festivals. Korea suits young travelers, K-pop fans, and those who love pop culture and dynamic city life.

Choosing the right destination based on season, preferences, and travel companions will help you save costs and enjoy a complete experience. If you prefer deep cultural immersion and tranquility-choose Japan. If you want lively city life, pop culture, and shopping-choose South Korea.

Comparing travel costs: Japan vs South Korea

Costs between the two countries differ but not significantly. Japan tends to be more expensive because of higher living costs, domestic transportation, and iconic attractions. South Korea is more budget-friendly in food, hotels, and some attractions.

Estimated cost for a 5D4N trip to Japan

A 5-day, 4-night trip to Japan varies depending on travel season, accommodation, and trip planning. Here is a basic estimate:

Round-trip airfare from Vietnam: 8-12 million VND/person, higher during holidays or peak seasons.
3-star hotel: 2-4 million VND/4 nights for a double room (around 500k-1M VND/night per person).
Food: 500k-800k VND/person/day, depending on whether you eat at restaurants or choose local street food.
Transportation: 2-3 million VND/person, especially if traveling between cities or using JR Pass.
Entrance fees: 1-2 million VND/person for temples, museums, onsen, theme parks…
Total estimated cost: 13-21 million VND/person depending on your travel style.

Estimated cost for a 5D4N trip to South Korea

A 5-day, 4-night trip to South Korea is often cheaper than Japan if you plan wisely.

Round-trip airfare: 6-10 million VND/person, lower if traveling off-peak.
3-star hotel in Seoul, Busan, or Jeju: 1.5-3 million VND/4 nights for a double room.
Food: 300k-500k VND/person/day.
Transportation (subway, bus, T-money): 500k-800k VND/person for the whole trip.
Attractions: 500k-800k VND/person for Gyeongbokgung, Lotte World, museums.

Total estimated cost: 9-15 million VND/person depending on accommodation, dining, and activities.

Japan and Korea visas: Which one is easier for Vietnamese travelers?

When choosing between Japan and South Korea, many travelers first worry about the visa. This greatly affects your preparation time, budget, and travel plans.

Japan tourist visa

To apply for a Japan tourist visa, Vietnamese travelers must prepare a valid passport, strong financial proof, employment documents, and a clear itinerary. The visa allows stays of 15-30 days, with single-entry or Japan multiple-entry options.

According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam ranked among the top countries receiving tourist visas in 2024 with over 320,000 visas issued. Clear and transparent documents increase your approval rate. Those who have traveled to Korea or developed countries gain additional advantages. Processing time: 5-10 working days, longer during peak seasons.

South Korea tourist visa

South Korea offers more flexibility with common visa types such as C-3-9 (single entry) and C-3-91 (multiple entry), allowing stays of up to 30 days.

iVISA notes that most Vietnamese applicants with standard documents have a high chance of approval, especially under priority categories. Processing time is typically 7-16 days, often faster and less complicated than in Japan.

This makes South Korea a great option for first-time travelers wishing to experience South Korea winter or travel independently.

First time visiting a developed country: Choose Japan or Korea?

If this is your first trip to Northeast Asia, South Korea is the better choice. Visa procedures are faster, more flexible, and less demanding. This reduces stress and allows you to enjoy your first international trip with peace of mind. Japan is better suited for those with stronger financial records or previous international travel experience.

For the question “Japan or Korea?”, iVISA recommends choosing Korea for your first trip abroad. And for the smoothest experience, contact iVISA for full South Korea visa support from A to Z!

What to eat when traveling to Japan or Korea

Although both countries are in Asia and geographically close, their cuisines are very different.

Japanese cuisine: Must-try dishes

Japanese cuisine is known for its simplicity and elegance. Dishes like sushi, sashimi, ramen, tempura, and cold soba emphasize natural flavors-perfect for those who prefer clean and healthy food.

If you’re preparing to visit Japan, some dishes you must try include:

Kaiseki: A seasonal multi-course traditional meal
Unagi Kabayaki: Sweet-soy grilled eel
Okonomiyaki: Osaka-style savory pancake

Korean cuisine: Must-try dishes

Korean cuisine features bold flavors, spicy dishes, and hot soups. Vietnamese travelers often find these dishes easy to enjoy.

You should not miss:

Army Stew (Budae Jjigae)
Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup)
Hotteok (brown sugar pancakes)

Frequently asked questions visit both Japan and South Korea

Is it a good idea to visit both Japan and South Korea in one trip?

Yes, you can combine both destinations if you have enough time and budget. A dual-country itinerary typically requires at least 10-12 days. Shorter trips may feel rushed and reduce the quality of your experience. If you need visa support for both destinations, iVISA can assist you easily from A-Z!

Is it suitable for travelers with limited English to visit Japan or Korea independently?

Absolutely. You can still travel independently using helpful apps. Japan: Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, Google Translate. Korea: Naver Map, Kakao Metro, Papago

These insights will help you confidently choose between Japan and South Korea for your next trip. If you need support with Japan or Korea tourist visas, contact iVISA for full guidance from A to Z!

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