China Japan Korea Map Travel Guide
Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to China, Japan, and Korea, you’re in for a treat. These countries are rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the Great Wall of China to the temples of Japan and the mountains of Korea, there’s so much to see and do. However, planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide to help you make the most of your trip.
Top Attractions
China, Japan, and Korea are home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. In China, don’t miss the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors. In Japan, visit Tokyo Tower, Mount Fuji, and the Imperial Palace. In Korea, explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jeju Island, and the DMZ.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth visiting, don’t overlook the hidden gems. In China, check out the Yungang Grottoes, the Longmen Grottoes, and the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. In Japan, visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Tottori Sand Dunes. In Korea, explore the Seoraksan National Park, the Boseong Green Tea Fields, and the Hwaseong Fortress.
Food Scene
Food is a big part of the culture in China, Japan, and Korea. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something for everyone. In China, try Peking duck, hot pot, and dumplings. In Japan, sample sushi, ramen, and tempura. In Korea, don’t miss out on kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling in China, Japan, and Korea doesn’t have to break the bank. To save money, consider staying in hostels or budget-friendly hotels, eating at local markets and street vendors, and taking public transportation. You can also save money by visiting attractions during off-peak times and taking advantage of free activities like hiking and exploring local neighborhoods.
Outdoor Adventures
China, Japan, and Korea are home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. From the mountains to the beaches, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. In China, hike the Tiger Leaping Gorge, explore the Yellow Mountains, and visit the Jiuzhaigou National Park. In Japan, hike the Nakasendo Trail, go skiing in Hokkaido, and visit the Takachiho Gorge. In Korea, hike to the top of Seoraksan Mountain, explore the Jeju Olle Trail, and visit the Haeundae Beach.
Historical Landmarks
China, Japan, and Korea are steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore. In China, visit the Summer Palace, the Ming Tombs, and the Temple of Heaven. In Japan, explore the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the Himeji Castle, and the Itsukushima Shrine. In Korea, visit the Changdeokgung Palace, the Gyeongju Historic Area, and the Bulguksa Temple.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? No problem. China, Japan, and Korea offer plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. In China, visit the Shanghai Disneyland, the Ocean Park, and the Beijing Zoo. In Japan, explore the Tokyo Disney Resort, the Universal Studios Japan, and the KidZania Tokyo. In Korea, visit the Everland Resort, the Lotte World, and the Seoul Grand Park.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking to get off the tourist trail, there are plenty of unique experiences to be had in China, Japan, and Korea. In China, visit the Zhangye Danxia Landform, the Rainbow Mountains, and the Tulou Houses. In Japan, visit the abandoned island of Hashima, the abandoned village of Gunkanjima, and the abandoned theme park of Nara Dreamland. In Korea, visit the abandoned mining town of Hwaseong, the abandoned amusement park of Yongma Land, and the abandoned military base of Camp Greaves.
Natural Wonders
China, Japan, and Korea are home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. In China, visit the Li River, the Three Gorges, and the Yellow River. In Japan, visit the Akiyoshido Cave, the Oirase Stream, and the Kegon Falls. In Korea, visit the Jusangjeolli Cliffs, the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, and the Ulsanbawi Rock.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, the party starts in China, Japan, and Korea. In China, visit the Sanlitun Bar Street, the Bund, and the Xintiandi. In Japan, visit the Shinjuku Golden Gai, the Roppongi Hills, and the Shibuya Crossing. In Korea, visit the Hongdae Club Zone, the Gangnam District, and the Itaewon International Food Street.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the culture of China, Japan, and Korea is to visit the local markets. In China, visit the Silk Market, the Panjiayuan Market, and the Hongqiao Market. In Japan, visit the Tsukiji Fish Market, the Nishiki Market, and the Ameya-Yokochō. In Korea, visit the Gwangjang Market, the Namdaemun Market, and the Dongdaemun Market.
Beaches and Mountains
China, Japan, and Korea offer a unique combination of beaches and mountains. In China, visit the Sanya Beach, the Beidaihe Scenic Area, and the Xiamen Island. In Japan, visit the Shirahama Beach, the Izu Peninsula, and the Niseko Ski Resort. In Korea, visit the Haeundae Beach, the Seoraksan Mountain, and the Jeju Island.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the culture of China, Japan, and Korea, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. In China, visit the Shaolin Temple, the Leshan Giant Buddha, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. In Japan, visit the Zen temples of Kyoto, the Noh theater in Tokyo, and the tea ceremony in Osaka. In Korea, visit the Korean Folk Village, the Gyeongju National Museum, and the Insadong Cultural Street.
Art and Music Scene
China, Japan, and Korea have a rich art and music scene. In China, visit the 798 Art District, the National Centre for the Performing Arts, and the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra. In Japan, visit the Mori Art Museum, the Suntory Hall, and the Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall. In Korea, visit the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the Busan International Film Festival, and the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore China, Japan, and Korea is on foot. In China, take a walking tour of the Hutongs in Beijing, the French Concession in Shanghai, and the Yu Garden in Suzhou. In Japan, take a walking tour of the Geisha district in Kyoto, the Shinjuku district in Tokyo, and the Gion district in Osaka. In Korea, take a walking tour of the Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, the Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan, and the Hahoe Folk Village in Andong.
Architectural Marvels
China, Japan, and Korea are home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in the world. In China, visit the Bird’s Nest Stadium, the CCTV Headquarters, and the Shanghai Tower. In Japan, visit the Tokyo Skytree, the Tokyo Tower, and the Osaka Castle. In Korea, visit the Lotte World Tower, the Gyeongju Tower, and the Busan Tower.
Historical Sites
China, Japan, and Korea have a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. In China, visit the Xi’an City Wall, the Pingyao Ancient City, and the Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall. In Japan, visit the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, and the Yasukuni Shrine. In Korea, visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the Seodaemun Prison History Museum, and the Jeju April 3rd Peace Park.
Biking Routes
For the adventurous traveler, biking is a great way to explore China, Japan, and Korea. In China, bike the Xian City Wall, the West Lake in Hangzhou, and the Yulong River in Yangshuo. In Japan, bike the Shimanami Kaido