When it comes to traveling in Korea, there’s a wide variety of things to enjoy — food, shopping, beauty, history, and café culture — making it a consistently popular destination among Japanese tourists.
In this article, based on the latest 2025 data and SNS trends, we’ll introduce the most frequently visited regions in Korea by Japanese travelers in a ranking format.
It’s perfect for those who are wondering where to go or planning their first trip to Korea!
1st Place: Seoul (서울)
When you think of Korea, it has to be Seoul!
It’s the representative city that has everything — shopping, food, sightseeing, and beauty.
Popular Areas:
- Myeongdong: Paradise for cosmetics and fashion shopping
- Hongdae: Youth culture, cafés, music, and street fashion
- Sinchon & Ewha: University district full of hidden cafés
- Gangnam: Trendy upscale area, also famous for plastic surgery
Highlights:
- Many places where Japanese is understood — great for beginners
- Convenient subway system makes traveling easy
- Wide variety of hotels and guesthouses to choose from
2nd Place: Busan (부산)
Korea’s second-largest city, Busan combines sea and city life, offering an open, relaxed vibe.
It’s one of the most popular destinations after Seoul.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Haeundae Beach: The most popular summer beach
- Gamcheon Culture Village: Colorful hillside village perfect for Instagram
- Jagalchi Market: Korea’s largest seafood market
- Seomyeon: The central hub for food and shopping
Highlights:
- Direct LCC flights available from Fukuoka and Osaka
- A paradise for seafood lovers
- Rich in local specialties like nakgopsae (spicy stir-fried octopus, beef tripe, shrimp) and dwaeji-gukbap (pork soup rice)
3rd Place: Jeju Island (제주도)
Known as the “Hawaii of Korea,” Jeju Island is a favorite destination among Japanese travelers who love nature.
Popular Areas:
- Seogwipo: Spectacular waterfalls and cliffs
- Hallasan: Korea’s highest mountain, great for trekking
- Dongmun Market: Local specialties like black pork and tangerines
Highlights:
- Perfect for travelers who prefer natural scenery
- Easy access with budget airlines (LCCs)
- Less Japanese support, but peaceful and relaxing
4th Place: Incheon (인천)
Located near Seoul, Incheon is becoming increasingly popular among Japanese tourists.
Main Attractions:
- Chinatown: The only official Chinatown in Korea
- Songwol-dong Fairy Tale Village: A street that looks straight out of a storybook
- Incheon Port Seafood Cuisine: Many restaurants serving fresh local seafood
Highlights:
- Direct access from the airport — very convenient
- Great for a one-day trip from Seoul
- Fewer tourists, offering a calm and laid-back atmosphere
5th Place: Gangwon Province (강원도)
Recommended for nature and outdoor lovers, Gangwon-do is also famous as the host of the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.
Popular Areas:
- Gangneung: Beach and café street popular among young people
- Sokcho: Beautiful scenery around Seoraksan and Abai Village
- Pyeongchang: The sacred place of skiing and winter sports
Highlights:
- About 2–3 hours from Seoul by bus
- Perfect for travelers who love scenic nature and photo spots
- Great all-season resort for both summer and winter activities
6th Place: Jeonju (전주)
A historic city where you can experience Hanok (traditional Korean houses) and authentic Korean cuisine.
Attractions:
- Jeonju Hanok Village: A famous area filled with traditional Korean houses
- The birthplace of Bibimbap, perfect for food lovers
- Many hanbok (traditional clothing) rental shops for cultural experiences
Highlights:
- Popular among young women for “retro Korea travel” on SNS
- About 1 hour 30 minutes from Seoul by KTX
- A great mix of history, culture, and cuisine
7th Place: Daegu (대구)
Known for its hot weather and spicy food, Daegu has become a favorite among dedicated Korea fans.
Main Attractions:
- Dongseong-ro: The “Myeongdong of Daegu” — a lively shopping street
- Yangnyeongsi Market: A place to experience traditional Korean medicine (Hanbang)
- 83 Tower Observatory: Offers a panoramic view of Daegu city
Highlights:
- Fewer Japanese tourists — feels like a hidden gem
- About 1 hour 40 minutes from Seoul by KTX
- Recommended for those interested in herbal medicine and spicy local cuisine
Summary: Which Korean Destination Is Perfect for You?
| Rank | Region | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Seoul | A city with everything — shopping, beauty, and culture |
| 2nd | Busan | A coastal city blending ocean and urban charm |
| 3rd | Jeju Island | Relaxing nature-filled getaway |
| 4th | Incheon | A hidden gem near Seoul |
| 5th | Gangwon Province | Stunning scenery and outdoor adventures |
| 6th | Jeonju | Traditional culture and gourmet cuisine |
| 7th | Daegu | Spicy food and herbal medicine culture |
For first-time visitors, Seoul or Busan are perfect choices.
If you prefer a quiet and relaxing trip, try Jeju Island or Jeonju.
And for those who have already visited Korea a few times, Gangwon-do or Daegu offer a chance to explore something new!
Find the Korean travel destination that matches your style and interests —
and may this guide help you plan your next unforgettable trip!
Table of Contents
