Japan and South Korea remain popular destinations for Filipinos for several reasons besides their trendy attractions, cultural appeal, and ease of access.

Japan and South Korea have done a good job of preserving their historic buildings, which are now housed in trendy buildings. In Japan, colorful festivals and high-tech cities like Tokyo and Osaka are a big draw for Filipino tourists. Meanwhile, South Korea offers a mix of historic palaces and modern grocery shopping districts in cities like Seoul and Busan.

The influence of Korean and Japanese pop culture also plays a significant role. With the widespread popularity of K-pop, K-dramas, anime, and manga, many Filipinos are drawn to experience the culture firsthand. Cities in both countries are known for their entertainment, shopping, and culinary scenes that attract visitors with diverse interests.

The proximity of Japan and South Korea to the Philippines makes them easily accessible with frequent, affordable flights, not to mention that flying to Tokyo or Seoul takes just 4 to 5 hours.

According to an Agoda survey, 84% of travelers are interested in exploring new destinations. This interest in finding off-the-beaten-path places in Japan and South Korea provides new opportunities to delight in those popular countries from a new perspective, especially for those who have already visited them.

For those seeking unique experiences away from the crowds, these hidden gems in Japan and South Korea offer the chance to uncover something new and extraordinary:

Tottori Sand Dunes, Tottori Prefecture, Japan

Located by the Sea of Japan, the Tottori Sand Dunes stretch for 16 kilometers and offer a desert-like experience. You can try sandboarding, take a camel ride, or just enjoy the stunning landscape. These dunes have formed over thousands of years, and nearby, the Sand Museum displays amazing sand sculptures by artists from around the world.

Shirakami Sanchi, Aomori and Akita Prefectures (Japan)

Shirakami Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a forest of centuries-old beech trees, waterfalls and trails. The forest is approximately 8,000 years old and was the origin of the movie Princess Mononoke. It is a quiet place to enjoy nature, with beautiful perspectives from the top of Mount Shirakami.

Hahoe Folk Village, Andong, South Korea

Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO site, preserves traditional Korean houses. In Andong, this living museum lets you step back into Korea’s past, with cultural performances like mask dances. Try the local dish, Andong jjimdak, a flavorful braised chicken.

Oedo Botania, Geoje Island (South Korea)

Oedo Botania is a marine botanical garden on Geoje Island. With its beautiful European-style gardens and stunning sea views, it’s a peaceful place to relax. You can take a ferry to get there, making it a perfect escape from the crowds.

Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang, South Korea

The Damyang Bamboo Forest, or Juknokwon, is a quiet spot with walking paths through tall bamboo. It’s also known for its bamboo-inspired dishes like bamboo rice and bamboo ice cream, which are must-tries for food lovers.

For those who want a unique experience, these hidden gems offer a chance to enjoy peaceful, less crowded places. Traveling in off-peak seasons is a good way to experience these spots in a more relaxed setting. Whether it’s hiking in Shirakami Sanchi or exploring Oedo Botania’s gardens, these places promise memorable adventures.

Getting to those destinations can be part of the fun, with scenic ferry rides and winding bus routes. Researching transportation ahead of time will help you plan better, and regional passes can save you time and money.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that hidden destinations present their own challenges, such as remote locations or limited facilities. This is where comprehensive travel insurance becomes essential. Developed in collaboration with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master ensures that you are covered against personal accidents, flight delays, lost luggage, medical emergencies and even coverage against COVID-19.  

Securing this coverage is effortless—simply head to the GInsure page in your GCash app, choose Travel Master, and fill in your travel details. Within moments, you’ll have a policy that keeps you protected no matter where your journey takes you.