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Seoul vs Tokyo

Can't choose between Seoul and Tokyo? Look at cost, timing, and the kind of trip you want.

May, June, September
Best time to visit
March, April, October
$150
Typical cost / day
¥23,700
USD
Currency
JPY
4 days
Ideal length
5 days
18 spots
Live highlights
14 spots

Top things to do in Seoul

  • Seoul Plaza
  • Seoul City Hall
  • Seoul Metropolitan Library
  • Seoul metropolitan area
  • Local food tour of Seoul

Top things to do in Tokyo

  • Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa
  • Meiji Shrine & Harajuku
  • teamLab Planets digital art museum
  • Imperial Palace East Gardens
  • Tsukiji Outer Market food crawl

So, Seoul or Tokyo?

S

Seoul is the pick if you want better value and highlights like Seoul Plaza and Seoul City Hall. Best visited May or June.

T

Tokyo is the better call for Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa and Meiji Shrine & Harajuku and a lighter daily spend. Best visited March or April.

Seoul vs Tokyo: questions

Is Seoul or Tokyo cheaper?+

Seoul is generally the more affordable of the two. Budget roughly $150/day for Seoul and ¥23,700/day for Tokyo for a mid-range trip, before flights.

Seoul or Tokyo, which has better weather?+

Seoul is best in May, June, September, while Tokyo shines in March, April, October. Pick the one whose ideal window matches your travel dates.

Should I visit Seoul or Tokyo first?+

Pick the one that matches the trip you want. The comparison above is a start. Then plan whichever you choose.

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