It’s no secret that Filipinos love to travel, and when they don’t visit their home provinces or domestic destinations like Palawan, Baguio, and Boracay, they often prefer to go overseas. Major Asian cities such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and Seoul are often cited as popular destinations for Filipino tourists.
But some unexpected destinations in Asia are also getting a tourism boost from Filipino travelers. These destinations go against Filipino travel trends that tend to favor the major cities for shopping, beaches, and family-friendly attractions.
Related reading: 10 Lesser-Known Travel Destinations in The Philippines
6 Unique Asian Destinations for Filipino Tourists
Whether it’s the proximity to the Philippines, the need to avoid big-city crowds, or the relaxed travel restrictions for Filipino passport holders, the bump in tourist interest for these Asian destinations give tourists a chance to discover places that are beyond the familiar. They also open travelers to new adventures in food, sightseeing, and activities.
1. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap has garnered international attention thanks to the nearby temples of Angkor Wat. Recently, however, Filipinos are discovering the Cambodian city for themselves as a destination for solo adventures and sports activities as well as group trips.
The draw, besides the epic view of the temples? Sultry tropical weather, delicious Cambodian food, and friendly locals who find easy affinity with Pinoys. And with the presence of five-star hotels in Siem Reap, travelers can now find more options for comfortable accommodations.
2. Da Nang, Vietnam
This city in Central Vietnam has enjoyed an increase in Filipino visitors since direct flights started from Manila. Da Nang and its surrounding areas give tourists a taste of Vietnam outside of the urban centers of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Side trips to Hoi An and Ba Na yield endless sightseeing possibilities, with attractions like the famous Golden Bridge giving visitors Instagram-worthy photo ops. Add to that the explorations of local cuisine and culture, and there’s more for Filipino tourists to enjoy in Da Nang at any time of the year.
3. Chiang Mai, Thailand
While other Filipino tourists may prefer Bangkok or Phuket, the highlands of Chiang Mai hold their own charm. The atmosphere is less party-centric, and some Filipinos even say that the climate and vibes remind them of the best parts of the Philippines.
Chiang Mai’s shopping streets are a good source for Thailand’s authentic artisanal goods, and tours of temples and cultural villages give insight on the distinct local culture in the region. Meanwhile, luxury hotels add a touch of glamour to the experience.
Related reading: 10 Mountain Resorts Across the Philippines to Retreat to in The Future
4. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
The capital city of Sabah is close to Mindanao and has a thriving Filipino community, but it is also enjoying attention from more Filipino tourists. Visitors to Kota Kinabalu can enjoy the sights of the city as well as the nearby beaches, rainforest trails, and hikes on Mount Kinabalu.
Staying in downtown KK lets visitors enjoy galleries, museums, and cultural attractions as well as options for shopping and dining. There are also hotels with stunning views of both the mountains and the sea. In addition, families can enjoy aquariums and botanical parks for exploring marine life and local fauna.
5. Niseko, Japan
Recent developments have made it easier for Filipinos to get tourist visas for Japan, which means more visits to cities in the Land of The Rising Sun. One destination experiencing a boost in Filipino tourism is Niseko in Hokkaido, which is famous for its powder snow, high-end ski resorts, warm onsens, and sporty vibes.
Direct flights from Manila to nearby Sapporo, as well as celebrity sightings, has increased interest in Niseko from Filipinos. It also helps that Niseko has pleasant weather beyond the winter months, which makes it a desirable location for those escaping the tropical summer heat.
6. Jeju Island, South Korea
Filipino fans of both K-dramas and K-pop will be thrilled to learn that they can still visit Jeju visa-free if they fly in and stay on the island until departure. That means more time to visit places featured in TV series such as Our Blues and Something in The Rain, not to mention music videos for BTS.
Apart from the hallyu connections, Jeju Island is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, with natural wonders such as lava tubes and dramatic landscapes. Visitors can ride the island’s native horses at equestrian parks, try the locally grown green tea, and shop in night markets.
Related reading: Philippines’ UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The Next Big Asian Destinations for Filipino Tourists
The popularity of tourist destinations such as Da Nang, Chiang Mai, Jeju and Niseko means that Filipinos are willing to try new things when it comes to their travel experiences. It’s not just a matter of shopping malls, amusement parks, or beach resorts anymore; there’s also a greater interest in immersive experiences with nature and local culture.
As tourist demographics grow older, more Filipinos are also choosing comfort, safety, and even luxury over extreme adventures and budget experiences. Higher-end options in places like Siem Reap and Kota Kinabalu could also bring more Filipino families and luxury travelers into destinations once considered as daring territory.
If the trend continues, expect more Filipino tourists to visit off-beat destinations in Asia, as tours become available for places such as Luang Prabang in Laos and Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia. Until then, consider these current rising destinations as possible options for your next out-of-country getaway.
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