South Korea is the cheaper of the two — around €70 a day against €85 — but price is rarely the whole decision. Here is how they compare on everything that actually settles it: what a day costs, how safe each rates, when to go, and what each one is genuinely good at.
Japan is the bigger trip: many distinct cities, and a rail network that makes covering them genuinely easy. South Korea is compact enough that Seoul can be the whole holiday, with everything else a short train ride away. Japan asks you to keep moving to see it. Korea puts most of what you came for within reach of one city, and keeps it open later.
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 🇰🇷 South Korea | |
|---|---|---|
| Daily cost | ~€85 | ~€70 |
| Safety score | 94/100 | 92/100 |
| Best time to go | Spring, Autumn | Spring, Autumn |
| Climate | Temperate | Temperate |
| Best for | Cities, Culture, Nature | Cities, Culture, Nature |
| Suits | Solo travellers, Couples, Groups of friends | Solo travellers, Couples, Groups of friends |
| Budget level | Mid-range, Luxury | Mid-range |
The safety scores are general indicators, last reviewed in August 2026. They are not travel advice: conditions change, and official advisories often flag specific regions rather than whole countries. Check your own government’s advice before you book.
On-the-ground spending only — flights aren't included, and they often matter more than the daily rate.
| Trip length | Japan | South Korea | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| A long weekend (3 days) | ~€255 | ~€210 | €45 |
| One week | ~€595 | ~€490 | €105 |
| Two weeks | ~€1190 | ~€980 | €210 |
🇯🇵 Japan. Ancient temples meet neon-lit cities in a culture unlike any other on earth.
🇰🇷 South Korea. K-pop, temple stays, neon streets, hiking trails and the world's fastest internet.