Taiwan is the cheaper of the two — around €60 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 | 🇹🇼 Taiwan | |
|---|---|---|
| Daily cost | ~€85 | ~€60 |
| Safety score | 94/100 | 90/100 |
| Best time to go | Spring, Autumn | Spring, Autumn |
| Climate | Temperate | Tropical, Temperate |
| Best for | Cities, Culture, Nature | Cities, Culture, Nature, Adventure |
| 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 | Taiwan | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| A long weekend (3 days) | ~€255 | ~€180 | €75 |
| One week | ~€595 | ~€420 | €175 |
| Two weeks | ~€1190 | ~€840 | €350 |
🇯🇵 Japan. Ancient temples meet neon-lit cities in a culture unlike any other on earth.
🇹🇼 Taiwan. Night markets, hot springs, dramatic gorges and the friendliest people in Asia.