Who's up for an adventure this summer? Well, the folks at Mastercard just revealed insightful data showing where the majority of travelers are heading in Asia.
Some are global icons, and others are big surprises. As it's been well documented, more travelers are exploring the lesser-known, leading to a rise in unsuspecting cities taking center stage.
If you were to ask me, I would've nailed a couple of guesses and struck out with Sri Lanka, often considered Asia's hottest destination right now due to its cultural richness, unmatched beauty, and unforgettable train rides.
A fair share of travelers are sticking to the norm, ready to get lost in a maze of Japan's urban delights, while others are finally ready to embrace China, one of the most controversial travel destinations in Asia for Americans.
All in all, Asia is one of the most astounding continents you'll ever step foot on, but perhaps no more than these 4 cities travelers are booking in droves this summer:
4) Seoul, South Korea
In just over a month, Americans across the nation will be celebrating our nation's independence (or at least using the holiday as an excuse) by lighting their backyard barbecue grills and whipping up burgers, hot dogs, and tofurkey for that one vegan friend we all have.
But Seoul has become a foodie destination, Americans love to indulge in their own barbecue flair with tabletop grills and sensational cuts of meat lathered in rich and flavorful spices, especially since Korean barbecue restaurants have taken over the U.S.
Despite being one of the few places on Earth that can make a 7-Eleven cool, Seoul isn't just for foodies — it's a draw for cutting-edge techies, history buffs, and K-Pop fanatics, where you can bust out your favorite tune at a late-night karaoke bar.
Seoul, South Korea's capital city, is also easy to reach with plentiful direct flights. In fact, it's caught my eye, too; I just booked my first trip!
Seoul's top summer attraction:
3) Shanghai, China
Are Americans back to trusting China again? Well, money talks, and that's what Mastercard's data tells us.
Despite prior travel warnings since the dark days of the pandemic and the ongoing aftermath still finger-pointing and badmouthing, the U.S. State Department finally downgraded China's no-go status to Level 2, aligning with other popular destinations such as Cancun, Paris, and Punta Cana.
Hong Kong is usually the go-to destination, but this summer it's Shanghai. This dazzling metropolis is where old meets new with futuristic skyscrapers towering over historic districts like Nanshi, where you'll find bustling bazaars, street food aromas, and astonishing temples.
Shanghai is super easy to get around, and cheap too, with a modern metro system to navigate a city unlike anywhere in the States.
Shanghai's top summer attraction:
- Legoland Shanghai Resort (grand opening July 5, 2025)
2) Osaka, Japan
Perhaps the biggest surprise on Mastercard's report was Osaka, creeping up in Tokyo's vast shadow.
Whether an add-on to a Tokyo trip or your mainstay, Osaka has become one of Asia's trendiest destinations with incredible art, captivating vibrancy, charming locals, and arguably the best food scene in Japan, which surely Tokyo would have something to say about that.
But…Osaka is actually known as “the nation's kitchen”. Not only will you delight your tastebuds here, you'll never have a dull moment as one of the most entertaining cities this side of the globe, especially the eye-popping Dotonbori district.
Unlike parts of Tokyo, where you're unsure if you're breaking the unwritten code of ethics, whether it's slurping noodles or talking on the subway, Osaka is on the other end of the spectrum.
Osaka's top summer attraction:
1) Tokyo, Japan
Speak of the devil! Is anyone surprised Tokyo reigns supreme yet again?
It's impossible to sum up the world's largest city in a paragraph, but that's exactly the draw.
If you're looking to immerse yourself in culture and dare to tap into your wanderlust with the desire to get lost in an urban sprawl known for incredible cuisine, off-the-wall attractions, and iconic luxury hotels, Tokyo is a bucket-list destination for anyone.
Easily connected from the U.S., it's one of the most convenient long-haul Asia routes, especially with Japan's own low-cost carrier Zipair soaring through American skies.
Visitors will find anything from back-alley izakayas, capybara cafes, robotic dinosaur-themed hotels, and real-life Mario Kart racing — it's a world unlike any other.
Tokyo's top summer attraction:
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