Why is Vietnam’s tourism especially attractive to Asian travelers?

Recently, Outbox – a company specializing in tourism market research has identified five key reasons why Vietnam has become particularly appealing to Asian travelers.

As acknowledged by many international travel websites and organizations, Vietnam captivates visitors with its unique strengths: culture, nature, people, and absolute safety.

Nature: A Stunning Masterpiece

According to Outbox data, 52.1% of Asian tourists choose Vietnam as a travel destination due to its breathtaking natural beauty.

From the towering mountains in the North to the crystal-clear beaches in the Central region and the fertile deltas in the South, Vietnam offers a rich and diverse landscape that enchants every visitor. Travelers from China, South Korea, Japan, and Thailand are particularly drawn to Vietnam’s natural wonders, including:

• Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of majestic limestone islands.

• Sapa – Famous for its picturesque terraced rice fields and vibrant ethnic minority culture.

• Da Nang & Hoi An – A perfect blend of stunning beaches, ancient streets, and iconic bridges.

• Phu Quoc – A tropical paradise with pristine beaches and mesmerizing sunsets.

A Rich and Distinctive Culture

Outbox data reveals that 24.8% of Asian travelers prefer trips that allow them to experience culture and cuisine.

Beyond its natural beauty, Vietnam is a country with a deep historical background, where cultural traditions have been preserved for thousands of years. This rich heritage is reflected in architecture, customs, beliefs, and the daily life of the Vietnamese people. Some of the most culturally significant destinations loved by Asian tourists include:

• Hanoi – The cultural hub of Vietnam, known for its ancient streets, historical landmarks, and peaceful local lifestyle.

• Hue – A city filled with imperial palaces, tombs, and temples that reflect Vietnam’s feudal past.

• Temples and Religious Sites – Vietnam has many sacred temples that attract tourists from Buddhist-majority countries like Thailand, Myanmar, China, and South Korea.

Over 27% of Asian Visitors Choose Vietnam for Its Unique Cuisine

Vietnam is a food paradise that perfectly balances sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors. Many Vietnamese dishes are highly rated by international tourists, especially Asian visitors, due to their familiar yet distinct tastes:

• Pho – Vietnam’s most iconic dish, famous worldwide.

• Bun Cha & Banh Mi – Popular street foods, especially in Hanoi.

• Banh Xeo & Goi Cuon – Simple yet irresistibly delicious Vietnamese specialties.

• Vietnamese Coffee – Bold and flavorful, particularly Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk) and Egg Coffee, which are favorites among South Korean and Japanese tourists.

Affordable Travel with Unique Experiences

Compared to other popular destinations in Asia, such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, traveling in Vietnam is relatively budget-friendly.

Visitors can experience luxury beach resorts, high-end hotels, and delicious local food at a fraction of the cost. This affordability is particularly appealing to tourists from countries with a high cost of living, such as Japan and South Korea, allowing them to enjoy a premium vacation without overspending.

In 2024, a leading financial magazine from the UK ranked Hoi An – one of Vietnam’s top travel destinations – among the most affordable tourist spots in Asia. The daily expenses and service costs in Vietnam are significantly lower than in other regional destinations.

Over 40% of Travelers Choose Vietnam for Its Safety and Hospitality

One of the biggest reasons why Asian travelers love Vietnam is the friendliness and hospitality of its people. Tourists often receive warm smiles and helpful assistance, whether in bustling cities or remote villages. This welcoming atmosphere is a major factor that encourages many visitors to return.

According to an Outbox survey, 40.7% of Asian travelers cited safety and hospitality as their main reasons for choosing Vietnam over other destinations.

Interestingly, any incident involving tourist safety is quickly addressed by local authorities, residents, and the police, ensuring a secure and pleasant travel experience.

With these remarkable advantages, it's no surprise that an increasing number of tourists from South Korea, China, Japan, and Thailand are choosing Vietnam as their preferred travel destination.

About Outbox

Outbox is a company specializing in tourism market research, data analytics, and strategic consulting for the tourism and hospitality industry. With strong expertise in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, Outbox is a trusted partner that helps businesses understand traveler behavior, market trends, and ways to optimize tourism operations To enhance visitor experiences and shape future tourism strategies, Visit Indochina also considers Outbox a crucial information source in its mission to attract more tourists to Vietnam.

Visit Indochina.