Food goes beyond mere sustenance—it’s an adventure, an experience, and a celebration of flavors. For travelers eager to savor authentic dishes, nothing beats tasting them at their origin. Agoda, the digital travel platform, has just released its list of Asia’s top destinations for food tourism, with South Korea emerging as the top pick for culinary enthusiasts.
According to Agoda, 64% of travelers visiting South Korea are drawn primarily by the country’s rich culinary scene, from the iconic kimchi to mouthwatering Korean barbecue and fried chicken. Following closely behind is Taiwan, with 62% of visitors prioritizing food experiences, while Thailand (55%), Japan (52%), and Malaysia (49%) round out the top five. Agoda’s findings are based on a survey of over 4,000 users after they booked trips to various markets, highlighting Asia’s most popular spots for food-centric travel.
| Top Five Foodie Destinations(Based on Agoda’s survey data) |
| South Korea |
| Taiwan |
| Thailand |
| Japan |
| Malaysia |
Michael Hwang, Agoda’s Country Director for the Philippines, shared, “Food is more than just a means to satisfy hunger; it’s a gateway into culture. Many travelers are so enthusiastic about food that they often reserve a table abroad before even booking their flights. Our survey highlights that travelers are increasingly choosing destinations where they can dive into local culinary experiences as a priority over traditional sightseeing. Agoda is thrilled to offer valuable deals to these culinary hotspots, allowing travelers to spend more on the most delicious local specialties.”
Here’s a whirlwind Culinary Tour Through Asia’s Top Five food destinations:
- South Korea
South Korea’s culinary scene is a magnet for food enthusiasts worldwide, fueled in part by K-dramas and films that spotlight its unique flavors. On Jeju Island, food lovers can relish fresh seafood and the tender heukdwaeji (black pork) sizzling on a classic Korean BBQ grill. Adventurous diners may want to try ganjang gejang (soy-marinated raw crab) in coastal cities like Incheon—a bold dish that’s sure to spark conversation (and maybe a little heat!). For comforting Korean soul food, Gangneung offers chodang sundubu, a warm and soothing soft tofu soup. Seoul’s traditional markets, like Gwangjang Market, are also must-visits for iconic street foods such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and bindaetteok (crispy savory pancakes).
- Taiwan
Taiwan is a culinary paradise where ancient traditions meet modern flavors. Taipei’s renowned night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, are a must for any foodie, offering everything from the bold flavors of stinky tofu to the world-famous bubble tea. In Tainan, traditional specialties like danzai noodles and milkfish soup showcase the island’s rich culinary heritage. Taiwan also boasts a unique tea culture, with Alishan’s oolong tea holding a special place for tea enthusiasts everywhere.
- Thailand
Thailand is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting an unparalleled street food culture. The traditional food stalls in Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, serve up mouthwatering dishes like crispy pork belly, pad thai, crispy oyster omelet, and mango sticky rice—all at incredibly affordable prices. In northern Thailand, the rich and creamy Khao Soy in Chiang Mai is a must-try, while in the south, the lesser-known Khanom Jeen—fermented rice noodles accompanied by a selection of spicy curries—is quickly gaining popularity among food lovers.
- Japan
Japan is a culinary paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of experiences from izakaya bar snacks to elaborate kaiseki meals. In Tokyo, the Tsukiji Outer Market is a must-visit for fresh sushi and sashimi, while nearby areas like Shinjuku and Ginza are perfect for indulging in local favorites such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). Seafood enthusiasts should not miss Otaru in Hokkaido, where they can savor renowned crabs, uni (sea urchin), and delectable seafood donburi. For ramen lovers, Tenjin in Fukuoka is the go-to destination to taste the iconic tonkotsu ramen, known for its rich pork broth.
- Malaysia
Malaysia’s cuisine is a vibrant melting pot of flavors, reflecting its rich multicultural heritage. In Kuala Lumpur, Nasi Lemak is served in various styles, from Nasi Lemak Bungkus (wrapped rice with coconut milk, sambal, and an array of toppings) to Nasi Lemak Ayam Goreng Berempah (spicy fried chicken). The Penang region tempts visitors with beloved street food classics such as Char Kway Teow (stir-fried rice noodles), Hokkien Mee (savory noodle soup), and Cendol (a refreshing shaved ice dessert). In East Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu offers fresh local specialties like Hinava (raw fish salad) and Tuaran Mee. Meanwhile, Kuching is famed for its Manok Pansoh, a traditional Iban dish featuring chicken cooked in bamboo with fragrant herbs.
Travelers from the Philippines who prioritize their appetite as a travel motivator are primarily heading to Japan, followed closely by Thailand and Taiwan. Meanwhile, food lovers from South Korea frequently visit the Philippines to indulge in its culinary offerings.
Agoda simplifies the journey from food dreams to reality, providing access to over 4.5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities. From street food tours in Bangkok to sushi-making classes in Tokyo, Agoda allows travelers to explore a world of global flavors. For more details, visit agoda.com or download the Agoda app.
