7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts

7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Busan South Korea Emerges With New Beach Front Hotels And Direct Flights From LAX

Busan, in South Korea, is experiencing a surge in popularity, thanks to a combination of newly launched direct flights from Los Angeles and a recent boom in beachfront hotels. The city, already South Korea's second largest metropolitan area, is clearly capitalizing on this new access. Hotels like the Fairfield by Marriott Busan Songdo Beach and the Grand Josun Busan provide modern rooms and convenient locations near must-see sites. Busan's appeal is amplified by attractions like Haeundae Beach, with its stunning coastline and lively culinary scene. Efforts to draw international attention, like the city's World Expo bid, have further boosted Busan’s profile even though the bid was unsuccessful. This push towards being a top-tier destination, coupled with a wide variety of lodging options – from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly accommodations – positions Busan to potentially surpass Seoul’s popularity as a must-see Asian destination. The hospitality industry in Busan has clearly responded to the growing interest, suggesting that this trend will only continue.

Busan's hospitality scene is experiencing a noticeable shift with the emergence of new beachfront hotels, seemingly aiming to capture a segment of travelers who seek luxury and a coastal experience without the typical throngs of tourists found at other well-known spots in Busan. The arrival of non-stop flights from LAX has undeniably shortened the travel time, making Busan more appealing for North American tourists. While ticket prices can vary, particularly depending on the season, there's potential to find relatively affordable fares around $600 for a round trip, which could incentivize more budget-minded travelers to explore this South Korean gem.

These newer hotels seem to be built with an eye towards energy efficiency, and feature a range of amenities catered to both vacationers and business travelers. The culinary scene within Busan has been developing a distinct character with an infusion of global trends into traditional Korean cuisine, making it a destination for travelers interested in unique flavor profiles that creatively combine local seafood with international cooking methods. Busan’s beach areas have seen transformations beyond just hotels, encompassing public art and open spaces, a trend in urban development increasingly recognized for its positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.

Busan's proximity to industrial centers such as Ulsan reinforces its profile as a hub of innovation, specifically within sectors like shipbuilding and automobile manufacturing. This creates a chance for curious visitors to gain a different perspective with a bit of industrial tourism. The recent increase in international flight routes has resulted in a noticeable uptick in tourism-related jobs within Busan, driving economic growth and expanding the service industries catering to both locals and visiting tourists. Busan's coastal areas, like Haeundae and Gwangalli, are regularly monitored and seem to have consistent low levels of pollution, making them relatively safe for leisurely beach activities like swimming. Busan has evidently invested in its local transit infrastructure to manage the rising tourist influx, introducing improvements like onboard Wi-Fi and real-time route tracking to enhance the experience for those navigating the city's various attractions.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Busan South Korea Emerges With New Beach Front Hotels And Direct Flights From LAX
2. 7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Fukuoka Japan Opens Modern Art Museum And Adds More International Routes
3. 7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Da Nang Vietnam Launches Night Food Market Circuit And Emirates Connection
4. 7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Chiang Mai Thailand Adds Train Service To Bangkok And Park Hyatt Opening
5. 7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Kaohsiung Taiwan Debuts Harbor Light Festival And Turkish Airlines Service
6. 7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Surabaya Indonesia Opens Forest Skywalk And Qatar Airways Daily Flights
7. 7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Kolkata India Introduces Water Taxi Network And Singapore Airlines A350 Routes

7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Fukuoka Japan Opens Modern Art Museum And Adds More International Routes

Fukuoka, often overshadowed by other Japanese cities, is gaining momentum as a compelling travel destination. The recent renovation and reopening of the Fukuoka Art Museum, with its modern architectural touches and a collection of over 5,000 pieces, places a strong emphasis on contemporary art. The museum's commitment to international appeal is further illustrated through the inclusion of works by renowned artists like Warhol and Chagall, as well as a strong focus on showcasing Asian and Japanese contemporary artists. This artistic rejuvenation complements the city's historical role as a cultural bridge between Japan and Asia.

Coupled with this artistic growth, Fukuoka has been actively developing its international air connections. More direct flights offer improved access to this city for travelers around the globe, removing the hassle of connections or lengthy transit times. Fukuoka's unique blend of history, cultural attractions, and new artistic offerings will hopefully entice a growing wave of curious travellers. It’s positioned to stand out in a region overflowing with established touristic destinations. Fukuoka's distinct culinary scene, a melding of traditional Japanese cuisine with international influences, offers another draw for visitors looking for distinctive flavors. While not as famous as Kyoto or Tokyo, Fukuoka’s newfound cultural profile and easier access suggest a possible future where it can become a more prominent travel destination in Japan.

Fukuoka, a city in Japan's Kyushu region, has recently made a splash in the art world with the reopening of its Modern Art Museum. This museum, originally inaugurated in 1979, underwent a significant renovation that sought to bolster its international profile. The revitalized museum now boasts modern architectural features like a tiled terrace and barrel vaults, echoing some of the hallmarks of modern architecture. The museum's reopening was marked by a major exhibition by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare CBE, signaling Fukuoka's dedication to showing contemporary art from a broader global perspective.

This museum houses a diverse collection exceeding 5,000 works, traversing a vast timeline from roughly 5,000 BC to present day, featuring significant artists like Chagall, Dali, Warhol and Yayoi Kusama. Fukuoka's significance as a historic crossroads, facilitating the exchange of ideas and people between Japan and the rest of Asia, makes the museum's focus on international contemporary art particularly intriguing. Notably, the museum's collection includes both local and internationally-recognized works, creating a rich blend of artistic expression within its walls.

Fukuoka's efforts to improve its global connectivity continue with the addition of new international routes. This increased access can potentially translate to a substantial increase in visitor traffic, driving tourism and related industries in the city. This airport expansion has also led to the emergence of more low-cost airlines, making Fukuoka more affordable for travellers with tighter budgets. This trend may make travel to Fukuoka an appealing option for those wishing to experience Japan without the higher prices often associated with popular spots like Tokyo.

Located in Fukuoka City's Chuo Ward, the museum is conveniently accessible via public transit. It's a short walk from the Ohorikoen subway station, offering a quick and accessible journey for those utilizing public transportation. It will be interesting to see if this new museum and improved flight connections will position Fukuoka as a must-see location on a traveler's itinerary through Japan. The museum's affiliation with the Fukuoka Asian Art Triennale, launched in 1980, provides another dimension to Fukuoka's artistic landscape. It will be interesting to see how the museum and this triennale impact Fukuoka's standing as a destination for art and culture. While it's still too early to judge the full impact of these changes, the future seems bright for Fukuoka, with the museum and the new routes providing a potential catalyst for cultural and economic development.

7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Da Nang Vietnam Launches Night Food Market Circuit And Emirates Connection

Da Nang, a city in Vietnam, has been working hard to establish itself as a destination for those who love good food. This has resulted in the development of a new night food market circuit that promises a range of culinary experiences, making it more appealing for visitors. This circuit includes markets like the Helio Night Market, which is the largest in Da Nang. This particular market attracts both local residents and tourists and offers a diverse mix of foods and shopping opportunities. But Da Nang is also showcasing a nice mix of old and new in markets like the Thanh Khe Tay Night Market, which is one of the oldest traditional markets in the city and is a great place to see a more classic part of Da Nang. Another night market option is the Son Tra Night Market, where many souvenir stalls also offer an interesting snapshot of the local culture. Overall, Da Nang's night market offerings provide a great blend of cultural immersion and delicious and reasonably priced food options, which helps the city appeal to a broader group of travelers.

Da Nang's efforts to improve accessibility are also helping bolster the city's tourism prospects. New flight routes with Emirates airlines suggest that the city is actively seeking to attract a larger number of international tourists. For those looking for a travel destination that can combine a good culinary scene with some exciting night life, Da Nang is a worthy option to consider. As Da Nang's efforts to attract tourists continue to evolve, it may very well become a more prominent destination and could be considered a suitable alternative to some of Asia's major capital cities.

Da Nang, a city in central Vietnam, is steadily establishing itself as a vibrant culinary destination, largely driven by the recent launch of its Night Food Market Circuit. This initiative has brought together numerous food and souvenir stalls across the city, creating a network of evening markets that cater to locals and tourists alike. The Son Tra Night Market, with its roughly 150 vendors, operates daily until 10 PM, potentially extending its hours during peak seasons. It offers a blend of traditional Vietnamese street food, alongside trinkets and souvenirs, in a relatively casual and modern setting.


Thanh Khe Tay Night Market, on Yen Khe 1 Street, is a more established and traditional market. Operating from 6 PM to 11 PM, it preserves a distinct old-world feel, attractive to those seeking a more authentic market experience. However, the largest and possibly the most dynamic market in Da Nang is the Helio Night Market in the Hai Chau district. Open from around 5 PM until 11 PM, it attracts both local residents and visitors with a wider array of offerings, contributing to a busier and more lively environment. There are also other notable markets worth exploring like Han Market, An Thuong Night Market and Con Market, providing an assortment of options for the curious visitor to experience a snapshot of Vietnamese culture.


The Helio Night Market, located on September 2nd Street, is notable because it is a hub of culinary diversity. It operates from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM daily. These markets seem to create a sense of community, drawing in locals and tourists. Generally, the markets begin to fill around 7 PM with the crowds growing as the evening goes on. The overall experience in these markets is a delightful fusion of traditional local culture and a more contemporary atmosphere. The appeal seems to be that it is a food lover’s paradise, presenting a plethora of local street food at quite affordable prices, which appears to be attracting more visitors.


A notable development is the connection to Emirates Airlines, whose recent addition of flights from Dubai to Da Nang has further amplified Da Nang's accessibility. This new air connection has created a more convenient access point, especially for visitors from the Middle East and Europe, potentially leading to increased tourism and a greater variety of visitors. The prices from the US to Da Nang using Emirates often fall below $700 for a roundtrip, which could entice travellers seeking affordable travel experiences in Southeast Asia. This increased flight access, together with the local night market circuits, has resulted in an increase in the types of lodging, with more options in boutique hotels and hostels that provide modern conveniences while keeping a lower price point.


The central location of Da Nang in Vietnam offers travelers a convenient gateway to explore other attractions within the country, especially UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Hoi An and My Son. This geographic advantage expands the appeal of Da Nang beyond its thriving night markets. It seems that the city's public transit has also benefitted from increased tourism, introducing newer bus and ride-sharing options to make it easier for visitors to explore the city. The city itself has seen significant development, transforming from a moderately-sized destination into a more vibrant metropolis with an array of modern conveniences. Yet, it has retained some of its charm and local culture, creating a pleasant balance for those who visit. The emergence of food tours and cooking classes in the Night Food Market Circuit offers a unique facet to the culinary tourism, enabling travelers to not just sample the dishes, but also acquire a greater understanding of Vietnamese culinary traditions. It's clear that Da Nang is pursuing a strategy of growing its tourism while simultaneously cultivating its cultural heritage.

7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Chiang Mai Thailand Adds Train Service To Bangkok And Park Hyatt Opening

Chiang Mai, nestled in the northern region of Thailand, is enhancing its accessibility with the introduction of a new train service to Bangkok. This new service offers several daily departures, giving travelers a range of choices to navigate the journey. For those looking for the fastest option, Train No. 8 gets you there in about 10 hours and 5 minutes. But there are other alternatives including express day trains and overnight sleeper trains. Sleeper options now even feature renewed dining car services. This improved rail infrastructure adds a valuable layer to both domestic travel for Thais and international tourism for visitors to the region, and certainly reinforces Chiang Mai's standing as a key destination within Thailand.

Adding to the city's attractiveness is the recent grand opening of a Park Hyatt hotel. This addition injects a new level of luxury into Chiang Mai's accommodation scene. The hotel's arrival highlights a growing emphasis on attracting upscale travelers and points towards a likely expansion of the hospitality sector. This, coupled with better access via train, suggests Chiang Mai might become even more competitive with Thailand's bustling capital Bangkok. The combination of more convenient rail connections and top-tier accommodations places Chiang Mai firmly on the map as a desirable alternative to the capital city.

Chiang Mai's transportation landscape is undergoing a noteworthy transformation with the addition of a train service connecting it to Bangkok. Multiple daily departures are now available, offering a range of journey durations from roughly 10 hours to nearly 14 hours, depending on the chosen train. The fastest train, number 8, provides a relatively quick connection, while others like the overnight sleeper train, number 9, utilize newer carriages and feature dining services that have recently resumed. This new rail link presents a more affordable and potentially more scenic alternative to flying, although it still takes over 10 hours to complete the trip. It's advisable to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes prior to departure for a smoother boarding experience.


This expansion of train services is part of a larger effort by Thailand to improve its domestic travel options, aiming to create a more robust and interconnected transportation network. Chiang Mai's growing appeal as a travel destination is also evident with the opening of a Park Hyatt. This five-star hotel further strengthens the city's tourism infrastructure, catering to a more affluent visitor segment. It will be interesting to see if this luxury hotel's offerings can integrate more seamlessly with the city’s existing character and create a unique visitor experience that aligns with Chiang Mai's distinctive charm.

The combination of enhanced train connections and new luxury hotels indicates a shift in the tourism landscape of Chiang Mai. While it remains to be seen if the new train route significantly alters travel patterns between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, it does broaden the range of options for travelers and potentially offers a more relaxed and scenic travel alternative. The opening of the Park Hyatt suggests Chiang Mai’s attractiveness for tourism investment is growing, which could be a catalyst for further economic growth and the potential for a more diverse set of jobs in the service industry. It will be fascinating to observe how these developments impact the local culture and business environment in the years to come. The interplay between growing tourism and the city's inherent charm will be a crucial factor in determining whether this development can elevate Chiang Mai to a more prominent role among tourist destinations in Thailand.

7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Kaohsiung Taiwan Debuts Harbor Light Festival And Turkish Airlines Service

Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is making a splash with its newly launched Harbor Light Festival, showcasing a dazzling mix of traditional and modern light displays. The festival aims to shine a brighter spotlight on the city, hopefully enticing both local and international travelers with its unique blend of historical influences and cutting-edge light installations. This event, alongside the introduction of new Turkish Airlines flights, could significantly enhance Kaohsiung's visibility as a travel destination.

Turkish Airlines' decision to add Kaohsiung to its route map is notable, offering a potentially more economical and convenient way to reach this part of Taiwan. While the impact of these changes might take some time to fully unfold, it certainly gives the impression that Kaohsiung is striving to become a more central player in the Asian travel scene. These combined efforts - the cultural festival and the increased flight options - represent a deliberate attempt to attract a wider audience and potentially shift Kaohsiung's position from a slightly overlooked second city to a destination that truly stands out on a traveler's Asian itinerary. Whether it will achieve that remains to be seen, but the initial signs are promising. The future success of these initiatives will likely hinge on how successfully they can attract more travelers and contribute to Kaohsiung’s long-term tourism and economic development.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan's second-largest city, is gaining attention through a captivating blend of innovation and tradition, particularly with its annual Harbor Light Festival. This festival skillfully integrates cutting-edge light technology with artistic expression, resulting in a visually stunning display that draws visitors from around the world. The festival's organizers often incorporate light into intricate narratives, essentially reimagining the harbor through creative use of light installations.

Adding to the city's attractiveness is the recent launch of direct flights from Istanbul to Kaohsiung by Turkish Airlines. This new air route dramatically shortens travel times to Taiwan's southern region and provides a convenient gateway for travelers to connect to over 300 destinations across the globe. The airline's decision to establish this route positions Kaohsiung as a potential new travel hub within Asia. While round-trip fares between Istanbul and Kaohsiung can be found for under $800, it remains to be seen how consistently these affordable fares will be offered. The pricing dynamic, however, has the potential to encourage travelers to explore beyond Taiwan’s capital city.


Kaohsiung has a notable maritime ecosystem, making it a location of interest for various researchers and specialists. The harbor itself is a central focal point, providing an opportunity to study marine biology and the city's position in international trade. The harbor is remarkably busy, handling over 5 million TEUs annually, giving observers insight into maritime logistics and global trade networks. It's a fascinating environment for anyone with interest in supply chain dynamics or marine engineering.

Beyond the festivals and its harbor, Kaohsiung offers diverse attractions that contribute to its image as a cultural destination. The city has invested in modernizing its public infrastructure, including one of Southeast Asia's most advanced metro systems. This efficient network connects major tourist areas, which is especially beneficial for visitors attending the light festival or exploring other parts of the city. Kaohsiung is also home to the Pier-2 Art Center, a former warehouse district transformed into a thriving arts hub. This vibrant creative district provides a modern lens into the city's commitment to the arts and underscores the integration of creativity with commerce.


Lastly, Kaohsiung offers a rich culinary landscape that many travelers find appealing. The city’s seafood markets are popular among both locals and tourists, and the Liuhe Night Market is known for its diverse array of authentic local cuisine, highlighting the use of fresh seafood. The government has also undertaken improvements to the harbor area, transforming it into a popular space for both recreation and tourism, creating a positive effect on the quality of life for locals and providing visitors with a variety of enjoyable activities. Kaohsiung's Harbor Light Festival offers an exemplary case of how strategic urban events can stimulate the economy and attract tourists, making it an excellent example of a city strategically utilizing its resources to drive tourism and local development. It will be interesting to observe how the introduction of Turkish Airlines affects visitor numbers and how Kaohsiung continues to develop its unique appeal within Asia.

7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Surabaya Indonesia Opens Forest Skywalk And Qatar Airways Daily Flights

Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city, is increasingly on the radar of travelers thanks to a couple of recent developments. The city has opened a Forest Skywalk, which provides a new way to experience Surabaya's natural beauty. This elevated walkway offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local environment, adding another layer to the city's attractions. It remains to be seen if this will attract a sizable number of tourists, but it signals that the city wants to diversify its tourism appeal beyond its historical landmarks. The other key development is that Qatar Airways has decided to add daily flights to Surabaya, making it a lot easier for international travelers to reach the city. This should increase tourist numbers, although whether it can truly rival Jakarta for top spot in Indonesia will depend on other factors. Surabaya's identity is still heavily connected to its rich cultural heritage, as shown by attractions such as the Heroes Monument, which commemorates the city's pivotal role in the Indonesian independence struggle. While its proximity to natural highlights like the Mount Bromo volcano and even a Bamboo Forest are attractive, it remains to be seen whether those will become the major draws for tourists. It's a city that blends its historical background with modern features, potentially offering a unique experience for travelers in Asia.

Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city, often overshadowed by Jakarta, is making strides in attracting international visitors. A new attraction, the Forest Skywalk, offers a unique perspective on the city with its 25-meter height. From this vantage point, visitors can appreciate both the urban landscape and the wildlife that thrives in Surabaya's green spaces. It's an intriguing example of how engineering and design can integrate recreation into urban planning.

This development is further enhanced by Qatar Airways' recent launch of daily flights to the city. This addition significantly improves international connectivity, especially important for a major Indonesian economic hub that previously had limited direct international connections. It's not just a boon for tourism but also for local businesses, especially in sectors like hospitality and transport. The flights themselves can sometimes be had for surprisingly reasonable prices, especially during the off-season, potentially making Surabaya a more attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.

While the city offers a diverse culinary scene with dishes influenced by Javanese and multicultural traditions—like the uniquely dark rawon beef soup—the new Skywalk and flight options position Surabaya as a hub for exploring Indonesia beyond its capital. The city lies near several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it an ideal starting point for those interested in the nation's historical and cultural significance.

The recent developments in Surabaya, particularly with the Skywalk and new air connections, showcase the city's efforts towards modernization. It's attempting to transition from merely a transit point to a destination with rich cultural and culinary experiences. The rising number of low-cost carriers and new international routes suggest Surabaya is gaining traction as a jumping-off point for other Southeast Asian adventures. Whether these initiatives fully achieve their goal of elevating Surabaya's standing in the tourism arena remains to be seen, but they certainly signal a promising future for the city.

7 Underrated Second Cities in Asia That Rival Their Capital Counterparts - Kolkata India Introduces Water Taxi Network And Singapore Airlines A350 Routes

Kolkata, India, is making moves to improve how people get around with the introduction of a new water taxi system. This is a creative way to manage the city's busy streets while also showing off its charming waterways. It reflects a wider trend across the globe of exploring more eco-friendly and forward-thinking transportation options. This makes Kolkata a more attractive place to visit, both for locals and people coming in from outside.

On the air travel side, Singapore Airlines is temporarily using a larger Airbus A350-900 aircraft for flights between Kolkata and Singapore. This move boosts the number of passengers they can carry, especially during a time when lots of people are traveling. This bigger aircraft shows that Singapore Airlines sees Kolkata as a growing travel hub. It also indicates an effort to make traveling to and from the city more efficient and comfortable. This, combined with the new water taxis, gives Kolkata a better shot at competing with more famous Asian capital cities as a popular travel destination. These changes not only boost Kolkata's travel image, but they also speak to how the city is becoming a more dynamic place to visit overall.

Kolkata, India, has been making interesting moves in transportation and air travel recently. They've introduced a water taxi network which is designed to alleviate traffic and provide a more scenic way to get around. It's quite a different approach to urban planning, providing access to various parts of the city, including historical areas and commercial centers. One hopes that it reduces congestion, but also that the boats and infrastructure are well-maintained. We will have to see how it fares in the coming months and years.


On the airline front, Singapore Airlines has been experimenting with using the Airbus A350 on their Kolkata-Singapore route. The A350 is known for being efficient in fuel consumption and a bit quieter than older planes. This was initially done for a limited time period, mainly around the Durga Puja, a period with a large surge in travellers. It's a larger aircraft, capable of flying long distances, and is more suited for higher passenger traffic. It will be interesting to see how frequently it's used in the long term.


These larger aircraft also mean there are more business class seats, 40 versus 10 on the older Boeing planes. The current flight plan seems to use the larger planes on certain days, mainly peak travel days. This could eventually drive down flight prices to the region for more travelers. While flights are not always inexpensive, fares to Singapore from Kolkata often are below $500 for a round trip, potentially making the region a more attractive travel spot for budget-conscious travellers.


Kolkata is also a city with a unique culinary scene, fusing traditional Bengali food with other influences. This can range from simple street food stands to modern restaurants serving a greater array of international cuisines. While not as globally popular as some of the other Asian mega-cities, Kolkata has a distinct character and culture that hopefully gets boosted by these developments.



The water taxis are not only aimed at relieving traffic, but also can be utilized to create various tour options that highlight the cultural and historical aspects of the city. We'll see how these services get used, but it offers the potential to create more interesting tours and more reasons for visitors to spend more time in Kolkata.



Whether this water taxi system becomes a well-integrated part of the urban landscape and the A350 services boost international tourism to Kolkata remains to be seen. It's interesting to watch how these changes evolve in the long term. With its strong historical connections and heritage sites that have great potential for tourism, the new transportation solutions could be a game-changer. Perhaps Kolkata's relatively modest size makes it a more manageable city in a region dominated by mega-cities. There's potential to see a continued shift towards urban development plans that include more waterways. It's also worth watching how this enhanced air travel connectivity affects economic development and global investment in the city.