Both Japan and South Korea are bucket-list trips from India, but they differ meaningfully in cost and vibe. Here's an honest side-by-side for a 6-day trip from India, then let TripByDNA build the version that matches you.
JapanSouth Korea
Return flights (India, economy)₹45,000–₹68,000₹38,000–₹58,000
Mid-range hotel / night₹9,000–₹16,000₹7,000–₹13,000
Food per day (2 people)₹5,000–₹9,000₹4,000–₹7,000
City transport pass / day₹800–₹1,500₹600–₹1,000
Visa (Indian passport)e-Visa, ~₹1,600Sticker visa, ~₹4,500
Total, 6 days / 2 people₹1.9L–₹3.2L₹1.6L–₹2.7L
Our take: South Korea is typically 10–15% cheaper overall; Japan edges ahead on food experiences and breadth. Your Traveller DNA decides which trade-offs matter to you.
Common questions
Is Japan or Korea cheaper from India?
Korea is usually a little cheaper on hotels and flights; Japan costs a bit more but offers wider food and sightseeing variety.
Which is better for a first Asia trip?
Japan for iconic culture and food, Korea for value, nightlife and easier on-ground costs.
Make Japan yours
Create your Traveller DNA and get a Japan trip built around how you actually travel — costs, hotels, itinerary and all.