Learning Objectives:

1. To identify the different countries in Southeast Asia.

2. To be able to locate the Southeast Asian countries in the map.
3. To be able to discuss each countries tourists’ attractions, culture, and religions.

Pre-Activity: I. Identification: Identify which country is stated.

1. Formosa
2. Heung Gong/ Fragrant Harbor
3. Largest Country in East Asia
4. Land of the Rising Sun
5. Las Vegas of Asia
II. Identification: Identify the countries capital.
1. North Korea
2. South Korea
3. Mongolia
4. Hongkong
5. Macau
 East Asia
East Asia, the home of the Asia’s
largest country, China, and the
largest desert, Gobi Desert. This
subregion is composed of six
political states such as China,
Mongolia, North Korea, South
Korea, Japan and Taiwan, and two
special administrative regions
(SAR): Hongkong, and Macau.
Taiwan, Hongkong, and Macau
are countries associated with
mainland China. The region’s
major rivers include Yellow River
(Huang He), Long River (Chan
Jiang), and West River (Xi Jiang).
The countries under this region
possess a rich culture. The distinct
cultural and historical identity of
each nation serves as the country’s
tourism resource. Culture may be
diverse in the region, but there are
shared values that are evidently
practiced by the people of East
Asia, such as high regard for
respect specifically to those in
authority and their public demeanor or public behavior. Other similarities can be found in their
language backgrounds and food.

Countries: 6 Countries
Largest Country: China
Biggest Island: Japan
Longest River: Yangtze River
Highest Mountain: Mt. Jade Mountain (Yushan)
Taiwan
Taiwan, or the Republic of China
(ROC), was formerly known as
“Formosa”, which means
“beautiful”. It is surrounded by
Japan in the north and Philippines
is the south. Taiwan is a country
that put high respect to various
religious practices. The language
spoken in the country are
Taiwanese Mandarin (official),
Hakka, and indigenous dialects.
Taipei, the capital, is situated in the
northern part of the country.
It houses major tourist attractions such as:
1. Taipei 101, the country’s tallest skyscraper
2. National Museum of History, which showcases Taiwan’s Historical Treasures
3. National Palace Museum, which exhibits Chinese imperial arts and artifacts collection
4. National Taiwan Museum

The main gateway to the country is the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), it serves as
the hub of the country’s principal carriers China Airlines (CI) and EVA Air (BR).
Taiwan is also famous for its pearl milk tea or bubble tea, a drink composed of black tea, pearls,
and milk. This drink may have been concocted because tea is one of country’s specialties. Taiwan’s
tea includes black, oolong, white, and green tea (Jones, 2018).

Philippines passport holders can visit Taiwan for at least 14 days without applying for a visa for
the purpose of tourism (e.g., attending conference, visiting friends and relatives, among others).
This visa-free privilege has been extended until July 31, 2020 (https://www.roc-taiwan.org/)

Capital: Taipei
Currency: Taiwan New Dollar (NTD)
Religions: Buddhism, Taoism Christianity, and Islam
Carrier: China Airlines (CI)
Language: Taiwanese Mandarin
Major International Airport: Taiwan Taoyuan Airport
(TPE), Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH), Taichung
International Airport (TXG), and Taipei Songshan Airport
(TSA)
Japan (Nihon or Nippon), also known
as the “Land of the Rising Sun”, is
divided into eight regions: Kanto,
Chubu, Hokkaido, Kansai, Kyushu,
Shikuko, Chugoku, and Tohoku.
Tokyo, The country’s capital, is
situated in the region Kanto. The major
gateways are Narita (NRT) and
Haneda (HND) International Airports.
The bustling capital of the country is
the home to many of the most attractive
tourist places such as:
✓ Ginza District, a shopping
district consisting of luxury brands
✓ The Imperial Palace, which serves as the house of the Imperial family
✓ Tokyo Skytree, the tallest skyscraper in Japan
✓ Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea, which are popular theme parks in Tokyo
Japan has four seasons, which are spring, winter, summer, and fall. Each season is marked with
spectacular sceneries. Spring (March to May) is the season to view the cherry blossoms (sakura).
Winter (December to February) is the perfect time to visit Japan’s ski destinations and to
experience onsen (hots spring). Summer (June to Mid-September) is the best time to observe
Japan’s festivals, such as the Gion Festival in Kyoto, a festival registered in UNESCO intangible
culture heritage list (http://ich.unesco.org). Fall (September to November) is a good time to see
the country covered with colorful leaves.
Japan’s rich and interesting culture can be appreciated through their food, traditional arts and
crafts, and temples and shrine. Ramen and sushi are among the popular Japanese foods. Sumo
(Japanese-style wrestling) and Budo (Kendo) are Japanese martials arts. The country is also proud
with their performing arts that have been listed in the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. These
are Noh (musical drama), Banraku (puppet theater), and Kabuki (dance drama). (Japan National
Tourism Organization, 2016).
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Motonosumi Inari Shrine, Usa Shrine, and Arakura Sengen Shrine
are among the shrines in Japan dedicated to practicing Shinto, the country’s national religion.
Temples such as Yama-dera temple, Zenkoji Temple, and Phoenix Hall at Byodo-in Temple,
registered as world cultural heritage sites, are just a few of the Buddhist temples in Japan (Japan
National Tourism Organization, 2016).
It is important to note that when visiting Japan, an individual is expected to be punctual. It can be
observed that Japanese are formal in their introduction. Bowing is customary. It is considered rude
to use one finger in point for something. Use the whole hand instead.
Philippine nationals who desire to visit Japan for tourism purposes must secure a Temporary Visit
Visa (stay in Japan is up to 90 days). Documents needed for visa application are: valid passport,
visa application form, 1 photo (passport size), birth certificate (PSA issues), marriage certificate
(if married, PSA issued), evidence of financial funds (e.g, Income Tax Return (ITR) and bank
certificate), and itinerary during the stay in Japan. Once these documents are ready, you may
submit it to the accredited agency provided by the Embassy (https://www.ph.emb-
japan.go.jp/itpr_en/00_000035.html).

Capital: Tokyo
Currency: Yen (JYP)
Language: Japanese
Religion: Buddhism and Shintoism
Carrier: Japan Airlines (JL)
Major International Airports: Osaka International
Airport (OSA), Narita International Airport (NRT),
Kansai International Airport (KIX), and Tokyo
International Airport (Haneda Airport) (HND)

Hong Kong is now officially known as

Xianggang Special Administrative Region
(SAR). The name Hong Kong originated
from the Cantonese words “heung gong”,
which literally means “fragrant harbor”. It
was a former colony of the British until
1997. Hong Kong has become one of the
most popular destinations ins Asia,
particularly for Filipino visitors. It draws
tourists because of its theme parks, such as
the Hong Kong Ocean Park and Hong Kong
Disneyland. Other attractions include Avenue of Stars and The Peak and Sky 100.
Hong Kong is also known by tourists as a shopping district. These shopping areas include the
Sneaker Street, Stanley Street, and Ladies Market. Mongkok is one of the densely populated
shopping areas while Harbour City at Tsim Sha Tsui offers numerous brands.

Capital: Victoria
Currency: HK Dollar (HKD)
Language: Chinese and English
Religion: Christianity, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Islam
Carrier: Cathay Pacific Airways Limited or Cathay Pacific (CX)
Major International Airports: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Macau (Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China) was a former
Portuguese colony until 1999. It is famous for its casinos, which helped it gain the title “Las Vegas
of Asia” (Palmer, 2013). The most visited tourist attractions found in this region are:
➢ The Ruins of St. Paul Cathedral, which is considered as its landmark
➢ Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center, a place to experience the revolving
restaurant, bungee jumping, and skywalk
➢ The Senate Square, Golden Lotus Plaza, and Taipa Houses Museum at Avenida da Praia,
Taipa, Macao

Capital: Macao
Currency: Macanese Pataca (MOP)
Language: Cantonese
Religion: Buddhism, Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and
others
Carrier: Air Macau (NX)
Major International Airports: Macau International Airport
(MFM)
South Korea, or Republic of Korea, occupies the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. Its
neighboring countries are China, Japan, and North Korea. The country’s capital is Seoul, where
the most significant royal palaces of
Joseon are situated. These palaces have
become a major historical heritage of
Seoul.
✓ Gyeongbokgung palace or
Gyeongbok palace is the main
and most important royal palace.
✓ Changdeokgung Palace is
famous because it is a UNESCO
World Heritage site
✓ Other palaces include the
Deoksugong Palace,
Gyonghuigung Palace, and
Changgyonggung Palace.
✓ The National Palace Museum of
Korea houses some of the relics
of the major palaces.
To appreciate more fully the culture of the country, one has to indulge in the Korean food or hansik.
Traditionally, Korean food is served with rice (known as bap), an essential part of Korean meal,
together with several side dishes (also known as banchan). The most renowned side dish is kimchi
(fermented and seasoned vegetable). Other dishes known to most of the tourists include bulgogi,
a thinly sliced marinated meat (beef, pork or chicken); bibimbap, a bowl of rice topped with
vegetables and meat served with gochujang sauce; and japchae, a dish comprising of sweet potato
noodles, beef, and stir-fried vegetables. Korean lifestyle and culture also reflected in the Korean
style houses (hanok) and traditional attire (hanbok) worn during special holidays (Korea Tourism
Organization, n.d).
The requirements for tourists visiting Korea are valid passport and visa issued by the Korean
Embassy or consulate. For Filipino nationals who wish to visit South Korea, applications can be
coursed through designated travel agents.

Capital: Seoul
Currency: Won (KRW)
Language: Korean
Religion: Christianity, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Islam
Carrier: Korean Air (KE), Asiana Airlines (OZ)
Major International Airports: Incheon International Airport
(ICN) and Jeju International Airport (CJU)
China, or People’s Republic of
China (PRC), is the largest country in
the East Asia. Beijing, as the capital
and seat of economic, political, and
cultural affairs, is also one of the
ancient cities of the country. It houses
important tourist attractions such as:
• The Great Wall of China, a
UNESCO World Heritage
site
• The Imperial Palace known
as the Forbidden City
• The Temple of Heaven and Ming’s Tomb (http://whc.unesco.org).
As a tourist destination, the country has a vast array of attractions a visitor can witness and enjoy,
such as:
o Shanghai, China’s largest city and commercial hub, has a traditional and modern feel.
Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, Shanghai Disneyland, and Shanghai Museum are some of
the attractions in the city
o Xi’an, another ancient capital is famous for its Ancient City Wall and Terracotta Warriors,
a UNESCO World Heritage site. Yangtze or Yangzi River, the longest river in China and
in Asia, is famous as a cruise destination.
The people of China (Chinese) are mostly practitioners of one of the three main religions and
philosophies, which are Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. As a tourist, it is significant to be
aware of the country’s culture and traditions, such as the following:
✓ Chinese put a high importance on family and its structure.
✓ Pay respect to elders. People in China show great respect for their elders.
✓ Being punctual. It is a virtue in China and a sign of respect to others.
✓ Never write in red ink. It is a sign of protest.
✓ Never show affection in public.
✓ Be familiar of the rules in using chopstick (e.g., don’t put chopstick upright in your food).
✓ Put your shoes off when entering someone’s home.
✓ Be mindful when offer a plan to give a gift to a Chinese. Make sure it does not bring bad
luck (e.g., never hand a gift in four like 4 chocolates).
✓ The host pays the bill (e.g., if you invite someone to dinner, you have to pay for the bill).
Other significant festivals that represent Chinese cultures are:
1. Spring Festival (also known as Chinese New Year)
2. Lantern Festival
3. Qingming or Tomb Sweeping Festival
 4. Dragon Boat Festival
5. Mid-Autumn Festival
Filipino tourists who are holding a regular passport are required to obtain Chinese visa to be
granted entry to the country. The requires documents are original passport, vias application form,
and two photos with white background (size: 48mm x 33mm). Additional supporting documents
needed for time applicants include bank certificate (with receipt of payment) and bank statement
(for the past 6 months), BIR-stamped ITR form, Certificate of Employment (with compensation
and length of employment). Business Registration Certificate (for business owner), and
Professional ID/Student ID (if applicable) (http://ph.china-embassy.org/).

Capital: Beijing
Currency: Renminbi (RMB)
Language: Mandarin Chinese
Religion: Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, Islam, and Protestantism
Carrier: Air China (CA)
Major International Airports: Beijing Capital International Airport
(PEK), Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Guangzhou
Baiyun International Airport (CAN), Sunan Shoufang International
Airport (WUX), Zhuhai International Airport (ZUH), and Guilin
Liangjiang International Airport (KWI)

Mongolia, a landlocked country in East Asia, is

bordered by Russia and China. The capital and
the largest city is Ulaanbaatar (sometimes
spelled as Ulan Bator). The people in Mongolia
are believers of Buddhism or Shamanism, and
the Mongolian language is largely spoken. The
nomadic way of life is still practice in
Mongolia. Raising camels, sheep, goats, horses,
yaks, and cattle is part of their culture. Ger, the
traditional dwelling place of the people, is much
conducive for a nomadic way of life as it can be easily set up and dismantled. Throat Singing or
Khoomei is a distinct Mongolian music (Mongolian Embassy US, 2013). Apart from its culture,
Mongolia has UNESCO World Heritage sites such as:
Great Burkhan Khaldun Mountains and its surrounding sacred landscape
Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape and Petroglyphic Complexes of the Mongolian Altai
are classified as cultural sites
Landscapes of Dauria and Uvs Nuur Basin are natural sites (whc.unesco.org).
 Capital: Ulaanbaatar or Ulan Bator
Currency: Mongolian Tughrik (MNT)
Language: Mongolian
Religion: Buddhism and Shamanism
Carrier: Mongolian Airlines (OM)
Major International Airports: Chinggis Khaan International
Airport (ULN)

North Korea, or Democratic People’s Republic of

Korea, occupies the norther part of the Korean
Peninsula. It is bordered by China and Russia.
Pyongyang is the capital and the largest city of the
country. It showcases North Korea’s significant
monuments and towers. The gateway to the country is
through Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (FNJ).

Capital: Pyongyang
Currency: Won (KPW)
Language: Korean
Religion: Christianity, Buddhism, and Confucianism
Carrier: Air Koryo (JS)
Major International Airports: Pyongyang Sunan International
Airport (FNJ).

References:
Donesa, L., Aragon, L. (2020). Global Culture and Tourism Geography First Edition. Rex
Bookstore
Post-Activity: I. Identification: Identify which country is stated.
1. Formosa
2. Heung Gong/ Fragrant Harbor
3. Largest Country in East Asia
4. Land of the Rising Sun
5. Las Vegas of Asia
II. Identification: Identify the countries capital.
1. North Korea
2. South Korea
3. Mongolia
4. Hongkong
5. Macau

Activity: Identify each East Asian country in the map.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
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2 3
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4

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