The Best Dorama Travel Spots for 2025 With Photos & Tips

Por: DAYARA ALVES em 18 de novembro de 2025

🎌 Doramas & Destination Tourism

When Drama Meets Real-World Adventure

In the last decade, Asian dramas—popularly called doramas in Japan and broadly associated with J-dramas, K-dramas, C-dramas, and Taiwanese dramas—have become far more than binge-worthy entertainment.

They have evolved into cultural bridges that connect millions of global viewers to real cities, cafés, islands, villages, parks, schools, and historical landmarks.

What started as curiosity has turned into a worldwide travel trend known as content tourism or screen tourism, in which fans deliberately visit the filming locations of their favorite shows to re-experience iconic scenes.

Platforms like Netflix, Viki, Rakuten Viki, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ have amplified this trend by making dramas accessible to global audiences.

As a result, spots that once appeared only briefly on screen now receive thousands—even millions—of visitors yearly.

This article explores why doramas influence tourism so effectively, highlights the most iconic filming locations in Japan and Korea, reveals travel trends created by dramas, and explains how these series transform everyday settings into bucket-list destinations.

1. Why Doramas Inspire Travel: The Psychology Behind the Trend

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Asian dramas create a type of emotional attachment that viewers simply don’t experience in the same way with Western productions. This deep connection is one of the best explanations for why doramas have become powerful travel drivers in recent years.

Instead of showing generic locations, doramas highlight meaningful spaces—quiet neighborhoods, cozy cafés, beautiful parks, traditional markets, and breathtaking coastlines—and they use these places to elevate emotions, reinforce character growth, and frame unforgettable scenes.

This blend of storytelling and real-world scenery shapes how viewers emotionally relate to destinations, turning simple locations into must-visit landmarks.

Here’s why doramas inspire some of the best and strongest travel motivations in modern entertainment culture:

1.1. Emotional Storytelling Creates Place Attachment

One of the best reasons doramas influence travel is their emotional depth.
Characters laugh, cry, heal, and fall in love in real locations, making those spaces feel intimate and meaningful.

This emotional resonance encourages fans to seek out the places where key moments unfolded.

Psychologists call this place attachment—a bond formed when a location is linked to a strong emotional memory. Doramas are exceptionally good at creating these memories through:

slow emotional pacing
character-centered narratives
meaningful dialogue
visually symbolic settings

As a result, viewers often develop a desire to physically experience these spaces.

1.2. Visually Recognizable Scenes Spark Curiosity

Doramas are known for some of the best cinematic compositions in television—soft lighting, warm color palettes, and beautifully framed shots.

These visuals make locations easy to recognize and instantly appealing.

Examples include:

walkways lined with cherry blossoms
vintage cafés with handwritten menus
seaside train platforms
nighttime cityscapes glowing with neon

These images stay with viewers long after the episode ends, inspiring curiosity and motivating them to discover the place behind the scene.

1.3. Relatability Makes Locations Feel Accessible

Unlike many Western productions that rely on extravagant or unreachable settings, doramas often use everyday locations:

public parks
quiet alleyways
suburban streets
family-owned restaurants
local markets

This gives fans the sense that they, too, can step into the same world as the characters.

Many even plan itineraries that mirror the characters’ routines, making the experience feel immersive and achievable.

This relatability is one of the best mechanisms that transform viewers into travelers.

1.4. Social Media Reinforces the Desire to Visit

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have amplified the effect dramatically. Fans post:

side-by-side scene recreations
“then vs. now” filming location comparisons
travel vlogs following drama routes
emotional captions using OST soundtracks

Seeing others relive the best drama moments in real locations inspires even more fans to do the same, creating a cycle of constant tourism growth.

1.5. Cultural Curiosity Encourages Deeper Exploration

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Doramas showcase culture in subtle, authentic ways—mannerisms, food traditions, social values, fashion, transportation, and even seasonal customs.
This sparks a desire not only to visit the filming locations, but also to experience the best cultural elements shown in the dramas:

cherry blossom season (Japan)
street food markets (Korea)
historical temples and shrines
seaside towns and rural landscapes

Travel becomes more than entertainment—it transforms into cultural discovery.

1.6. The Best Combination of Fantasy + Reality

Doramas offer a unique balance: they feel dreamy, soft, and cinematic, but still grounded in real life.
This creates the perfect “reachable fantasy”—a world that looks magical, yet is entirely real and visitable.
Fans know that when they travel, the places won’t disappoint; they will look and feel almost exactly as portrayed on screen.

This reliability strengthens tourism and makes dorama locations some of the best travel inspirations of the 21st century.

2. The Rise of K-Drama Tourism: Korea as a Global Hotspot

Korea is the number-one example of how powerful screen tourism can be. No other country has leveraged television storytelling as effectively to boost its cultural presence and international visitor numbers. Over the past decade, K-dramas have become one of Korea’s best cultural exports, drawing millions of global fans who want to step into the exact locations where their favorite scenes were filmed.

Government tourism data shows a steady rise in international travelers citing K-dramas as their primary reason for visiting Korea. The combination of compelling storytelling, breathtaking scenery, emotional cinematography, and social-media virality has transformed many filming sites into full-fledged travel icons.

Below are the most famous K-drama destinations—places that transitioned from ordinary spaces to world-renowned landmarks.

2.1. Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower) – Seoul

Featured in:
My Love From the Star, Boys Over Flowers, True Beauty, Rooftop Prince, My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho, and more.

Namsan Tower, located at the heart of Seoul, is one of the best examples of how a location can become synonymous with romance through the magic of K-dramas.

Although originally a broadcasting tower, its nighttime cityscape views made it the perfect setting for emotional confessions, reconciliations, and iconic kissing scenes.

Today, Namsan Tower is known worldwide as the tower of K-drama romance, with visitors specifically retracing drama scenes.

Couples and fans visit to:

place love padlocks on the terrace fences
take nighttime skyline photos overlooking Seoul
re-enact confession scenes from their favorite shows
explore shops selling drama-themed merchandise and photo souvenirs

K-drama tourism became so influential that the tower added official “K-Drama Photo Zones”, guiding visitors to the best angles used by film crews. These spots often recreate the exact camera positioning, making the experience even more immersive.

What was once a local date spot is now a global symbol of Korean romance—proof that K-dramas can redefine a city’s identity.

2.2. Jumunjin Beach / Breakwater – Goblin

Before Goblin, Jumunjin Breakwater was a quiet coastal location in Gangneung visited mainly by local fishermen and residents.
After the unforgettable scene in which Ji Eun-tak holds the red scarf while standing in front of Goblin, the place became an instant international pilgrimage site.

The location’s transformation is one of the best examples of how a single emotional moment can shift an entire region’s tourism economy.

Today, tourists line up to:

recreate the iconic “Goblin & Eun-tak” scene
take photos in the exact camera angle used in the show
rent red scarves and props from nearby vendors
buy Goblin-themed souvenirs from small shops that emerged after the show’s success

Local businesses saw unprecedented growth, and the government even installed signs marking the precise filming spot.

It’s a powerful demonstration of how a fictional story can breathe new life into a quiet, rural area—turning it into one of Korea’s most visited K-drama locations.

2.3. Bukchon Hanok Village – A Timeless K-Drama Favorite

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Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses from the Joseon Dynasty, is featured in dozens of K-dramas, from historical sagas to modern romance series.

Its blend of old architecture, narrow alleyways, and views of downtown Seoul makes it a visual masterpiece on screen.

Visitors from around the world come to experience:

hanbok photography, renting traditional Korean attire to walk through the village
filming location tours, which highlight houses featured in popular dramas
scenic rooftops and alleyways, perfect for photos and short videos
traditional tea houses, similar to those often seen in historical dramas

Tourism grew so rapidly that local residents requested organized visiting hours to control foot traffic, with some streets limiting access during early mornings and late evenings.

Bukchon symbolizes Korea’s ability to blend the past and present—one of the best qualities showcased through K-drama storytelling.

2.4. Jeju Island – Korea’s Cinematic Paradise

Seen in:
Our Blues, Warm and Cozy, Goblin, Legend of the Blue Sea, To the Beautiful You, Welcome to Dongmakgol, and many others.

Jeju Island has long been Korea’s top domestic vacation spot, but its global reputation exploded due to its constant presence in K-dramas.

The island offers some of the best natural landscapes in Asia, providing filmmakers with dramatic coastlines, volcanic rock formations, and lush greenery.

Jeju is now known as Korea’s healing island, thanks to dramas portraying it as a place for emotional reflection, second chances, and fresh starts.

The island features:

volcanic landscapes like Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
pristine beaches used in romantic and heartwarming scenes
dramatic cliffs, ideal for symbolic turning points in stories
cozy seaside cafés, many of which now display drama posters
traditional market streets, showing Korean everyday life

What sets Jeju apart is how faithfully it translates onscreen; the island’s beauty appears exactly as shown in dramas.

Fans travel to Jeju expecting serenity, cinematic views, and emotional calm—and the island delivers every time.

This authenticity has made Jeju one of the best travel destinations for K-drama lovers worldwide.

2.5. Lotte World – The Theme Park of Romance

Featured in:
Business Proposal, True Beauty, Stairway to Heaven, Hotel Del Luna, A Business Proposal, and more.

Lotte World is not just a theme park—it’s a recurring symbol of youthful romance, first dates, comedic misunderstandings, and heart-fluttering moments.

Its indoor and outdoor areas offer visually stunning settings that appear beautifully on camera, making it one of the best and most frequently used locations in K-dramas.

The iconic carousel has become instantly recognizable across social media, inspiring people to visit just to recreate K-drama moments.

Popular activities at Lotte World include:

purchasing couple date packages designed for K-drama fans
trying themed desserts, such as “K-Drama Sweetheart Ice Cream”
re-enacting romantic scenes on the carousel
buying merchandise inspired by drama characters and OSTs

Because of constant fan demand, Lotte World established official “Drama Photo Spots”, where markers show visitors exactly where their favorite scenes were filmed.

The park is now a must-visit destination for tourists seeking one of the best K-drama experiences in Korea.

3. J-Drama Tourism: Japan’s Quiet but Deep Influence

While Korean dramas dominate global buzz, Japanese doramas have an enormous impact—especially among fans seeking authenticity, emotional depth, cultural nuance, and a quieter, more introspective travel experience.

Japan’s approach to storytelling is subtle and poetic, which makes its filming locations feel intimate and emotionally charged.

Many travelers say that visiting J-drama spots feels like stepping into a soft, nostalgic memory—one of the best and most emotional travel experiences an Asian drama fan can have.

J-drama tourism may not be as loud or commercialized as K-drama tourism, but its influence is deep, refined, and beautifully immersive.

Below are the most iconic destinations that showcase the best of Japan’s scenic storytelling.

3.1. Shibuya Crossing – A Cinematic Symbol of Tokyo

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Featured in: Tokyo Love Story, Hana Yori Dango, Code Blue, Silent

Shibuya Crossing is one of the most recognizable locations in the world, but its presence in J-dramas has elevated it from a famous intersection to a symbol of Tokyo’s best cinematic energy.

Whether during a dramatic farewell or a romantic encounter, Shibuya’s neon lights and bustling crowds create the perfect backdrop for emotional storytelling.

Tourists visit Shibuya to:

take photos from high viewpoints overlooking the crossing
meet near the Hachiko statue, a beloved meeting point featured in dramas
explore cafés and shops that appear in various J-dramas
experience the lively atmosphere shown in so many iconic scenes

Despite its fast-paced movement, Shibuya remains the heartbeat of Tokyo drama tourism, offering one of the best immersive experiences for fans seeking the modern Tokyo seen on screen.

3.2. Kamakura Kokomae Station – One of Japan’s Best Photographed Crossings

This seaside railway crossing is one of the most photographed spots in all of Japan—not only because of anime, but because J-dramas consistently use it as a symbol of youth, fleeting moments, and the beauty of everyday life.

The location combines the best of Japan’s coastal charm with its nostalgic storytelling aesthetic.

Fans gather here to:

capture the perfect photo with the ocean behind the passing Enoden train
explore Kamakura’s temples, shrines, and old-town cafés
visit nearby Enoshima Island, which also appears in many dramas
enjoy slow-paced walks along the coastline

On weekends, lines often form around the block as visitors wait for their turn to photograph the crossing at the best possible angle—proof of its immense cultural influence.

Kamakura Kokomae Station is one of the best examples of how Japanese doramas transform ordinary commuter spaces into emotional travel destinations.

3.3. Ueno Park, Yoyogi Park & Meguro River – The Best Cherry Blossom Romance Settings

Cherry blossoms are among Japan’s most iconic cultural symbols, and J-dramas use them masterfully to capture emotion, transformation, and new beginnings. Scenes set under the falling sakura petals are some of the most memorable moments in J-drama history.

During spring, fans travel from around the world to relive the best cherry blossom scenes from dramas like:

Good Morning Call
Hana Yori Dango
1 Litre of Tears
Orange Days
Hanamizuki

These parks turn into living postcards, with pastel hues, riverside reflections, and gentle breezes that feel straight out of a dorama.

Travelers love to:

picnic under blooming sakura trees
recreate emotional walking scenes
photograph petals floating over rivers
enjoy street food stands that create the perfect seasonal atmosphere

Meguro River, with its illuminated cherry blossoms at night, is considered one of the best nighttime sakura experiences in Tokyo, while Ueno Park becomes a lively gathering place filled with music, laughter, and nostalgia.

3.4. Kobe & Yokohama Ports – Timeless Romance and Emotional Depth

Location	Drama	Why It’s Famous
Namsan Tower (Seoul)	Boys Over Flowers	Romantic love-lock terrace
Jumunjin Beach	Goblin	Iconic red-scarf scene
Shibuya Crossing	Hana Yori Dango	Tokyo’s best cinematic backdrop

Japan’s port cities have a cinematic charm that blends nostalgia, modernity, and quiet reflection. Kobe and Yokohama have been featured in countless J-dramas because they offer some of the best coastal scenery for emotional storytelling.

These harbor cities are famous for:

quiet coastline scenes ideal for moments of reflection
nostalgic dates along the waterfront
sunset dialogues that add depth to dramatic episodes
romantic Ferris wheels and night views
elegant cafés and promenades with ocean front views

Many J-dramas use these ports to express themes of:

loss
healing
hope
reconciliation
personal growth

Their subtle beauty attracts travelers seeking a more peaceful, cinematic trip—one where they can breathe, slow down, and experience the emotional atmosphere so often portrayed in Japanese series.

Kobe and Yokohama remain two of the best locations in Japan for fans who want to immerse themselves in dorama-style romance and reflection.

4. How Streaming Platforms Amplified Travel Trends

Before global streaming services, Asian dramas had limited reach outside of Asia.
With Netflix, Viki, and Disney+, the world suddenly had access to:

high-quality subtitles
UHD drama releases
simultaneous global premieres

This led to:

✔ International fanbases

Dramas now trend in the U.S., Brazil, France, India, the Middle East, and Africa.

✔ Visiting locations becoming part of fandom culture

Travel videos flood TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

✔ Dramas boosting local economies

Small cafés featured in shows often become famous overnight.

✔ Increased cultural curiosity

Fans want to taste local foods, visit shrines, walk old streets, and experience the lifestyle they saw on screen.

5. The Economic Impact: How Doramas Revitalize Local Communities

Tourism generated by dramas has enormous real-world implications.

5.1. Local businesses earn more

Cafés, restaurants, shops, guesthouses, and markets experience major increases in customers.

5.2. Municipalities create official drama tours

Japan and Korea now produce:

filming maps
brochures
QR-code location guides
drama merchandise

5.3. Locations become cultural landmarks

Even simple areas—alleys, benches, breakwaters, bookstores—gain iconic status.

5.4. Employment grows

Guides, photographers, retail staff, souvenir vendors, and transport providers benefit directly.

5.5. Long-term tourism

These locations continue attracting visitors even years after the drama aired.

6. Notable Examples of Locations Becoming Travel Icons

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Goblin’s Breakwater → International Pilgrimage Site

A quiet fishing village became a global romantic landmark.

Namsan Tower → “K-Drama Love Tower”

Love padlocks became synonymous with Korean romance.

Meguro River → Global Sakura Destination

Foreign tourists flock to Tokyo during cherry blossom season strictly due to J-drama influence.

Cafés from Business Proposal or Coffee Prince → Cultural Icons

Some cafés even preserved original props for visitors.

7. Social Media & Fan Culture: From Screenshots to Airplane Tickets

Platforms like TikTok and Instagram accelerated the trend.

Popular fan behaviors include:

recording reenacted scenes
side-by-side comparisons with the drama
sharing “K-Drama Travel Guides”
posting #kdramalocations and #jdramatourism
creating TikTok travel transitions matching drama OSTs

Travel becomes an extension of fandom identity.

8. The Future: Global Co-Productions & Expanding Destinations

The impact of doramas on tourism is only growing.

Expect:

international locations in new dramas
official drama-themed travel packages
hybrid storytelling between Asian and Western studios
more governments using dramas for cultural promotion
virtual tours for fans unable to travel

Countries outside Asia—like Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia—are already experiencing similar boosts from their own dramas.

Conclusion: Doramas Turn Places into Memories, and Memories into Journeys

What makes doramas so powerful is their ability to transform ordinary spaces into emotional experiences.
When viewers travel to film locations, they are not simply sightseeing—they are revisiting feelings, reliving moments, and stepping into stories that once felt far away.

Doramas don’t just inspire tourism.
They reshape how people connect, travel, and experience culture.

And as Asian dramas continue capturing global hearts, the world will gain even more destinations made famous by the power of storytelling.