South Korea Joins India, Malaysia, Russia, China, Japan, and More in Elevating Vietnam’s Tourism, Resulting in Record Visitors and Growing Demand Across Top Destinations Like Hanoi, Hai Phong, Danang, and Hue

Published on February 28, 2026

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South Korea joins India, Malaysia, Russia, China, Japan, and more in significantly elevating Vietnam’s tourism, driving record-breaking visitor numbers and growing demand across the country’s top destinations like Hanoi, Hai Phong, Danang, and Hue. This surge in international visitors is a result of improved connectivity, vibrant cultural offerings, and Vietnam’s growing appeal as an affordable, diverse, and safe travel destination. The contributions from these key markets have not only boosted Vietnam’s tourism sector but also fostered deeper economic ties and laid the foundation for long-term growth in the region’s hospitality, transport, and service industries.

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Vietnam’s tourism sector has seen unprecedented growth in recent years, with the influx of international visitors from countries like South Korea, India, Malaysia, Russia, China, Japan, and several others. These key nations have played a significant role in driving visitor numbers, boosting the country’s tourism industry, and fueling growing demand in major cities and tourist destinations such as Hanoi, Hai Phong, Danang, and Hue. This article will explore the contributions of each of these countries and how their rising numbers have impacted Vietnam’s tourism landscape, leading to an exciting period of growth and transformation.

South Korea: A Key Powerhouse in Vietnam’s Tourism Surge

South Korea has emerged as one of the dominant players in Vietnam’s tourism growth, sending millions of visitors to the country. The close proximity between the two countries, along with favorable visa policies and growing economic ties, have created a perfect environment for tourism to flourish. In 2025, South Korea was among the top international markets for Vietnam, with over 4.3 million visitors traveling to the country. This represents a significant portion of Vietnam’s total inbound tourist arrivals, further cementing South Korea’s crucial role in boosting the sector.

The demand for travel between the two countries continues to increase, with popular destinations like Hanoi, Danang, and Hai Phong seeing the bulk of the South Korean visitors. Additionally, South Korea’s thriving middle class and high travel spending power have made it an attractive market for Vietnam’s tourism sector, further elevating the destination’s status in East Asia.

India: A Rapidly Growing Source Market for Vietnam’s Tourism

India has been a rising star in the tourism world, contributing significantly to Vietnam’s visitor numbers in 2025. As one of the fastest-growing tourism markets in the world, India is becoming an increasingly important source of international travelers to Vietnam. The number of Indian tourists visiting Vietnam surged in 2025, with an increase of 23% compared to the previous year.

India’s growing middle class, rising disposable incomes, and improved connectivity between the two nations have driven more Indian tourists to explore the cultural and natural beauty of Vietnam. Key cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang have seen an influx of Indian visitors, especially those seeking leisure travel, shopping, and unique cultural experiences. Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, vibrant history, and culinary delights have proven to be major draws for Indian tourists, helping to elevate the country’s tourism profile across South Asia.

Malaysia: A Strategic Contributor to Vietnam’s Tourism Boom

Malaysia, another key player in Southeast Asia, continues to be a significant contributor to Vietnam’s tourism growth. The relatively short travel distance, combined with strong historical, cultural, and economic ties, has made Malaysia a steady source of tourists to Vietnam. In 2025, Malaysia saw a notable increase in outbound travel to Vietnam, with an estimated 1.4 million visitors making the journey.

Vietnam’s diverse offerings appeal to Malaysian tourists, with its beautiful beaches, bustling urban centers, and rich cultural heritage providing the perfect backdrop for a wide range of leisure activities. Popular destinations for Malaysian travelers include Hanoi, Danang, and Hue, where they can immerse themselves in Vietnam’s fascinating history and enjoy its world-class hospitality. The rise in budget airlines and affordable travel options between the two countries has only made Vietnam more accessible, contributing to Malaysia’s strong presence in the Vietnamese tourism market.

Russia: Expanding Tourism Demand from Eastern Europe

Russia has proven to be another crucial source market for Vietnam’s tourism, with an increasing number of Russian visitors flocking to Vietnam in recent years. Although Russia is geographically distant, the growing popularity of Vietnam as a travel destination, paired with increasing flight connectivity, has made it a top choice for many Russian tourists. In 2025, over 600,000 Russian tourists visited Vietnam, a remarkable rise compared to the previous year.

Vietnam’s warm tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and affordable travel experiences make it a popular choice for Russian tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. Cities like Hanoi and Danang are particularly popular among Russian visitors, with many opting for beach resorts and cultural tours. Vietnam’s visa exemptions for Russian tourists and attractive travel packages have also contributed to the surge in Russian tourism, further elevating the country’s position as a prime Southeast Asian destination for Europeans.

China: Vietnam’s Largest Source of International Tourists

China has long been Vietnam’s largest source of international tourists, with millions of Chinese nationals traveling to Vietnam every year. Despite political tensions in the past, the bilateral relationship between the two countries has been steadily improving, resulting in growing tourism exchanges. In 2025, China maintained its top position, sending over 5.2 million visitors to Vietnam, accounting for nearly a quarter of the country’s total foreign tourist arrivals.

Chinese tourists are attracted to Vietnam’s proximity, affordability, and cultural similarities, making it a favored destination for short-haul travel. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang remain the top destinations for Chinese tourists, with many drawn to Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and rich history. The growing number of direct flights between the two countries has also contributed to this strong tourism flow, ensuring that Vietnam remains a top choice for Chinese travelers.

Japan: Vietnam’s Growing Appeal to Japanese Tourists

Japan is another important contributor to Vietnam’s tourism boom, with a steady rise in the number of Japanese visitors in recent years. In 2025, over 800,000 Japanese tourists visited Vietnam, marking a significant increase in travel between the two countries. Japan’s advanced economy, high-quality infrastructure, and growing interest in Southeast Asia have made Vietnam an attractive destination for Japanese tourists.

Japanese visitors to Vietnam are often drawn to the country’s natural beauty, historical sites, and rich culture. Cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang have seen a growing number of Japanese tourists seeking authentic Vietnamese experiences, such as culinary tours, sightseeing, and cultural heritage exploration. Additionally, Japan’s growing interest in sustainable and eco-friendly tourism has aligned well with Vietnam’s efforts to promote green growth and climate adaptation, further strengthening the appeal of the country as a travel destination.

Other Contributing Markets: Expanding Vietnam’s Global Reach

In addition to the core markets of South Korea, India, Malaysia, Russia, China, and Japan, several other countries have played a crucial role in Vietnam’s tourism expansion. Notable among them are the United States, Australia, Taiwan, and countries from the European Union. These regions have witnessed a steady rise in tourism demand for Vietnam, driven by factors such as improved air connectivity, Vietnam’s rich cultural offerings, and its growing reputation as an affordable yet exotic destination.

Countries like the United States have seen a notable uptick in tourism numbers, with more American travelers visiting Vietnam to experience its history, food, and landscapes. Similarly, Australia has emerged as a key market for Vietnam, with its proximity and cultural connections making it a popular travel hub for leisure and business travelers alike. Taiwan’s close economic ties with Vietnam have also fostered an increase in tourism, with many Taiwanese tourists seeking cultural exchanges and business opportunities in major Vietnamese cities.

Impact on Major Destinations: Hanoi, Hai Phong, Danang, and Hue

The rise in international visitors has had a profound impact on Vietnam’s major tourist destinations. Hanoi, the capital city, has seen a steady increase in the number of foreign visitors, particularly from China, South Korea, and Japan. The city’s rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant food scene have attracted millions of tourists each year.

Danang, located in central Vietnam, has also witnessed remarkable growth, particularly in the areas of tourism and infrastructure development. Danang’s stunning beaches, growing international airport, and close proximity to major UNESCO sites such as the ancient town of Hoi An have made it a hotspot for tourists from all over the world.

Hai Phong, Vietnam’s third-largest city, has been seeing a growing demand for its natural beauty, coastal tourism, and industrial growth. As an emerging destination, Hai Phong is positioning itself to attract more tourists seeking authentic experiences away from the more crowded tourist spots.

Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam, remains a top destination for tourists seeking history, culture, and ancient architecture. With its iconic imperial citadel, temples, and palaces, Hue continues to captivate tourists from around the globe, particularly those from Southeast Asia and Europe.

South Korea joins India, Malaysia, Russia, China, Japan, and more in boosting Vietnam’s tourism, driving record visitor numbers and rising demand in key destinations like Hanoi, Hai Phong, Danang, and Hue. This surge is fueled by improved connectivity, cultural appeal, and Vietnam’s growing status as a top Southeast Asian destination.

Vietnam’s tourism sector is poised for continued growth, with countries like South Korea, India, Malaysia, Russia, China, Japan, and others playing pivotal roles in boosting international visitor numbers. The surge in foreign tourists has resulted in increased demand for services, accommodation, and transportation, leading to infrastructure development and job creation. As Vietnam continues to diversify its tourism offerings, it is well on its way to becoming a top destination in Southeast Asia, attracting travelers from all over the world and boosting its economy for years to come.