TripAdvisor: Japan’s Ishigaki number one destination on the rise in the world

SINGAPORE – TripAdvisor, the travel site that helps find the latest reviews and lowest prices, announced the Travellers' Choice awards for Destinations on the Rise. The pristine blue waters and white sandy beaches of beautiful Ishigaki, Japan, earned the ranking of number one in the world.

The awards, now in its sixth year, recognise 44 destinations around the world selected by measuring year-over-year increase in positive TripAdvisor traveller review ratings for accommodations, restaurants and attractions, as well as increase in search and booking interest. Travellers' Choice Destinations on the Rise lists were also revealed for the U.S., Europe, Asia and South America.

“The New Year is the best time to start dreaming of where to go in 2018 and travellers can look to this curious list for inspiration if you’re after somewhere up-and-coming,” said Ms Janice Lee Fang, communications director for TripAdvisor, Asia Pacific. “These destinations have grown in attractiveness because of what they can offer travellers, be it places to stay and eat, as well as things to see and do. There’s something for everyone!”

Travellers' Choice Destinations on the Rise — Asia:
1. Ishigaki, Japan
Contrary to its name which literally translates to “stone wall”, Ishigaki is an island in Okinawa that is surrounded by water. Home to sandy beaches and coral reefs, the destination is a popular diving spot. Also great for food lovers, Ishigaki is known for its soba noodles - called Yaeyama soba - made of flour instead of the more traditional buckwheat.

2. Takayama, Japan
A city located in the mountainous Gifu Prefecture, Takayama’s appeal lies in its beautifully preserved towns and historic districts. Be sure to head to Takayama in spring and autumn to catch the Takayama Festival that will feature dozens of heavily decorated festival floats.

3. Busan, South Korea
South Korea’s second largest city, Busan, has plenty to offer to every traveller – it’s a favourite amongst nature lovers for its hot springs, beaches, hiking trails and nature reserves, while the cultural and art buffs will appreciate the museums, temples, and historical buildings scattered across the city. The Gamcheon Cultural Village, also known as the “Machu Picchu of Busan”, is a must-visit with vibrant alleyways decorated with murals and sculptures made by residents.

4. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh still retains traces of its French colonial history through its temples, museums, palaces and cultural sites, while reminders of its somber past are still palpably felt in the Killing Fields located just outside the city. A lively town at night, budget-conscious travellers will also appreciate Phnom Penh’s extensive range of accommodations that are reasonably priced.

5. Nantou County, Taiwan
Nantou County is the only landlocked county in Taiwan and home to Taiwan’s highest peak (Yushan), mountainous ranges, lush forests and scenic lakes including the famous Sun Moon Lake. Besides natural offerings, travellers can learn more about the practices of the locals by visiting its temples, cultural villages and even agricultural farms. Travellers can also learn more about its aboriginal communities at the Formosa Aboriginal Cultural Village that aims to impart knowledge on the Taiwanese native aborigine cultures.

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