Last year, global digital payments company Visa released the results of an online survey it conducted to look into the concert spending habits of people in the Asia Pacific region. Data showed that Filipinos are among the top five regions for overseas concert travel, ranking fourth at 38%, just behind Indonesia (40%), Vietnam (41%), and India (45%).
If you’ll ask us, we’re not the least bit surprised here. We Filipinos love music. Our passion for rhythm and melody is deeply rooted in our culture, so much so we’ve become known worldwide for our undying love for karaoke and our kababayans’ tenacity in singing competitions. A shared passion for music is pretty much part of our DNA.
And, in the age of affordable flights and travel promos, flying out for a concert has never been more doable. At the Big Sky Nation HQ, we’ve also helped countless music-loving Pinoys enjoy seamless high-speed internet connection during their concert getaways—from Singapore to the United States. And if you’re looking for the most ideal concert destinations for Filipinos, especially for first-timers or those on a budget and can’t travel too far, keep reading, as we rounded up a list of seven of the best concert spots in Asia for Filipinos looking to combine their love for travel and live music:
Singapore
Why Go
Singapore is currently one of the hottest concert destinations right now! From Taylor Swift to Lady Gaga, they’ve scored concert stops that no other country in Southeast Asia can brag about. Not only that, it’s also a visa-free destination for Filipinos. Getting around is a breeze thanks to its efficient public transport system, and its compact layout means you can enjoy concerts and sightseeing all within a short stay.
Not For
Travelers on a tight budget. Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in Asia for accommodations, transportation, and food. Concert tickets also sell out quickly and may come with premium pricing compared to neighboring countries.
Singapore’s Concert Scene
The Singapore Indoor Stadium and National Stadium are hotspots for big names like Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Bruno Mars, Olivia Rodrigo, and more. The Lion City is also home to niche music festivals like Baybeats and ZoukOut, catering to fans of electronic, indie, and alternative genres.
Bonus Perks
Street food in hawker centers, Universal Studios, and a thriving arts scene. Plus, it’s only a 3.5-hour flight from Manila with frequent seat sales.
South Korea
Why Go
The heart of the Hallyu wave, South Korea is a mecca for K-pop fans. It’s where you can watch your favorite idols perform live, and also visit entertainment company HQs, cafes, and filming locations of music videos as well as dramas your faves have starred in.
Not For
Spontaneous travelers. Visa applications must be lodged at least three months in advance at the Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC) in Taguig. Most concerts are also ticketed through Korean platforms that require local ID or fan club membership. These tickets can be hard to secure without planning months in advance.
South Korea’s Concert Scene
Massive venues like the Olympic Park’s KSPO Dome, Jamsil Arena, and Gocheok Sky Dome host concerts by top K-Pop acts like BTS, BLACKPINK, SEVENTEEN, and IU. Fans can also try their luck in catching live music shows like KBS Music Bank, MBC Music Core, and the longest running pop music program Inkigayo during tapings.
Bonus Perks
Explore South Korea’s palaces while donning an ornate hanbok as though you’re in a historical drama, or go café-hopping in Hongdae and the latest hip spot Seongsu-dong. Seoul’s skincare shopping is also huge bonus for travelers who are huge K-Beauty fans.
Japan
Why Go
Japan is one of the most well-organized countries in Asia when it comes to hosting large-scale events. Whether you’re a J-pop loyalist or a Western pop fan, Japan’s efficiency and safety make concert trips feel like VIP experiences from start to finish.
Not For
Fans who prefer rowdy or spontaneous concert environments. Japanese audiences tend to be disciplined and quiet during shows, which might feel too reserved for those used to high-energy crowds. Navigating the Japanese concert ticketing system can be a real challenge, too, as it involves lotteries. In short, you’ll need a bit (or a lot) of luck if you’re looking to attend a concert in Japan.
Japan’s Concert Scene
Major venues like Tokyo Dome, Saitama Super Arena, and Kyocera Dome Osaka frequently host global icons such as Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, and Japanese acts like RADWIMPS and ONE OK ROCK. K-Pop acts also frequent Japan, performing songs they don’t usually include on the setlists of their other shows. As for music festivals, the country’s massive fests like Summer Sonic and Fuji Rock are a mustn’t-miss!
Bonus Perks
No matter the season, Japan has something to offer—skiing in winter, sakura season in spring, firework festivals in summer, and fall foliage in autumn. Otaku will enjoy anime pilgrimages, while foodies shouldn’t pass up on the world’s best sushi. Japan’s public transport is also top-tier, making it easy to pair your concert with side trips.
Thailand
Why Go
If you’re looking for affordability with high-energy concert atmospheres, you won’t go wrong with Thailand. Bangkok, in particular, has become a major Southeast Asian tour stop, offering fans access to international artists without visa requirements or the high costs of cities like Singapore.
Not For
Travelers who don’t enjoy chaotic or crowded environments. Bangkok traffic is notorious, and concert days can mean hours-long commutes if you’re not strategic about your hotel choice.
Thailand’s Concert Scene
Rajamangala Stadium and Impact Arena in Bangkok are go-to venues for artists like Harry Styles, The 1975, and Ariana Grande. Music festivals such as Wonderfruit in Pattaya and Big Mountain attract local and global acts alike.
Bonus Perks
Visit Thailand’s famous temples, night and weekend markets, and idyllic islands while enjoying some of Asia’s best cuisine. Add Thai massages, clubbing, and low-cost shopping to your travel plans for the complete experience.
Taiwan
Why Go
Taiwan offers an underrated but vibrant concert scene with friendlier visa-free policies for Filipinos and a low-cost travel experience. It’s perfect for fans looking to explore a new place that’s not too far from the Philippines while catching their favorite Asian or Western artists live.
Not For
Those expecting nonstop concert variety. Taiwan sees fewer international tours than Japan or Singapore. Also, while many locals in the capital can speak English, the language barrier can still make navigating pretty tough if you’re looking to travel beyond Taipei.
Taiwan’s Concert Scene
Taipei Arena and Kaohsiung Arena are the primary venues, often hosting Mandopop stars, K-pop acts, and occasional Western artists like Maroon 5 and Billie Eilish. Taiwan’s Golden Melody Awards also attract high-profile regional performances.
Bonus Perks
From night markets with delectable eats to scenic mountains and hot springs, Taiwan ticks all the boxes for the ultimate sensory experience. It’s also known for friendly locals and efficient transport system, with many travelers likening it to Japan’s.
Hong Kong
Why Go
Already a favorite destination among Filipino travelers, especially first-timers, Hong Kong makes for a quick concert weekend getaway. It’s visa-free for Pinoys and easy to navigate thanks to its tourist-friendly MTR system.
Not For
Budget-conscious travelers. Hong Kong is among Asia’s pricier cities, and hotel rooms tend to be small and expensive. Political climate changes in recent years have also impacted the frequency of international shows.
Hong Kong’s Concert Scene
AsiaWorld-Expo and Hong Kong Coliseum regularly host concerts by Mandopop icons, South Korean supergroups, and Western acts. Clockenflap is the city’s premier music festival for indie and electronic fans.
Bonus Perks
Don’t miss out on doing the “touristy” stuff while you’re in Hong Kong! Treat your inner child to a trip to Disneyland or Ocean Park. Take in the views from Victoria Peak. Shop for souvenirs and cheap finds in Mong Kok. And binge on delicious dimsum.
Malaysia
Why Go
Kuala Lumpur is affordable, culturally diverse, and often features in international tour stops. It offers many of the same artists you’d catch in Singapore, often at a lower price and with less ticket competition.
Not For
Travelers seeking luxury or cutting-edge venue tech. While safe and accessible, Malaysia’s concert infrastructure is slightly behind cities like Singapore and Tokyo in terms of scale and organization.
Malaysia’s Concert Scene
Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Zeppelin Kuala Lumpur, and Axiata Arena (Putra Indoor Stadium) are frequently used for big acts like Jay Chou, BABY METAL, and WESTLIFE. Genting Highlands’ Good Vibes Festival is Malaysia’s flagship multi-genre event featuring both local and global names.
Bonus Perks
Savor laksa and nasi lemak, visit the Petronas Towers, or take a side trip to explore street art in Penang. Malaysia offers great value for the budget-conscious concertgoer.
Whether you’re navigating concert venues, scanning e-tickets, uploading videos, or coordinating with friends, stable internet is non-negotiable. Big Sky Nation’s eSIM gives you instant, reliable mobile data in the destinations listed above and more, so you can stay online from soundcheck to encore.
Big Sky Early Bird Promo: Get up to 50% OFF on Travel Wi-Fi Premium (shareable up to five devices) when you book 30 days before your trip! Use the code “EARLYBIRD” upon checkout or send us a message to book: info@bigskynation.com. You may also call us at 09177132855 or 09189647626 to place your order.
*Featured image by author
