After-hours adventures: Why Gen Z is ditching the daylight and traveling after dark
Late-night eats in Chiang Mai, stargazing in Dubai—after-hours adventures are totally changing the travel game.
If you’re the kind who believes the city truly comes alive after dark, you’ll love what’s trending in travel right now: noctourism. As its name suggests, noctourism refers to exploring a destination after sunset, taking part in experiences designed to showcase its nightlife, nature, and culture under the stars. Unlike the typical itinerary filled with morning hikes and museum visits, noctourism flips the script, spotlighting unique night markets, stargazing safaris, light festivals and more.
Why is noctourism on the rise?
For those who crave one-of-a-kind experiences, noctourism ticks all the right boxes. Social media has played a huge role, highlighting how destinations transform after dark, from neon-lit alleys to moonlit landscapes. There’s also a practical side as travelling at night often means fewer crowds and cooler weather, especially in hotter climates. Post-pandemic, travellers are also seeking deeper connections with the places they visit, and noctourism provides opportunities to see a city’s authentic character beyond the daytime tourist buzz.
Where to experience noctourism
Floating offering for good wishes at Loi Krathong festival
If you’re ready to try it, here are a few destinations where the nights are as thrilling as the days:
Tokyo, Japan: Known for its neon streetscapes, Tokyo’s Shinjuku and Shibuya districts are playgrounds for noctourists. Catch live music in Golden Gai’s tiny bars or join an evening food tour through bustling yakitori alleys. Beyond the urban core, Mount Takao offers moonlit hiking trails and city views. You can even catch the fireworks from Showa Kinen Park Fireworks Festival!
Chiang Mai, Thailand: This northern Thai city is famous for its vibrant night bazaars, where you can shop for artisan crafts and snack on street food until midnight. For something quieter, join a guided tour at Chiang Mai Night Safari or witness the magical Yi Peng Lantern Festival (5-6 November 2025) if your trip coincides.
Dubai, UAE: Dubai’s desert safaris at night are a surreal experience. Think stargazing in the vast Arabian desert, night-time dune bashing, and traditional Bedouin dinners under the open sky. In the city, the Dubai Fountain shows (temporarily closed, scheduled to reopen by 1 October 2025) and late-night shopping at The Dubai Mall are must-dos.
Seoul, South Korea: A 24-hour city at heart, Seoul is perfect for noctourism. Explore Gwangjang Market’s food street until late, spend the night belting out your favourite K-pop hits at noraebang (karaoke rooms), do some midnight shopping at Dongdaemun, or slurp some ramyeon by the Han River at night for a unique experience.
Singapore: Closer to home, Singapore has its own noctourism gems. The Night Safari remains iconic for wildlife encounters after dark, while Jewel Changi Airport’s light-and-sound Rain Vortex shows are an easy way to enjoy a magical night. Cycling through Jurassic Mile after dark also offers a more atmospheric perspective of the prehistoric creatures.
What to note about noctourism
Before you dive into noctourism, it’s worth keeping a few tips in mind so your night adventures stay fun and fuss-free. Transport can be tricky after dark, so screenshot last-train times, keep a trusted ride-hailing app handy, and download offline maps just in case. If you’re heading out solo, stick to well-lit, busier areas and share your live location with a friend.
If you’re heading into nature for a night safari or hike, book with reputable operators and avoid disrupting wildlife with bright lights or noise. Lastly, remember that noctourism can be physically tiring when paired with daytime sightseeing, so pace yourself, hydrate, and build in some downtime to truly enjoy the after-dark magic.
More than just staying up late, noctourism lets you see a destination in a new light, both literally and figuratively. Nighttime experiences can feel more intimate and atmospheric, offering a chance to slow down, avoid crowds, and soak in a place’s authentic energy. So next time you plan a trip, carve out some hours after sunset. You might just discover your favourite memories are made when the stars are out.