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Best City Guide - Version 7 vs Version 8
Apr 27, 2026, 04:37 PM
Cleaned punctuation and AI-style phrasing (2026-04-27)
May 8, 2026, 09:22 AM
Add wikilinks to table cells (5 new links)
11Overview22Choosing where to live in inZOI is one of the first major decisions you will make, and it has a lasting impact on your Zoi's lifestyle. The game currently offers three distinct cities: Dowon, Bliss Bay, and Cahaya. Each city has its own exclusive careers, recreational venues, architectural style, climate, and transportation system. While some jobs and careers are shared across cities, many of the most interesting ones are locked to a specific location. Once you pick a city, your Zoi cannot permanently relocate to another (though vacations and travel are possible). This guide breaks down everything you need to know so you can pick the right city for your playstyle.44At a Glance66The table below gives a high-level comparison of all three cities before diving into the details.88CategoryDowonBliss BayCahayaReal-World InspirationSeoul, South KoreaSanta Monica, CaliforniaBali and coastal IndonesiaClimateFour distinct seasonsWarm and sunny year-roundTropical, warm year-roundResidential LotsAround 12 (compact, urban)Around 14 (spread out, larger)Island plots across three islandsFast TravelSubway systemBus stopsTaxi, seaplane, shuttleExclusive Career HighlightsIdol Trainee, Pro Gamer, FirefighterFootball Player, Gangster, Amusement Park rolesFarmer, Sea Turtle Conservation, Yoga InstructorArchitectureModern Korean cityscape with templesCoastal American, bungalows to villasTropical Southeast Asian resort styleVibeBustling metropolisLaid-back beach townIsland paradise, rural living1010Dowon1111Dowon is a lively urban landscape modeled after Seoul, South Korea. Ancient temples sit alongside towering skyscrapers, and the city pulses with a modern K-pop and esports culture. It is the most densely built city in the game, with a compact layout connected by a fully functioning subway system. If you enjoy fast-paced city life, entertainment careers, and seasonal weather changes, Dowon is your best bet.1313Exclusive Careers1515Dowon is the only city where your Zoi can pursue a career in the K-pop industry or competitive gaming. The following careers are exclusive to Dowon:1717CareerEmployerDescriptionIdol TraineeAdam EntertainmentPractice dance moves, vocals, and music production at a full entertainment agency with practice rooms and recording studios. Your Zoi must be a young adult to apply.Entertainment Planning TeamAdam EntertainmentWork behind the scenes managing schedules, events, and promotions for idols.Pro GamerPlesio Gaming CafeCompete in esports from a dedicated gaming cafe. Good for Zois with high focus and low stress traits.FirefighterDowon Fire StationAn active career where you directly control your Zoi on the job. Progresses from Trainee through Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief, and Assistant Chief.Street SoldierLocal gangDowon's entry point into a life of crime, with its own promotion track.Convenience Store EmployeeAZ ConvenienceA part-time job option for supplemental income.Deli EmployeeLocal deliAnother part-time position unique to Dowon.1919Notable Attractions2020LocationActivitiesPlesio Gaming CafeHigh-end gaming PCs, arcade machines, beverages. Open 8 AM to 10 PM. Hub for the Pro Gamer career.Coin Booth KaraokeSing from a selection of hits and classic tunes. Great for stress relief.Tarot Fortune CafeGet tarot readings and mystical fortune-telling experiences.Harang River ParkFood stalls (tteokbokki, bungeoppang, fishcakes), coffee booths, claw machines, easels, workout equipment, basketball courts, and flea markets.Central ParkLarge public space with outdoor activities, food vendors, and social events.2222Housing2323Dowon has approximately 12 residential lots. The city's dense, urban layout means lots tend to be smaller, and about five of them are apartments or flats where the exterior shell of the building cannot be modified. Empty lots like Aram Estate and Evergreen House allow for custom home construction. If you prefer building large, sprawling houses, Dowon's compact lots can feel restrictive. However, apartment living suits players who want to focus on interior design and career progression rather than exterior building.2525Climate and Seasons2727Dowon is the only city with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The changing weather affects daily life. Your Zoi needs appropriate outfits for each season. Failing to dress for cold weather in winter can cause freezing, while heavy clothing in summer leads to overheating. The seasonal cycle adds visual variety and gameplay depth that the other cities lack.2929Transportation3131Dowon has a fully functioning underground subway system. Players can enter any subway station and fast travel to other stations across the city. This makes getting around Dowon quick and convenient, especially given the city's dense layout. Note that fast travel only works between subway stations; you cannot ride the subway to a bus stop or vice versa.3333Dowon Pros and Cons3535ProsConsUnique K-pop and esports careers not found elsewhereSmaller residential lots with limited building spaceFour seasons add visual variety and gameplay depthSeasonal outfit management can feel tediousEfficient subway system for fast travelDense, compact city may feel crowdedRich cultural attractions (karaoke, tarot, gaming cafe)Fewer standalone houses; many lots are apartmentsKorean-inspired architecture and ambianceNo beach or ocean access without traveling to another city3737Bliss Bay3838Bliss Bay draws heavy inspiration from Santa Monica, California. It is a sun-drenched coastal city with a sprawling beach, a pier-side amusement park, and a laid-back atmosphere. Buildings are spread out compared to Dowon, and residential lots are generally larger. If you want sunshine, surfing, and space to build big homes, Bliss Bay delivers.4040Exclusive Careers4242Bliss Bay has its own set of city-specific careers that reflect its coastal, sporty, and somewhat gritty character:4444CareerEmployerDescriptionFootball PlayerBliss Bay NautilusA high-paying, competitive sports career. Great for athletic Zois.Amusement Park Office EmployeeBliss Bay Amusement ParkManage operations at the iconic theme park.Amusement Park Field WorkerBliss Bay Amusement ParkWork on the ground running rides and attractions.Amusement Park Convenience StoreBliss Bay Amusement ParkSell snacks and merchandise at the park.GangsterWestside HustlerBliss Bay's criminal career path. Starts as a rookie but can climb to Boss, which pays the highest salary in the base game cities.Furniture Store EmployeeLocal furniture storeA retail position exclusive to Bliss Bay.4646Notable Attractions4747LocationActivitiesBliss Bay Amusement ParkRollercoasters, carnival rides, and games. The park transforms into a fireworks spectacle at night.Muscle BeachOutdoor gym with squat racks, bench presses, free weights, and pull-down machines. Adjacent to the volleyball court.Beach Volleyball CourtInteract with the net to join a match and compete on the sand.Surfing SpotGrab a surfboard near the pier and ride the waves. Develops the Surfing skill.Lumiere Art GalleryBrowse and appreciate art in a coastal gallery setting.Liberty Square and Clover ParkPublic spaces for socializing, relaxation, and recreational activities.4949Housing5050Bliss Bay has approximately 14 residential lots. Because the city is less densely populated than Dowon, property lots tend to be larger and more spread out. Housing styles range from quaint bungalows to luxurious sea-facing villas, with a healthy mix of detached houses and apartment buildings. If building large custom homes is your priority, Bliss Bay gives you significantly more room to work with. Named apartment complexes include City Nest Apartment, Heaven Hill Apartments, and Ocean Bliss Apartment.5252Climate and Weather5454Bliss Bay enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round. There are no seasonal changes, which means your Zoi can wear summer attire or swimwear at all times without worrying about temperature effects. This makes daily outfit management simpler. The downside is that the perpetual sunshine can feel visually monotonous compared to Dowon's seasonal shifts.5656Transportation5858Bliss Bay uses a bus system for fast travel. Players can travel between bus stops scattered around the city. Like Dowon's subway, fast travel only works between bus stops, not across different transit types. The bus system is functional but covers a more spread-out area, so some walking may still be needed to reach destinations far from a stop.6060Bliss Bay Pros and Cons6262ProsConsLarger residential lots with more building spaceNo seasonal variety; always sunnyBeach activities: surfing, volleyball, swimmingFewer cultural attractions compared to DowonAmusement park with rollercoasters and fireworksBus transit covers a spread-out city less efficientlyRelaxed, vacation-like atmosphereLess dense urban feel may seem empty to some playersHigh-paying criminal career (Gangster to Boss)No K-pop or esports career paths6464Cahaya6565Cahaya arrived as a free DLC with the Island Getaway expansion in August 2025. Inspired by the tropical coastal regions of Indonesia (Bali, Lombok, and Yogyakarta), Cahaya is a collection of three islands: a main island for farming and working, a resort island for recreation and relaxation, and a deserted island full of mystery. It represents a complete departure from the urban gameplay of the other two cities, focusing instead on nature, self-sufficiency, and island life.6767Exclusive Careers6969Cahaya introduces nine career options, all of which are full-time positions (no part-time jobs are available on the island):7171CareerEmployerDescriptionFarmerLocal farmWork the land seven days a week with short morning shifts. A core island lifestyle career.MinerLocal mineConsistently short daily hours. Extracts island resources.Yoga InstructorWellness centerLead yoga and meditation classes. The most stress-free career on the island, though lower pay.Travel GuideTravel agencyGive guided tours of the island. Steady pay and a great fit for social, outgoing Zois.Sea Turtle ConservationConservation orgProtect and preserve sea turtles found on beaches and underwater. Highly rewarding work.Taxi DriverJallan NetworkDrive passengers across the connected islands, including routes over the sea.LawyerLocal firmOne of the higher-paying careers on Cahaya, second only to the criminal boss.Natap Encyclopedia InvestigatorNatap Encyclopedia AssociationResearch and investigate island phenomena. The lowest-paying career on Cahaya.Criminal (Red Tissue Gang)Red Tissue GangStarts as a Rookie and can reach Boss. The Boss position earns the single highest salary in the expansion.7373Notable Activities7474ActivityDetailsFarming and GatheringGrow crops, harvest resources, and sustain yourself on the main island.FishingCast your line from beaches or boats. A primary income source for self-sufficient Zois.SnorkelingPurchase snorkeling gear and explore coral reefs, swim with dolphins, encounter sea turtles, and discover submerged ancient temples. Requires the Swimming skill.BoatingTravel between the three islands by boat.SwimmingSwim in crystal-clear tropical waters. Builds the Swimming skill.Treasure HuntingExplore the deserted island and ocean floor for hidden treasures.Resort RelaxationVisit the resort island for spa activities, poolside lounging, and vacation experiences.7676Housing7777Cahaya's housing options differ significantly from the mainland cities. Instead of traditional urban lots, players choose plots spread across three islands. The main island supports a rural, self-sufficient lifestyle with space for farming plots. The resort island offers more luxurious accommodations. Living costs on Cahaya tend to be lower than in Dowon or Bliss Bay, balancing out the generally lower salaries. Players can form new families on the island or immigrate with an existing household.7979Climate and Environment8181Cahaya has a warm, tropical climate year-round, similar to Bliss Bay but with a distinctly Southeast Asian feel. Lush vegetation, coral reefs, and sandy beaches define the scenery. The deserted island adds a sense of mystery and exploration not found in the other cities. The abundance of cats roaming the islands adds to the locale's charm (the full name, Kucingku, translates roughly to "my cat" in Malay).8383Transportation8585Getting around Cahaya involves a mix of taxis, seaplanes, and airport shuttles. The Taxi Driver career lets your Zoi drive across connected islands, including routes that cross the sea. For visiting Cahaya from another city, Zois can use a computer to learn about travel options and then take a shuttle or seaplane. Accommodation at vacation destinations costs between 1,000 and 2,500 Monies per night, and your household needs at least 5,000 Monies before booking.8787Cahaya Pros and Cons8989ProsConsUnique self-sufficient gameplay: farming, fishing, miningNo part-time job options availableSnorkeling with marine life and underwater explorationCareers generally pay lower base salariesThree islands with distinct purposes and explorationRequires the free Island Getaway DLCLower cost of living balances out lower salariesLess urban amenity variety than Dowon or Bliss BayRelaxing tropical atmosphere with cats everywhereMore isolated; travel to other cities costs money9191Shared Careers9292Not every career is city-exclusive. Several jobs and careers are available in both Dowon and Bliss Bay (with different employers depending on the city). These shared careers include positions like University Professor (at Bliss Bay University or the University of Youngsung in Dowon), Developer, and other professional roles. If a specific shared career is important to you, it should not be a deciding factor between Dowon and Bliss Bay since both offer access. However, none of the mainland shared careers are available on Cahaya, which has its own entirely separate career roster.9494Traveling Between Cities9696As of the v0.3.0 update, Zois can travel between cities for vacations. To start, interact with a computer and select "Learn how to get to another city." Your Zoi will then have the option to take an airport shuttle or seaplane. Keep in mind that travel requires resort accommodation at your destination, costing between 1,000 and 2,500 Monies per night. Your household also needs a minimum of 5,000 Monies before you can book a trip. Permanent relocation between cities is not yet supported, though Krafton has indicated plans to add this feature in a future update.9898Best City for Your Playstyle100100The right city depends entirely on what kind of experience you want. Below is a breakdown of which city suits common playstyles.102102Career-Focused Players104104If climbing the career ladder is your primary goal, Dowon offers the most diverse and high-profile exclusive careers. The Idol Trainee path is one of the most engaging active careers in the game, and the Pro Gamer career appeals to players who enjoy the esports fantasy. The Firefighter career provides hands-on, action-oriented gameplay. For players chasing the highest possible salary through less legitimate means, both Bliss Bay (Gangster) and Cahaya (Red Tissue Gang) offer criminal career paths that lead to the top-paying Boss position.106106Family-Oriented Players108108For players focused on raising a family, Bliss Bay is a strong choice. The larger residential lots give you space to build a proper family home, the year-round sunshine simplifies outfit management for multiple household members, and the beach and amusement park provide easy outings for the whole family. Cahaya is also excellent for family play if you enjoy a slower pace. Farming, fishing, and exploring the islands together create a cozy, Stardew Valley-like family experience.110110Creative Builders112112If building and designing homes is your main interest, Bliss Bay wins thanks to its larger, more spread-out lots and variety of housing styles. From bungalows to seaside villas, there is more architectural flexibility. Dowon's apartments limit exterior customization, and Cahaya's island plots are geared more toward rural aesthetics. That said, Dowon offers the unique challenge of fitting creative interiors into compact urban spaces, which some builders enjoy.114114Relaxation and Exploration116116Cahaya is the clear winner for players who want a laid-back, exploratory experience. Snorkeling through coral reefs, discovering submerged temples, treasure hunting on the deserted island, and living off the land through farming and fishing all cater to a relaxed pace. The resort island adds spa and vacation activities. If you prefer a tropical getaway over city life, Cahaya delivers something the other two cities simply cannot match.118118Urban Lifestyle Enthusiasts120120Dowon is the best city for players who want an authentic urban experience. The dense city layout, subway system, karaoke bars, gaming cafes, tarot reading, and bustling parks create a lively metropolitan atmosphere. Bliss Bay has its own charm but leans more toward suburban coastal living than true city energy.122122Sports and Fitness Fans124124Bliss Bay caters best to athletic Zois. Surfing, beach volleyball, the Muscle Beach outdoor gym, and the Football Player career path offer a sports-focused lifestyle that neither Dowon nor Cahaya can match. Dowon has parks with workout equipment and basketball courts, but Bliss Bay's coastal sports scene is unrivaled.126126Playstyle Summary128128PlaystyleBest CityWhyCareer climberDowonUnique K-pop, esports, and firefighting careers with engaging active gameplayFamily lifeBliss BayLarger lots, simple weather, beach outings, and amusement park for all agesCreative builderBliss BayMost spacious lots and diverse housing styles for ambitious buildsRelaxation and explorationCahayaSnorkeling, treasure hunting, farming, and three islands to discoverUrban lifestyleDowonDense city, subway, karaoke, cafes, and lively nightlifeSports and fitnessBliss BaySurfing, volleyball, outdoor gym, and a professional football careerSelf-sufficient livingCahayaFarming, fishing, mining, and low cost of living on a tropical islandCriminal empireCahaya or Bliss BayBoth have gang career paths; Cahaya's Red Tissue Gang Boss earns the highest salary in the expansion130130Tips for Choosing131131Try before you commit. If you already have a household in one city, use the vacation travel system to visit the others before starting a new save there.Consider your career goals first. City-exclusive careers are the biggest differentiator. Check the career tables above and decide which jobs interest you most.Don't underestimate climate. Dowon's four seasons add depth but require active outfit management. If you find that tedious, choose Bliss Bay or Cahaya.Cahaya requires the free Island Getaway DLC. Make sure you have it installed before creating a household there.Building enthusiasts should prioritize lot size. Bliss Bay's spread-out lots give the most room for large builds.Permanent relocation is not yet available. Pick carefully, as your household is tied to its starting city for now. Krafton plans to add cross-city moves in a future update.133133Additional Details135135Careers137137Dowon has the widest career selection of any city. Several careers are exclusive to Dowon:139139Idol Trainee: A K-pop inspired career path with auditions, training, and public performances.Firefighter: Emergency response career with active rescue scenarios.Pro Gamer: Competitive gaming career where your Zoi trains and competes in tournaments.141141Residential Lots143143Residential options in Dowon lean toward apartments and compact homes. Space is at a premium in the urban core. The two largest lots in Dowon are rooftop parcels on top of tall buildings, offering impressive views but limited outdoor space. If you want a sprawling estate, Bliss Bay is the better choice.145145Who Should Choose Dowon147147Players who want the broadest career selectionFans of urban, high-density city lifePlayers who enjoy seasonal weather varietyThose who prefer public transit over drivingAnyone drawn to Korean culture and aesthetics149149Careers151151Bliss Bay has its own set of exclusive careers that reflect its beachside culture:153153Football Player: Athletic career with team practices and game-day events.Amusement Park Worker: Operate rides and attractions at the Bliss Bay boardwalk.Gangster: Street-level crime career unique to Bliss Bay.Surf Shop: Run a surfboard rental and retail business on the beach.156156Residential Lots158158Bliss Bay offers more spacious residential lots than Dowon. Mid-century modern suburban homes are common, with generous yard space for outdoor furniture and landscaping. If building and decorating a large home is a priority, Bliss Bay gives you more room to work with.160160Who Should Choose Bliss Bay162162Players who want beach lifestyle activities like surfing and boardwalk entertainmentBuilders who want larger residential lotsThose who prefer warm, consistent weatherPlayers interested in the Gangster or Football Player careerFans of California coastal aesthetics164164What Cahaya Offers166166Cahaya is built around relaxation and outdoor activities. There are no jobs or schools in Cahaya, so it is purely a resort experience. Key activities include:168168Fishing: Rich fishing spots with species unique to the tropical waters.Farming: Small garden plots for growing tropical crops.Boating: Rent and pilot boats across the resort's waterways.Snorkeling: Explore underwater reefs and marine life.170170Limitations172172Because Cahaya has no employment or education infrastructure, it is not a place where you can permanently settle and build a full life. Think of it as a vacation destination your Zoi visits to relax, fish, farm, and enjoy the scenery before returning home to Dowon or Bliss Bay.174174City Comparison Table176176FeatureDowonBliss BayCahayaInspirationSeoul, South KoreaSanta Monica, CaliforniaBali, IndonesiaClimateFour seasons (spring, summer, autumn, winter)Warm year-roundTropical year-roundTransportationSubway + vehiclesVehicles + bicyclesBoats + walkingUnique CareersIdol Trainee, Firefighter, Pro GamerFootball Player, Gangster, Surf Shop, Amusement Park WorkerNone (resort only)Lot SizeCompact (apartment-focused)Spacious (suburban homes)Limited (resort parcels)SchoolsYesYesNoPriceIncluded at launchIncluded at launchFree DLC (v0.3.0)178178Travel Between Cities179179Zois can travel between the three cities. A full travel system with expanded cross-city features is planned for the July 2026 expansion update. Currently, travel allows your Zoi to visit another city for activities before returning home.181181Final Recommendation183183Choose Dowon if you want the most career options, enjoy urban living, and like experiencing all four seasons. Choose Bliss Bay if you want a relaxed beach lifestyle, bigger homes, and consistently warm weather. Visit Cahaya when you need a vacation from city life. There is no wrong answer; each city delivers a distinct experience, and with cross-city travel available, your Zoi does not have to stay in one place forever.
