14-Nights Best of South Korea & Japan from $8,835

Day 1: Arrive in Seoul

On arrival at Incheon International Airport, you will be met by an assistant in the arrival lobby after you exit the security zone. Then you will be escorted to your private vehicle to transfer to your hotel. The assistant will say goodbye once you board the vehicle. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation. As a sprawling metropolis, it boasts historic palaces, bustling markets, futuristic architecture and a vibrant arts scene, making it a cultural, technological and historical hub in East Asia.

Hotel: Amid Hotel Seoul (4 Star Rating)

AMID Hotel Seoul offers a comfortable stay in the heart of central Seoul, ideally located near the vibrant streets of Insadong, the shopping district of Myeongdong, and many of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks and major subway lines. Guests can enjoy well-designed rooms with essential comforts, along with convenient hotel facilities including a fitness center and on-site dining. The hotel provides an excellent base for exploring Seoul.

Day 2: Private Guided Walking Tour of Seoul

Meet the guide in the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 and begin the urban exploration by visiting Gwanghwamun Plaza, a grand open space located in the heart of Seoul.

The plaza is home to the iconic statues of King Sejong, the creator of the Koreannalphabet, and Admiral Yi Sun-Sin, a national hero famed for his victories during the Japanese invasions. These statues serve as symbols of Korea’s rich history and offer a

fitting introduction to the nation's past.

From the plaza, proceed to Gwanghwamun Gate, the main entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace. This majestic gate once served as the passageway for the kings of the Joseon Dynasty.

At Gwanghwamun, the Changing of the Guard Ceremony can be witnessed, a centuries-old tradition that continues to be performed. The ceremony provides a beautiful insight into Korea's royal heritage and offers a fascinating glimpse into the

nation’s culture and history.

Next, explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of Seoul’s five grand palaces. Time can be spent exploring the palace’s stunning architecture and tranquil gardens. For those interested in a deeper understanding of Korea’s cultural history, the National Folk Museum, located next to the palace grounds, offers a wealth of knowledge.

Enjoy a delicious lunch, trying some local Korean specialties.

From here, take a short walk to Insadong, a renowned street famous for its traditional Korean crafts, tea houses, and art galleries. The area provides an excellent opportunity to discover unique souvenirs and immerse in Seoul’s cultural scene.

Afterwards, make a stop at Jogyesa Temple, the main temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. This serene Buddhist temple, with its striking architecture and peaceful atmosphere, offers a tranquil break in the heart of the city. It’s a wonderful spot to relax, reflect, and take in the calm surroundings.

Finish the city tour at Gwangjwang market, a bustling haven for Korean street food lovers. Try local favorites like mayak gimbap, bindaetteok, and tteokbokki in an energetic, authentic atmosphere.

Hotel: Amid Hotel Seoul (4 Star Rating)

AMID Hotel Seoul offers a comfortable stay in the heart of central Seoul, ideally located near the vibrant streets of Insadong, the shopping district of Myeongdong, and many of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks and major subway lines. Guests can enjoy well-designed rooms with essential comforts, along with convenient hotel facilities including a fitness center and on-site dining. The hotel provides an excellent base for exploring Seoul.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Full Day Tour to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

After breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide for a shared tour to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This border barrier between South and North Korea is steeped in history and intrigue. Spend time exploring the various sites and exhibitions at the DMZ including Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum and the Dora Observatory. Return to Seoul, where you will be dropped off at City Hall. Your guide can provide instructions or directions to return to your hotel.

Hotel: Amid Hotel Seoul (4 Star Rating)

AMID Hotel Seoul offers a comfortable stay in the heart of central Seoul, ideally located near the vibrant streets of Insadong, the shopping district of Myeongdong, and many of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks and major subway lines. Guests can enjoy well-designed rooms with essential comforts, along with convenient hotel facilities including a fitness center and on-site dining. The hotel provides an excellent base for exploring Seoul.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 4: Seoul to Andong to Gyeongju

This morning, transfer to the train station to take the high speed KTX train to Andong. The journey takes approximately 2 hours (no guide on the train). Andong is considered the spiritual and cultural heart of South Korea, known for its preservation of traditional Korean culture, customs, and architecture.

Upon arrival in Andong, meet your guide at the train station and begin your sightseeing tour with a visit to Hahoe Folk Village and the scenic Buyongdae Cliff that offers stunning views of Hahoe Village, the Nakdonggang River and surrounding mountains. The walk to the cliff takes about 30 minutes and is relatively easy. Then it's time to explore the village and surroundings. Hahoe Village is known for its well-preserved Joseon Dynasty architecture, including its thatched-roof houses and tile-roofed mansions. Continue to the Hahoe World Mask Museum which is home to a collection of over 800 masks from over 50 countries. The masks are displayed in five exhibition halls, each of which focuses on a different region or culture.

After lunch, continue sightseeing in Andong with a visit to Byeongsan-seowon Confucian Academy which was established in the mid-16th century during the Joseon Dynasty. The academy is renowned for its stunning architectural design and the harmony between the buildings and the natural landscape.

Then transfer by private vehicle to Gyeongju, a 2-hour overland journey. Gyeongju was once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, and is a historical treasure trove, brimming with palaces, temples, and tombs.

Hotel: Gyeongju GG Hotel (4 Star Rating)

Gyeongju GG Hotel enjoys a convenient city-center location in Gyeongju, close to historic sites, local dining, and cultural attractions. The hotel offers a comfortable stay with access to facilities such as an on-site restaurant, spa, and fitness centre, making it a great base for exploring the area. Guests can unwind after sightseeing and enjoy the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere in this heritage-rich destination.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Gyeongju

After breakfast, visit Bulguksa Temple complex, one of the most famous and important Buddhist temples in Korea. The temple was first built during the Silla Dynasty and destroyed by fire during the Japanese invasions of Korea in the 16th century. It was rebuilt in the 17th century. Next stop is Seokguram Grotto located about 3 km away. The grotto is part of the Bulguksa temple complex and consists of a stone Buddha statue in a central chamber surrounded by a corridor.

This afternoon visit the Gyeongju National Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, relics, and royal treasures. The museum features a comprehensive insight into the art, culture, and history of the Silla dynasty. Also visit the Daereungwon tomb complex (Tumuli Park) to take a stroll and pay respects to the Silla rulers. Take a closer look at the Cheonmachong Tomb which consists of a wooden coffin placed inside an underground chamber mounded with boulders and earth, characterized as a typical upper-class tomb of the Silla period.

This evening take a walk to Woljeong Bridge, and the historical "gateway" connecting the royal palaces of Silla to the south, on the Namcheon stream. End the walk at the Wolji pond, an artificial pond located in Gyeongju National Park that was part of the palace complex of ancient Silla.

Hotel: Gyeongju GG Hotel (4 Star Rating)

Gyeongju GG Hotel enjoys a convenient city-center location in Gyeongju, close to historic sites, local dining, and cultural attractions. The hotel offers a comfortable stay with access to facilities such as an on-site restaurant, spa, and fitness centre, making it a great base for exploring the area. Guests can unwind after sightseeing and enjoy the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere in this heritage-rich destination.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Gyeongju to Busan

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Gyeongju Station on your own to take a late morning train to Busan (train tickets will be provided). The train time is approx. 35 mins.

Upon arrival in Busan, a private transfer from the station to your hotel will be arranged, where luggage can be stored. Then meet your guide and begin exploring Busan together using public transportation.

The tour starts with a visit to Gwangalli Beach, one of Busan’s iconic landmarks, ideal for souvenir photos and a refreshing drink overlooking the coastline.

Continue to Dongbaekseom Island (Island of Camellias), located at the western end of the famous Haeundae Beach. Follow the scenic coastal trail along the raised wooden deck, surrounded by forest and sea views.

Next, head towards Dalmaji Hill, renowned for its panoramic views of Haeundae Beach and as one of the best sunset spots in Busan. The 30-minute walk reveals an artistic atmosphere with numerous galleries and boutiques along the way. At the summit, enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and the city.

After the visit, transfer back to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Hotel: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae (4 Star Rating)

Ramada Encore Haeundae is Wyndham's global brand hotel with the world's largest hotels.

Located right in front of Haeundae Station (Busan Line 2), Ramada Encore Haeundae provides the most comfortable travel experience for guests visiting both the beach and the city of Haeundae. Haeundae Beach is a 500-meter walk from the beautiful sea, and you can easily find a variety of foods that give you a taste of Busan. Located 10 minutes away from the hotel, BEXCO is also easily accessible by public transport, making it a great location for those visiting Haeundae for business.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 7: Busan Full Day City Tour

After Breakfast, meet the guide in the hotel lobby and start today with The United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Busan, a significant and poignant site commemorating the Korean War. Visiting the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Busan is not only a way to pay respects to the fallen soldiers but also an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the history.

Next, head to Jagalchi Fish Market, South Korea’s largest seafood market, offering a great opportunity to experience the city’s unique seafood culture.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Afterwards, stop by BIFF Street (Busan International Film Festival Street) and sample local treats such as seeds hotteok, a popular Busan specialty.

Continue to the colorful Gamcheon Cultural Village, known for the houses built in a tightly-knit fashion on the hillside, giving it the unique appearance. Originally, the area was with substandard living conditions, and settled by refugees fleeing from the Korean War.

Then, it’s time to sit back and relax on a cable car for a 1.62km journey (15-20 mins) across the ocean at a height of 86m. With the cable car traveling in the middle of the sea, enjoy panoramic views of Songdo Beach, Yeongdodaegyo Bridge, Namhangdaegyo Bridge, Songdo Coastal Dullegil Road and rock cliffs.

Hop out of the cable car, follow the signs and head to Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge which connects Amnam Park to the small uninhabited island of Dongseom Island. Take in the 360 degree views of the ocean, cliffs and surrounding islands.

Hotel: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae (4 Star Rating)

Ramada Encore Haeundae is Wyndham's global brand hotel with the world's largest hotels.

Located right in front of Haeundae Station (Busan Line 2), Ramada Encore Haeundae provides the most comfortable travel experience for guests visiting both the beach and the city of Haeundae. Haeundae Beach is a 500-meter walk from the beautiful sea, and you can easily find a variety of foods that give you a taste of Busan. Located 10 minutes away from the hotel, BEXCO is also easily accessible by public transport, making it a great location for those visiting Haeundae for business.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Depart from South Korea and Travel to Kyoto

Enjoy time at leisure until your hotel check out and transfer to the airport in Busan for your departure flight, your driver (no guide) will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the airport. You may have to fly to Seoul to connect with your onward flight.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Transfer: Osaka Kansai International Airportto Kyoto - City Centre

Hotel: Noku Kyoto (4 Star Rating)

Noku Kyoto features elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities, and local artisan touches for a comfortable and refined stay. The hotel’s boutique atmosphere combines warm hospitality with serene sophistication, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of Kyoto’s cultural district.

Day 9: Full Day Kyoto Gold Highlights Tour

A celebrated site, the world - famous Fushimi Inari Shrine sees millions of visitors every year. Thousands of bright red torii gates line the mountain trail of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Walking through the truly unique vermillion gate pathway is a visually stunning experience. Inari is the Japanese God of rice harvest. It is also believed to bless businesses with an abundance of fortunes, hence its popularity with merchants. The shrine complex spans over the entire Mt. Inari (233m/765ft).

On your tour, you will visit the main shrine hall. Then, you will proceed through the famed vermillion gate tunnel. Next, visit a temple that once caught fire and was reconstructed a century after it was first constructed. Then visit Sanjusangendo, at 120 meters it is the longest wooden structure in Japan. Inside, you will find 1001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist saint of Mercy.

Continue to the celebrated UNESCO site, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which is older than Kyoto as the capital of Japan. Built for Kannon, the Buddhist saint of mercy, this temple is said to grant wishes of all kinds - and especially so for women praying for safe childbirth. The temple is famous for its wooden platform stage, the Kiyomizu Butai. The massive stage was constructed out of wood and joints - no nails. At four stories high, it was once a popular wish-making spot.

Then visit Kinkakuji Temple, a favorite to millions of visitors each year, you will quickly see why this jewel set into the northern hills is one of the most visited sites in Japan. It is covered in real gold leaf and vibrant at any time of year no matter the weather. Your last stop is Kintano-tenmangu, a remarkable shrine to scholarship that was built to appease the spirit of an angry ghost. The shrine's surrounding entertainment district was first built after a fire in 1444, when a large section of the temple had to be rebuilt, and the remaining timber was used to construct 7 tea houses that became the first 'flower town' or Geisha district in Kyoto.

Day 10: Day at leisure at Kyoto



Day 11: Bullet Train from Kyoto to Hiroshima and Private Full Day Hiroshima and Miyajima Island Tour

Hotel: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima (4 Star Rating)

Hotel Granvia Hiroshima offers modern rooms with sleek decor, and a range of amenities, including multiple dining options, a fitness center, and meeting facilities. Conveniently connected to Hiroshima Station, the hotel provides a warm, sophisticated ambiance and easy access to local attractions like the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island.

Begin your tour with a visit to Peace Memorial Park. The area where the park now lies was ground zero for the Atomic Bomb on August 6th, 1945. After the bombing, Memorial Park was created and dedicated to those who lost their lives in the attack. Stroll through the park and discover the many memorials, monuments and statues in the park before heading into the Museum itself.

From Hiroshima, a short train and ferry ride will take you to Miyajima Island. A small sacred island located in the Island Sea, it has been a holy place of Shintoism since the earliest times. Here you will find perhaps the most photographed site in Japan - The Floating Torii Gate. Designated as one of Japan's '3 Most Beautiful Views', the shrine dates back to the 6th century with the present structure dating back to the 12th century. You will have time to explore the island and its many shrines and temples and sample local goodies like maple leaf-shaped cakes.

Day 12: Bullet Train transfer from Hiroshima to Tokyo

Hotel: Park Hotel Tokyo (4 Star Rating)

The Park Hotel Tokyo is ideally situated in Shiodome, a flourishing new centre of business and culture. They provide a superior level of service to satisfy the needs of their global guests. As a member of the design hotels TM group, the Park Hotel Tokyo offers an extraordinary level of service and coordinated interior designs. The logo of Park Hotel Tokyo, which shows its colour concept throughout the hotel's interior, reflects a feeling of warmth and sophistication. Blue is for clean comfort, Green is for nature, and Red is for warmth, an expression of Park Hotel Tokyo's warm at-home hospitality.

Day 13: Half Day Tokyo Edo Tour

Travel around Tokyo using the city's sophisticated and efficient subway and train lines together with your private guide to visit some of Tokyo's main sites. Start the tour with a visit to Sensoji Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple. After visiting the temple grounds, stroll along Nakamise shopping street to look for souvenirs. Then travel to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, a part of the inner palace area. The palace itself is not open to the public as it is the residence of the emperor, but you can walk through the garden grounds to see the moats, remains of Edo castle and gardens. Next, visit either Ginza or Tsukiji Outer Fish Market.

Day 14: Full Day Mount Fuji and Hakone Tour

Experience the natural beauty of Japan on this unforgettable full-day adventure to Mt. Fuji and Hakone. Travel by coach to Japan's tallest and most revered mountain, the iconic Mt. Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend to the 5th Station (weather permitting), perched 2,300 meters (7,546 feet) above sea level, where breathtaking panoramic views offer an unforgettable perspective of the surrounding landscape and, on clear days, stretch above the clouds. After enjoying a delicious Japanese lunch, continue into the picturesque Hakone region and ride the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, a dramatic volcanic valley where steam rises from active vents, showcasing the powerful forces beneath the earth's surface. Be sure to try one of the area's famous black eggs, a local specialty said to bring seven extra years of good luck and long life! From Owakudani, continue to Lake Ashi and enjoy a scenic high-speed cruise across its tranquil waters, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, majestic Mt. Fuji. End your unforgettable day with a ride back to Tokyo aboard Japan's world-famous Shinkansen bullet train.

Day 15: Depart from Tokyo

Transfer: Tokyo - Minato & Bay to Tokyo Haneda Apt