From Tokyo to Korea Cultural Odyssey

Upon arrival in Tokyo, we warmly welcome you to Japan. Once you've completed the customs procedures, a shared shuttle bus will transfer you to your hotel. The rest of your day is free for you to explore at your leisure. In the afternoon, we'll provide details regarding the start of your tour. Please be aware that throughout the journey, travellers may join or leave the tour at different points, which could result in a change in group composition. However, be assured that we will never exceed the maximum group size. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

In the morning, we will embark on an enriching guided tour of Tokyo, a city where cutting-edge urban life harmoniously meets tranquil tradition. Our exploration begins with a visit to the Zojoji Temple, offering a stunning view of the Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are adorned with an array of Jizo statues, each uniquely carved and dressed in vivid knits, believed to provide protection to children. Next, we head to the renowned Shibuya Crossing, famed as one of the busiest intersections globally, and then to the serene Meiji Shrine, devoted to Emperor Meiji and his consort. Our tour continues along the sophisticated Omotesando Avenue, showcasing some of the city's most elegant architecture. We will catch glimpses of the vibrant Akihabara district, a mecca for manga and anime enthusiasts, and pass by the impressive Kokugikan sumo wrestling arena. The tour will also include stops at the picturesque Imperial Palace gardens and the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.Our morning discovery ends in the historic area of Asakusa, where we visit the revered Sensoji Temple and the lively Nakamise Street. Lunch is included at a local eatery, allowing you to savour traditional Japanese cuisine. After returning to the hotel, you will have the afternoon free for your own explorations.In the evening, at 6:30 p.m., we will reconvene in the hotel lobby with our guide to take the metro (tickets included) to explore the bustling Shinjuku district. This area is famous for its vibrant nightlife, where we will wander through its animated streets and enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, also included. Following our meal, we will return to the hotel via metro, accompanied by our guide.

Following breakfast, we will embark on a four-hour journey aboard the bullet train to Hiroshima, covering approximately 800 kilometres. On arrival, we will delve into the history of this city, profoundly impacted by the atomic bomb in 1945. Our exploration will include a poignant walk through the Peace Memorial Park, a visit to the Atomic Bomb Dome, and a tour of the Peace Memorial Museum. These sites serve as sobering reminders of resilience and hope in the aftermath of devastation.Later, we will take a ferry to a renowned island referred to as 'the island where gods and men live together.' Here, we will explore the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, which is partially set over the sea and dedicated to the sea guardians. You will have ample time to wander through the shrine, enjoy the island's charming centre, and have lunch at your leisure.Returning to Hiroshima in the evening, we will share dinner together, offering a chance to reflect on the day's experiences. Please note that the order of activities in Hiroshima may adjust but rest assured, all scheduled visits will be accommodated.

Today, we'll embark on a ferry journey to Shikoku Island, a charming two-and-a-half-hour trip that highlights Japan's unique geography as a nation of islands. On arrival in Matsuyama, we'll take a cable car to explore the majestic Matsuyama Castle. This well-preserved fortress stands as a testament to the region's historical significance and offers panoramic views of the surroundings. After our castle visit, we'll make our way to Ishiteji, a beautiful Buddhist temple and a well-trodden path for many pilgrims. Our afternoon will be spent immersing ourselves in the soothing setting of Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, where admission is included. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant, providing you with a taste of regional cuisine.

Today our journey takes us from Matsuyama to Kotohira, where we will visit a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors. Positioned on Mount Zosu, reaching this sacred site involves a climb of 785 steps, offering both a rewarding challenge and the chance to reflect on the spiritual significance of this important pilgrimage location. Our day continues in Takamatsu, where we will explore Ritsurin Garden, an exquisite landscape hailed as one of Japan's finest, offering serene beauty and carefully crafted views at every turn. Lunch awaits at a local restaurant, providing an authentic taste of the region's culinary delights.Continuing to Naruto, we will pause at a remarkable bridge that spans the sea. This architectural marvel features a glass floor, allowing us to observe the powerful sea whirlpools below from a height of 45 metres. Our scenic route will take us across a series of stunning bridges that elegantly connect the islands over the sea. As the day draws to a close, we will arrive in Kobe for our overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s experiences.

In Kobe, we'll begin our day with a visit to the Earthquake Memorial Museum, which pays tribute to the devastating earthquake that struck the city in 1995 and to the remarkable reconstruction efforts that followed. Our next stop is Osaka, after which we'll journey to the sacred Mount Koya, Japan's most significant centre of Shingon Buddhism. This enchanting site is home to 120 temples and monasteries, offering visitors a serene pilgrimage experience. Here, we'll explore the Okuno Mausoleum, a spiritually profound site surrounded by nature, featuring over 200,000 graves. We'll also visit the Kongobuji Temple, initially constructed in 1593. Our overnight stay will be in a Buddhist monastery where monks will guide us in a Zen meditation practice known as Ajikan. Dinner will be provided and will consist of a vegetarian meal. You may also participate in a religious ceremony at the temple before breakfast the next morning.Please note: On select dates, the Earthquake Museum visit may be replaced with a visit to the Sake Museum or a ride up the Kobe Tower. Accommodation at the monastery is considered a unique and treasured experience. The rooms are simply furnished, featuring traditional tatami mats with shared bathrooms. During peak tourist seasons, meditation practices may not always be available. Given the limited accommodation on Mount Koya, alternative lodging in nearby hotels with half board may be arranged when necessary.

After a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple on Mount Koya, we'll set off early for Kyoto. This historic city was Japan's capital from 794 to 1868 and served as the home of the Imperial Court. Astonishingly spared during the bombings of World War II, Kyoto boasts an impressive artistic and cultural legacy. You'll visit iconic sites, starting with the breathtaking Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari. Next, we'll explore the historic Imperial Palace and admire the renowned Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the "Golden Pavilion," nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens. You’ll have some free time to wander at your leisure before we head to Gion, Kyoto's traditional district celebrated for its Geisha culture. Here, you can immerse yourself in the district's distinct atmosphere and enjoy additional free time to explore. Note that if you've previously visited Kyoto with the tour, our guide will offer suggestions for other areas you might wish to discover on your own.

After enjoying breakfast, we set off to explore some captivating locations starting with one of Japan's largest lakes, where we pause to appreciate the serene Shirahige Ginra Shrine situated along the lakeside. Our journey then takes us to Eihei-ji, a temple-monastery established in 1244, recognised as a cornerstone of Zen Buddhism in Japan. We will tour its impressive architecture and lush gardens, which provide a serene setting for monks practising Zazen meditation. Next, we continue to Katsuyama, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the Dinosaur Museum, renowned for being situated at Japan's largest dinosaur fossil site. Here, you have the freedom to explore the museum's fascinating exhibits of over 40 dinosaur skeletons and take advantage of some free time for lunch. Afterwards, we proceed to visit the extraordinary Great Buddha of Echizen and its magnificent temple. Moreover, a climb up the accompanying five-story pagoda promises panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. By evening, we arrive in Kanazawa, ready to relax and reflect on an enriching day of exploration.

In Kanazawa, we dedicate the day to exploring this city, which remarkably escaped the destruction of World War II air raids and once vied with Kyoto and Tokyo in significance. Our morning begins with a guided tour of the city, where we delve into the history of the samurais. We wander through the castle area, admiring its formidable walls, and follow that with a stroll in the historic Nagamachi neighbourhood. Here, you can almost step back in time as you walk along the narrow alleys that once housed samurai families, with preserved residences, earthen walls, and charming water canals enhancing the setting. Our tour will also include Kenrokuen, celebrated as one of Japan's most exquisite gardens, offering a serene escape and breathtaking beauty. The morning's exploration concludes at Omicho Market, a vibrant traditional market renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, making it an ideal spot for lunch. The afternoon is yours to delve deeper into Kanazawa's offerings, from its art to its local culture.

We will journey through captivating mountain landscapes, dense forests, and traditional villages as we explore the enchanting regions of Gokayama and Shirakawa-go. These villages are celebrated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, renowned for their traditional houses with steeply slanted roofs resembling two hands joined in prayer. This iconic architecture is not just visually striking but is also designed to endure the region's heavy snowfall during winter. Our first stop will be Ainokura, a serene and picturesque village, followed by Shirakawa-go Ogimachi, a larger and more frequented area. You'll have time to explore and enjoy your lunch amidst this breathtaking setting.Later in the day, we'll travel to Takayama, where we will visit the Hida Folk Village Museum. This open-air museum is set in a tranquil location and showcases over 30 traditional homes from the Edo Period (1603-1868), which were relocated from their original sites in 1971. Inside, you'll discover various tools and utensils that depict everyday life from centuries ago. Afterwards, you will have free time to wander through the charming old town of Takayama, known for its delightful wooden houses and traditional shops.

Following breakfast, we set off for Hida Furukawa, where we'll enjoy a leisurely stroll through its charming old town. This city is renowned for its lively festival, which UNESCO has recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage due to its impressive large drums and intricately decorated floats. We'll visit the museum to see these remarkable floats, costumes, and drums up close. Our journey then continues across the stunning Japanese Alps—from snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys to ancient towns. Upon reaching Matsumoto, we'll explore its formidable Crow Castle, a striking black structure dating back to the 16th century. Following this, you'll have some free time to relish in a leisurely lunch and explore the town at your own pace. As the day winds down, we will make our way back to Tokyo, arriving by day's end.

After breakfast, we will arrange your transfer to the airport for your flight to Busan. Arriving in South Korea, you'll find B​​usan, a city teeming with life and the second largest in the country, ready to be explored. After clearing customs, you'll be greeted by our assistant and taken to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to discover Busan's vibrant culture and engage with its dynamic atmosphere at your own pace. As evening approaches, we will join up with the rest of our group. You'll also have an opportunity to meet our guide, who will accompany you for the remaining journey.

On day 13, we embark on an exploration of South Korea's spiritual and historical riches. Our journey begins with a visit to Seokguram Grotto, a remarkable Buddhist site dating back to the 8th century, tucked away on the slopes of Mount Tohamsan. Moving on, we explore Bulguksa Temple, celebrated for its architectural beauty amidst serene surroundings. Our adventure then takes us to Gyeongju, the longest-serving capital in Korean history, where we pause to capture the wooden Woljeonggyo Bridge, beautifully situated by the Namcheon River. A tasty lunch is included to fuel our day of exploration.In the afternoon, we head to Tumuli Park, which houses ancient royal burial mounds from the Silla Kingdom, over 1,500 years old. Here, we explore one of these historic tombs and later walk to Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our journey concludes in Daegu, South Korea's fourth-largest city. Before checking into our hotel, we take in the historic ambience of Dongsan Cheongna Hill, a former missionary hub, and Dongseong-ro, a bustling commercial street filled with trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. We will spend the night in Daegu.

Our day begins in Daegu with a visit to the Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine, renowned for its rich heritage of medicinal herbs. Following this, we’ll meander through the adjacent Herbal Medicine Market, acclaimed for its quality herbal products, especially ginseng. Continuing north to Andong, we’ll explore the outskirts of the traditional Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where time appears to stand still. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through this rural village and visit the Hahoe Mask Museum, presenting masks from around the globe used in various cultural practices. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant.Our journey then takes us to the Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy, established in the 16th century, nestled amidst scenic landscapes by a river. As evening approaches, we’ll reach Seoul. Weather permitting, we’ll pause at Banpo Bridge on the Han River, celebrated for its illuminated water and light display. Our day concludes with an overnight stay in Seoul. Please note, the stop at Banpo Bridge is dependent on weather conditions.

Today, we'll set off early to explore the Cheorwon region, home to a segment of the DMZ, the Demilitarised Zone separating the two Koreas. Our visit begins at the Second Tunnel, which was secretly constructed by the North Korean military and discovered in 1975. We’ll then head to the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, offering sweeping views over the DMZ and the initial villages of North Korea. Within the observatory, you'll find a small but insightful museum dedicated to the Korean War. Our exploration continues as we visit the deserted Woljeong-ri railway station and the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, a tribute to the French UN battalion's efforts during significant battles. Lunch is included in today’s activities.Later, we’ll pay a visit to a local producer of Makgeolli, Korea's traditional rice liquor. By evening, we’ll make our way back to Seoul. Please ensure you carry your passport today, as it is necessary for entry into the DMZ, a military zone subject to sudden, unanticipated closures. In the event of a closure, an alternative itinerary will be provided.As twilight falls, our guide will lead us to admire City Hall with its impressive tsunami-wave design. Opposite, observe the beautifully illuminated Deoksugung Palace, showcasing the perfect blend of tradition and modernity in Korea. Our evening continues with a stroll to the bustling Myeongdong district, famous as South Korea's largest hub for shopping and entertainment. Dinner will be enjoyed at a local restaurant before we use Seoul’s modern metro system (ticket included) for our journey back to the hotel.

Today, we will embark on an engaging five-hour exploration of Seoul, beginning at the historic Changdeokgung Palace, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set within a sprawling park, this remarkable palace complex offers a glimpse into Korea's royal past. Following our visit, we'll pass by the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village, known for its quaint and historically significant homes that capture the essence of a bygone era.Our next stop is the War Memorial of Korea, an enlightening museum providing in-depth insights into the conflicts that have moulded Korea's history, with a particular emphasis on the Korean War, during which soldiers from numerous countries fought under the United Nations banner. After absorbing the profound history, we'll enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, included in your day.We then head towards the bustling Gangnam District, a vibrant area famed for its shopping centres and lively entertainment options. To cap off the day's experiences, we'll visit the towering Lotte World Tower, an impressive skyscraper reaching 550 metres into the sky. Here, you'll have free time to choose between visiting the tower to enjoy the aerial views (ticket not included) or exploring the adjacent park and luxury shopping malls.Following this, we will return to the hotel, where the remainder of the day is free for you to unwind or explore at your own pace.

Today, we will explore the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace, a significant landmark with over six centuries of history. If the timing is right, we'll have the opportunity to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard, a traditional spectacle to behold. Following our palace visit, we will depart from Seoul and journey southward to Suwon. This city, a former capital of Korea, is renowned for its impressive UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortifications. Here, we will admire the remarkable walls and visit Hwaseong Haenggung, a summer palace steeped in history. Lunch will be provided as part of the itinerary. Afterward, we will make our way to Jeonju, where you can explore its captivating historic centre, known as Hanok Village. In this charming area, discover little houses, traditional shops, and art galleries, painting a vivid picture of Korea's rich cultural tapestry.

We depart Jeonju to discover Sunchang Gochujang Village, situated at the base of Mount Amisan. This quaint village is dotted with traditional hanok houses and courtyards filled with hang-a-ri clay pots. Here, esteemed artisans produce gochujang, the renowned Korean chilli paste, using age-old techniques. You will get hands-on experience crafting this famous sauce. Our journey continues to Damyang, where we will explore Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, renowned for its tranquil pathways that are perfect for peaceful reflection and enjoying the refreshing breeze. The area is known for a variety of bamboo products, including those showcased at the Bamboo Museum. Lunch is included, offering a local delicacy of rice cooked and served in a bamboo stalk. We then travel through breathtaking mountainous landscapes to reach Haeinsa, one of Korea's most significant Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 802, Haeinsa houses the Tripitaka, the most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures, carved onto 80,000 wooden tablets. Our day concludes as we proceed to Busan, Korea's vibrant second-largest city, where we will settle in for the night.

On day 19, we embark on a delightful exploration starting with a visit to Haedong Yonggung Temple. This 14th-century Buddhist temple, uniquely situated by the sea, offers a serene and picturesque setting. We then return to Busan, where we pay our respects at the UN Memorial Cemetery, a poignant resting place for individuals from various nations. Our next stop is the bustling fish market by Nampo Port, renowned as the largest in Korea, where we'll enjoy a delicious lunch. After dining, we'll wander over to Yongdusan Park, home to a striking 120-metre pagoda. Here, you can soak in the views and the park's peaceful ambiance. Following this, we head to Songdo Beach, offering you the opportunity to ride the country's first marine cable car—weather permitting—providing stunning vistas of the bay. Our adventure continues in Gamcheon Culture Village, a vibrant maze of colourful houses, charming art galleries, pottery workshops, and inviting cafes. This captivating area, with its unique blend of culture and creativity, is perfect for a leisurely exploration. After a fulfilling day, we return to Busan for an overnight stay, reflecting on the captivating experiences in this vibrant city.

As your journey concludes, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before bidding farewell to Busan. Reflect on the extraordinary experiences and rich memories you've gathered throughout your travels. Your adventure across Japan and Korea has certainly provided a wealth of diverse cultural and historical insights.