Korea to Japan A Cultural Odyssey

Welcome to Korea! Upon your arrival in Seoul, we'll arrange a transfer to your hotel, allowing you some free time to settle in and explore your surroundings at your leisure. In the afternoon, we'll provide you with all the necessary information about the start of your tour, ensuring you're fully prepared for the days ahead in this vibrant city. Enjoy your first moments in Korea and get ready for an exciting journey that blends both tradition and modernity. 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.

On our second day, we'll set out early for an enriching experience in the Cheorwon region, home to a section of the DMZ—the Demilitarised Zone that marks the border between North and South Korea. Our exploration includes the Second Tunnel, an underground passage secretly constructed by the North Korean army and found in 1975. We will visit the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, offering sweeping views over the DMZ and the first villages of North Korea. Inside, you'll find a small museum dedicated to the Korean War, enhancing our understanding of this historic period.Our journey proceeds to the desolate Woljeong-ri railway station before visiting the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, commemorating the brave efforts of a French UN battalion during pivotal battles. Lunch is included, providing a taste of local cuisine. We'll then visit a local producer of Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice liquor, offering a glimpse into Korea's cultural heritage.Please ensure you have your passport with you, as it is required for entering the DMZ – a reminder that this is an active military zone and may close unexpectedly; alternative sightseeing will be arranged if needed.Back in Seoul, alongside our guide, we'll explore City Hall, an architectural wonder resembling a tsunami wave. Nearby, Deoksugung Palace will captivate us, beautifully illuminated at night, displaying Korea's harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Our evening stroll takes us to Myeongdong, South Korea’s bustling hub of shopping and entertainment, where its name, "bright town," comes to life. Dinner is included at a local restaurant. To return to your hotel, you'll experience Seoul’s modern and efficient metro – tickets are provided. We'll end our day with overnight accommodation in Seoul.

Today, we embark on an in-depth exploration of Seoul, beginning with the remarkable Changdeokgung Palace. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this palace complex is set amid expansive gardens and is renowned for its harmony with its natural surroundings. Our journey will take us next past the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean homes provide a glimpse into the nation's rich history.Continuing our exploration, we'll delve into the absorbing exhibits of the War Memorial of Korea. This comprehensive museum highlights the various conflicts that have shaped the nation's past, with a particular focus on the pivotal Korean War. A lunch break at a local restaurant will follow, offering you a taste of authentic Korean cuisine.Our afternoon will be spent in the bustling Gangnam District, a vibrant area famed for its shopping and entertainment offerings. Concluding our day, we’ll visit the impressive Lotte World Tower, a soaring skyscraper standing at 550 metres. You will have the option to ascend the tower for panoramic city views (admission not included) or enjoy the surrounding park and luxury shopping malls at your leisure.After returning to the hotel, you’ll have free time to relax or explore more of the city before turning in for the evening.

Today, we'll start our day by visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, a magnificent structure showcasing over 600 years of history. If we're fortunate, we'll witness the ceremonial changing of the guard, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean culture. After our morning exploration, we'll journey south to Suwon, once the capital of Korea, famed for its impressive city walls, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We'll explore these remarkable fortifications and visit Hwaseong Haenggung, the elegant summer palace. You'll also enjoy a traditional lunch as part of our tour today.In the afternoon, we continue our travels to Jeonju, a city rich in history and culture. Here, we'll wander through the Hanok Village, a historic centre teeming with inviting houses, artisanal shops, and captivating art galleries. As you soak in the atmosphere, you'll experience the blend of tradition and modernity that defines this vibrant area.

Departing from Jeonju, we travel to Sunchang Gochujang Village, nestled at the foot of Mount Amisan. This village is notable for its traditional hanok houses and courtyards embellished with clay pots known as hang-a-ri. Here, we will engage in a hands-on experience, learning the art of making gochujang, a cherished Korean chili paste crafted by master artisans. Our journey continues to Damyang, where we visit the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. Renowned for its stunning pathways, this area is ideal for meditation and enjoying a refreshing breeze while exploring the variety of bamboo products, such as those displayed in the Bamboo Museum. We pause for lunch, tasting a local delicacy of rice cooked and served inside a bamboo stalk.In the afternoon, we are surrounded by magnificent mountain landscapes and forests as we arrive at Haeinsa Temple. This significant Buddhist temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site established in 802, houses the Tripitaka Koreana – an unrivalled collection of Buddhist scriptures etched onto 80,000 wooden blocks. Our day concludes with a journey to Busan, Korea’s second-largest city, famed for its lively atmosphere, where we will spend the night.

On day six, we begin our adventure with a visit to Haedong Yonggung Temple, a striking 14th-century Buddhist sanctuary uniquely situated by the sea. After soaking in the serene coastal views, we return to Busan to explore the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, a solemn resting place for soldiers from various countries. Our next stop is the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest of its kind in the country, offering a vibrant showcase of Korea's seafood culture. Here, you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and perhaps sample some fresh local fare. Lunch will be provided.Following our market visit, we’ll take a stroll to Yongdusan Park, where the iconic 120-metre high Busan Tower awaits. This landmark offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. Later, we proceed to the port to complete boarding formalities for our ferry trip. Please ensure you check in by 5:30 p.m. as the ferry departs Busan at 9:00 p.m. for a picturesque overnight journey across the Sea of Japan. Accommodation will be in comfortable double cabins with private bathrooms. Please note, should double cabins be unavailable, our alternative route will include a high-speed ferry departing at 3:00 p.m., arriving in Fukuoka, Japan, around 6:30 p.m. There, you will have a chance to explore Fukuoka at your leisure, with hotel accommodation provided.

Our adventure begins as we arrive at Shimonoseki Port at 08:00 a.m., following our ferry crossing from Busan. After the necessary border crossing procedures, we head to the picturesque town of Iwakuni. Here, we'll admire the historic Kintai-Kyo Bridge, renowned for its stunning wooden arches and rich cultural heritage.Next, a short ferry ride takes us to Miyajima, the island celebrated as a place where gods and humans coexist. Its most famous landmark is the Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to the guardian of the seas. The shrine is remarkable not only for its architectural beauty but also because parts of it are constructed over water. You'll have the opportunity to spend some time exploring this serene island, wandering through the quaint town centre and appreciating the stunning natural and cultural scenery.After enjoying lunch on Miyajima, we proceed to Hiroshima, a city indelibly marked by the events of 1945. We'll visit the Peace Memorial, an evocative site that honours the memory of those affected by the atomic bombing. We'll view the sobering atomic bomb dome and spend time at the Peace Museum, which provides profound insights into the city's history and its message of peace. Dinner is included, rounding off a day filled with cultural exploration and historical reflection.

Today, we will embark on a scenic ferry ride to Shikoku Island, a journey of two and a half hours that offers a unique insight into the geographical composition of Japan, which is comprised of numerous islands. Once we arrive in Matsuyama, we'll take a cable car up to its formidable castle, providing a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Following this, we'll visit Ishiteji, a striking Buddhist temple renowned as a popular pilgrimage site, adding a touch of spirituality to our day. You’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, allowing you to savour the region's culinary delights. In the afternoon, we’ll include admission to the Dogo Onsen, a traditional Japanese bathhouse that dates back to the 19th century, where you can unwind and experience an authentic Japanese bathing ritual.

Today, we embark on a visit to the revered Shinto shrine in Kotohira, dedicated to the God of sailors. This important pilgrimage site sits atop Mount Zosu and is reached by ascending 785 steps. Our next destination is Takamatsu, where we'll explore Ritsurin Garden, renowned as one of Japan's most beautiful gardens. A delightful lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Later, we'll stop in Naruto to marvel at an impressive bridge that spans the sea. You will have a unique opportunity to walk along its glass floor and observe the powerful sea whirlpools from 45 metres above. This picturesque journey will then take us across several stunning bridges that connect the islands. Our day concludes with arrival in Kobe, where we'll settle in for the night.

Today, we start in Kobe, where we'll explore the Earthquake Memorial Museum. This poignant site honours the 1995 earthquake and showcases the city's incredible rebuilding efforts. We then make our way to Osaka before journeying to the sacred Mount Koya – a spiritual haven that serves as the heart of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Known for its tranquillity, the area boasts a rich history and is embellished with 120 temples and monasteries. Our visit includes the Okuno Mausoleum, a serene cemetery with over 200,000 graves nestled amidst nature, and the Kongobuji Temple, which dates back to 1593. Tonight, we'll experience the unique opportunity to stay in a Buddhist monastery, where you'll participate in a Zen meditation practice led by the monks. Dinner will be provided, featuring a traditional vegetarian meal, and you'll have the option to attend a religious ceremony at the temple before breakfast. Note that the accommodation is in simple rooms with shared traditional Japanese-style bathrooms, complete with tatami mats. During peak tourist dates, meditation may not be available, and due to limited temple space, there’s a possibility of staying in a nearby hotel with similar board arrangements.

On the eleventh day, our journey begins with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple before setting off early for Kyoto. This city, a former capital of Japan, is rich with history, having been the heart of the Imperial Court and sparing the ravages of World War II. Kyoto is renowned for its cultural treasures and was famously the venue for the 1997 Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions. Our exploration of this historical city includes visits to some of its most celebrated landmarks: the Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its famous red torii gates; the historic Imperial Palace; and the Kinkaku-ji Temple, known as the "Golden Pavilion" for its luminous exterior and serene gardens. In the afternoon, you'll have free time to explore the city at your leisure. Later, we'll visit the traditional district of Gion, vibrant with Geisha culture and its distinct atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy a further opportunity to immerse yourself in Kyoto's unique charm. Please note, if you've previously explored Kyoto on this tour, our guide will provide alternative recommendations to help you discover new facets of this captivating city.

Today, we leave Kyoto and head to Tsumago, allowing you to take in the picturesque countryside views along the way. Tsumago is a quaint village celebrated for its traditional wooden houses, often considered one of Japan's most charming spots. You'll have some free time here to wander through the village's historic streets, taking in the serene atmosphere. Lunch will be provided, offering a taste of the local cuisine. Following our visit to Tsumago, we continue to Matsumoto, a vibrant destination known for its splendid 16th-century castle, affectionately named "The Crow" due to its striking black exterior. You'll have the opportunity to explore this bustling city, rich in history and culture, at your own pace. Later in the day, we'll journey onward to Nagano, where we'll settle for the night.

Today, we start our day in Nagano with a visit to the Zenko-ji Temple, a revered site for pilgrims and home to the first Buddhist image ever brought to Japan. As part of your experience, the Gomakuyo ceremony will be included, offering blessings and good fortune. From here, we’ll venture into the enchanting Japanese Alps and visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park. After lunch, we'll take a peaceful walk through forests, rivers, and hot springs, observing the unique sight of Japanese macaques bathing in their natural habitat.Following this, our journey takes us through breathtaking high mountain landscapes, ascending to altitudes of 2,172 metres and passing by semi-active volcanoes. We continue to Kusatsu, an inviting spa town celebrated for its vibrant main square and relaxing onsen parks, where we’ll take a leisurely stroll. Later, we proceed to Ikaho, another picturesque spa town with historic streets featuring charming stair-step designs. Tonight, you’ll stay at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you can unwind in the baths and enjoy an authentic Japanese dinner. Please note, in autumn, the monkeys' movement can be unpredictable due to the availability of mountain fruits, potentially affecting park schedules. Additionally, visits to Kusatsu might be impacted by weather from November to April.

On Day 14, we set off towards Nikko, a captivating town renowned for its cultural splendour. Our first stop will be the magnificent Nikko-Toshogu Temple, famed for its iconic 'room with the sound of a dragon.' Following this, we'll explore the peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a site of serene beauty and historical significance. You'll also have the opportunity to stroll along the enchanting Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues silently guard the riverbank. After immersing ourselves in Nikko's unique atmosphere, you'll have some free time to wander around the town centre and soak up its charm. We then make our way back to Tokyo, aiming to arrive by approximately 6:30 p.m. This journey offers a delightful blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty, showcasing some of the region's most cherished sites.

Today, we will embark on an enchanting journey through Tokyo, one of the world's most captivating cities, with a guided tour lasting approximately five hours. Tokyo seamlessly blends vibrant, modern neighbourhoods with serene, tranquil spaces, providing an unforgettable experience. Our day begins with a brief visit to Zojoji Temple, where you'll have an opportunity to photograph the iconic Tokyo Tower backdrop. The temple grounds are adorned with numerous Jizo statues, beautifully decorated with knit caps and bibs.Next, we will head to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, often considered the busiest intersection globally, before visiting the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife. Travelling by bus, we'll continue along the elegant stretch of Omotesando Avenue. Our route will take in picturesque views of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, with a stop to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge. As we pass through the vibrant Akihabara district, also known as “Electric Town”, you'll glimpse an area renowned for its manga and anime culture. We will also journey past the famous Kokugikan, Japan’s sumo wrestling venue.Our tour concludes in Asakusa, where we'll explore the historic Sensoji Temple and stroll down the famed Nakamise Street. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant, after which we'll return to the hotel. At 6:30 p.m., we will reconvene in the hotel lobby to take the metro to the lively Shinjuku district's bustling streets, celebrated for their dynamic nightlife. Dinner will be included at a local restaurant before we return to the hotel via the metro, accompanied by our guide.

We begin our adventure today with a drive to the spectacular Mount Fuji region, indulging in the picturesque countryside along the way. Our first destination is Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its beautiful pagodas and providing us with the quintessential view of Mount Fuji. We then proceed to Kawaguchiko, a delightful town embraced by stunning mountains and colourful blossoms with the serene Lake Kawaguchiko at its heart. Here, we’ll explore the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary set amidst grand trees, marking the traditional start for those venturing on the pilgrimage up Mount Fuji, offering us a moment of reflection amidst this enchanting setting.The day promises further enjoyment with a scenic boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, allowing us to fully appreciate the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. Our journey continues as we ascend Mount Fuji up to the Fifth Station via the scenic route. At an altitude of 2,305 metres, you’ll be surrounded by captivating forests and expansive vistas—a truly awe-inspiring experience. In the evening, we make our way back to Tokyo. Please note that during winter months, the path to the top of Mount Fuji may be inaccessible due to adverse weather or snow. In such cases, we will ascend as high as the conditions allow. As this memorable journey draws to a close, you'll take home unforgettable experiences and breathtaking memories. Make sure to confirm your flight time in case an extra night's stay is required. Although the trip does not include a transfer back to the airport, our guide is happy to suggest the best public transport options for your departure.