Korean and Japanese Cultural Wonder Odyssey

Welcome to South Korea! Upon your arrival in Seoul, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can settle in and enjoy some leisure time. This afternoon, we'll provide you with all the essential information about the start of your adventure. Please be aware that our tour may have travellers joining or leaving at different stages, which means the group size might fluctuate, but rest assured it will never exceed its maximum capacity. 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.

We set off early today to explore the Cheorwon region and its compelling section of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which separates North and South Korea. Our journey begins with a visit to the Second Tunnel, discreetly excavated by the North Korean military and unveiled in 1975. From there, we continue to the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, offering expansive views across the DMZ towards the initial villages in North Korea. Here, you can also find a small museum centred on the Korean War.As we proceed, we visit the deserted Woljeong-ri railway station, followed by the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, commemorating the bravery of a French UN battalion in battle. You'll enjoy an included lunch during our travels. Our explorations conclude with a visit to a local producer of Makgeolli, a time-honoured Korean rice liquor, before returning to Seoul in the evening. Please ensure you bring your passport, as it is mandatory for entering the DMZ. Be aware that the DMZ is a military zone and may close unpredictably, with alternative plans available if necessary.Afterwards, our guide will lead us to City Hall to admire its striking tsunami-like architecture. Just across from City Hall, we will witness the enchanting night-time illumination of Deoksugung Palace, highlighting Korea's harmonious blend of ancient tradition and modernity. We will then proceed on foot to Myeongdong, South Korea's largest shopping and entertainment district, known for its vibrant "bright town" ambience. Dinner is included at a local restaurant, and we'll cap off the day by taking the sleek and efficient metro back to our hotel, ensuring a comfortable return to your accommodation for the night.

Today, we will embark on a comprehensive five-hour tour of Seoul, beginning with a visit to Changdeokgung Palace. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a captivating glimpse into Korea's regal past, set within a large, beautifully landscaped park. Following this, we will pass by Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming historical area known for its traditional Korean houses. Our itinerary then takes us to the War Memorial of Korea, an informative museum that delves into the conflicts that have shaped Korea, with particular emphasis on the Korean War, during which soldiers from numerous countries fought under the United Nations. Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we will venture to the Gangnam District, renowned for its bustling shopping centres and vibrant nightlife. Our day will conclude at the impressive Lotte World Tower, which rises 550 metres above the city. You will have free time here to ascend the tower for spectacular views (admission not included) or explore the luxury shopping malls and the adjacent park. We will then return to the hotel, where you will have the evening to enjoy at your leisure.

Today, our adventure will take us to the enchanting Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul, a historical masterpiece standing for over 600 years. If we are fortunate, we may witness the ceremonial changing of the guard. Following our exploration, we will depart Seoul and travel south to Suwon, Korea’s former capital. Suwon is famed for its majestic UNESCO World Heritage city walls, and we will have the opportunity to admire these impressive fortifications. Additionally, we will visit Hwaseong Haenggung, the former summer palace. A delightful lunch is included before we continue our journey to Jeonju. In Jeonju, we’ll stroll through the atmospheric Hanok Village, noted for its charming traditional houses, quaint shops, and art galleries that offer a glimpse into Korea's rich history and culture.

We begin our journey today by heading to the picturesque Sunchang Gochujang Village nestled at the foot of Mount Amisan. Here, we explore traditional hanok houses and courtyards overflowing with hang-a-ri clay pots. This village is famed for its masterful artisans who create gochujang, the iconic Korean chilli paste, using time-honoured methods. We'll delve into an interactive experience to learn how to craft this renowned sauce ourselves.Afterwards, we'll journey onward to the serene Damyang Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. The meandering paths here are considered among Korea's most enchanting, providing a perfect setting for reflection and enjoying the crisp breeze. The area is famous for its bamboo craftsmanship, showcased in places like the Bamboo Museum. Lunch is included, allowing us to savour a unique local dish: rice cooked and served within a bamboo stalk.After lunch, our adventure continues to Haeinsa, a significant Buddhist temple recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 802, Haeinsa is renowned for housing the Tripitaka Koreana, the most comprehensive collection of Buddhist scriptures, meticulously carved onto 80,000 wooden tablets. Surrounded by breathtaking mountainous landscapes and lush forests, this spiritual haven offers a moment of profound serenity.As our day draws to a close, we head to Busan, Korea's vibrant second-largest city, where we'll settle in for the night, ready to explore more adventures tomorrow.

On the morning of day six, we'll depart from Busan to visit Haedong Yonggung, a stunning 14th-century Buddhist temple perched by the sea. After taking in its serene beauty, we'll head back to Busan to explore the UN Memorial Cemetery, a solemn site honouring soldiers from various countries. Our journey continues to South Korea's largest fish market at Nampo Port, where we'll pause for an included lunch. We'll then venture to Yongdusan Park, home to the impressive 120-metre high Busan Tower. Later, you'll have the chance to enjoy Songdo Beach, where the country's first marine cable car awaits, offering breathtaking views of the bay, weather permitting. Our day concludes at the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, famed for its colourful buildings and winding alleyways filled with art galleries and charming cafes. We'll return to Busan for an overnight stay.

On Day 7, you'll receive a transfer to the airport in Busan for an included flight to Tokyo. Upon arrival in Japan, you'll be welcomed by an assistant, who may occasionally be Spanish-speaking or, at other times, English-speaking. After completing the border procedures, you'll proceed with a shared shuttle transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish, offering you the perfect opportunity to start exploring the vibrant city of Tokyo at your own pace.

Today, we’ll embark on a fascinating guided tour of Tokyo, a city where vibrant energy meets serene tradition. Our journey will last approximately five hours, starting with a brief stop at Zojoji Temple, where you can capture a stunning view of the iconic Tokyo Tower framed by the temple grounds, adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues, which are protectors of children.Next, we’ll head to bustling Shibuya, famous for its pedestrian scramble, often considered the busiest intersection in the world. We’ll continue to the Meiji Shrine, a significant cultural site dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, set amidst a tranquil forest. Our tour proceeds along the elegant Omotesando Avenue, known for its luxurious shopping, before reaching the picturesque areas around the Imperial Palace, where we’ll pause to admire the scenic Nijubashi Bridge.Passing through the vibrant Akihabara district, a hub for manga and anime culture, we’ll view the Kokugikan, Japan's renowned sumo wrestling arena. We’ll conclude the morning exploration with a visit to the historic Sensoji Temple and lively Nakamise Street in Asakusa. A local restaurant will host us for an included lunch afterward.In the evening, at 6:30 p.m., we’ll gather with our guide at the hotel lobby and take the metro to the lively Shinjuku district. Known for its vibrant nightlife, Shinjuku offers a bustling atmosphere that we’ll explore on foot, culminating in an included dinner at a local restaurant. Following the meal, we’ll return to the hotel via the metro, guided by our tour leader.

Our journey today takes us towards the iconic Mount Fuji, traversing a postcard-perfect landscape. We'll commence our adventure at Arakurayama Sengen Park, renowned for its exquisite pagodas that frame the most remarkable views of Mount Fuji. Following this, we proceed to the picturesque town of Kawaguchiko. Nestled amidst mountains, blooming flowers, and the serene Lake Kawaguchiko, this locale is a feast for the eyes. A visit to the Fuji Sengen Shrine awaits us, a tranquil place steeped in tradition, marking the historic starting point for the ascent of Mount Fuji. Here, encircled by nature, we'll pause to appreciate the unique beauty of this sacred spot.Continuing on, we'll indulge in a leisurely boat ride on the lake, allowing you to absorb the tranquil ambiance of the surrounding scenery. Our journey then ascends to the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji, at an elevation of 2,305 meters, offering spectacular vistas of lush forests and mountain panoramas. Do note that during the winter months, adverse conditions might limit access to this part of the mountain, and we'll journey as far as possible under such circumstances.Once we return to Kawaguchiko, there will be ample time for an unhurried stroll along the lakeside, where you can soak in the serene atmosphere. Tonight, we'll enjoy the comforts of a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. The experience includes an opportunity to unwind in an onsen, a public bath renowned for its relaxing properties. Dinner is included, offering a taste of authentic Japanese hospitality. Please be aware that accommodations may vary, sometimes featuring traditional tatami mat rooms and other times offering Western-style comforts.

On day ten, our journey unfolds with a scenic drive encircling splendid lakes, leading us to the charming village of Iyashi no Sato Nenba. Once demolished by a typhoon in 1966, this village has been wonderfully restored as an open-air museum, where traditional houses are now home to arts and crafts shops, eateries, and cultural displays, offering a fascinating insight into Japan's past. Our exploration continues to the enchanting Shiraito Falls – renowned as one of Japan's most breathtaking natural spectacles, with water cascading gracefully over a 20-metre height. We then make our way to Nagoya for a visit to the Toyota Museum, providing a captivating journey into the realm of automobile innovation – perfect for car enthusiasts and the curious alike. As the day concludes, we proceed to Kyoto for our overnight stay, ready to take on more adventures the following day.

On this day, we fully immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of Kyoto. As the former capital of Japan from 794 to 1868, Kyoto proudly showcases its well-preserved artistic heritage, having been spared from destruction during World War II. Our exploration begins in the picturesque district of Arashiyama, where we will admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, or "Bridge over the Moon," offering stunning views of the surrounding scenery. We then visit the esteemed Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto's "five great Zen temples" and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a peaceful walk through its enchanting bamboo forest.Our journey continues with visits to some of Kyoto's most iconic sites. We'll explore the majestic Fushimi Inari Shrine and the historic Imperial Palace. We’ll also visit the Kinkakuji Temple, known as the "Golden Pavilion," famous for its striking architecture and beautiful gardens. The order of these visits may vary. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to wander the charming streets of Gion, Kyoto's traditional district, known for its vibrant atmosphere and the presence of geishas. This day in Kyoto promises an unforgettable experience, unveiling its timeless beauty and cultural depth.

Today, we embark on a journey to the delightful village of Tsumago, winding through picturesque countryside landscapes. Known for its charming wooden houses, Tsumago is often celebrated as one of Japan's prettiest villages. Here, you'll have ample free time to wander and soak in the serene atmosphere as you explore at your own pace. Lunch is included in this leg of our journey. Following our visit to Tsumago, we'll continue to Matsumoto, a vibrant tourist city. We will pay a visit to its noteworthy 16th-century castle, affectionately dubbed "The Crow" due to its striking black façade. After our tour, there will be additional free time for you to enjoy the lively streets of Matsumoto however you choose. Our day will conclude as we travel to Nagano, where we will settle in for an overnight stay.

Today, we'll begin our adventures in Nagano with a visit to Zenko-ji, an eminent Buddhist temple that safeguards Japan's first Buddhist image. Here, you'll experience the Gomakuyo ceremony, thought to bestow blessings and fortune. From Nagano, we journey into the enchanting realms of the Japanese Alps to explore the Jigokudani Monkey Park. This park is a fascinating haven for Japanese macaques, renowned for their unique habit of bathing in hot springs amidst the forest backdrop. You'll relish a delicious lunch amid this serene setting before your leisurely forest and riverside stroll.As we continue our ascent, we'll reach heights of up to 2,172 meters, passing semi-active volcanoes along the way. Our path leads to Kusatsu, a popular spa town bustling with activity around its vibrant main square. We'll wander through the park, host to an inviting open-air onsen, and later make our way to Ikaho, another picturesque spa town recognised for its characterful, stair-stepped streets in the historic centre. Tonight, you'll experience the charm of a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, offering a delightful stay complete with onsen baths and a traditional Japanese dinner.Please note: During autumn, the movement of monkeys may vary based on the availability of mountain fruit, potentially affecting park access. Additionally, adverse weather conditions from November to April may lead to the cancellation of the Kusatsu visit.

We will continue our adventure in the enchanting town of Nikko, where we will explore the renowned Nikko-Toshogu Temple, famous for its "room with the sound of a dragon." Our journey here will also take us to the peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, a serene space exuding tranquility. Following this, we'll meander through the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, bordered by numerous Jizo statues silently observing the river's flow. Enjoy some free time to discover the town centre at your own pace before we make our way to Sendai, a dynamic modern city home to more than a million residents. This evening, you'll have the opportunity to experience Sendai's lively streets and savour dinner in its bustling city centre, immersing yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere.

Today, we set off for the enchanting city of Matsushima, famed for its "Thousand Islands" Bay in the Pacific Ocean. Regarded as one of Japan's most picturesque locations, Matsushima offers breathtaking views and cultural treasures. Upon arrival, we will visit a splendid tea house with a view of the tranquil sea, where we will enjoy a traditional cup of tea while our guide provides engaging insights into the city's history and beauty. Following this, we'll embark on a scenic 50-minute cruise, taking in the bay's beautiful landscapes as we dine with an included lunch. Our journey then leads us to Hiraizumi, where we will explore its notable historic temples. Our first stop will be Takkoku no Iwaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site intricately carved into the rock in 801. We will then visit the exquisite Buddhist temples of Chusonji and experience a moment of serenity in the gardens of Motsuji Temple, where you may partake in a Zen ceremony, with admission included. We will conclude our day in the charming city of Morioka, the capital of Iwate Province, where we will check into our hotel and enjoy some free time to explore at your leisure.

We'll journey through picturesque landscapes to reach Hirosaki, home to the renowned Hirosaki Castle. Nestled in a splendid park, the castle is a sight to behold, especially in spring when over 2,500 cherry trees burst into bloom. Following our visit, we'll proceed to Aomori, the provincial capital situated along Mutsu Bay. Here, we'll explore the Nebuta Museum, a vibrant display of Japan's festive traditions featuring intricately painted and illuminated floats. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. After this, we'll embark on a scenic ferry crossing to Hokkaido, lasting just over three and a half hours. As we arrive in Hakodate, we'll stroll through its historic district, where diverse cultural influences are evident in landmarks such as the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian churches.

We begin our day in Hakodate with a visit to the bustling fish market, providing a lively insight into local culture. Our journey then takes us up Goryokaku Tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to appreciate the unique star-shaped design of Hakodate's historic fortress. Afterward, you have free time to explore the castle area at your leisure. We’ll proceed to Onuma, a stunning natural setting dotted with small islands, where you can opt for a boat ride or take a leisurely walk along the scenic trails. Lunch is included at a local restaurant.In the afternoon, our journey continues along the picturesque coastline to Noboribetsu. This volcanic landscape is truly awe-inspiring, with steam vents, the misty waters of Lake Oyunuma, and a hot spring river that leads to a serene spot where you can enjoy a relaxing foot bath. Following our exploration, we head to Sapporo, the beautiful northern capital of Japan, arriving in the evening.

Today, we begin our exploration of Sapporo with a city tour that includes a visit to the historic Clock Tower and the lush Odori Park, with its stunning Sapporo TV Tower prominently in view. Our journey also takes us to the serene Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we'll participate in a Kito, a ceremonial prayer expressing gratitude for our travels.On the outskirts of the city, we visit the Hill of Buddha, an impressive piece of modern architecture unveiled in 2015. Nestled in a lavender-adorned hill, it houses a majestic Buddha statue and features replicas of the Moai statues from Easter Island. Following this, we set off to the delightful town of Otaru, known for its European charm, bustling shopping streets, a scenic historic canal, and intriguing museums. Here, we'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.We return to Sapporo around 3:30 p.m., leaving the rest of the afternoon for you to freely explore and discover Sapporo's enticing mix of sights and experiences at your own pace.

As we enjoy our final breakfast together in Sapporo, our remarkable journey officially concludes. We hope you depart with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation of the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures we've explored together. Safe travels and thank you for joining us on this adventure.