Epic South Korea & Japan

Annyeonghaseyo! You’ve landed in Seoul, South Korea’s buzzing capital where ancient palaces meet futuristic skylines. After checking into your accommodation, it’s time to meet your fellow travellers and look ahead to the adventure to come.

Today we dive into the traditional heart of Seoul. We’ll begin at Gyeongbokgung Palace – one of Korea’s grandest and most iconic landmarks – before strolling through a Hanok village to admire the beauty of classic Korean homes. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Insadong Street, where local crafts, tea houses and street food stalls create a vibrant atmosphere.

This morning we journey north to the DMZ, the heavily fortified border between North and South Korea. Here you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the peninsula’s divided history and even catch a rare glimpse across into the North. Back in Seoul, we’ll head to Gwangjang Market, made famous by Netflix’s Street Food Asia, where you can meet legendary vendors and taste their signature dishes.

Seoul - Jeonju. After breakfast we board the KTX high-speed train to Jeonju, renowned for its beautifully preserved Hanok village. You’ll have time to wander its traditional streets, sample local delicacies such as makgeolli rice wine and soju, and soak up the old-world charm. In the evening, we’ll roll up our sleeves for a cooking class, preparing classic dishes such as bibimbap – and enjoying the results together.

Jeonju - Busan. This morning we make our way to Busan, a lively coastal city with plenty of character. The afternoon is yours to explore its cafés or seaside promenades at leisure. Later, we’ll ride the Haeundae Sky Capsule for sweeping views of the shoreline before gathering for a traditional Korean BBQ dinner. Afterward, you might like to sample Busan’s vibrant nightlife – karaoke optional but encouraged!

Today we step into the world of Taekwondo, Korea’s national martial art. Whether you’re a beginner or already familiar, you’ll learn the basics of kicks, blocks and discipline. By the end of the class, you’ll even have the chance to break a wooden board – a true test of focus and technique.

Busan - Gyeongju. We leave the city behind and immerse ourselves in Buddhist tradition. At the temple we’ll join a guided tour, take part in the monks’ prayer services and enjoy the same vegan meals they eat for dinner and breakfast. Tonight we’ll sleep in simple temple accommodation – a serene break from the fast pace of city life.

Today we travel to Gyeongju, the former capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom and home to countless UNESCO World Heritage sites. Exploring by bike, we’ll visit tombs, pagodas, bridges and palace ruins that bring over a thousand years of history to life. Tonight we’ll stay in a traditional Hanok house, sleeping on floor bedding warmed by ondol underfloor heating. To complete the experience, we’ll dress in Hanbok attire and step back in time.

Gyeongju - Seoul. Back in Seoul, we’ll finish our South Korea journey with a celebration of K-Pop – the cultural phenomenon that has taken the world by storm. A professional instructor will teach us some moves, before we record our own dance video at HiKR Ground. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a final dinner together in South Korea.

Seoul - Tokyo. Today we take a short flight to Tokyo, one of the world’s most dynamic cities. After checking into our hostel, you’ll meet your new travel crew and prepare for the Japanese leg of the journey.

Our Tokyo explorations begin with visits to Senso-ji Temple – the city’s oldest – and the Meiji Shrine. We’ll then wander colourful Harajuku and witness the organised chaos of Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world. In the evening, we head to Shinjuku to discover quirky restaurants and tiny, atmospheric bars.

This morning we’ll learn the art of sushi-making under the guidance of a master chef. Afterwards you’ll have some free time to explore Tokyo before regrouping in Akihabara, the ‘Electric City’, famous for its arcades, maid cafés and gaming culture.

Tokyo - Nagano. We board the Shinkansen bullet train, reaching speeds of up to 200 mph, and arrive in Nagano. Here we’ll try the traditional art of origami before unwinding with a soak in a natural onsen hot spring. Tonight we stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, with tatami floors and futon bedding.

This morning we’ll learn how to make soba noodles from scratch. Afterwards, we head into the mountains to see the famous Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, which gather around hot springs in winter. We’ll also explore the lakes and forests of Shiga Kogen National Park, enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Nagano - Hakone. A bullet train takes us to Hakone, known for its hot springs and spectacular views of Mount Fuji. The afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Hakone - Osaka. We’ll explore Hakone by pirate ship and cable car, offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Later we continue to Osaka, where we’ll gather for a BBQ dinner before an evening out – karaoke highly recommended!

The morning is free to shop or relax before we visit Osaka Castle, first built more than 400 years ago and a symbol of Japan’s feudal history. In the evening we’ll head to Dotonbori, the city’s vibrant canal district, famed for its neon lights and outstanding street food.

Osaka - Koyasan. Today we travel into the mountains to Koyasan for an unforgettable overnight stay in a 1,000-year-old Buddhist temple. Here we’ll learn meditation techniques from the monks, enjoy their traditional cuisine and take a night-time walk through Japan’s largest cemetery.

Koyasan - Kyoto. We rise early to witness the monks’ morning prayer service and fire ceremony, followed by a traditional temple breakfast. Afterwards, we travel to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital. This evening, we’ll take a walking tour of Gion, the historic Geisha district.

This morning we’ll stroll through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, followed by a visit to the stunning Golden Pavilion. The evening is free for you to discover Kyoto at your own pace – perhaps sushi, a cosy bar or a lively arcade.

Today, the seemingly endless Torii gates of Fushimi-Inari await us! Explore the winding trails of this iconic Japanese shrine on the ancient mountain. In the afternoon, we'll learn the art of swordsmanship from a Samurai master who has dedicated their life to this craft. Experience the precision of traditional swords as you unleash your inner warrior.

Kyoto - Nara - Kyoto. Today, we’ll hop on a local train and spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful gardens and temples of Nara. Known for its impressive Buddha statue, Nara is also famous for its friendly, bowing deer. After making some new friends, we’ll head back to Kyoto in the evening to prepare for our next adventure.

Kyoto - Hiroshima. This morning we’ll experience a traditional tea ceremony. After drinking our cups of matcha, we travel south by bullet train to Hiroshima. Here we’ll visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, along with the Atomic Bomb Dome – a powerful reminder of the events of 1945. It’s a moving experience that offers deep insight into modern Japanese history.

A short ferry takes us to Miyajima Island, home to the iconic floating Torii Gate. You’ll have time to explore its temples, walking trails and deer-dotted streets at your own pace. Back in Hiroshima, we’ll enjoy the city’s famous nightlife and perhaps round off the night with a visit to a whisky bar.

Hiroshima - Osaka. Today we return to Osaka for some final sightseeing and shopping. In the evening we’ll explore Shinsekai, a retro district packed with izakayas and casual eateries. It’s the perfect place to raise a glass and say kanpai to our unforgettable journey together.

Our 26-day adventure comes to an end. You may choose to head home, stay on in Osaka or continue your travels in Japan.