Journey through Korea and China's Wonders

Welcome to Korea! Upon arrival in Seoul, you'll be transferred to your hotel, where you will have some leisure time to unwind after your journey. Later in the afternoon, we'll provide you with all the essential information regarding the start of your tour. Prepare to embark on an exciting exploration of Korea's captivating culture and history. 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.

Today, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of Seoul, lasting around five hours, as we delve into the heart of this vibrant city. Our first stop is the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by sprawling gardens and home to several royal palaces. As we wander these historic grounds, the grandeur of Korean heritage comes alive.Next, we walk through the charming Bukchon Hanok Village, a picturesque neighbourhood lined with traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks. This area offers a glimpse into the past with its narrow lanes and authentically preserved homes. Following this, we visit the War Memorial of Korea, an impressive museum detailing the nation's many historical conflicts, including the Korean War, where a coalition of soldiers, including those from the UN, played a pivotal role.A delightful lunch at a local eatery is included. After our meal, we head to the bustling Gangnam District, a hub of activity known for its shopping and entertainment venues. Later, we stop at the Lotte World Tower, an architectural marvel standing 550 metres tall. Here, you have free time to either ascend the tower for breathtaking views (admission not included) or explore its beautiful park and high-end shops.In the evening, we transfer to the station to catch a high-speed train to Busan, with tickets included. Upon arrival, you'll be taken to your hotel for an overnight stay, ready to explore more of Korea's cultural and historical treasures in the coming days.

On the morning of Day 3, we will depart from Busan to visit the Haedong Yonggung Temple, a stunning 14th-century Buddhist sanctuary perched along the coastline. Its picturesque setting and historical significance offer a serene start to the day. We will return to Busan to pay our respects at the UN Memorial Cemetery, a poignant tribute to soldiers from many nations who served during the Korean War. Continuing our exploration, we visit Korea’s largest fish market near Nampo Port, an essential hub of local commerce where the freshest catches are on vibrant display. Lunch is included today, allowing you to savour local delicacies at a nearby eatery.Afterwards, a leisurely walk will take us to Yongdusan Park, where the 120-metre-high Busan Tower offers impressive views over the city. Later, we will journey to the beautiful Songdo Beach. Here, you can opt to take a ride on South Korea’s first marine cable car, which, weather permitting, provides breathtaking views of the stunning bay area. Our day continues with a visit to the Gamcheon Culture Village, famous for its vibrant, art-adorned alleys, colourful hillside houses, and unique cultural installations. The village offers a delightful maze-like environment to explore quaint art galleries, workshops, and cosy cafes. We return to Busan for an overnight stay, as this lively city leaves more to discover.

We set off to explore the Seokguram Buddhist Grotto, an 8th-century marvel nestled on Tohamsan's slopes. This serene site offers a glimpse into the country's spiritual history. Our next stop is the exquisite Bulguksa Temple, renowned as one of Korea’s architectural treasures, where you can appreciate its intricate design and historical significance. Following this cultural immersion, we proceed to Gyeongju, formerly the longest-serving capital of Korea, having flourished under 56 kings over 992 years. While here, you'll have the opportunity to capture photos of the enchanting Woljeonggyo Bridge along the Namcheon River–a captivating blend of history and nature. An included lunch will provide a taste of local cuisine before we head to Tumuli Park, where ancient Silla Kingdom kings rest beneath grand burial mounds over 1,500 years old. Here, we’ll explore one of the regal tombs and walk to the Cheomsongdae Astronomical Observatory, the oldest in East Asia and a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding depth to our journey through time. Our adventure continues as we arrive in Daegu, one of Korea's bustling cities. Before retiring to our accommodation, we'll explore Dongsan Cheongna Hill, a historically significant area once visited by Christian missionaries. Finish the day with a stroll down Dongseong-ro, Daegu’s vibrant street offering an array of trendy shops, charming cafes, and enticing restaurants. Enjoy an overnight stay in Daegu.

Our day begins in Daegu with a visit to the Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine, where we'll delve into the rich history of medicinal herbs. We'll take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding streets, locally known for their abundance of herbal shops that pride themselves on high-quality products, with ginseng being a particular highlight. Heading north, we arrive in Andong and make our way to Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels delightfully suspended in time. You will have the opportunity to explore this captivating rural village at your own pace. Our tour includes a visit to the Hahoe Mask Museum, where you'll discover an intriguing collection of masks used for dances, medical practices, religious ceremonies, and theatrical performances from across the globe. Lunch will be enjoyed at a local eatery, offering authentic regional flavours.In the afternoon, we'll continue to the Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy, founded in the 16th century and set against the serene backdrop of a river, providing a peaceful retreat. By evening, we’ll return to Seoul, where—weather permitting—we’ll stop at Banpo Bridge to witness its spectacular fountain that creates a mesmerising, rainbow-coloured display of water and lights. We end our day in Seoul, ready for another night in this vibrant city. Please note, the visit to Banpo Bridge is subject to weather conditions.

We begin our day with an early departure for the Cheorwon region to explore a section of the DMZ, the Demilitarised Zone that delineates the division between North and South Korea. Our first stop is the Second Tunnel, secretly constructed by North Korean forces and uncovered in 1975. Next, we navigate to the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, which offers sweeping vistas of the DMZ and glimpses of North Korean villages. Here, a small museum recounts the events of the Korean War. Our journey continues to the deserted Woljeong-ri railway station, followed by a visit to the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, which commemorates the contributions of a French UN battalion during the conflict. Lunch is included as part of our visit. Subsequently, we'll experience local culture by visiting a producer of Makgeolli, Korea's traditional rice liquor, before returning to Seoul in the evening. Please ensure you have your passport with you, as it is essential for entry. Be mindful that the DMZ is a military area and may close without warning. Should this occur, we will offer an alternative itinerary. In the evening, our guide will accompany us to City Hall, known for its wave-like architectural design. Facing City Hall is the Deoksugung Palace, which is beautifully illuminated at night, showcasing a harmonious blend of Korea's ancient and modern cultures. Our evening culminates with a visit to the Myeongdong district, South Korea's largest leisure and shopping hub, aptly named "bright town." Dinner is included at a local eatery, and afterwards, we will utilise Seoul's efficient metro system (with tickets provided) to return to our accommodation for an overnight stay.

Today, we will facilitate your transfer from Seoul to the airport, where you'll board an included flight to Beijing. Upon your arrival in China’s vibrant capital, you will be taken to your hotel. Later this afternoon, we embark on an initial exploration of Beijing. We will provide a transfer to Wangfujing Street, a lively pedestrian area renowned for its variety of shops and restaurants. You’ll have some time to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and perhaps indulge in some local cuisine. Dinner is included this evening, and afterward, we will return to our hotel for the night.

Today promises to be a captivating exploration of Beijing, the dynamic capital of China. We will embark on a full-day tour, whisking you through some of the city’s most storied avenues. Our adventure begins at the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, also known as the Forbidden City, a magnificent architectural ensemble and the seat of power for 24 emperors for nearly five centuries. Next, we'll visit Jingshan Park, where you can climb Coal Hill, one of Beijing's best-preserved imperial gardens, for sweeping views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. Our journey will continue to Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares, where you can admire the impressive Great National Theatre, also known as the Beijing Opera House. Lunch will be provided.In the afternoon, we will visit the Summer Palace, once the imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, celebrated for its idyllic gardens and tranquil lakes. To immerse ourselves further in the local culture, we will take a tricycle ride through the Hutong neighbourhoods, allowing you to experience the rich heritage of Beijing and explore traditional shops and a Siheyuan, a classic courtyard house emblematic of the city’s architectural charm. We'll conclude the day by returning to the hotel for a restful overnight stay.Please note that due to current heritage protection measures and visitor safety regulations, access to the Forbidden City may be limited. If entry is unavailable, we will instead explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both notable landmarks in Chinese history and culture.

We'll begin our day with a fascinating excursion to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a stunning example of ancient ingenuity dating back over two millennia. To reach the Wall, we'll take a cable car ride, offering convenient access and breathtaking views along the way (tickets included). After our exploration, we'll savour a delicious lunch with the renowned Peking duck, bidding farewell to Beijing in style. In the afternoon, we'll transfer to the train station to board a high-speed train headed for Shanghai, where our arrival will be followed by a transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Today, we embark on an exploration of Shanghai, a city where the ultramodern meets the traditional. Our day begins in Pudong, Shanghai’s bustling financial district, known for its remarkable skyscrapers, including the iconic Pearl Tower, an emblem of the city's skyline. After soaking in the views, we’ll enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Huangpu River, offering a stunning juxtaposition of Shanghai’s historic and contemporary architecture.In the heart of the Old City, we'll wander through the tranquil Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved remnant from the Ming Dynasty. Here, a traditional tea ceremony awaits, offering an authentic taste of Chinese culture. Our journey continues into the vibrant district of Xintiandi, famed for its chic boutiques and lively cafés.Following our included lunch, we'll venture into Tianzifang, a creatively revitalised area known for its winding alleyways, unique craft shops, and art galleries. As our day draws to a close, we’ll stroll along The Bund, where the grandeur of colonial-era buildings harks back to Shanghai’s days as a vital trading port. This evening, you have the opportunity to further explore Shanghai’s nocturnal charm with a boat trip on the river – an enchanting experience to see the city illuminated after dark.

On day 11, we’ll be setting off early from Shanghai, transferring to the train station to catch a high-speed train scheduled for 07:17 a.m. Our journey will span just over five hours, during which we’ll cover 1,000 kilometres, gliding through picturesque landscapes and stretches of beautiful countryside until we arrive in Luoyang. Upon arrival, enjoy an included lunch before we venture to one of China’s most impressive archaeological sites, the Longmen Buddhist Caves. This extraordinary complex stretches for over a kilometre along the rocky river cliffs, showcasing more than 100,000 Buddha statues and intricate carvings hewn into the stone. To fully appreciate this site’s grandeur, we’ll also indulge in a scenic boat ride along the river. Following this, we’ll be transferred to the ancient city of Luoyang. As we pass through its imposing walls, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of illuminated streets that brim with traditional charm and vibrant local activity.

On the twelfth day, our journey begins just outside Luoyang with a visit to the historic White Horse Buddhist Monastery. Revered as a pivotal centre of Buddhist scholarship, this place draws academics and practitioners from across the globe. We then continue to Sanmenxia, a city steeped in rich historical significance. Here, you will have the opportunity to admire the grandeur of the Yellow River. We proceed to Baolun Temple, where you'll marvel at its impressive tall pagoda. A visit to the esteemed Guo Museum follows, renowned for its remarkable collection, including ancient funeral carriages from the State of Guo, offering insights into the region’s ancient heritage. A delightful lunch will be included today. As we travel eastward, the sacred Mount Hua with its dramatic peaks and spiritual presence will be visible, adding to the day's encounters. By late afternoon, we will arrive in Xian, where our day concludes, leaving you with a wealth of experiences to reflect upon.

Today, we immerse ourselves in Xian, a city steeped in history and famed as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road. In the morning, we'll marvel at the legendary Terracotta Army, a remarkable archaeological wonder where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, hidden underground for centuries, now stand guard over the tomb of China's first emperor. Returning to Xian, we'll visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist structure that has gracefully withstood the test of time for over a millennium. Our exploration continues through the historic walled centre of Xian, where we'll wander through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque, a site that beautifully illustrates the rich fusion of cultures and religions that have shaped China over the centuries. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Drum Tower for a brief but enchanting performance of traditional Chinese music, played on ancient instruments. Afterwards, you are free to explore the city at your own pace.

Today, we'll set off from Xian aboard a state-of-the-art high-speed train, reaching Linfen in less than three hours. After arriving, we'll continue our journey by coach to visit the Mansion of the Wang Clan. This grand estate, built by a prosperous family between the 17th and 19th centuries, is a testament to the splendour of traditional Chinese architecture. We will break for an included lunch. Our adventure will then take us to Pingyao, renowned as the best-preserved historical city in China. With over 4,000 ancient buildings, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a remarkable glimpse into the country's rich history. As we explore the charming streets, where centuries-old customs thrive, you'll have entry tickets to all the temples, mansions, and the city walls, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this extraordinary town.

Today, we will explore the spiritually revered Wutai Mountain, nestled amid verdant mountains and lush forests. This site is a pivotal centre for Lamaism, a branch of Buddhism with deep roots in the area, and is home to a thriving monastic community. With more than 40 ancient monasteries, Wutai has remained a beacon of spiritual serenity, even as more temples have been built in recent years. The peaceful energy and the unique atmosphere of this locale offer a deeply enriching experience. Accompanied by our guide, we will visit the serene Nanshan Temple, a place of great historical and religious significance. Following this, you will have free time to wander through some of the more secluded temples, where you can respectfully observe the monks engaging in their daily rituals. A delightful dinner is included to end this spiritually enriching day.

After a nourishing breakfast in Wutai, we’ll wind our way through a scenic mountain road, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, en route to Yanmen Pass, a poignant spot near the Mongolian border. Here, we’ll walk along a secluded section of the Great Wall of China, offering a rare opportunity to appreciate the grandeur of this ancient wonder in serene solitude, away from the usual crowds. Our journey continues to the quaint village of Yingxian, famed for its stunning wooden pagoda—an exquisite example of architectural brilliance. After enjoying lunch, we’ll marvel at the incredible Hanging Temple of Xuankong in the afternoon. Perched dramatically on a cliff face, this astonishing structure seems to defy gravity itself. Our day concludes with a coach transfer to Datong, where the evening is yours to explore its charming historic centre. Walk along the impressive city walls and absorb the atmosphere of this beautifully restored ancient city.

We begin our day by setting off to explore the Yungang Caves, a site renowned for its stunning 5th-century cave art. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the complex impressively showcases 252 caves adorned with over 51,000 Buddhist statues, making it a pinnacle of ancient Chinese art and spirituality.Next, we proceed to Jiming Post, a quaint and traditional Chinese village that remains delightfully frozen in time. Originally a rest stop for imperial couriers, this charming settlement offers a rare glimpse into historical life, retaining an air of serene provincial elegance.In the afternoon, our travels take us back to Beijing, where we will arrive by mid-day. Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city further or simply relax and reflect on the day's experiences.

After breakfast, our tour concludes, having gifted you with treasured memories of your adventure.