From Korea's Palaces to Japan's Temples

Welcome to Korea! Upon arrival in Seoul, you'll be transferred to your hotel, where you'll have some free time to relax and settle in. Later in the afternoon, we will provide you with essential information about the beginning of your exciting tour. Enjoy the start of your journey in this vibrant and captivating city. 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 will embark on an early journey to the Cheorwon region, famed for its segment of the DMZ – the Demilitarised Zone separating North and South Korea. Our exploration begins with the Second Tunnel, a clandestine passage dug by the North Korean army and uncovered in 1975. Next, we will visit the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, offering us sweeping views of the DMZ and glimpses of the initial North Korean villages. This site also houses a small museum dedicated to the Korean War.Our day continues with a stop at the deserted Woljeong-ri railway station, a poignant reminder of the past. We will then pay our respects at the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, honouring the valour of a French UN battalion during the fighting. Lunch will be provided, offering us a taste of local flavours.Later, we will have the opportunity to visit a local maker of Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice liquor, before returning to Seoul in the evening. Please be reminded to have your passport ready, as the DMZ is a military area and could close without notice. Should this occur, an alternative plan will be made. In Seoul, with our guide, we'll explore City Hall, an architectural masterpiece resembling a giant wave. Across from City Hall, Deoksugung Palace will be bathed in enchanting lights, allowing us to appreciate Korea's seamless blend of tradition and modernity. Our evening stroll will bring us to Myeongdong, South Korea’s largest shopping and entertainment district, translating to 'bright town.' We'll conclude our day with dinner at a local restaurant and a return to our hotel via the efficient metro system, which is included in our journey. We will stay overnight in Seoul.

Today, we immerse ourselves in an extensive five-hour tour of Seoul, showcasing the city's rich cultural and historical heritage. Our first stop is the Changdeokgung Palace. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this palace impresses with its series of majestic buildings set within expansive gardens. Next, we visit Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can stroll through narrow streets lined with charming, traditional Korean homes. Continuing our exploration, we delve into the War Memorial of Korea, a captivating museum offering deep insights into the many conflicts that have shaped Korea, with a particular focus on the Korean War and the roles soldiers played under the United Nations.Lunch is included at a local restaurant, providing a taste of authentic Korean cuisine. Afterwards, we head to the bustling Gangnam District, renowned for its vibrant shopping centres and bustling entertainment venues. To cap off the day, we stop at the striking Lotte World Tower, an architectural marvel standing 550 metres tall. During free time, you have the option to ascend the tower for spectacular panoramic views of Seoul or explore the nearby park and upscale shopping malls. Later, we return to the hotel, where you are free to enjoy your evening as you wish.

On the fourth day of our journey, we begin by exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace, a magnificent site with more than 600 years of history. If the timing is right, we'll also observe the traditional changing of the guard ceremony. After soaking in the grandeur of the palace, we depart Seoul and travel southward to Suwon, historically notable as a former capital of Korea. Here, we'll admire the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-designated walls, renowned for their impressive fortifications, and explore Hwaseong Haenggung, a regal summer palace. Luncheon is on us, ensuring you’re well-fuelled for the remainder of the day. We then move on to Jeonju, famed for its historic Hanok Village. This area is a delightful blend of history and culture, featuring quaint houses, traditional shops, and art galleries, providing a rich insight into Korea’s past and present.

Today, we depart from Jeonju and head to the charming Sunchang Gochujang Village, nestled at the foot of Mount Amisan. This village is notable for its traditional hanok houses and courtyards filled with hang-a-ri, the clay pots essential for fermenting gochujang, a beloved Korean chilli paste. Here, you'll engage with master artisans and participate in a fascinating hands-on experience to learn the art of crafting this signature Korean sauce. Following this, we travel to Damyang to explore the renowned Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. Wander the serene pathways, which are some of the most picturesque in Korea, ideal for contemplation and enjoying the soothing breeze. You'll also have the opportunity to see a range of bamboo products, especially highlighted at the local Bamboo Museum. Lunch features a local delicacy—rice lovingly prepared inside a bamboo stalk.Our journey then takes us to the historically and spiritually significant Haeinsa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled amidst stunning mountain landscapes. Established in 802, the temple houses the Tripitaka Koreana, a priceless collection of Buddhist scriptures inscribed on 80,000 wooden tablets. To conclude our day, we proceed to Busan, Korea's vibrant second city, where we settle in for the night, ready to explore more of its dynamic offerings.

On Day 6, we begin our day in Busan with a visit to the stunning Haedong Yonggung Temple, a 14th-century Buddhist sanctuary uniquely situated by the sea. Upon returning to Busan, we'll explore the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, a solemn site honouring soldiers from multiple nations who served during the Korean War. Our journey then takes us to the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest of its kind in South Korea, where you can witness the diverse array of seafood on offer. Lunch will be enjoyed at a nearby eatery. Later, we will take a leisurely stroll to Yongdusan Park to admire the 120-metre pagoda, a highlight of Busan's skyline. In the afternoon, we'll head to the port to complete boarding formalities for our next leg of the journey. Please ensure your arrival at the ferry terminal by 5:30 p.m. at the latest. We will board the night ferry, setting sail at 9 p.m. to cross the Sea of Japan. You'll stay overnight in a comfortable double cabin, complete with a private bathroom.Important Note: Due to the limited availability of double cabins on the ferry, we may instead take a high-speed ferry departing Busan at 3 p.m. and arriving in Fukuoka, Japan, at approximately 6:30 p.m. In this case, you'll have free time in Fukuoka and overnight accommodation will be provided at a local hotel.

We arrive at Shimonoseki Port at 8:00 a.m. (please note, breakfast is not provided). Following our border crossing, we journey to Iwakuni, a delightful town renowned for its historic Kintai-Kyo Bridge, a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture. Our adventure continues with a ferry ride to the iconic island of Miyajima, often described as a place where gods and humans live in harmony. Here, we explore the Itsukushima Shrine, an enchanting site dedicated to the guardian of the seas, partially set over the water. Take time to wander the charming town centre and enjoy a relaxing lunch. Next, we proceed to Hiroshima, a city with a profound history, having been largely destroyed by an atomic bomb in 1945. Our exploration here takes us to the Peace Memorial, including the haunting yet impressive atomic bomb dome and the Peace Museum. Dinner is willingly provided as we reflect on the day’s experiences.

Today, we embark on a delightful ferry journey to Shikoku Island, lasting around two and a half hours. This experience offers a unique perspective on Japan, a nation made up of numerous islands. In Matsuyama, we'll ascend by cable car to its formidable castle, a highlight of the region. Following this, we visit Ishiteji, a stunning Buddhist temple that is a popular site for pilgrims. We'll enjoy our lunch at a local eatery, indulging in the area's flavours. In the afternoon, we'll take you to Dogo Onsen, an esteemed traditional Japanese bathhouse dating back to the 19th century, where you can unwind and soak in its rich history.

Our day begins with a journey to Kotohira, where we'll visit a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the God of sailors. Situated on Mount Zosu, reaching the shrine involves a climb of 785 steps, rewarding us with a sense of achievement and insight into local spiritual traditions. Our adventure continues in Takamatsu, as we explore Ritsurin Garden, considered one of Japan's most exquisite gardens due to its meticulously designed landscapes and serene atmosphere. Lunch will be savoured at a local restaurant, providing a taste of regional cuisine.In Naruto, we pause at a remarkable bridge spanning the sea – an architectural marvel that grants us the chance to observe powerful sea whirlpools through a glass walkway, situated 45 metres above the water. Our scenic route then guides us across a series of breathtaking bridges that connect small islands across the ocean. We conclude our day in Kobe, where we'll settle in for the night, reflecting on the diverse experiences and unique sights we've encountered.

In Kobe, we will begin our day with a visit to the Earthquake Memorial Museum, which honours the memory of the devastating 1995 earthquake and the city's remarkable recovery since then. Our exploration will then lead us to Osaka, and from there, we'll proceed to the sacred Mount Koya, the pivotal centre of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. This revered pilgrimage site houses 120 temples and monasteries, offering a deeply spiritual experience. At Okuno Mausoleum, we'll find a vast cemetery set in a serene natural setting with over 200,000 graves. We'll also have the opportunity to explore Kongobuji Temple, originally built in 1593, to further immerse ourselves in the area's rich history and spiritual heritage.Our night will be spent in a Buddhist monastery, providing a unique lodging experience. Here, the monks will lead a Zen meditation practice known as Ajikan, inviting reflection and tranquillity. Dinner, a vegetarian meal, will also be served. The following morning, those who wish can join the early religious ceremony at the temple to further enrich their spiritual journey.Please note that on certain dates, the visit to the Earthquake Museum may be substituted with a trip to the Sake Museum or a visit to Kobe Tower. Staying at the monastery is considered highly valuable; however, the rooms are simple, featuring traditional Japanese tatami mats and shared bathrooms, without private facilities. During peak tourist times, the meditation session may not be guaranteed due to capacity limitations. In such cases, accommodation may be arranged in nearby hotels, with half board included.

We will begin our day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. In the early hours, we'll depart for Kyoto, a city rich in history, having served as Japan's capital from 794 to 1868, and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was largely spared from bombing during World War II, allowing its extraordinary artistic and cultural heritage to remain intact. It is also recognised as the site of the Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions signed in 1997. Our itinerary includes visits to some of Kyoto's iconic landmarks. We will admire the splendid Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, explore the historic Imperial Palace, and be captivated by the beauty of the Kinkaku-ji Temple, famously known as the "Golden Pavilion," with its exquisite gardens.After this, you'll have some free time to further explore the city. Additionally, we will visit Gion, a bustling traditional district renowned for its Geisha culture, where you'll have more time to immerse yourself in the area's unique atmosphere. Note that if you have already toured Kyoto as part of your journey, our guide will offer suggestions and recommendations to help you discover other parts of the city independently.

Following breakfast, we will transfer you to the station to board the bullet train to Tokyo. In just over two hours, you'll travel nearly 500 kilometres, swiftly reaching the bustling capital. Upon your arrival in Tokyo, you'll have a range of options for exploring the city at your own pace and discovering its many attractions.

In the morning, we will embark on an enlightening guided tour of Tokyo, a city that perfectly blends the dynamic energy of the modern world with tranquil spaces steeped in tradition. Our five-hour adventure begins with a stop at Zojoji Temple, where you can capture one of the most iconic views of Tokyo Tower, framed by rows of charming Jizo statues adorned with vibrant knit caps. From there, we’ll head to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, a spectacle of organised chaos often dubbed the world’s busiest intersection. Our journey continues at the serene Meiji Shrine, a tribute to Emperor Meiji and his wife, followed by a leisurely bus ride along the elegant Omotesando Avenue.We'll experience the historical allure of the Imperial Palace and catch a glimpse of its picturesque gardens and the renowned Nijubashi Bridge. Next, we'll traverse the lively Akihabara district, a haven for manga and anime enthusiasts, and view Kokugikan, the famous sumo wrestling arena. Our tour culminates in Asakusa, where we'll visit the historic Sensoji Temple and explore the lively Nakamise Street. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, allowing you to savour authentic Japanese cuisine. After our cultural immersion, you can relax back at the hotel.At 6:30 p.m., we will convene in the hotel lobby and utilise Tokyo's efficient metro system to reach the vibrant Shinjuku district. Here, we'll stroll through its bustling, vibrant streets, ending with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, included in your itinerary. Following dinner, we'll make our way back to the hotel, guided by our knowledgeable companion.

Today, we set off for Nikko, arriving at this remarkable city by 10:30 a.m. Our first stop is the impressive Nikko Toshogu Shrine, famed for its "Crying Dragon" room, where a unique acoustic effect can be heard. We continue our exploration with a visit to the serene Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum. Following this, we'll take a leisurely walk along the river at Kannanga Fuchi, where a multitude of Jizo statues maintain a silent vigil over the path. Afterward, you'll have some time to roam the city centre at your own pace. Our journey then takes us to Sendai, a bustling and dynamic city with a population of over one million. Here, you will have the opportunity to delve into its energetic city centre and enjoy dinner in this lively environment.

We'll set off for the enchanting city of Matsushima, situated on the picturesque "Thousand Islands" Bay along the Pacific Ocean. Matsushima is revered as one of Japan's most beautiful locales. Upon arrival, we will visit an exquisite tea house offering stunning sea views, where we'll sip traditional tea while our guide shares intriguing insights about the city. After this relaxing start, we’ll embark on a scenic 50-minute cruise and enjoy lunch aboard the vessel. Our adventure continues to Hiraizumi, with visits to its historic temples, beginning with the UNESCO World Heritage site of Takkoku no Iwaya, carved dramatically into rock in 801. We'll also explore the splendid Buddhist temples of Chusonji and experience a tranquil moment in the gardens of Motsuji Temple, complete with an opportunity to participate in a Zen ceremony (admission included). We'll conclude the day's exploration in Morioka, the captivating capital of Iwate Province, where we’ll settle into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.

Today, we journey through breathtaking landscapes to Hirosaki, home to its renowned castle set within a picturesque park. This park is famed for its more than 2,500 cherry trees that bloom spectacularly each spring, creating a stunning display of pink blossoms. Our next stop is Aomori, the provincial capital situated on Mutsu Bay. Here, we'll visit the Nebuta Museum, which brilliantly showcases Japan’s vibrant festival traditions. These festivals feature intricately painted and illuminated floats, reminiscent of lively carnival celebrations. Lunch is provided at a local restaurant, offering a taste of regional cuisine. Following lunch, we board a ferry for a scenic crossing to Hokkaido island, a journey lasting just over three and a half hours. Upon reaching Hakodate, we'll explore its charming historic district, where the influences of diverse cultures, including the Russian Orthodox Church and other Christian churches, can be seen.

In the morning, we will explore the vibrant and bustling fish market in Hakodate, offering a captivating look into local culture and traditions. Our visit will continue with a trip up Goryokaku Tower, rewarding us with sweeping views of the city and an opportunity to admire the distinctive star-shaped design of Hakodate’s historic fortress. You will then have some free time to wander around the area at your leisure before we head to Onuma.Set in a breathtaking natural environment, Onuma is dotted with numerous small islands. Here, you can choose to take a boat ride or enjoy a relaxing stroll along the picturesque walking trails. We will include lunch at a local restaurant.Following lunch, our journey takes us along the coast to Noboribetsu, where we will be amazed by the dramatic volcanic landscape. We’ll explore the steam vents of Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley, admire the misty waters of Lake Oyunuma, and follow a trail by the hot spring river to a tranquil spot where you can indulge in a soothing foot bath.As the day progresses, we’ll continue on to Sapporo, arriving in the evening at Japan's vibrant northern capital.

Today we’ll explore the highlights of Sapporo. Our city tour takes us to several key landmarks, starting with the iconic Clock Tower and continuing to Odori Koen – a beautiful park-lined avenue crowned by the towering Sapporo TV Tower. We’ll also visit the Hokkaido Jingu Shinto shrine, where we’ll partake in a Kito, a traditional ceremonial prayer, to offer gratitude for our journey. Just outside Sapporo, we will visit the striking Hill of Buddha, an impressive example of avant-garde architecture inaugurated in 2015. Here you'll find a massive Buddha statue surrounded by a lavender-covered hill, and within the complex, replicas of the Moai statues from Easter Island can also be seen.Our journey then takes us to the charming town of Otaru. Known for its European-style charm, Otaru boasts lively shopping streets, a historic canal, and intriguing museums. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of local culinary delights. We’ll return to Sapporo by around 3:30 p.m., after which the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure.

Following breakfast, our incredible journey reaches its conclusion, leaving you with cherished memories of the diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes we've explored together. We hope you've enjoyed every moment of this enriching experience. Safe travels as you continue your adventures!