Tokyo to Seoul & Jeju

Welcome to Tokyo and the start of your premium journey through Japan and South Korea. We meet in the hotel lounge for a welcome briefing with our tour leader and fellow travellers, where we set the scene for the experiences ahead and outline what to expect over the coming days.

This evening, we come together for a teppanyaki welcome dinner. It is a relaxed and social introduction to Japanese cuisine, with expertly prepared dishes, plenty of conversation and, of course, our first group photo.

We then head out to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to watch its evening projection show light up the tower, offering a memorable first glimpse of the capital’s scale, energy and atmosphere after dark.

We start the morning with a hands-on sushi masterclass, learning the techniques behind one of Japan’s most famous dishes. Guided by local experts, we slice, roll and taste our own creations, picking up practical skills along the way in a fun and relaxed setting.

Next, we slow the pace at Meiji Shrine, a tranquil forest sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Here, our tour leader explains the significance of omamori - traditional Japanese charms believed to offer luck and protection - and collects one for each of us.

We then head into the vibrant streets of Harajuku, known for its bold fashion, quirky boutiques and colourful street food. From here, we continue on foot to Shibuya Crossing, one of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections, where we pause for photos with the faithful Hachiko statue, a symbol of loyalty in Japan.

For those wanting a bird’s-eye view, you can visit Shibuya Sky for sweeping views across the city, watching Tokyo’s energy unfold from above.

Today, we swap Tokyo’s neon skyline for a taste of retro Japan. We step back in time in Shibamata, a nostalgic neighbourhood that retains the atmosphere of the Showa era. We stroll along Taishakuten Sando, lined with traditional shops, local snacks and old-fashioned souvenirs, before visiting Shibamata Taishakuten Temple, known for its intricate wooden carvings and serene setting.

We then continue to Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic districts, to visit Senso-ji, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple. Afterwards, we explore the lively streets around the temple, with plenty of opportunities for photos and a deeper look at the city’s past.

This evening, we enjoy a memorable sumo experience with dinner. We meet former sumo wrestlers who share stories from life in the ring, pose for photos and introduce us to Chanko Nabe - the nourishing hot pot traditionally eaten by sumo wrestlers to maintain their strength and stamina.

Tokyo - Hakone. Today, we leave behind the buzz of Tokyo and head for the fresh mountain air of Hakone. We travel by Romance Car express, watching the cityscape give way to rolling hills and open countryside. On arrival in Hakone Yumoto, you have some free time to explore the area and pick up lunch before the afternoon’s activities begin.

We then bus to Moto-Hakone to board a pirate-style cruise across Lake Ashi. With its multi-level decks and wide-open views, it is a memorable way to experience this volcanic lake. On clear days, you may spot Mt Fuji rising above the surrounding landscape (weather dependent).

Next, we ride the cable car over the dramatic volcanic valley of Owakudani, where steam vents and rugged terrain reveal Hakone’s geothermal activity. After a full day of sightseeing, we return by bus to our accommodation.

The evening brings a traditional onsen experience, as we soak in the naturally heated, mineral-rich waters and unwind after a day of travel and exploration.

Hakone - Kyoto. This morning, we travel to Odawara Station and board the iconic Shinkansen bound for Kyoto. Before boarding, you can pick up an ekiben, a traditional Japanese station lunch box, to enjoy on the journey. As the scenery speeds past, we make our way to Japan’s former imperial capital. On arrival, we drop our bags at the hotel before heading out to explore.

Our first stop is Higashi Honganji Temple, renowned for its immense wooden halls and peaceful atmosphere. One of its most unusual features is a rope woven from human hair, donated by devotees and used during the temple’s reconstruction - a striking example of dedication and craftsmanship.

This afternoon, we take part in a Japanese calligraphy class. With brush, ink and paper, we learn the fundamentals of this traditional art form and create a piece to take home as a personal souvenir.

In the evening, we come together for a lively karaoke night. From classic hits to guilty pleasures, it is a fun and relaxed way to bond as a group and end the day on an upbeat note.

We begin the day with a traditional Camellia tea ceremony, a refined introduction to one of Kyoto’s most cherished cultural practices. We watch as matcha is prepared with precision and grace, before trying it ourselves and enjoying the tea alongside delicate Japanese sweets. If you would like to enhance the experience, you can choose to wear a kimono, at an additional cost of GBP 45 per person, for photos and a deeper sense of occasion.

Next, we visit Kiyomizu dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks. Its impressive wooden stage juts out over the hillside, offering sweeping views across the city and surrounding forest. After our visit, you have time to wander the atmospheric streets nearby and stop for lunch at a local eatery.

This afternoon, we explore Kyoto’s most evocative districts on foot. We join a guided walk through Gion, learning about the area’s long-standing traditions and the world of geisha, before continuing to Pontocho Alley. This narrow, lantern-lit lane runs alongside the river and is lined with historic teahouses and restaurants, capturing the essence of old Kyoto.

The evening ends with a group dinner in Pontocho Alley, in the heart of Kyoto’s historic dining district.

Please note: The kimono option must be booked before travel.

Kyoto - Hiroshima. The morning is yours to experience Kyoto in the way that suits you best. You might choose to rise early and walk through the vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari at sunrise, explore the tranquil gardens of Nijo Castle, admire the gold-leaf exterior of the Golden Pavilion, or wander through the atmospheric bamboo groves of Arashiyama. If you are feeling adventurous, you could travel to Nara to see its famous free-roaming deer. Alternatively, a slower morning soaking up Kyoto’s everyday charm is just as rewarding, though an early visit to Fushimi Inari is highly recommended for those keen to see it at its most peaceful.

In the afternoon, we regroup with our tour leader and travel by Shinkansen to Hiroshima, watching the landscape shift as we head west.

This evening, we enjoy dinner together and sample a local speciality - Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Layered with noodles, vegetables and savoury flavours, it is a regional favourite and a great way to end the day as a group.

Hiroshima - Miyajima - Hiroshima. Today, we head to Miyajima, a postcard-perfect island just offshore from Hiroshima. As we cross the bay by ferry, we catch sight of the iconic torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine appearing to float on the water, one of Japan’s most recognisable landmarks. At low tide, you may even be able to walk across the sand for a closer look. We explore the shrine grounds and learn about its spiritual significance before continuing on to Mt Misen.

We ascend the mountain by ropeway, enjoying wide-ranging views across the Seto Inland Sea. You can ride the ropeway both ways or, if you are feeling energetic, choose to hike back down through forested trails and peaceful temple paths. Afterwards, you have free time for lunch and to explore Miyajima.

Later, we return to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Museum with an audio guide, along with the Atomic Bomb Dome. This powerful and thought-provoking experience shares the story of the atomic bombing and its aftermath, focusing on remembrance, resilience and the global message of peace.

The evening is free for you to relax or explore Hiroshima.

Hiroshima - Okayama - Osaka. All aboard the bullet train - today we travel to Okayama. Our first stop is the Kurashiki Bikan Quarter, a beautifully preserved canal district where the atmosphere of Japan’s merchant past lives on. We wander along willow-lined waterways, past white-walled storehouses, traditional shops and inviting cafes, with time to sample a local sweet treat. For a different perspective, we then take a boat ride along the canal, offering lovely views of this historic town.

Next, we take part in a pottery-making workshop, choosing what to create and shaping our own piece before leaving the experts to finish it.

By mid-afternoon, we board the bullet train once more and continue to Osaka. After checking in and dropping our bags at the hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy. You can relax nearby or head out to experience the lively, neon-lit streets of Shinsekai. If you’re feeling peckish, this is the perfect place to try kushikatsu - Osaka’s much-loved deep-fried skewers.

Please note: The boat ride runs on a first-come, first-served basis and may occasionally be unavailable, in which case we adjust our plans on the day.

On our final day in Japan, we take things at a relaxed pace with a walk along Shinsaibashi, Osaka’s best-known shopping street. Lined with lively arcades, quirky boutiques and tempting street food, it’s a great spot for photos and last-minute browsing. There’s free time here to enjoy lunch and pick up any final souvenirs.

In the afternoon, we experience the city from the water on a Dotonbori boat cruise. Gliding along the canal beneath glowing signs and billboards, we see a different side of Osaka’s famous entertainment district.

As evening approaches, we come together for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on our journey, share highlights and toast an unforgettable adventure through Japan.

Osaka (Japan) - Seoul (South Korea). This morning, you travel by private transfer to the airport for your included flight to South Korea. Please note that both the transfer and flight are unguided.

On arrival in Seoul, we begin the second leg of our Japan and South Korea adventure. Once you’ve landed and settled in, we meet our new tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting. This is a chance to learn more about Korean culture, pick up useful local tips and get ready for the experiences ahead.

We then dive straight into one of South Korea’s highlights - the food. We head out together for a group dinner, a great opportunity to get to know one another while tucking into jjimdak, a popular Korean braised chicken dish.

After dinner, we head to the theatre for the Nanta Show. This high-energy performance combines comedy, music and percussion played on everyday kitchen utensils, and with no spoken dialogue, it is easy to follow and a fun introduction to modern Korean culture.

Please note: Some travellers may be leaving the tour in Osaka, and others may join in Seoul. The maximum group size will not be exceeded.

This morning, we start bright and early with a step back into Korea’s royal past at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of Seoul’s historic palaces. We watch the colourful Royal Guard Changing Ceremony before exploring the palace grounds. If you wish, you can hire a traditional hanbok at your own expense and wander the elegant courtyards and quieter corners in traditional dress.

By lunchtime, we sit down to enjoy a local speciality - samgye-tang, a nourishing chicken and ginseng soup - in the atmospheric Bukchon Hanok Village. Afterwards, you have time to explore at your own pace, getting lost in the narrow lanes of the village or heading to nearby Insadong Art Street, known for its antique shops, traditional teahouses and local handicrafts.

In the evening, we take to the skies with a cable car ride up Namsan Mountain, continuing on to the top of Seoul N Tower. From here, we enjoy sweeping views across the city skyline as it lights up below, offering excellent photo opportunities and a memorable way to round off the day.

Seoul - DMZ - Seoul. This morning, we set out on a half-day excursion to one of South Korea’s most thought-provoking destinations - the Demilitarised Zone. At the border with North Korea, we visit the Dora Observatory, where we look across to distant North Korean villages using binoculars, before descending into the Third Tunnel, an infiltration tunnel dug by North Korea that runs to within around 200 metres of the border. Before returning to Seoul, we take part in an open Q&A session with a North Korean defector, offering a rare and powerful personal perspective, and sit down to a simple Korean lunch.

As evening approaches, we head to Hongdae, Seoul’s youthful and creative neighbourhood. Known for its street art, live performances, independent shops and offbeat cafes, it’s an ideal place to wander and soak up the city’s contemporary culture. If you wish, you can join the group for an optional karaoke night, with big songs, plenty of laughs and the chance to channel your inner K-pop star.

Seoul - Gyeongju. This morning, we depart Seoul by KTX (high-speed rail), travelling south to Gyeongju - Korea’s ancient capital and one of its most historically rich cities. We arrive around lunchtime and stop for an included lunch on the way to Golgulsa Temple.

In the afternoon, we travel into the mountains to Golgulsa Temple, set among peaceful scenery and sweeping views. Here, we gain insight into centuries-old Korean Buddhist traditions and a slower, more reflective way of life. We take part in a series of temple activities, beginning with a guided meditation session. This is followed by a sunmudo martial arts class, a discipline rooted in Buddhist practice, and an introduction to traditional archery. The experience is rounded off with a nourishing Buddhist vegetarian dinner, prepared in line with temple customs.

As evening arrives, we return to Gyeongju and check into our hanok accommodation, an atmospheric and fitting place to rest ahead of tomorrow’s explorations. Before settling in, we visit the beautiful Anapji Pond, where the softly lit palace pavilions reflect on the water, creating a peaceful night-time scene.

Gyeongju - Busan. This morning, we set out on a guided bike tour to discover Gyeongju’s standout sights. Cycling through the historic centre, we pass the Chunmachong Ancient Tombs, explore Daereungwon Tumuli Park and stop at Cheomseongdae, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in East Asia, dating back to the Silla Kingdom.

Afterwards, we come together for a special dining experience at a traditional hanok. We enjoy a classic Korean set meal, accompanied by a tasting of traditional Korean liquor, offering a deeper insight into local food culture and Korea’s long-standing drinking traditions.

The afternoon is yours to explore more of the historic centre, stop at a traditional teahouse or browse local shops.

Later, we continue south to Busan and check in. The evening is yours to enjoy seafood, beachside bars, night markets or a stroll along the waterfront in this energetic coastal city.

We begin the day with a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa, one of Korea’s most striking temples. Dramatically set on a rocky coastline, the temple offers sweeping ocean views, with waves crashing below - a memorable contrast to the mountain settings of most Korean temples.

Next, we visit Gamcheon Culture Village, often dubbed the ‘Machu Picchu of Busan’. Here, you have time to explore independently, wandering past brightly painted houses, creative art installations and tucked-away cafés. We then continue to the Songdo Marine Cable Car, where panoramic views stretch out across the coastline and open sea. Afterwards, we head to BIFF Square, the lively heart of Busan’s film district.

The evening is free for you to enjoy at your own pace. You may wish to relax or join fellow travellers in Haeundae, a popular area for nightlife.

After a more relaxed start, we meet mid-morning for one of the day’s highlights - a traditional Korean cooking class. Under local guidance, we learn how to prepare classic dishes such as bibimbap or gimbap, before sitting down together to enjoy our creations for lunch.

The afternoon is free for you to enjoy Busan your way. You might choose to unwind at a jjimjilbang, a traditional Korean spa, relax on one of the city’s sandy beaches or take a swim in the sea. If you’re feeling creative, there is also the option to join a traditional pottery-making class at an additional cost of GBP 35, which must be booked in advance.

As evening approaches, we come together for a night cruise along the coastline, sitting back with a drink as the city lights reflect on the water and the skyline comes to life after dark. Those keen to keep the celebrations going can head out afterwards to Haeundae, known for its vibrant nightlife, dining and beachfront bars.

Busan - Jeju. This morning, we fly to the final stop of our tour - the beautiful Jeju Island. We arrive in the early afternoon and head straight to Sangumburi Crater, one of the island’s most distinctive natural landmarks.

Once there, we wander through open grasslands and circle the rim of this ancient volcanic crater, taking in wide views across Jeju’s rugged interior. Later, we check in and drop our bags.

The evening is free for you to explore Jeju. You may wish to find a seafood restaurant overlooking the coast, wander the streets of Seogwipo or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere on your first night on the island.

This morning, we set out to explore Jeju’s natural landscapes on a walk along Olle Trail No. 7. Following a mix of coastal paths and green inland stretches, we pass dramatic sea views before stopping at Jeongbang Waterfall, one of the few waterfalls in Asia that flows directly into the ocean. We also visit Oedolgae Rock, a distinctive coastal formation and a popular photo stop.

Later, we meet Jeju’s Haenyeo, the island’s female free divers, who have gathered seafood for generations without breathing equipment. Their traditions are recognised by UNESCO, and during a Q&A session, we hear about their daily lives, their diving techniques and the part they play in preserving Jeju’s culture.

The afternoon is free for you to choose how you’d like to continue exploring the island. You may wish to hike Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak, a UNESCO-listed volcanic crater formed more than 5,000 years ago. Other options include time at Jeju Folk Village, where traditional 19th-century island homes offer insight into Jeju’s past, or simply relaxing by the pool.

In the evening, we come together for our final night in Korea with a dinner of Jeju’s famous black pork BBQ, grilled at the table and served with Korean side dishes. It’s a fitting way to share stories and celebrate the journey before returning to Seoul tomorrow.

Jeju - Seoul. Your tour comes to an end today, but not before you transfer to the airport for your included flight back to Seoul. You’ll travel without a guide, and your tour comes to an end on arrival at Seoul Gimpo Airport around lunchtime. If you’d like to extend your stay, you have the option of adding post-tour accommodation in Seoul or Jeju.