Essential Japan & South Korea

Once you have arrived in Tokyo, you meet your Adventure Leader and the rest of the group this afternoon to start the tour. A short briefing covers the plans for the coming weeks, tips on getting around and a chance to get to know each other.

We then share a Welcome Dinner of Tsukishima monja, a Tokyo speciality the group cooks together on a tabletop hotplate. Afterwards, you can join the group for a drink or have an early night.

The day begins in the kitchen, where a local chef teaches us to make sushi before we eat our creations for lunch.

Next, we find some calm at Meiji Shrine, among Tokyo's most important shrines, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

We continue to Harajuku, the city's fashion hub, known for its quirky backstreet shops and daring outfits. From here, we move on to Shibuya Crossing and stop at the Hachiko statue. If you would like a view of the crossing from above, you can visit Shibuya Sky. For something more, you can join a pre-booked Kartoon Karting session and drive a go-kart through Tokyo's streets.

Please note: Kartoon Karting must be booked before the tour departs.

We start at Yanaka Ginza, an old-fashioned shopping street where independent shops sit alongside local stalls and street food vendors.

Next is Akihabara, Tokyo's Electric Town, full of anime stores, arcades and electronics shops. Here we take each other on in a friendly arcade challenge or another group activity picked by our Adventure Leader. You can also stop at one of the area's maid cafes for a taste of Japanese pop culture.

Later, we head to Asakusa to visit Sensoji, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo, and wander the traditional stalls of Nakamise-dori.

This evening, you have the option of joining a pre-booked sumo experience with dinner, meeting former wrestlers to find out about sumo over a bowl of chanko nabe, the hearty dish wrestlers eat to stay in fighting shape. Otherwise, the night is free. You could ask your Adventure Leader for ideas or head to Hoppy Street, known for its izakayas, for food and drinks with others from the group.

Please note: The sumo experience must be booked before the tour departs.

Tokyo - Fuji Five Lakes - TokyoToday we travel out of Tokyo to the Mt Fuji area, starting with a traditional dyeing workshop close to Lake Kawaguchi. Local experts show us techniques that go back centuries as we each create a design working with indigo, sumi ink or Yamanashi wine, then take the finished piece home as a souvenir.

We then continue to Oshino Hakkai, a traditional village within the Fuji Five Lakes area. You have time for lunch and a wander past its clear ponds, which are fed by snowmelt from Mt Fuji. If skies are clear, you might glimpse the mountain from the village.

We return to Tokyo for a free evening, our last in the city. You might fit in a final bowl of ramen, some shopping or a night out with the group.

Please note: Mt Fuji views are weather dependent.

Tokyo - ShimodaThis morning we leave Tokyo and travel south to the seaside town of Shimoda. Your main luggage stays behind for the night, so pack a small overnight bag.

We start with a cruise on Shimoda Bay, admiring the rocky shoreline and hearing how this small port came to play a big part in Japan's history. Back ashore, we walk Perry Road, a stone-paved lane lined with cafes, small shops and traditional houses, and visit the Museum of Black Ships, which houses thousands of items from this pivotal period. We also stop at Ryosenji Temple, the signing place of the Treaty of Shimoda.

Following a little free time, we ride the Shimoda Ropeway for wide views over the town, the coastline and the mountains beyond. With good timing, you may see the sun set over the bay.

This evening, we check in and end the day by relaxing in the onsen, a welcome reward for tired legs.

Shimoda - Atami - KyotoWe take the train from Shimoda to Atami this morning. You then have free time for lunch and a look around this relaxed seaside city. Afterwards, the group boards the shinkansen, Japan's famous bullet train, for the journey to Kyoto.

Once in Kyoto, we drop our bags and join our Adventure Leader on a brief orientation stroll to get our bearings in what many see as Japan's cultural heart.

Tonight, we trade sightseeing for singing at a karaoke spot, where everyone gets a turn to pick a song and take the mic.

Our morning begins with a tea ceremony, learning to prepare matcha before each of us whisks a bowl to enjoy with a sweet. You can also pre-book a kimono rental and dress for the occasion.

Next, we visit Kiyomizu-dera, among Kyoto's best-known temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take in the view from its wooden terrace. You then have free time to browse the snack stands and shops in the surrounding lanes.

Later, our Adventure Leader takes us through Gion and Pontocho Alley, two atmospheric districts of narrow lanes, old wooden buildings and teahouses tucked out of sight. This evening, the group shares dinner in Pontocho Alley, among Kyoto's most famous dining areas.

Please note: The kimono rental must be booked before the tour departs.

Your morning in Kyoto is free. You could walk the Philosopher's Path, visit the bamboo grove and Monkey Park in Arashiyama, or travel to Nara to see Todai-ji Temple and the deer of Nara Park. Other cultural options include renting a kimono or visiting the Ninja and Samurai Museum.

In the afternoon, we meet up again for a practical calligraphy class, where a local teacher introduces us to Japanese brush writing and we each create a piece to keep.

Please note: The most in-demand activities in Kyoto book up quickly, particularly during cherry blossom season, so we recommend booking early.

Today we see Kyoto by bike, following dedicated riverside paths beside the Kamo River before cutting through calmer back streets and alleys. The ride finishes at a Zen temple, where a Buddhist monk leads us in meditation and we then take part in a tea ceremony.

After a short lunch stop, we continue to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, whose gold leaf exterior is mirrored in the pond around it.

We then board the shinkansen to Hiroshima. Once settled, the group enjoys a dinner of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a much-loved local dish.

Hiroshima - Miyajima - HiroshimaThis morning we travel by tram and ferry to Miyajima Island, home to the famous torii gate that seems to float above the water. At low tide, you can reach the gate on foot.

We then ride the Miyajima Ropeway up Mt Misen for wide views over the Seto Inland Sea and the island. If you have the energy, you can hike down on the forest trail rather than riding back.

Once you have had some free time to eat and explore, the group returns to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, a moving visit that offers insight into Hiroshima's history and its lasting call for peace.

This evening is free. You could relax, head out for food with the group or explore further.

Hiroshima - Kobe - OsakaWe take the bullet train from Hiroshima to Kobe this morning, and our Adventure Leader gives us a brief introduction to the city. You then have time to explore on your own. You could ride the ropeway to Nunobiki Herb Garden for views over Kobe, learn about the city's past at the Earthquake Memorial Museum, wander the old lanes of Kitano-cho or head down to Kobe Port Tower on the Harborland waterfront.

Later, the group travels on to Osaka, again by bullet train. Once you have checked in, you are free for the rest of the evening. You could head to Shinsekai, Osaka's retro entertainment district, and try kushikatsu, the city's well-known deep-fried skewers, ordered by the plate and shared around the table.

A brief walk to Shinsaibashi, one of Osaka's busiest shopping districts, starts our day. You then have free time to browse the shops and pick from the many places to eat for lunch.

The afternoon is also yours. You could head up to Osaka Castle, which looks out over the city, explore the shops and food stalls of Umeda, or visit the National Museum to discover more about Japanese history and culture.

This evening, we gather for one last group dinner in Japan, a chance to swap stories, look back over photos and raise a glass before the journey moves on to South Korea.

Osaka - Seoul. Today we transfer to the airport for your flight to Seoul. After checking in at your accommodation, the rest of the day is yours to settle in and explore at your own pace.

After a welcome meeting with our South Korean Adventure Leader on our first full day in Seoul, we head to a class where professional instructors teach us the basics of Taekwondo, the national martial art of Korea.

We then go to Myeongdong, one of Seoul's best-known food neighbourhoods, for our first Korean meal together, with our Adventure Leader introducing some local favourites.

Later, we take in the city lights from Namsan Mountain. You can add a padlock to the love locks on the railings near the summit, or go up N Seoul Tower for an even higher view. We then return to Myeongdong, where the rest of the evening is free.

We begin at Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea's largest royal palace, where we watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony before exploring the grounds. You can also hire a hanbok, the traditional Korean dress, to wear around the palace.

You then have time to explore the city, with suggestions on hand from your Adventure Leader. You could wander Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong Art Street, followed by a quiet walk beside the Cheonggyecheon stream, restored as part of an urban renewal project. Gangnam is the place for shopping, or you could rent a bike for a ride along the Han River, with views of the skyline and riverside parks. Another option is to join a personalised perfume-making class, learning about fragrance notes and blending a scent of your own to take home.

This evening, we take part in a K-Pop dance class, picking up a routine from professionals. Afterwards, we head to Hongdae, a lively area full of cafes, bars, live music and street performers, to eat and enjoy a night out.

Please note: The perfume-making class must be booked at least three weeks before the tour departs.

Today we travel north from Seoul to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), among the most heavily guarded frontiers anywhere. On the way, we learn about the Korean Peninsula's past and, subject to availability, hear a North Korean defector describe life in the North.

At Dora Observatory, we gaze over the border into North Korea, then visit the Third Tunnel, a hidden passage under the border that takes us within close reach of the North.

Once back in Seoul, you have free time for the remainder of the day. You could explore another neighbourhood, track down more Korean food or simply rest, and your Adventure Leader can suggest ideas.

You have a relaxed morning in Seoul before the group leaves the city for Geumsunsa Temple, an active Buddhist temple set on Bukhansan Mountain's slopes. It offers a rare glimpse of Korean life that most visitors miss.

After settling in and changing into temple clothing, we tour the temple with a guide, hearing about its history and customs, before a Buddhist vegetarian meal.

As night falls, we take part in temple rituals, ringing the bell, beating the Dharma drum, joining evening chanting and a singing bowl meditation. We spend the night in traditional temple quarters, sleeping in the same way as the resident monks.

Seoul - Seoraksan National Park - SokchoWe rise early at the temple and travel on to Seoraksan National Park, one of South Korea's most striking natural areas.

You are free to explore the park as you wish. You could take on the tough climb to Ulsanbawi Rock for mountain views, walk the valley trails past waterfalls or let the cable car do the climbing for wide views with less hiking.

Later, we continue to Sokcho on the coast and cross the water on a traditional gatbae boat to Abai Village, set up after the Korean War by refugees from North Korea and a window on the city's history.

This evening, we head to the local fish market for dinner. You can try fresh seafood or Sokcho's famous sweet and spicy fried chicken, and your Adventure Leader can point out the best places to eat. We end the night by sampling traditional Korean liquor.

Sokcho - GyeongjuToday we leave the mountains and coast behind for Gyeongju, often called Korea's museum without walls and once the seat of the ancient Silla Kingdom.

This afternoon, we set off on a cycling tour of the old town, stopping at the royal tombs at Daereungwon Tumuli Park and at Cheomseongdae, the oldest astronomical observatory still standing in East Asia. If you would rather not cycle, the compact old town is easy to cover on foot, with around 90 minutes enough to see the main sights.

This evening, the group sits down to a Hanjeongsik feast at a hanok restaurant, one of Korea's great dining traditions. Dish after dish arrives at the table, including kimchi, banchan, stews, savoury pancakes and seasonal dishes.

After the meal, you are free for the night. Anapji Pond is a good choice for its illuminated views after dark, and entry costs KRW 3,000. This is an independent outing that your Adventure Leader may not accompany, though they will provide clear directions.

Gyeongju - BusanYour morning in Gyeongju is relaxed, before the group takes South Korea's KTX bullet train to the coastal city of Busan.

We start at Gamcheon Culture Village, a maze of colourful homes and twisting alleys decorated with street art, now among the city's best-known landmarks. You then have free time to wander and find lunch.

We then travel on to Songdo Beach and ride the Songdo Marine Cable Car above the coast, before exploring BIFF Square, full of street performers, shops and food stands. Do try hotteok, a sweet-filled snack Busan is known for.

If you would like more views, you can go up Busan Tower. Afterwards, we continue to Haeundae to spend the evening there.

This morning we visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, among South Korea's loveliest temples and one of only a handful set on the coast. With waves breaking below and wide views out to sea, it feels quite different from the mountain temples earlier in the trip.

You have the remainder of the day to yourself. You could pass a few hours at Spa Land, one of Korea's best-known jjimjilbangs, moving between its pools, saunas and steam rooms. If you would rather stay outdoors, you could walk the coast, find a cafe looking out to sea or relax in Haeundae.

In the evening, you can join a sightseeing cruise to see Gwangan Bridge illuminated over the water, then have dinner in Haeundae and end with a round of karaoke.

Busan - Jeju IslandYour morning is free to enjoy Haeundae Beach. You could walk on the sand, swim in the sea or get some volleyball or frisbee going with the group. Early risers could bring a picnic breakfast and watch the sun come up over the sea.

You also have the option of joining a Busan cooking class, getting hands-on with classic Korean dishes such as bibimbap, a rice dish finished with a fried egg, meat, vegetables and spicy gochujang.

In the afternoon, you could ride the coastal train at Haeundae Blueline Park, head up to the observation deck in the second tallest building in Korea or explore Huinnyeoul Culture Village. Your Adventure Leader can share tips if you would like to explore on your own.

Later, we transfer to the airport for the flight across to Jeju, South Korea's volcanic island. After check-in, you have the evening to get a first feel for island life.

Please note: The cooking class must be booked at least three weeks before the tour departs.

We begin the day on Jeju with a walk along a stretch of the Jeju Olle Trail, taking in the coastal scenery, before visiting Jeongbang Waterfall, Asia's only waterfall to drop straight into the sea.

We then hike up Seongsan Ilchulbong, a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by hydrovolcanic eruptions more than 5,000 years ago, and enjoy wide views from the top. Afterwards, you can stay for lunch near the volcano or watch a Haenyeo performance at 2 pm. Inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Haenyeo are Jeju's women divers, some of whom are in their sixties and seventies, who dive without oxygen and whose tradition reflects resilience, sustainability and a close bond with the sea.

We return to Seogwipo in the early afternoon, leaving the remainder of the day free. You could browse Maeil Olle Market for local snacks, relax on Jungmun Beach, see Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, walk around the Maritime Park and Saeyeongyo Bridge, learn about local culture at the Haenyeo Museum or end the day with a sunset drink at The Cliff. Your Adventure Leader can help with directions for any of these.

Please note: The Haenyeo performance depends on availability and weather.

On our last full day on Jeju, we visit the Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliffs, where tall columns of volcanic rock, created by lava flows long ago, rise from the sea.

We then set sail on a yacht trip along the coast, seeing the island from a new angle.

The afternoon is free. You could spend it on Jungmun Beach, visit Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, walk around Saeyeongyo Bridge and the Maritime Park or find somewhere to watch the sunset over the coast with a drink.

This evening, we gather for our Farewell Dinner, marking the end of 12 days in South Korea with a Jeju black pork barbecue, a dish the island is famous for.

The tour comes to an end in Jeju this morning. If you would like more time in South Korea, you can add extra nights of accommodation and onward travel.