Captivating Korea to Japan Odyssey

Welcome to Korea! Upon arrival in Seoul, you'll be transferred to your hotel, and you will have some leisure time to unwind. In the afternoon, we will provide you with the essential information regarding the start of your tour. Please keep in mind that this journey may involve travellers joining or leaving at different stages, with group sizes adhering to a maximum limit. This offers a wonderful opportunity to meet new people while on your travels. 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 five-hour tour of Seoul, starting at the historic Changdeokgung Palace, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This splendid compound, set within an expansive park, is part of the remnants of Korea's regal past. We then move to the enchanting Bukchon Hanok Village, a preserved neighbourhood famed for its traditional Korean houses. Delving into Korea's more recent history, we'll explore the War Memorial, an extensive museum that vividly interweaves stories of Korea's numerous historical conflicts, with a particular focus on the Korean War, where international troops fought alongside the United Nations. Our midday meal will be enjoyed at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic Korean cuisine.The afternoon unfolds in the vibrant Gangnam District, a bustling area renowned for its shopping and entertainment. Our day concludes with a visit to the Lotte World Tower, an architectural marvel soaring 550 metres into the skyline. Here, you'll have the opportunity to ascend the tower (ticket not included) or browse the luxurious shopping avenues and parks. As evening approaches, we'll transfer to the station to board a high-speed train to Busan (ticket included). Upon arrival, we’ll arrange your transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.

In the morning, we set off from Busan to visit the Haedong Yonggung Temple, a magnificent 14th-century Buddhist temple set dramatically by the sea. Our next stop is the UN Memorial Cemetery back in Busan, where individuals from many nations are commemorated. We then explore the largest fish market in Korea, situated by Nampo Port, before enjoying a delicious lunch together. Following this, we'll take a leisurely walk to Yongdusan Park, where you'll be able to admire the 120-metre-high pagoda. Later in the day, we'll drive to Songdo Beach, where you can experience South Korea’s first marine cable car – weather permitting – and take in the stunning views of the bay. Our adventure continues at the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, a maze of colourful buildings and home to numerous art galleries, pottery workshops, and charming cafés. We conclude the day back in Busan, where we'll spend the night.

Today we journey from Busan to the Seokguram Grotto, a treasured 8th-century Buddhist site perched on the slopes of Tohamsan. Our next stop is the Bulguksa Temple, renowned for its stunning architectural beauty. We then head to the historic city of Gyeongju, which holds the distinction of being Korea's longest-serving capital under the reign of 56 kings over 992 years. You'll have an opportunity to capture the beauty of the wooden Woljeonggyo Bridge along the Namcheon River. An included lunch will be followed by a visit to Tumuli Park, where over 1,500-year-old burial mounds from the Silla Kingdom are preserved. Within the park, we'll explore one of these ancient tombs before moving on to the Cheomsongdae Observatory, East Asia's oldest, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our journey continues to Daegu, Korea's fourth most populous city. Before settling in for the night, we explore Dongsan Cheongna Hill, once home to Christian missionaries, and Dongseong-ro, the city's bustling commercial street brimming with trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants, before heading to our hotel for an overnight stay in Daegu.

We begin our day in Daegu with a visit to the Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine, renowned for its extensive history of medicinal herbs. We then explore the nearby Herbal Medicine Market, known for its array of herbal shops and the exceptional quality of their products, particularly ginseng. Our journey continues as we head north to the outskirts of Andong, where we visit the traditional Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll have time to wander through this timeless rural village. You can also explore the Hahoe Mask Museum, which displays an impressive collection of masks from around the world, used in dance, medicine, religious ceremonies, and theatre. We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy. Founded in the 16th century, this academy is set in a serene landscape beside a river. Our day concludes as we arrive in Seoul in the evening. If the weather allows, we will stop at Banpo Bridge, known for its fountain that creates a rainbow spectacle with water and lights. The day ends with an overnight stay in Seoul. *(Please note: The visit to Banpo Bridge is contingent on weather conditions.)*

Following breakfast, we will arrange a transfer to the airport for your flight to Tokyo, which is included in your itinerary. Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival and completion of border procedures, you will be greeted by an assistant, who may speak either Spanish or English. You will then be transported by a shared shuttle bus to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.

Today we embark on a captivating guided tour of Tokyo, immersing ourselves in this vibrant city's intriguing contrasts for approximately five hours. Our adventure begins with Zojoji Temple, where you'll witness one of Tokyo's famous views, with Tokyo Tower standing prominently in the background. The temple grounds are graced with countless Jizo statues, believed to safeguard children and adorned with colourful caps, bibs, and windmills.We will then experience the frenzy of Shibuya Crossing, often praised as the world's busiest intersection, followed by a visit to the serene Meiji Shrine, honouring Emperor Meiji and his wife. Our tour continues as we drive along the stylish Omotesando Avenue, taking in the elegant surroundings. We will have the chance to view the stunning gardens of the Imperial Palace and pause by the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.Passing through the lively Akihabara district, renowned for its electronic shops and its role as a hub for manga and anime culture, we'll also catch a glimpse of the Kokugikan, Japan's esteemed sumo wrestling venue. Our journey culminates in Asakusa with a visit to the historic Sensoji Temple and the bustling Nakamise Street. We'll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to our hotel.At 6:30 p.m., we'll reconvene in the hotel lobby with our guide to take the metro (tickets included) to the bustling Shinjuku district. Here, we'll enjoy a stroll through its vibrant streets known for their lively nightlife and head to a local restaurant for dinner (included). Our guide will accompany us back to the hotel by metro, marking the end of a remarkable day in Tokyo.

Today, we'll embark on a high-speed journey from Tokyo to Kyoto, travelling over 500 kilometres in just a touch more than two hours on the sleek bullet train. Upon arrival, we'll dive into a full-day exploration of Kyoto, the former Japanese capital, which served as the heart of the Imperial Court from 794 to 1868. Remarkably, Kyoto was spared from World War II bombings, preserving its incredible artistic and cultural heritage. The city also gained international recognition in 1997 as the signing site of the Kyoto Protocol, a significant international treaty on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.Our tour will encompass Kyoto's most celebrated landmarks. We'll marvel at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its iconic red torii gates, and visit the Imperial Palace. The enchanting Kinkakuji Temple, often referred to as the "Golden Pavilion," set amidst magnificent gardens, also awaits us. Later, enjoy a stroll through Gion, Kyoto's bustling traditional district, famous for its geishas and lively ambience. After our guided activities, you'll have free time to further explore and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic city.

On our ninth day, we will set out for Nara to explore the magnificent Todaiji Temple, constructed in 752 and housing a colossal Buddha statue. While here, you'll have the opportunity to photograph and interact with the gentle deer that roam freely in the adjacent park. A delicious lunch will be included to round off the visit. Following this, we will journey to the Horyu-ji Temple, a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extensive complex includes a seminary, monasteries, and temples, featuring a central pagoda that stands as one of the oldest wooden structures worldwide. Horyu-ji is renowned as Japan's oldest Buddhist temple and serves as an important centre for worship. In the evening, our travels will bring us to Osaka, Japan's second-largest urban area, teeming with modern energy. Accommodation will be provided here. Later, you can delve into the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, known for its lively nightlife and eclectic energy.

Today, our adventure begins as we journey to Himeji. Here, you'll explore the impressive Himeji Castle complex, included in your tour, which showcases the quintessential architecture of Japanese castles. Following this, we'll enjoy an included lunch at a local eatery. Our travels then take us to Okayama, home to the stunning Korakuen Garden. Renowned as one of Japan's most exquisite gardens, it offers serene lakes, enchanting waterfalls, and traditional teahouses amidst its lush landscapes. A brief walk over a pedestrian bridge will lead us to Okayama Castle, a captivating sixteenth-century structure that has risen from its World War II ashes, though entrance into the castle itself is not part of our schedule. Afterwards, you'll have some free time to wander and discover the vibrant bustle of Okayama, a lively provincial capital with a population of over 700,000. Please be aware, depending on our travel dates, we might find accommodation in Fukuyama or Kurashiki. Should we stay in Kurashiki, our visit there might unfold in the late afternoon.

We will first head to Kurashiki, celebrated for its charmingly preserved historic district, where the echoes of the past linger in the air. Stroll through its quaint streets to soak up the historic atmosphere. Our journey then takes us to Hiroshima, a city indelibly shaped by the atomic bombing in 1945. Here, we will visit Peace Memorial Park, the Atomic Bomb Dome, and the poignant Peace Memorial Museum, places that serve as powerful reminders of the city’s history and resilience. Following these contemplations, we will embark on a ferry trip to an island revered as the "place where men and gods live together". Here, we will explore the renowned Itsukushima Shrine, honouring the guardian of the seas, which is partly constructed over water. You will have the opportunity to explore the shrine, wander the charming town centre, and enjoy lunch. Later, we will return to our hotel in Hiroshima, where dinner awaits. Please note that the schedule of visits in Hiroshima may be modified without affecting the overall itinerary.

After enjoying your final breakfast in Hiroshima, our adventure draws to a close. As you prepare for your onward journey, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and lasting memories we've created. Safe travels ahead!