Korea and Japan A Historic Odyssey

Welcome to Korea! Upon your arrival in Seoul, you will have a transfer to your hotel where you can enjoy some free time to settle in and explore your surroundings. In the afternoon, important information about the upcoming tour will be provided to you, setting the stage for an exciting adventure. While no overnight accommodation is planned for this day, it marks the beginning of a journey filled with rich cultural experiences and discovery. 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 the second day of our journey, we begin with an early departure to the Cheorwon region, home to a section of the DMZ, the heavily fortified boundary separating North and South Korea. We will explore the intriguing Second Tunnel, clandestinely dug by North Korea and uncovered in 1975. Following this, we visit the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, which grants us sweeping views of the DMZ and the adjacent North Korean villages. Inside, a small museum offers insights into the Korean War. Our tour continues to the desolate Woljeong-ri railway station, and then to the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, commemorating the French UN battalion's efforts during combat. Lunch is provided before we conclude our day with a visit to a local Makgeolli producer to savour this traditional Korean rice liquor. We return to Seoul by evening.Please ensure you bring your passport today, as it is required for entry into the DMZ. Note that the DMZ is a military zone and may unexpectedly close; if so, an alternative itinerary will be arranged.Later, with our guide, we take in the architectural marvel of Seoul's City Hall, resembling a massive wave. Opposite lies Deoksugung Palace, beautifully illuminated at night to reflect Korea's harmony of history and modernity. We continue our evening with a stroll through Myeongdong, South Korea's largest shopping and entertainment district, which translates to "bright town." Dinner is included at a local eatery, and our return journey to the hotel will be on the city's efficient metro system, with tickets provided.

Today, immerse yourself in a comprehensive exploration of Seoul with an insightful five-hour tour. We'll visit the serene Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled in expansive parkland and home to a cluster of traditional palaces. This will be followed by a view of Bukchon Hanok Village, where beautifully preserved traditional houses offer a glimpse into Korea's rich history.Continuing our journey, we'll delve into the War Memorial of Korea, a compelling museum that provides an in-depth understanding of the significant conflicts that have shaped the nation’s past, focusing particularly on the Korean War. Enjoy a local lunch, after which we venture into the vibrant Gangnam District, a bustling hub known for its shopping and entertainment venues.To cap off the day, we'll visit the towering Lotte World Tower. Here, you can choose to ascend this architectural marvel (please note that the entrance ticket is not included) or explore the surrounding luxury shopping malls and scenic park. Afterward, we will return to the hotel, allowing you to enjoy some leisure time.

Today, we will start by visiting the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, a landmark with over six centuries of history. If timed perfectly, you will have the opportunity to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard. After our visit, we will leave Seoul behind as we travel southward. Our first stop is Suwon, the former capital of Korea, celebrated for its formidable UNESCO World Heritage walls. You will see these remarkable fortifications and have the chance to explore Hwaseong Haenggung, the beautiful summer palace. Lunch is included today to ensure you are well-fuelled for the day ahead. We will then make our way to Jeonju, where you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating historic Hanok Village, complete with traditional houses, charming shops, and enticing art galleries.

Today, we depart for the charming Sunchang Gochujang Village, nestled at the foot of Mount Amisan. This village is adorned with traditional hanok houses and courtyards filled with hang-a-ri clay pots. Here, master artisans craft gochujang, the famous Korean chilli paste, using time-honoured methods. We will partake in a hands-on experience, learning to make this renowned sauce ourselves.After our culinary adventure, we continue to Damyang to wander through the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. Renowned for its beauty, this serene setting offers paths ideal for meditation and enjoying the gentle breezes. The area also boasts a variety of bamboo products, celebrated in places like the Bamboo Museum. Lunch will be enjoyed here, featuring a local specialty: rice cooked and served inside a bamboo stalk.Our journey continues amidst the stunning backdrop of mountains and forests as we arrive at Haeinsa—one of Korea's most significant Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 802, it houses the Tripitaka, the most comprehensive collection of Buddhist scriptures, engraved on 80,000 wooden tablets. From here, we proceed to Busan, Korea's vibrant second-largest city, where we will settle in for the night.

On the sixth day of our journey, we begin in the coastal city of Busan, where we will visit the picturesque Haedong Yonggung Temple. This serene Buddhist sanctuary, established in the 14th century, sits majestically by the sea, offering tranquil views and a peaceful atmosphere. Following this, we return to the heart of Busan to visit the United Nations Memorial and its cemetery—a sobering site where individuals from numerous countries are honoured for their service. Our exploration continues as we delve into the bustling atmosphere of the country's largest fish market, located near Nampo Port. Here, you'll witness the vibrant activity of local vendors and the rich array of seafood on offer.We include a delightful local lunch before transferring to the airport for our onward journey to Japan. Our next destination is Osaka, where you'll experience the warm welcome of this enchanting country. Upon arrival, we'll arrange your transfer to the hotel, ensuring a comfortable beginning to your Japanese adventure.

At 11:30 a.m., we will leave Osaka and make our way to the sacred Mount Koya, revered as the major hub of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. This serene pilgrimage destination is home to 120 temples and monasteries. Our exploration begins at the Okuno Mausoleum, a profound spiritual site set in a vast cemetery among nature, boasting over 200,000 graves. We will then visit the Kongobuji Temple, established in 1593. Tonight, we will experience the tranquility of a Buddhist monastery stay, where monks will introduce us to Zen meditation practice (Ajikan), followed by a vegetarian dinner. Should you choose, you can participate in the temple's religious ceremony before breakfast. Please note that during winter, early sunset means there is insufficient time to visit inside Kongobuji Temple. Staying in the monastery offers a truly enriching experience, though the simple rooms lack private bathrooms and adhere to a traditional Japanese style with tatami mats. Shared bathroom facilities are available. Meditation sessions might not be possible during peak tourist times. Accommodation at temples on Mount Koya is limited, so alternative nearby hotel arrangements with half board may be made if necessary.

We begin the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the temple. Early in the morning, we set off for Kyoto, a city steeped in history, having served as Japan's capital from 794 to 1868. Remarkably untouched by the bombings of World War II, Kyoto flourishes with its artistic and cultural treasures. Notably, it was the signing location for the Kyoto Protocol on greenhouse gas emissions in 1997. Our exploration will take us to some of Kyoto's most iconic sites. We will admire the grandeur of the Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, make our way through the historical Imperial Palace, and marvel at the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, with its breathtaking surroundings. You will then have some free time to wander the area. Later, we will visit Gion, a lively district celebrated for its Geisha culture, where you will again have time to immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere. If you have already experienced Kyoto as part of our tour, rest assured our guide will offer suggestions to help you explore other fascinating areas at your leisure.

After breakfast, we set off along the picturesque shores of one of Japan's largest lakes. Our first stop is Shirahige Ginra, a small shrine nestled by the water, offering a moment of calm and reflection. We continue to Eihei-ji, a temple-monastery founded in 1244 and a significant Zen Buddhism centre in Japan. With admission included, we'll explore its serene architecture, gardens, and spiritual atmosphere, a vital training ground for monks practising Zazen meditation. Our journey leads us to Katsuyama, where we visit the Dinosaur Museum, situated at Japan's largest dinosaur fossil site. Here, you have free time to enjoy lunch and delve into its fascinating exhibitions featuring over 40 dinosaur skeletons. Our next visit is to the Great Buddha of Echizen, where we'll also explore the grand temple and ascend the five-storey pagoda for panoramic views. As the day draws to a close, we arrive in Kanazawa, a city rich with history and culture, ready to rest and reflect on the day's experiences.

Our day in Kanazawa promises a blend of history and scenic beauty as we dive into the city's rich heritage. In the morning, we'll embark on a guided tour of the city, once a cultural rival to Kyoto and Tokyo, and notably untouched by World War II bombings. Our exploration begins with the castle area, where its majestic walls stand as silent witnesses to a storied past. Wandering through the Nagamachi neighbourhood, we'll step back in time, traversing lanes once home to samurai and their families. Here, you'll see preserved earthen walls, narrow alleys, and serene water canals that evoke a historical atmosphere.We'll also visit Kenrokuen, celebrated as one of Japan's top three landscape gardens, offering enchanting views at every turn. Our tour concludes at the vibrant Omicho Market, a bustling hub filled with a myriad of dining options ideal for a delightful lunch. The afternoon is yours to uncover Kanazawa's treasures further.

Today, we set off to explore the mesmerising Gokayama and Shirakawago regions, famed for their dramatic mountainous landscapes and traditional villages, which are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The distinctive houses here, with their steeply pitched roofs known as "praying hands," are designed to withstand heavy winter snow. First, we'll visit Ainokura, a quaint village offering a peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views. We'll then move on to the more renowned Shirakawa-go Ogimachi, where you'll have time to wander and savour your lunch amidst this picturesque setting.Our journey continues to Takayama, where we will visit the Hida Folk Village Museum. Situated in a serene location, this open-air museum comprises over 30 traditional houses from the Edo Period (1603–1868), meticulously relocated to this site in 1971. These buildings display various tools and utensils from everyday life in bygone eras, providing you with a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural history. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Takayama’s old town, characterised by its wooden houses and charming traditional shops.

After breakfast, we'll set off for Hida Furukawa, where you can immerse yourself in the charm of its historic centre. Recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO, the town's festival is known for its grand drums and intricately adorned floats. Our visit includes entry to the local museum, where you can view the festival's floats, costumes, and drums up close. Then, we'll journey through the Japanese Alps, famed for their snowy vistas throughout much of the year. Upon reaching Matsumoto, we'll explore its remarkable castle, often referred to as the "Crow Castle" for its distinctive black exterior, a legacy from the 16th century. After the castle visit, you're free to enjoy lunch and wander around the town at your own pace. In the afternoon, we'll proceed to Nagano, where we will stay overnight.

In Nagano, our day begins with a visit to the revered Zenko-ji Temple, a key pilgrimage site that houses the first Buddhist image ever brought to Japan. Here, you will witness the Gomakuyo ceremony, an experience designed to invoke blessings and good fortune. We then head to the stunning Japanese Alps, continuing our journey into the mountains to visit the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park. After a delightful lunch, enjoy a peaceful walk through scenic forests and rivers, where you'll find hot springs frequented by colonies of Japanese macaques, famous for their bathing habits.Our travels take us higher into the breathtaking mountain scenery, reaching altitudes of 2,172 meters and passing by semi-active volcanoes. We continue to Kusatsu, a charming spa town that features a lively main square. A leisurely exploration of the city park, known for its outdoor onsen, follows. Our day concludes in Ikaho, a picturesque spa town celebrated for its historical centre and distinctive stair-stepped streets. We will spend the night in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you can unwind in its baths and enjoy a classic Japanese dinner included in your stay.Please be aware that during the autumn months, the movements of the macaques can be unpredictable due to the seasonal availability of mountain fruits. If they do not descend, the park may be closed. Additionally, the visit to Kusatsu may be cancelled due to weather conditions from November to April.

Today, we depart from Ikaho and make our way to the fascinating town of Nikko, renowned for its historical and cultural significance. Our visit includes the impressive Nikko-Toshogu Shrine, famous for its 'room with the sound of a dragon' feature, an architectural and acoustic marvel. We'll also explore the peaceful Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, where the serenity and beauty of the site offer a moment of reflection. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, where hundreds of Jizo statues line the riverbanks, silently watching over the flowing water. You will have free time to explore the town centre and its charming atmosphere, allowing you to discover its unique offerings at your own pace.In the afternoon, we will head back to Tokyo, aiming to arrive at approximately 18:30. As we return to the vibrant capital, you'll have the opportunity to reflect on the cultural treasures and tranquil surroundings experienced throughout the day.

Our day begins with an immersive guided tour of the dynamic city of Tokyo, lasting approximately five hours. Tokyo's allure lies in its fascinating blend of high-energy modern districts and serene traditional spaces. We start with a brief visit to Zojoji Temple, where you'll capture breathtaking views of the iconic Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are punctuated with Jizo statues, the stone guardians of children, adorned with colourful caps, bibs, and windmills. Our next stop is the renowned Shibuya Crossing, often dubbed the busiest intersection in the world, followed by the tranquil Meiji Shrine, honouring Emperor Meiji and his wife. As our tour continues by bus, we'll glide through Omotesando Avenue, famed for its upscale retail scene. We'll then admire the most picturesque aspects of the Imperial Palace, pausing to photograph the elegant Nijubashi Bridge. As we journey on, we'll pass through Akihabara, celebrated as the "Electric Town" and a haven for manga and anime enthusiasts. We will also glimpse the Kokugikan, Japan's premier sumo wrestling venue. Our morning culminates in Asakusa, where we'll explore the historic Sensoji Temple and the vibrant Nakamise Street. A delightful local lunch awaits us before we return to our hotel to relax and reflect on the morning's experiences. At 6:30 p.m., we'll reconvene in the hotel lobby to take the metro (tickets included) to Shinjuku's bustling streets, alive with nightlife. We'll enjoy a leisurely walk to a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in Tokyo's culinary delights, before returning to the hotel by metro, guided all the way by our expert tour leader.

After enjoying breakfast, our remarkable journey draws to a close, leaving you with wonderful memories to cherish. You may choose to explore more of Tokyo's intriguing sights or shop for last-minute souvenirs before departing. Regardless of your plans, we hope your experiences have been enriching and inspiring. Safe travels on your onward journey!