Seoul to Tokyo: Korea & Japan Highlights

Welcome to South Korea! Today is your day to explore the city as you wish before you meet your group and CEO in the evening for a Welcome Meeting. After the meeting, head out for a group dinner, followed by an orientation walk around Seoul. Tomorrow we leave Seoul but don't fret, we'll return for some more time to see the city at the end of your trip.

The most convenient way to get around South Korea is by public transportation and on foot. The country's train system is world renowned so the majority of our trips utilize this efficient train network. In this tour, you will need to be able to spend the majority of the day on your feet and carry your luggage through busy train stations and streets. Please ensure you are fit enough to carry your own luggage and spend most of the day on your feet.

Today take a glimpse into traditional Korean life. After a free morning in Seoul, we head to the hanok village of Jeonju by train. Enjoy a tour of this picturesque hanok town, followed by a Hanjeongsik Dinner, a traditional Korean multiple course meal.

• Jeonju Hanok Village Craft Museum: Visit the Hanok Village Craft Museum and choose to experience some of the many hands on, traditional Korean crafts activities. Choose to make Hanji, traditional Korean paper, or try the pottery wheel and shape your own ceramic bowl, vase or plate. Opt to try the art of traditional Korean calligraphy with a brush and ink to create beautiful characters. Or try your hand at fan crafting & painting. Create and decorate your very own vibrant, colorful Korean fan. Its common to see designs like flowers, birds and landscapes, so choose your favorite design and decorate how you'd like.
• Hanbok Wearing: Immerse yourself into the colorful and beautiful culture of South Korea. Dress in the traditional Korean Hanbok clothing in no better place than the picturesque town of Jeonju Hanok Village. With your hair done and your hanbok on, head out into the town for some pictures.

From big city, to traditional towns, today we move to the greener side of South Korea. We'll venture to Damyang to take a tour of the mighty Juknokwon Bamboo forest, the greatest in South Korea. After some time under the bamboo blades, we travel to even greener pastures in the Boseong Green tea field. In the evening, arrive to Yeosu, where the city meets the sea.

• Pocha Street: Along the coast, under the Yeosu Geobukseon Bridge, you'll find the unique and romantic cart bards of Pocha Street. Grab some local food and a drink and enjoy the almost 20 different food trucks.

Breathe in the sea air and join your CEO to visit some of the more iconic spots in Yeosu. Ride the cable car for a perfect seaside view of Odongdo Island. Then immerse yourself in larger than life sculptures and interactive art exhibits at Yeosu Art Land. Experience the art and walk out onto the Hand of Midas for an equally impressive view of the sea. In the afternoon, enjoy free time during your last night on the South Korean main land.

• Marina Yacht Tour: This unique and luxurious tour allows you to explore the beautiful coast of Yeosu from the comfort of a Yacht. Opt to take this tour in your free time.
• Aqua Planet: Spend some time at Aqua Planet, one of South Korea's most esteemed aquariums. With 4 levels and many different exhibitions, you can easily spend hours exploring science center.
• ARTE Museum: Immerse yourself into art and media when you enter this interactive museum. This gallery offers 11 different colorful exhibits where you'll be transported into the art itself.

In the morning, board a flight to the volcanic island of Jeju. With waterfalls, lava caves and miles of beaches, the next three days will not disappoint. After lunch on the island, head to Seongsan Sunrise Peak for an easy hike up the volcanic formation to reach an incredible views of the ocean. This afternoon, you'll have the unique opportunity to witness the women divers on Jeju. Watch as they dive for seafood, using their incredible breath-hold abilities. Then, join your group at the Seongeup Folk Village to learn about the history and people of Old Jeju.

• Jeju Dongmun Market: Visit this famous traditional market where you can try local specialties and fresh seafood - an excellent place to experience the flavors and culture of Jeju. Taste Jeju’s unique delicacies such as black pork and hallabong (tangerines) while enjoying the vibrant market atmosphere. Make sure you don't miss the famous Red Lobster Fire Dance Show while exploring the market.

Today, immerse yourself in Jeju's natural side. In the morning, see the colorful side of Jeju at Hallim Park, the island's botanical garden. Stroll through the various themed gardens, caves and folk village all within this huge park. Then head Yongmeori Coast to witness the dramatic cliffs and to Mt. Sanbang for a short coastal hike to a temple atop the mountain. After lunch, we'll take the scenic route to Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls, perfect for a photo op. Last stop of the day is to Soesokkak Estuary where you'll hop aboard a boat for a tour of the sea and the incredible coastline.

• Hike the Olle Trail: Spend your day hiking a portion of the Olle Trail. This 437 km loop around the edge of Jeju island offers amazing nature walks, cultural sites, waterfalls and spectacular views. Check with your CEO about getting to and from some of the best portions of the trail. Route 6 and 7 are considered some of the most popular. Hikes can be half day or full day, depending on the portion(s) chosen and are suitable for all fitness levels.

In the late morning, head to the airport to fly back to Seoul. After arrival to Seoul, take a short orientation walk with your CEO and enjoy free time in the city. In the evening, join your group and CEO for an optional group dinner.

Today is your day to explore Seoul however you'd like. Tick off all the bucket list items to see in Seoul, try some incredible food or choose to go on a tour of the city or maybe the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone).

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty built in 1395. The palace has been destroyed many times over, but more than 50 per cent of the buildings are still standing or are restored. The complex is also home to the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum.
• Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Visit: Visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) the de facto border between North and South Korea, which cuts the peninsula in half. Created in 1953, it is the most heavily militarized border in the world.
• Insadong Alley: Explore the narrow and hidden alleys of one of the most memorable places in Seoul. Now filled with antique shops, galleries, tea houses and traditional restaurants, this area once housed the royal studio for painters during the Joseon Dynasty.
• Bukchon Hanok Village Exploration: Be transported back 600 years into Seoul's past while walking through Bukchon Hanok Village, which boasts the largest cluster of privately owned traditional Korean wooden homes (hanok) in Seoul. Keep an eye out for the half-dozen or so alleys that have beautifully restored architectural features like small courtyards, decorative outer walls, and dark tiled roofs.

Arrive in the vibrant city of Osaka and settle into your starting hotel around 4:00 pm, giving you time to ease into the energy of Japan’s dynamic “kitchen capital.” In the evening, reconnect with your fellow travellers and your CEO for a welcome meeting, the perfect opportunity to get oriented, meet the group, and set the tone for the journey ahead. There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting. Please ensure you arrive on time for the welcome meeting and bring your passport so your CEO can collect the required information for your train tickets. Refer to your voucher for the most up to date welcome meeting time.

The most convenient way to get around Japan is by public transportation and on foot. The country's train system is often considered one of the best in the entire world so the majority of our trips utilize this efficient train network. In this tour, you will need to be able to spend the majority of the day on your feet and carry your luggage through busy train stations and streets. On average, tours in Japan walk about 15,000 steps a day. Please ensure you are fit enough to carry your own luggage and spend most of the day on your feet.

Arrive in the timeless capital of Kyoto aboard the high-speed bullet train, then drop your bags at the hotel before heading out to explore. Take a local train to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of vibrant red torii gates wind through forested hillside paths. In the evening, join your CEO for a guided walk through the atmospheric Gion District, where lantern-lit streets and traditional wooden machiya townhouses bring old Kyoto to life.

In the morning, Walk beneath the soaring green stalks of the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s most iconic natural landmarks. As sunlight filters through the towering bamboo and the pathways gently rustle in the breeze, this peaceful forest offers a uniquely atmospheric and unforgettable experience. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to uncover the timeless beauty and spiritual heart of Kyoto.

• Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji: The Ryōan-ji garden is one of the best examples of kare-sansui, or dry landscape, a type of Zen garden. Fifteen large rocks are placed within a sea of white pebbles raked into linear patterns to facilitate meditation. Stand on the platform to get the best view from above. Stroll the grounds around the Ryoan-ji Temple and along the Kyoyo-chi pond.
• Daisen-in Zen Rock Garden Visit: Take a walk through the gardens around Daisen-in Temple. This zen garden uses gravel, sand and stones to recreate a river and ocean, symbolizing the Buddhist journey through life.

Journey from Kyoto to the breathtaking Mount Fuji region, arriving in the scenic lakeside town of Fujikawaguchiko by mid-afternoon. With stunning mountain views and a slower pace of life, the area is perfect for optional walks around the peaceful shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Later, unwind in the traditional onsen spa at tonight’s accommodation before sitting down to an unforgettable Japanese kaiseki dinner — a beautifully prepared multi-course dining experience that highlights seasonal flavors and local culinary artistry.

Spend the morning immersed in the natural beauty of the Fuji Five Lakes region, exploring the scenic lakeside landscapes of Fujikawaguchiko on foot. Surrounded by fresh mountain air and postcard-worthy views of Mount Fuji, this peaceful area offers a striking contrast to Japan’s bustling cities. Later, board a train bound for Tokyo, where the energy, lights, and excitement of the capital await.

Enjoy a full free day to experience the electric pace and endless possibilities of Tokyo at your own rhythm. Dive into the city’s eclectic neighborhoods, wander through peaceful gardens and fascinating museums, indulge in world-class shopping, or discover hidden cafés tucked between neon-lit streets. This evening, choose to join an optional final group dinner, a great opportunity to reflect on the journey and share one last meal together in Japan’s vibrant capital.

• Ueno Park Visit: As Japan's most popular city park, Ueno is known for its museums and cherry blossoms. Stroll the pathways, admire the thousands of trees, including approximately 800 Somei-yoshino cherry trees, look for lotus on the pond, or opt to visit the temples and museums (entrance fees).
• Sensō-ji Temple Visit: Explore Sensō-ji Temple, a colourful Buddhist temple and the oldest temple in the entire city. Leading up to the temple the street is lined with shops selling yummy food and great souvenirs.
• Ginza Shopping: The Ginza district is Tokyo’s equivalent of Fifth Avenue in New York. Window shop at Chanel, Dior, Gucci and Louis Vuitton, then check out the latest electronics at the Sony showroom or Apple store. Visit the Wako department store with its historic clock tower, housed in a building that dates back to 1894. If you are there on a weekend, head to Ginza’s main street where pedestrians rule without Tokyo’s traffic.
• Meiji Shrine Visit: Visit this shrine dedicated to the 123rd emperor of Japan, Emperor Meiji and his wife. The shrine is a great place to escape the bustle of the city and wander the grounds along the wide walking paths.
• Imperial Palace East Gardens Walk: The Imperial Palace in Tokyo’s city centre is home to Japan’s Emperor and Empress. It is surrounded by a moat and three gardens, all open to the public. Stroll throughout the grounds, admire the azaleas and hydrangeas (when in season), discover the original stone wall that surrounded the palace back in 17th to 19th centuries during the days when samurai warriors defended the ruler. Visit nearby Sannomaru-Shozo-kan museum and see exquisite kimonos and Japanese paintings.

Depart at any time today, but consider extending your stay to soak up more of Tokyo’s endless energy and contrasts. From neon-lit streets and hidden ramen alleys to tranquil shrines and late-night city views, Japan’s dynamic capital always has another side waiting to be discovered.