Exploring Japan and Korea
Exploring Japan and Korea
$3738
Exploring Japan and Korea
13 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Busan, South Korea
Visiting: Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Busan, Daegu, Seoul
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2507549
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
36 - 72
Age range:
3-85
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan and South Korea with the "Exploring Japan and Korea" tour. Begin your adventure in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, where you'll experience the perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Travel by bullet train to the historic city of Kyoto, and explore its iconic temples and gardens. Continue to Nara and Osaka, where ancient history meets vibrant city life. Fly to Busan, South Korea's lively second city, and discover its cultural treasures. Visit the serene Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple, and explore the ancient capital of Gyeongju. In Seoul, delve into the rich history of the Korean War and the vibrant Gangnam District. Journey through traditional villages and UNESCO World Heritage sites, and savor the unique flavors of Korean cuisine. Conclude your tour in Busan, with its stunning coastal views and colorful cultural villages, leaving you with cherished memories of this captivating region.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll then be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.
Day 2 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
In the morning, we’ll enjoy an extensive guided tour of this truly mesmerizing city, lasting approximately five hours. Tokyo’s vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist beautifully with its tranquil, serene spaces.We’ll begin with a brief stop at Zojoji Temple, where you’ll capture one of the most iconic views of the Tokyo Tower. The temple grounds are adorned with hundreds of Jizo statues, intricately carved stone figures believed to be protectors of children, dressed in colorful knit caps, bibs, and windmills.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, often hailed as the busiest intersection in the world, followed by a visit to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife. Our journey will continue by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue. We’ll then see the most picturesque parts of the Imperial Palace and its gardens and stop to admire the iconic Nijubashi Bridge.As we proceed, we’ll pass through the vibrant Akihabara district, also known as the “Electric Town,” a hub for Japanese manga and anime culture. We’ll also drive past the Kokugikan, Japan’s renowned sumo wrestling arena.We’ll conclude our tour in Asakusa, visiting the historic Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel.At 6:30 p.m., we’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the metro (tickets included) to the lively Shinjuku district. Here, we’ll enjoy a stroll through its bustling streets, renowned for their vibrant nightlife, as we head to a local restaurant for dinner (included). Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel by metro, accompanied by our guide.
Day 3 : Tokyo, Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: hotel
We’ll travel by bullet train to Kyoto, departing early in the morning. In just over two hours, we’ll cover nearly 500 km separating Tokyo and Kyoto. We’ll have the entire day to explore Kyoto, the former capital of Japan from 794 to 1868 and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to preserve its rich artistic heritage. Kyoto is also renowned as the site where the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, was signed in 1997.Our visit will include the city’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll admire the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by magnificent gardens.Afterward, enjoy some time to stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s vibrant traditional district, celebrated for its geishas and lively atmosphere. Free time will follow.
Day 4 : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka
Location: Nara
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
We’ll depart for Nara to visit Todaiji, a magnificent Buddhist temple built in 752, home to a giant Buddha statue. Here, you’ll also have the chance to take photos and interact with the friendly deer that roam freely in the surrounding park. Lunch will be included.Afterward, we’ll visit the Horyu-ji Buddhist Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses a seminary, monasteries, and temples. Its central pagoda is one of the oldest wooden structures in the world and holds the distinction of being Japan’s oldest Buddhist temple, serving as an important place of worship.Our journey will then take us to Osaka, where we’ll arrive in the evening. Accommodation will be in this vibrant and modern city, known as Japan’s second-largest urban area. Later, we’ll visit Dotonbori, a lively and colorful district renowned for its bustling nightlife.
Day 5 : Osaka, Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: hotel
We’ll provide a transfer to Osaka for the included flight to Busan.Welcome to Korea! Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to the hotel, and you’ll have some free time to explore. We’re in one of the country’s most vibrant cities, the second largest in South Korea.Later in the day, the group we’ll be joining will arrive, and we’ll meet our guide for the remainder of this trip.
Day 6 : Busan, Seokguram, Bulguksa, Gyeongju, Daegu
Location: Daegu
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
We’ll depart for the Seokguram Buddhist Grotto, an 8th-century site nestled on the slopes of the Tohamsan. Afterward, we’ll visit the Bulguksa Temple, considered one of the most beautiful temples in the country. Next, we’ll arrive in Gyeongju, the Korean capital that endured the longest in the nation’s history, with a reign of 992 years under 56 kings. You’ll have the chance to photograph the stunning wooden Woljeonggyo Bridge along the banks of the Namcheon River. Lunch will be included. We’ll then head to Tumuli Park, home to the burial mounds of kings from the ancient Silla Kingdom, which are over 1,500 years old. We’ll visit one of their tombs before walking to the Cheomsongdae Astronomical Observatory, the oldest in East Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our journey will continue with our arrival in Daegu, the fourth most populous city in Korea. Before heading to the hotel, we’ll see Dongsan Cheongna Hill, a historic area once home to Christian missionaries, and the commercial street of Dongseong-ro, the city’s liveliest street, with its trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. Overnight stay in Daegu.
Day 7 : Daegu, Andong, Hahoe, Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
We’ll begin our day with a tour of Daegu, with a visit to the Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine, renowned for its history of medicinal herbs. Afterward, we’ll take a stroll through the surrounding streets, known as the Herbal Medicine Market, famous for its abundance of herbal shops and the high quality of their products, particularly ginseng. We’ll then head north to Andong, where we’ll visit the outskirts of the traditional Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have time to wander through this rural village, which feels frozen in time. We’ll also visit the Hahoe Mask Museum, showcasing masks from around the world used in dances, medical practices, religious ceremonies, and theatrical performances. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. Next, we’ll visit the Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy, founded in the 16th century and set in a peaceful, idyllic landscape along a river. We’ll arrive in Seoul in the evening. Weather permitting, we’ll stop at the Banpo Bridge over the Han River, famous for its fountain that creates a rainbow of water and lights along the bridge’s path. Overnight stay in Seoul.Note: The visit to Banpo Bridge is subject to weather conditions.
Day 8 : Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
We’ll depart early for the Cheorwon region and its section of the DMZ, the Demilitarized Zone that marks the division between the two Koreas. We’ll explore the Second Tunnel, secretly dug by the North Korean army and discovered in 1975. We’ll then head to the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, offering panoramic views of the DMZ and the first villages of North Korea. Inside, there is a small museum dedicated to the Korean War. Our route will continue with a visit to the abandoned Woljeong-ri railway station. We’ll also visit the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, which honors the role of a French UN battalion during the battles. Finally, we’ll visit a local producer of Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice liquor. We’ll return to Seoul in the evening.Important note: Please remember to bring your passport, as it is required. The DMZ is a military zone and could be closed unexpectedly without prior notice. If this happens, an alternative route will be provided.With our guide, we go to City Hall, to see this impressive tsunami-looking building. Across from City Hall, we’ll see Deoksugung Palace, beautifully lit at night, allowing us to appreciate the blend of tradition and modernity in this country. From there, we’ll walk to the Myeongdong district, South Korea’s largest shopping and entertainment area, whose name means “bright town.” Dinner will be included at a local restaurant. To return to hotel we’ll take the modern and efficient metro (ticket included). Overnight accommodation.
Day 9 : Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Today, we’ll enjoy an extensive five-hour tour of Seoul. We’ll see the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set within a large park and home to a collection of palaces. Afterward, we’ll pass by Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional and historic neighborhood with little homes. Next, we’ll learn about the War Memorial of Korea, an impressive museum that provides a deep insight into the various conflicts that have shaped Korea’s history, with a special focus on the Korean War, where soldiers from many countries fought under the United Nations. Lunch will be included at a local restaurant. We’ll then head to the Gangnam District, one of the city´s busiest areas, known for its shopping centers and entertainment venues. To conclude the day, we’ll stop at Lotte World Tower, a stunning skyscraper standing 550 meters tall. You’ll have free time either to go up the tower (ticket not included) or explore the surrounding park and luxury shopping malls. After, we will return to the hotel, and you will have free time.
Day 10 : Seoul, Suwon, Jeonju
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Today, we’ll visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, a stunning palace with over 600 years of history. We’ll have the chance to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard if it takes place at that time. Afterward, we’ll depart from Seoul and head south. Our first stop will be Suwon, the former capital of Korea, renowned for its impressive UNESCO World Heritage walls. We’ll see these remarkable fortifications and visit Hwaseong Haenggung, the summer palace. Lunch will be included. We’ll then continue to Jeonju, where we’ll discover its fascinating historic center (Hanok Village), with its little houses, traditional shops, and art galleries.
Day 11 : Jeonju, Damyang, Haeinsa, Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
We’ll depart for the Sunchang Gochujang Village, located at the base of Mount Amisan, with its hanok houses and courtyards filled with clay pots called hang-a-ri. This village is home to master artisans who craft gochujang (Korean chili paste) using traditional methods. We’ll enjoy a hands-on experience learning how to make this famous sauce. Afterward, we’ll continue to Damyang to visit the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, where the paths are considered some of the most beautiful in the country, perfect for meditation and enjoying the fresh breeze. We’ll also find a variety of bamboo products, celebrated in places like the Bamboo Museum. Lunch will be included, and we’ll taste a local specialty: rice cooked and served inside a bamboo stalk. Surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and forests, we’ll arrive at Haeinsa, one of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 802, it houses the Tripitaka, the most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures, carved on 80,000 wooden tablets. We’ll then continue to Busan, Korea’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant atmosphere, for accommodation.
Day 12 : Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
In the morning, we’ll depart from Busan to visit Haedong Yonggung, a 14th-century Buddhist temple beautifully located by the sea. Afterward, we’ll return to Busan to explore the UN Memorial Cemetery, the resting place for people from many nations. Next, we’ll visit the country’s largest fish market, located by Nampo Port, followed by an included lunch. We’ll then stroll to Yongdusan Park, home to the towering 120-meter pagoda. Later, we’ll head to Songdo Beach, where you can ride the country’s first marine cable car (ticket included, weather permitting) and take in the breathtaking views of the bay. Our journey will continue to the Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its vibrant, colorful buildings, maze-like alleyways, art galleries, pottery workshops, and beautiful cafes. Afterward, we’ll return to Busan for an overnight stay.
Day 13 : Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
What's Included
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Airport Transfer
You will be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus upon arrival in Japan.
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Guided City Tour
Enjoy an extensive guided tour of Tokyo, including visits to Zojoji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, and more.
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Bullet Train Experience
Travel by bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto, covering nearly 500 km in just over two hours.
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Visit to Iconic Landmarks
Explore Kyoto's iconic landmarks such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Kinkakuji Temple.
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Flight to Busan
A transfer to Osaka for the included flight to Busan is provided.
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DMZ Tour
Visit the Cheorwon region and its section of the DMZ, including the Second Tunnel and Cheorwon Peace Observatory.
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Cultural Experiences
Participate in a hands-on experience learning how to make gochujang (Korean chili paste) in Sunchang Gochujang Village.
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Cable Car Ride
Ride the country's first marine cable car at Songdo Beach, weather permitting.
What's Not Included
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Lotte World Tower Entry
Entry to the Lotte World Tower is not included in the tour package.
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Banpo Bridge Visit
The visit to Banpo Bridge is subject to weather conditions and may not be included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes a shared shuttle bus transfer from the airport to the hotel in Tokyo, travel by bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto, and an included flight from Osaka to Busan.
Accommodation
Accommodation details are not provided in the tour description.
Check out our Q&As
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What can I expect on the first day of the tour in Tokyo?
On the first day in Tokyo, after completing customs procedures, you will be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. In the afternoon, you will receive details about the start of your tour.
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What are some highlights of the guided tour in Tokyo on the second day?
The guided tour in Tokyo includes a visit to Zojoji Temple with views of the Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Shrine, Omotesando Avenue, the Imperial Palace and its gardens, Akihabara district, Kokugikan sumo wrestling arena, and Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. The tour concludes with a visit to the Shinjuku district for dinner.
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How will we travel from Tokyo to Kyoto on the third day?
On the third day, you will travel from Tokyo to Kyoto by bullet train, covering nearly 500 km in just over two hours.
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What is included in the visit to Nara on the fourth day?
In Nara, you will visit the Todaiji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue, and have the opportunity to interact with the friendly deer in the surrounding park. The visit also includes a trip to the Horyu-ji Buddhist Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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What will we do upon arriving in Busan on the fifth day?
Upon arriving in Busan, you will be taken to the hotel and have some free time to explore the city. Later, you will meet the guide for the remainder of the trip.
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What are some activities planned in Gyeongju on the sixth day?
In Gyeongju, you will photograph the Woljeonggyo Bridge, visit Tumuli Park to see the burial mounds of ancient kings, and explore the Cheomsongdae Astronomical Observatory.
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What is the significance of the DMZ visit on the eighth day?
The DMZ visit includes exploring the Second Tunnel, visiting the Cheorwon Peace Observatory with views of North Korea, and learning about the Korean War at a small museum. It is important to bring your passport as the DMZ is a military zone and could be closed unexpectedly.
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What can I expect during the tour of Seoul on the ninth day?
The tour of Seoul includes visiting the Changdeokgung Palace, passing by Bukchon Hanok Village, learning about the Korean War at the War Memorial of Korea, and exploring the Gangnam District. You will also have free time at the Lotte World Tower.
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What unique experience is offered in Jeonju on the tenth day?
In Jeonju, you will explore the historic center known as Hanok Village, which features traditional houses, shops, and art galleries.
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What is special about the visit to Haeinsa on the eleventh day?
Haeinsa is one of Korea's most important Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the Tripitaka, the most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures, carved on 80,000 wooden tablets.
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What activities are planned in Busan on the twelfth day?
In Busan, you will visit Haedong Yonggung Temple, explore the UN Memorial Cemetery, visit the largest fish market, and enjoy a stroll in Yongdusan Park. You will also have the opportunity to ride a marine cable car at Songdo Beach and explore the Gamcheon Culture Village.
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Europamundo requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of europamundo charges.
Up to 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 20 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 10 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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