Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul
Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul
16 Days Starting in Tokyo, Japan and ending in Seoul, South Korea
Visiting: Tokyo, Ise-Shima, Nara, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Seoul
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16581
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan and South Korea, starting in the vibrant city of Tokyo. Experience the perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels as you explore iconic sites like the Golden Pavilion and the Arashiyama bamboo forest. Travel at lightning speed on the shinkansen bullet train, and delve into Japan's rich history with visits to Hiroshima's Peace Park and the Mikimoto Pearl Museum. In Kyoto, engage in a homestyle cooking class and discover the cultural intricacies of the Women's Association of Kyoto. Cross over to Seoul, South Korea, where you'll tour the historic Demilitarized Zone and enjoy a traditional Korean lunch with a local family. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and present of these fascinating countries, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Aloft Tokyo Ginza
From the tranquility of ancient temples to the energy of bustling cities, find a blend of all things old and new in Japan. Travel through the Land of the Rising Sun on an unforgettable journey and finally take another step farther to explore Seoul, South Korea.
Day 2 : Tokyo, Japan
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Say “Konnichiwa!” to the incredible, eclectic city of Tokyo. Japan is a land of contrasts, and you’re about to discover the thousand facets of culture, art, and life that make up its incredible spirit. From busy cities to quiet shrines filled only with silence, you’ll come face-to-face with a culture thousands of years in the making. Storied history, artistic traditions, cutting-edge technology – it’s all part of Japan’s everyday life. You’ll soon discover that you could explore Japan for a thousand years and only experience a part of what this country has to offer.
Day 3 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, start your day in Tokyo like a true local – by hopping on the subway. Clean, efficient, fast, and easy to use, the Tokyo subway system is one of the best in the world. Set out on a walk to Zojoji Temple, standing in the shadow of Tokyo Tower and painting a powerful picture of Tokyo’s ancient roots and modern culture. Zojoji is the center of Japanese Buddhism in the region, and the resting place of the royal Tokugawa family. Next, take in views of the city from the top of Tokyo Tower. Later this afternoon, make your way back to your hotel located in the popular Ginza district of Tokyo, a perfect location for spending an afternoon at leisure before getting to know your fellow travelers during a welcome dinner.
Day 4 : Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Nemu Resort
Feel the excitement start to build as you head to Asakusa, passing by the grounds of the Imperial Palace and seeing the Nijubashi Bridge. Next, witness the subtle art of preparing green tea in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Enjoy free time exploring the Nakamise shopping street, where you can stroll between the stalls leading to the Sensoji Temple to buy local souvenirs and sweets. Then, head to Tokyo National Museum to learn about the fascinating history and culture of the city. The museum displays artwork and antiques from Japan and the surrounding area. This evening, you are free to explore on your own.
Day 5 : Tokyo - Ise-Shima
Location: Ise-Shima
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Climb aboard the high-speed shinkansen, or bullet train. Sleek, modern, and comfortable, the bullet train will flash through the idyllic Japanese countryside at 200 miles per hour, but you’ll barely feel or hear a thing. Keep an eye peeled for Mt. Fuji in the distance.* Arrive at one of the most important shrines in Japan – Ise Shrine. This grand shrine is built to honor the Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu. Wander among the thatched roofs and raw wood of buildings, taking in the serenity of this spiritual wonder. Tonight, your meal will be a traditional and delicious Japanese kaiseki dinner, an artfully prepared and presented, multi-course meal using ingredients at the absolute peak of freshness.
Day 6 : Ise-Shima
Location: Ise-Shima
Accommodation Name: ANA Crowne Plaza
This morning, you’ll head to the Mikimoto Pearl Museum. Explore the island and the legacy of the skilled ama pearl divers, women who defied conventional gender roles to dive in the sea to harvest oysters and their pearls. Watch divers take the plunge and learn about the history and science of pearl diving. This evening, set out for Azurihama Beach, where you’ll venture across the sands to an ama hut for an incredible dining experience. While local seafood is grilled in a charcoal fire right before your eyes, hear tales from the ama women about their lives and the sacred rights of their profession.
Day 7 : Ise-Shima - Nara - Hiroshima
Location: Nara
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Today, travel to Nara Park and Todaiji Temple. Venture inside the massive temple to take some time in this sacred place and find the huge bronze Buddha statue. Wander the grounds outside and discover the famous “bowing” deer of Nara. Then, you’ll once again board the shinkansen bullet train and be whisked away to Hiroshima. Enjoy dinner at a local cooking studio, where you’ll learn how to make the famous Japanese okonomiyaki, or savory pancake, a favorite of Hiroshima residents.
Day 8 : Hiroshima
Location: Hiroshima
Accommodation Name: Hotel Monterey
A short walk from your hotel takes you to the Peace Memorial Park. Pause to see the ruined Atomic Dome (UNESCO), a sobering reminder of the devastation caused by the dropping of the atomic bomb during World War II. Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum before a powerful Impact Moment connects you with someone who experienced the devastating effects of the Atomic bomb firsthand.** They’ll talk about what it was like to live in Japan during that time, the aftermath of that terrible day, and how they preserve the memory of those who were lost. After, board a ferry for the short trip to Miyajima Island, or “Shrine Island” (UNESCO). Famous for the Itsukushima Shrine and its mythic O-torii Gate standing proudly in the water.
Day 9 : Hiroshima - Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: hotel
Kyoto awaits! Journey to Japan’s former capital city via shinkansen bullet train. Your first stop takes you to Fushimi Inari Taisha for a glimpse into the most revered shrine of Inari. Follow the rows of orange torii that weave through the forest, leading you to the inner shrine. Later this afternoon, head to Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. As you walk through Gion’s narrow cobblestone streets, if you’re lucky, you may see a woman in full traditional geisha regalia headed to one of the hidden, exclusive tea houses. Tonight is at leisure.
Day 10 : Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: hotel
Enjoy a laid-back morning before visiting the Arashiyama bamboo forest. Set out among the towering bamboo stalks that shade the forest paths and gently sway in the breeze. Continue to Kinkaku-ji Temple (UNESCO), known as the Golden Pavilion for its top two floors that are completely covered in gold leaf. Once the lavish retirement home of a shogun, it was converted to a Zen temple in the 1400s. It has survived wars, been rebuilt after fires, and still stands as an impressive piece of historic architecture. Later, visit the Women’s Association of Kyoto in a traditional Kyoto town house. Here, delve into a wide array of enlightening Japanese activities, guided by your knowledgeable hostess. Try your hand at making traditional Japanese food items, fold intricate origami shapes, and speak to your hostess about Japan, its culture, and women’s roles in this complex society.
Day 11 : Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun
This morning, make your way to Nishiki Market with your Tour Manager, where colorful stalls are filled with fresh foods and local specialties, like pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore how you want. Perhaps you’ll take another visit to the Gion district to wander among its temples, shrines, traditional shops, and charming cafés, visit a museum, or spend time in the park and grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Day 12 : Kyoto - Seoul, South Korea
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Today, jump on a flight and journey to your final destination: Seoul, the capital city of South Korea. An energetic and eclectic modern city with deep roots, Seoul has something for everyone.
Day 13 : Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Head to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, or the DMZ, this morning. This conflict-ridden stretch of 150 miles between North and South Korea has been sealed tight for the last 68 years, and the struggles of the Korean War have yet to be resolved. Take an exclusive tour of this storied border, seeing Imjingak Park, the Bridge of Freedom, the DMZ Theater and Exhibition Hall, the Dora Observatory, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and more. This is a rare opportunity to see the “Hermit Kingdom” of North Korea up close, and the long cold war between the two countries. Tonight, your evening is at leisure.
Day 14 : Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
This morning, learn about the struggles in North Korea firsthand when you gather for a private talk with a North Korean defector. During this Impact Moment, learn about their life in North Korea, how they escaped to the south and are adjusting to their new life, and the struggles they face in a new country. After, leave the city and sit down for a home-hosted traditional Korean lunch with a local family, and get insight into the daily lives of a South Korean family.
Day 15 : Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Start your day by hopping on the subway and heading to the awe-inspiring Gyeongbok Palace. Take a tour of the sprawling grounds and watch the elaborate and ceremonial changing of the guard. Next, visit Insadong Street, Seoul’s charming and colorful shopping area. Tour the narrow maze of alleys that hold tea shops, boutiques, galleries and cafes. You have the afternoon at leisure to explore the area, perhaps heading to the Museum of Contemporary History with its multimedia exhibitions, or the National Museum of Korea with its statues, paintings, and artifacts. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 16 : Seoul - Tour Ends
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: hotel
Say goodbye to the energy and splendor of Seoul as you depart for home. Return with countless memories of your journey through Japan and unforgettable moments from the South Korean capital.
What's Included
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Visit to the Golden Pavilion
See the gleaming beauty of the Golden Pavilion.
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Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Wander among the swaying trees of the Arashiyama bamboo forest.
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Tour of Korea's DMZ
Tour Korea’s infamous Demilitarized Zone, better known as the DMZ.
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Meeting with Ama Pearl Divers
Meet Japan’s ama pearl divers and learn more about their elite profession.
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Visit to Hiroshima's Peace Park and Memorial Museum
Visit Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Memorial Museum and hear accounts of the atomic bomb’s devastation.
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Discussion with a North Korean Defector
Join a North Korean defector for a private and emotional discussion about their escape and new life.
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Home-hosted Traditional Korean Lunch
Outside the bustle of Seoul, experience a home-hosted traditional lunch with a Korean family.
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Homestyle Cooking Class in Kyoto
Dive deep into the culture and social norms of Japan over a homestyle cooking class with the Women’s Association of Kyoto.
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Okonomiyaki Cooking Class
Make delicious okonomiyaki, savory pancakes that are a Japanese favorite.
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Bullet Train Experience
Travel aboard the high-speed shinkansen, or bullet train, through the Japanese countryside.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Japan and South Korea are not included.
Experiences
Meet Japan’s ama pearl divers and learn more about their elite profession.Visit Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Memorial Museum and hear accounts of the atomic bomb’s devastation.Join a North Korean defector for a private and emotional discussion about their escape and new life.
Culinaries
Outside the bustle of Seoul, experience a home-hosted traditional lunch with a Korean family.Dive deep into the culture and social norms of Japan over a homestyle cooking class with the Women’s Association of Kyoto.Make delicious okonomiyaki, savory pancakes that are a Japanese favorite.
Must See
See the gleaming beauty of the Golden Pavilion.Wander among the swaying trees of the Arashiyama bamboo forest.Tour Korea’s infamous Demilitarized Zone, better known as the DMZ.
Choice Highlights
Tokyo As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is also the most populous city with over 13 million people and is the cultural and financial center of Japan. Originally known as Edo prior to the move of the empire in 1868 from Kyoto, Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis with over 23 city sections all connected by an excellent public transit system. While most of ancient Tokyo was destroyed by bombing in WWII, today’s Tokyo is a mix of architectural styles and eclectic structures.
Asakusa Travel to Asakusa, Tokyo’s oldest geisha district, known for its temples, festivals and Entertainment. See the famous Buddhist temple called Senso-ji, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you take in the sights of amazing old-world Japanese architecture.
Tea Ceremony
Tokyo National Museum
Bullet Train
Ise Grand Shrine
Kaiseki Dinner
Mikimoto Pearl Museum
Ama Pearl Divers Dinner
Hiroshima A modern Japanese city, Hiroshima is most known for being one of two cities hit with an atomic bomb, helping to end the Second World War. Though reclaimed as a cosmopolitan center, the city is never far from its past; amongst the electric neon of its bustling streets, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park is a historical time capsule right in the city center that’s both a dedication to the victims of the bombing and to world peace. The park’s main site, the A-Bomb Dome is the mark of the ruined remains of the Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall. The nearby Peace Memorial Museum gives you the opportunity to learn about life in Hiroshima before, during, and after WWII. For those interested in world history, Hiroshima is a must-see.
Okonomiyaki Cooking Class & Dinner
Peace Memorial Park & Museum
Discussion with an A-Bomb Survivor
Kyoto Once the imperial capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto is also known as the city of 10,000 shrines. From Buddhist temples to Shinto shrines, Kyoto remains a treasure of Japan with the wide range of historic buildings and gardens protected during the bombings of WWII. Also the center of the Geisha culture, today's visitors can stroll through the former Geisha quarters or try their hand at being a "Geisha for a day" with the locals.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Gion
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Golden Pavilion
Women’s Association of Kyoto
Seoul
Korean Demilitarized Zone
North Korean Defector Talk
Home-Hosted Lunch
Gyeongbok Palace
Mode of Transport
Travel through Japan and South Korea using a combination of high-speed shinkansen bullet trains, efficient subway systems, and flights, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey across these vibrant countries.
Accommodation
Stay at the Aloft Tokyo Ginza, Nemu Resort, ANA Crowne Plaza, Hotel Monterey, and Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun, offering a blend of modern comfort and traditional charm throughout your journey in Japan and South Korea.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique cultural experiences such as meeting Japan's ama pearl divers, participating in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, and joining a North Korean defector for a private discussion about their escape and new life. Additionally, there is a home-hosted traditional Korean lunch with a local family and a homestyle cooking class with the Women's Association of Kyoto.
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites including Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and Museum, the Ise Shrine, and the Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. In Seoul, the tour includes a visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone and Gyeongbok Palace.
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Will there be opportunities to learn about local cuisine?
Yes, the tour offers several opportunities to learn about local cuisine. Participants can enjoy a traditional Japanese kaiseki dinner, learn to make okonomiyaki in Hiroshima, and participate in a cooking class with the Women's Association of Kyoto. In South Korea, there is a home-hosted traditional lunch with a local family.
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What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?
The tour includes travel on the high-speed shinkansen, or bullet train, which is known for being sleek, modern, and comfortable. Additionally, there is a flight from Kyoto to Seoul.
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Are there any activities related to nature or outdoor exploration?
Yes, the tour includes visits to natural and outdoor sites such as the Arashiyama bamboo forest in Kyoto and Azurihama Beach in Ise-Shima. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the grounds of the Ise Shrine and Nara Park.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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