Ancient Kingdoms of Japan and South Korea 

Discover the fascinating history and traditions of Japan and South Korea on a 21-day luxury holiday from Seoul to Osaka. Take part in a tea ceremony, learn how to make traditional meals and ornaments, and share dinner with a maiko or geisha.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Seoul

Welcome to South Korea. Be met on arrival and transferred to your luxurious hotel in Seoul. Spend time settling in before a welcome briefing. Tonight, gather with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for your Signature Experience.

Signature Experience - Welcome Dinner

Savour a special welcome dinner where you’ll experience Korean royal cuisine and try local drinks including soju and rice wine.

Day 2: Seoul

Enjoy a full day to explore South Korea’s vibrant capital today. Following breakfast, head to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the country’s largest palace and a former royal palace for five centuries. Witness the lively changing of the guard ceremony before taking a tour of the beautiful palace. Following a Korean style lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the lively Insadong Antique Street filled with galleries, teahouses and local restaurants, then tour Bukchon Hanok Village, a residential neighbourhood with restored traditional Korean houses. Later, head to Jijidaeak for a Signature Experience, then choose where to dine this evening.

Signature Experience - Korean Culture

Delve into Korean culture as you delight in a private performance of traditional music and try your hand at playing the unique instruments under the guidance of the expert musicians.

Freedom of Choice Dining - Michael's by Haevichi

Treat yourself to a delectable meal of new American cuisine at Michael's by Haevichi. Enjoy scallop salad, spaghetti and John Dory among several delicious courses.   

Freedom of Choice Dining - Samwon Garden

Experience the iconic flavours of South Korea as you sit down for mouth-watering Korean BBQ at Samwon Garden. 

Day 3: Seoul, Demilitarised Zone

Embark on a morning tour of the fascinating Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) on the border with North Korea. Following a drive to Paju, see Imjingak Park, then visit the DMZ Theater and Exhibition Hall and walk along the Third Infiltration Tunnel. Transfer to a local restaurant for a hot pot lunch before returning to Seoul to visit the War Memorial of Korea and its extensive museum. Enjoy the late afternoon and evening at your leisure.

Day 4: Seoul, Yongin, Jeonju

Following breakfast at your hotel, board a KTX express train to Jeonju, a city renowned for its vibrant food scene. Upon arrival, enjoy free time around lunch in the Jeonju Hanok Village, where you can explore and savour street food or traditional dishes. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Jeonju Hanok Village, discovering landmarks like Gyeonggijeon Shrine and Jeongdong Cathedral. For dinner, indulge in an immersive Signature Experience, showcasing the best of local flavours.

Signature Experience - Learn how to make Bibimbap

Learn how to make bibimbap, South Korea’s most popular dish, and enjoy your creation for dinner.

Day 5: Jeonju, Gayasan National Park, Gyeongju

In Jeonju this morning, you’ll enjoy a Signature Experience. Journey to Gayasan National Park to visit Haeinsa Temple, which is home to the Tripitaka Koreana, a remarkable collection of Buddhist scriptures carved onto more than 80,000 wooden printing blocks. Next you’ll move on to the historic city of Gyeongju. Check in to your new accommodation with views of the lake and indulge in dinner featuring a selection of Western and Korean dishes at the hotel.

Signature Experience - Hanji Culture and Industry Center

Enjoy a visit to the Hanji Culture and Industry Center, dedicated to the hanji paper which has been produced in Jeonju for more than 1000 years. Delight in a crafting class, learning how to create the traditional, multi-purpose paper including imprinting patterns and the drying process.

Day 6: Gyeongju

Discover two of South Korea’s most valued World Heritage sites this morning. Start with a visit to Seokguram Grotto, a government-classified National Treasure of South Korea which overlooks the East Sea and contains some of the most important Buddhist sculptures in the world. Next you’ll explore Bulguksa Temple, a Buddhist temple completed in AD774 by the Silla royal court. Following the morning’s sightseeing, sit down for a Korean bulgogi lunch at a local restaurant. Later, traverse more of Gyeongju’s highlights including visits to the Gyeongju National Museum, the Cheomseongdae Observatory and Tumuli Park, a fascinating area featuring a variety of burial mounds containing tombs of kings and officials of the Silla dynasty. You’ll also enjoy a moonlight walking tour of Donggung Palace – once a secondary palace of the crown prince of the Silla kingdom – and the beautiful Wolji Pond, which was built in AD674.

Day 7: Gyeongju, Ulsan, Busan

Head to Ulsan after breakfast and discover Daewangam Park and Ulsandaegyo Bridge Observatory, the latter of which offers panoramic views of the Hyundai Shipyard. Following lunch, be transferred to your stylish hotel in Busan. Then, visit Haedong Yonggung Temple, an impressive Buddhist temple built in 1376. Later, set off on a Signature Experience before sitting down to dinner.

Signature Experience - Scenic Yacht Cruise

Embark on a private, scenic yacht cruise from Haeundae Beach, soaking in the sights at sunset including the Nurimaru APEC House, Busan Cinema Center, Marine City and Gwangan Bridge.

Day 8: Busan

Embark on an in-depth discovery of Busan today. Head downtown for a walking tour of Gamcheon Culture Village. Marvel at the village’s street art and pastel-coloured houses before taking a cable car to Songdo Island. Visit BIFF Square, a bustling movie district, and Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest of its kind in South Korea. Enjoy panoramic views from Busan Tower before stopping at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, which is the only one of its kind and features 22 unique burial sites designated to each nationality of the buried service members.

Day 9: Busan, Seoul

Transfer to the station this morning and take a KTX express train back to Seoul in the luxury of a deluxe seat. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in before setting off on the activity of your choice. Tonight, toast your trip with an unforgettable Signature Experience.

Signature Experience - Walking on the Cloud

Savour delectable European fine dining with a magnificent farewell dinner at Walking on the Cloud, which boasts sensational views of the city from its vantage point atop a skyscraper.

Freedom of Choice - Seoul Fortress Wall & Dongdaemun Fashion Market Tour

Transfer to the Dongdaemun market area for a walking tour of the Seoul Fortress Wall. Built in 1396, this historic wall protected the city for over 600 years. While partially damaged during modernisation, its original form still stands as a cultural heritage blending with the modern city. Afterward, visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, known for its striking curves and bold shapes. Finally, explore the Dongdaemun Fashion Market, Asia’s largest since 1970, where you’ll find fabric, clothing, and the latest global fashion trends.

Freedom of Choice - Gwangjang Market & Nanta Performance

Experience a street food tour in Gwangjang market where Mungbean pancakes and Gimbap reign supreme. After a feed, be dropped off at Nanta Theatre in Myeongdong street to see a traditional Nanta performance.

Freedom of Choice - Modern Seoul Tour

Be picked up from your hotel and transferred to COEX Mall, where you can explore the vibrant shopping centre and visit the famous Byeolmadang Library and the iconic Gangnam Style statue. Next, head to the Lotte Tower Observatory for panoramic views of the city.

Day 10: Seoul (South Korea), Tokyo (Japan)

Fly to Tokyo today. Be met on arrival and transferred to your luxurious hotel. Tonight, meet your Japan Tour Director for a welcome dinner at your hotel, savouring Japanese flavours with a modern flair.

Day 11: Tokyo

Following breakfast, meet your guide and head to Roppongi, where you’ll soak in the scenery at the Tokyo City View observation deck at Mori Tower, which on a clear day provides outstanding panoramic views of the vast capital city. Next up is Tokyo’s old town of Asakusa, which is home to the city’s oldest temple, Sensoji. Visit the iconic Buddhist temple and stroll through the Namikase shopping street indulging in snacks and souvenirs. Following lunch, embark on your exciting Freedom of Choice activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Shibuya and Harajuku Exploration

You can experience the incredible energy and efficiency of Tokyo’s vast underground metro as you delve into the buzzing districts of Shibuya and Harajuku. 

Freedom of Choice – Japanese Gardens Discovery

Explore quaint parts of Tokyo as you discover the beauty of the Japanese gardens at Hamarikyu and the Imperial Palace East Gardens. 

Freedom of Choice – Tokyo National Museum Visit

Learn more about the history of Japan at the Tokyo National Museum, which is home to a collection of approximately 110,000 objects. 

Day 12: Tokyo

Visit Meiji Shrine this morning, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirit of Emperor Meiji. After your indulgent Signature Experience, head to Ginza, Tokyo’s renowned upscale shopping district, where you’ll be captivated by the stunning presentation and variety of food at a local department store. In the afternoon, explore the Kabukiza Gallery and the vibrant streets of Ginza before enjoying the rest of the day at your leisure.

Signature Experience – Sushi-Making Class

Take part in a sushi-making class and learn to prepare maki sushi (rolled sushi) and nigiri sushi (sushi rice topped with a slice of raw fish) before savouring your creations for lunch. 

Day 13: Tokyo, Hakone

Depart for Hakone following breakfast and catch glimpses of iconic Mount Fuji if it’s a clear day. Your first stop is at Hakone Shrine, a beautiful, historic Shinto shrine nestled in the forest by the shores of Lake Ashi. Enjoy lunch before embarking on a cruise on the picturesque lake and arrive at Togendai before taking in the scenery on the way to the volcanic valley of Owakudani via the Hakone Ropeway. Follow the walking trails around the bubbling pools and steam vents and perhaps try one of the famous black eggs boiled in the area’s natural hot springs. Head to your luxury hotel, which boasts access to a naturally heated onsen, and delight in a kaiseki-style dinner, a traditional multi-course meal, this evening.

Day 14: Hakone, Matsumoto, Takayama

Set out this morning for a Signature Experience. Following your lunch, continue to Matsumoto and visit the spectacular Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most complete original castles with a structure dating back to the 16th century. You’ll have the chance to tour the castle and its pristine grounds. This afternoon, be transferred to your new hotel in Takayama. Tonight, you’ll have the chance to try the region’s famous Hida beef at a local restaurant.

Signature Experience – Soba Noodle Cooking Lesson

Try your hand at creating some traditional cuisine today with a soba buckwheat noodle cooking lesson and savour your creations for lunch.

Day 15: Takayama

Start off the day with a morning visit to the Miyagawa morning market, one of the largest in Japan. All of the market’s traders are independent farmers and craftspeople from the region, so it’s the perfect opportunity to try some of the area’s best produce. Following your Signature Experience, take a stroll through Takayama Jinya, a beautifully preserved 17th-century building built for a noble family and the Tokugawa shonugate. Then, wander along the stunning streets of the city’s old town on the way to the Festival Floats Museum, where you’ll admire the ornamental floats of the Takayama Festival.

Signature Experience – Sarubobo-Making Experience

Enjoy a Sarubobo-making experience. An amulet particularly common in Takayama and the nearby Hida region, Sarubobo are red dolls with no facial features. Learn how to make the dolls yourself.

Day 16: Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Kanazawa

Today you’ll visit the World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawa-go en route to Kanazawa. Some of the village’s famous gassho-zukuri farmhouses date back more than 250 years, and you’ll stop at Kanda House to gain a deeper insight into the traditional homes before strolling around the peaceful village. Continue to Kanazawa and the marvellous Kenroku-en garden, ranked one of the top three gardens of Japan. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Enjoy your choice of restaurant for dinner. 

Freedom of Choice Dining – Benkay

Enjoy Kanazawa’s best seasonal produce in a relaxing setting at Japanese restaurant Benkay. This traditional sushi, grill and tempura counter presents an incredible range of dishes that offer a true taste of Japan. 

Freedom of Choice Dining – La PLAGE

Indulge in an elegant European dinner at La PLAGE, nestled on the top floor of your luxury hotel in Kanazawa. 

Day 17: Kanazawa, Tsuruga, Kyoto

Start your day in the Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa’s largest geisha district. Enjoy a special Signature Experience before visiting the traditional Shima teahouse. Following lunch, be transferred to the train station to board a bullet train to Tsuruga, then change to a limited express train to Kyoto. Upon arrival, walk to your nearby accommodation and settle in before savouring a delicious dinner at the restaurant of your choice. 

Signature Experience – Gold Leaf-Making Experience

Relish a gold leaf-making experience, decorating a small lacquer plate with this fragile and precious product. The production of gold leaf in Kanazawa began 400 years ago, and since then, the artform has played a role in restoring national and cultural treasures.  

Freedom of Choice Dining – Benoit

Originally a Parisian bistro dating back to 1912, French chef Alain Ducasse took the restaurant international. Experience the elegance of French cuisine, including duck confit and millefeuille. The chic interiors blend classic Parisian charm with a modern Japanese twist.

Freedom of Choice Dining – Chiriri

Savour exceptional local produce at Japanese restaurant Chiriri, which specialises in shabu-shabu, a Japanese hotpot dish of thinly sliced meat and fresh vegetables served with dipping sauces, that melts in your mouth. 

Day 18: Kyoto

An exciting day of sightseeing lies ahead. Set out for Arashiyama this morning, climbing aboard a rickshaw for a ride past the Nonomiya Shrine and the spectacular Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Following your rickshaw experience, stop off at the World Heritage-listed Tenryuji temple, one of the Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto, which was founded in 1339. After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the famous Kinkakuji temple, commonly known as the Golden Pavilion for its gold-leaf-covered upper floors. You’ll then visit historic Nijo Castle before returning to your hotel and spending the evening at your leisure.

Day 19: Kyoto

Begin your day with a special Signature Experience. In the afternoon, head out on your chosen Freedom of Choice activity before returning to your hotel.  

Signature Experience – Japanese Tea Ceremony

Delve into traditional Japanese culture with a special tea ceremony experience. Learn all about tea varieties and the importance and process of serving tea to guests in Japan. Enhance your experience by taking part in the ceremony wearing a festive kimono and gain a better understanding of the variety of kimonos used across different occasions. 

Freedom of Choice – E-Bike Cycling Tour

Ride an E-bike through the Miyagawacho and Gion geisha districts, stop off at the Imperial Palace Park and cycle along the Kamogawa River. 

Freedom of Choice – Market and Sake Tour

Embark on a tour of Nishiki Market, often referred to as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, before delighting in a sake-tasting tour. 

Freedom of Choice – Japanese Sweets Workshop & Historic Confectionary Shop

Immerse yourself in the art of Kyoto-style wagashi (Japanese sweets) by learning to craft these delicate confections. Enjoy your handmade creations paired with a soothing cup of green tea. Afterward, visit Tsuruya Yoshinobu, a celebrated and famous confectionery shop with over two centuries of history.

Freedom of Choice – Ginkakuji and Philosopher’s Path Walking Tour

Visit the Ginkakuji Temple (Silver Pavilion), a serene Buddhist Zen temple located in the Higashiyama district of northeastern Kyoto. Later, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic stone-paved trail that winds between Ginkakuji and Nanzenji Temples.

Day 20: Kyoto, Nara, Kyoto

After breakfast, board a private coach for the nearby town of Nara, once the Japanese capital for 74 years in the eighth century. Visit the incredible Todaiji Temple, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and home to the country’s largest statue of Buddha. Stroll through the fascinating temple before exploring the surrounding Nara Park, which is freely roamed by a large population of friendly deer who will generally bow their heads for a treat. Next, see Nara’s most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha, which was established in AD768. Return to the hotel with free time this afternoon before savouring a special Signature Experience for dinner. 

Signature Experience – Dinner with a Maiko or Geisha

A special night of private entertainment with a maiko or geisha awaits. Enjoy a wonderful dinner and drinks and have the chance to learn more about geisha and their daily life, all accompanied by music played on a shamisen, a traditional stringed instrument. 

Day 21: Kyoto, Depart Osaka

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast this morning with a transfer to Osaka’s Kansai International Airport.