Description
Embarking on this 15 Day tour of Japan and South Korea, inclusive of return economy class airfares on Singapore Airlines, guarantees an immersive exploration of two captivating nations
Beginning in South Korea, the journey starts in Seoul, a dynamic metropolis pulsating with energy and cultural richness. From the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace to the vibrant markets of Namdaemun and Dongdaemun, Seoul offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity.
As the tour progresses, travelers venture deeper into South Korea's cultural tapestry with visits to Gyeongju, the ancient capital known as the "Museum Without Walls," where archaeological wonders like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto await exploration. The journey then continues to the picturesque island of Jeju, famed for its volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique culture. Whether hiking along Hallasan, South Korea's highest peak, or exploring the lava tubes of Manjanggul Cave, Jeju offers a serene retreat from the bustle of city life.
From South Korea, the tour crosses over to Japan, where the adventure continues in Hiroshima, a city with a profound history and resilient spirit. Visits to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum offer solemn reflections on the tragedies of war and the importance of peace and reconciliation. It's a poignant reminder of the enduring human spirit and the pursuit of harmony in the face of adversity.
The journey then takes travelers to experience the majestic beauty of Mt Fuji, Japan's iconic symbol and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether admiring its symmetrical peak from afar or ascending its slopes for breathtaking views, Mt Fuji captivates with its timeless allure and spiritual significance.
Finally, the tour culminates in Tokyo, Japan's vibrant capital, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovations. From the serene gardens of the Imperial Palace to the bustling streets of Shibuya, Tokyo offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that enchant and inspire. Delve into the city's culinary scene, savoring sushi at Tsukiji Market or indulging in traditional ramen, each dish a culinary masterpiece.
As the tour draws to a close, travelers are left with cherished memories of their 15-day journey through Japan and South Korea. From the dynamic streets of Seoul to the serene landscapes of Jeju, the poignant history of Hiroshima, and the majestic beauty of Mt Fuji, each destination offers a unique perspective on the rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that defines these two remarkable nations. And with return economy class airfares on Singapore Airlines ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey, every moment becomes an unforgettable adventure waiting to be explored.
Itinerary Downloadable Itinerary
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13 Day 14 Day 15
Australia Seoul, South Korea
Welcome to Seoul, South Korea! Upon arrival at Seoul Airport, make your own way to your hotel.
Seoul is the largest city in South Korea and one of East Asia's financial and cultural hubs filled with a mix of traditional and modern elements which attract visitors from all over the world.
It is the centre of fascinating ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, home to multitudes of street food vendors and vast nightlife districts, serene Buddhist temples and extraodinary modern architecture.
Meals: Inflight Menu
Accommodation: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar
Seoul Mt. Seoraksan
This morning we leave Seoul for the Seoraksan National Park. Enroute we visit Sokcho Fishing village. The village's residents consist mainly of refugees from Hamgyeong Province in North Korea who escaped south during the Korean War. The village is now famous for its seafood and cuisine.
After, we continue to the Mt Seorak region. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Preservation District in 1982 due to the many rare species found in the national park, Mount Seoraksan National Park is Korea’s most famous national park. Tour Shinheungsa Temple and take the cable car to Gweongeumseong Fortress to experience the beautiful natural landscapes on offer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Sokcho Sea Cruise Hotel or similar
Mt. Seorak Andong Daegu
Today, visit the traditional village of Andong, with its well-preserved traditional houses and unique mask dancing performance. The UNESCO Village is home to descendants of the Ryu clan of Pungsan and is well-known for its traditional houses.
Birthplace of renowned scholars of the Joseon Period such as Gyeomam Ryu Un-ryong and Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong, the village became even more famous after Queen Elizabeth of England visited on April 21, 1999. We then make our way into Daegu and visit the famous Dongseongno Shopping District.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Inter-Burgo Exco or similar
Daegu Gyeongju
After breakfast, we visit Cheomseongdae, the oldest existing astronomical observatory in Asia.
We then make our way to Gyeongju National Museum, home to numerous historical and cultural artefacts of the Silla Dynasty (57 BC – AD 935).
Also, visit the Bulguksa Temple and the beautiful Seokguram Grotto – a UNESCO World Heritage site. We then continue on to the southeast city of Gyeongju which was the capital of the 1,000-year-long Silla dynasty and is known for its extensive historical remains. Here we will see the Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Commodore Hotel Gyeongju or similar
Gyeongju Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) Seoul
Today we will visit North Korea's 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, located within the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a 44 km drive northwest of Seoul. An entire infantry division can move through the tunnel in an hour.
Visit the Imjingak Resort Unification Park and North Korea Centre to gain an insight into the history of the Korean War.
View North Korean territory from the Dora Observation Platform, including the spooky Propaganda Village, People School and Kaeseong City, the old capital city of the Goryeo Kingdom.
If the tour is unable to visit the DMZ, you will visit Imjingak Resort instead.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar
Seoul
The Blue House, otherwise known as Cheong Wa Dae, is the residence of the South Korean president. It is an icon of South Korea, set against the back drop of Bugaksan Mountain.
Today, we have the chance to visit the Blue House before making our way to Gyeongbokgung Palace, originally built in 1395 as the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty.
We then visit the famous Amethyst Store and later stroll through the heart of the city down the streets of Isa-dong, a historical entertainment districts. Step back in time in Bukchon Village before jumping back to the present day to walk along the elevated sky garden of Seoullo 7017.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Stanford Hotel Seoul or similar
Seoul Tokyo, Japan
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Tokyo, Japan. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Lumiere Kasai or similar
Tokyo
Today we explore some of the highlights of Tokyo. Our first stop is Odaiba, an island in Tokyo Harbour where we will see the Rainbow Bridge and the Statue of Libery replica. From here, we head to the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market and enjoy free time for lunch.
Our exploration of Tokyo continues at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where we will ascend to the 200m high observation deck for sweeping views of the endless metropolis. Later, stroll through Sensoji, otherwise known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, one of Tokyo's most colourful and popular temples, before browsing for souvenirs in Nakamise Shopping Street.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Lumiere Kasai or similar
Tokyo Mt.Fuji Hamamatsu
This morning we make our way towards the Mount Fuji area, visiting the Gotemba Peace Park, known for its majestic views of Mt Fuji. Time permitting, we will head for another famous vantage point of Mt Fuji at Miho no Matsubara. We then continue to Hamamatsu where we spend the evening at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Crown Palais Hamamatsu or similar
Hamamatsu Osaka
Today, we visit Iga-ryu Ninja Museum. This fascinating complex is home to a ninja residence complete with revolving walls, trap doors, and exhibition halls. Afterward, we continue to one of Japan's most famous landmarks, Osaka Castle.
Built-in 1583 as a centre of a new, unified Japan, Osaka Castle is a wonderfully preserved example of Japanese architecture. We then continue to our centrally located hotel in Osaka for a night at leisure. You may wish to experience the famous Osaka nightlife in the Dotonbori district.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sarasa Hotel Namba or similar
Osaka Kyoto Osaka
This morning, we board the technological marvel, the shinkansen bullet train, from Osaka to Kyoto. Travelling at speeds up to 280km/h, the shinkansen offers passengers a supercut of the beautiful Japanese countryside.
The first stop in Kyoto is Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of the most iconic sights in Japan with thousands of red Shinto shrine gates. We strolled through the gates and visited the various shrines and temples. Afterwards, we continue to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for an enchanting walk through the towering bamboo forest. Our last stop in Kyoto is the World Heritage-list Golden Pavilion. This three-storey Buddhist Temple was built in the 14th century as a villa for a powerful shogun and is almost entirely covered in gold leaf. Afterwards, we make our way back to Osaka.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sarasa Hotel Namba or similar
Osaka
Free at leisure today, explore Osaka or surrounding places at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sarasa Hotel Namba or similar
Osaka Himeji Hiroshima
After breakfast, we make our way to Hiroshima. On route, we stop at Himeji Castle, often called the White Heron Castle due to its elegant design. Himeji Castle is one of Japan's last remaining original medieval castles. This, as well as its imposing size and artistc design, make it one of the most spectacular sights in Japan.
Enjoy your time here before we continue on to Hiroshima.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: HOTEL MYSTAYS Hiroshima Peace Park or similar
Hiroshima Osaka
Today, we begin our day with a trip to Itsukushima Shrineo n Miyajima Island. The shrine and its torii gate are unique for being built over water, appearing to float on the sea during high tide.
We then head back to Hiroshima city to visit the sprawling grounds of the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, both of which commemorate the victims of the atomic bomb used in World War II. Afterwards we make our way back to Osaka.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sarasa Hotel Namba or similar
Osaka Australia
At the appropriate time, make your own way to the airport for your homeward flight.
We sincerely hope that this journey has provided you with unforgettable memories. We wish you safe travels and hope to have the pleasure of hosting you again soon on another exciting adventure.
Meals: Breakfast and Inflight Menu
Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Return economy class airfare departing from Sydney or Melbourne flying Singapore Airlines
- 14 nights Superior 3-star twin share accommodation throughout
- Breakfast daily and meals indicated in the itinerary
- Flight from Seoul to Tokyo (With LCC, check-in baggage up to 20kg)
- Ride the bullet train from Osaka to Kyoto
- Professional tour guide
- Dedicated coach transportation
- In-depth sightseeing as per the itinerary
- All monument entrance fees as per the itinerary
Flight Upgrades: Want to upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Class airfares? Contact us via [email protected] for a quote
Travel Insurance: We recommend Covermore travel insurance. To quote and book, please click HERE.
Exclusions
- Travel insurance (Compulsory)
- Arrival and Departure Transfers
- Tipping
- Personal expenses and anything not stated Optional recommended programs
- Optional tour extensions
Package Extensions: Please note, a $200 fee per person will apply for any guests choosing to arrive or stay later on this program, with an additional cost for pre or post accommodation.
Single Supplement: There is a single supplement on this program of $2000.
Group Size: Max group size is 45, with an average of 20-30 pax per tour.