The Essentials of Japan and South Korea – 16 Days 14 Nights

Upon arrival at Seoul International Airport, you will be greeted by your English-speaking guide. You will then be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to rest, adjust to the time difference, or begin exploring the Korean capital at your own pace.
Voco Seoul Myeongdong hotel**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, departure for Daegu, with a first stop in Suwon to visit the Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 18th-century masterpiece of military architecture impresses with its majestic ramparts, fortified gates, and panoramic paths, offering a remarkable glimpse into Korean history and the ingenuity of the Joseon Dynasty.

Then on to Daegu, where you will discover Donghwasa Temple, located on the southern slopes of Mount Palgongsan (1,193 m). This Buddhist temple, whose name means “Temple of the Paulownia Flower,” is a peaceful place nestled in the heart of nature, combining spirituality, traditions, and spectacular landscapes.
Daegu Grand Hotel**** or similar

Breakfast，Lunch，Dinner
After breakfast, depart for Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC–935 AD) and a veritable open-air museum. Here you will discover an exceptional archaeological heritage that bears witness to the splendor of this thousand-year-old civilization.

You will explore the Royal Tombs Park, where many Silla rulers are buried in imposing burial mounds. Afterwards, visit the Gyeongju National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient objects, Buddhist sculptures, and royal artifacts. End your visit with Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, an enchanting site with historical charm, particularly prized for its reflections.

In the afternoon, drive to the coastal city of Busan, South Korea’s second largest city.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel in Busan. In the evening, enjoy a typical Korean barbecue dinner, a convivial local specialty.
La Valse Hotel Busan**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, set off to explore Busan, a dynamic port city that combines tradition, coastal landscapes, and bustling urban life.

Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, nicknamed the Temple of the Dragon Palace of the East Sea. Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, this unique Buddhist sanctuary offers spectacular views of the waves of the Korean coastline—a place imbued with serenity and natural beauty.

Then visit Nurimaru APEC House, a former international conference hall located on the edge of Haeundae Beach. Surrounded by pine trees and opening onto the horizon, the building is both a diplomatic hub and a remarkable viewpoint over Busan’s seascapes.

Next, thrills are guaranteed at the Oryukdo Skywalk: this glass walkway suspended 15 meters above the ocean allows you to watch the waves crashing beneath your feet from a 35-meter-high cliff. Exceptional sensations and panoramic views guaranteed!

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art at Gamcheon Culture Village, nicknamed the Machu Picchu of Busan. This colorful neighborhood, nestled on the slopes of a coastal hill, is famous for its winding streets, pastel-colored houses, murals, and art installations created by the residents themselves.

The day ends with a stroll through the Nampo-dong Gukje International Market, one of the largest markets in Korea. Here you will find a wide selection of local products, textiles, souvenirs, crafts, and street food at attractive prices.
La Valse Hotel Busan**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, departure for Andong, the cradle of Confucian culture in Korea.
Visit the traditional village of Andong Hahoe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its perfectly preserved hanok houses dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). This lively village offers an authentic glimpse into the aristocratic life of Korea’s past, with its Confucian rituals, ancient architecture, and preserved customs.

In the afternoon, drive to Seoul, the country’s bustling capital. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel.
The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the city at your own pace: shopping, relaxing, discovering the cuisine, or strolling through the lively neighborhoods as you wish.
Voco Seoul Myeongdong hotel**** or similar

Breakfast，Lunch
After breakfast, visit the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in 1395 by King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty. A symbol of royal power, this palace is considered the most elegant and largest of the five palaces in Seoul. You will have the unique opportunity to try on a hanbok, the traditional Korean costume, for an unforgettable photo shoot in a period setting.
Next, visit the Ginseng Center, the flagship product of Korean medicine, as well as a cosmetics store, perfect for finding souvenirs or trying out the latest K-beauty trends.

Finally, enjoy a tasting of Samgyetang, a chicken soup with ginseng that is very popular in Korea and renowned for its invigorating and beneficial properties.

In the afternoon, stroll along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a restored waterway running through downtown Seoul that has become a pleasant urban oasis lined with paths, public art, and picturesque bridges. End your day in the bustling Myeongdong district, a Korean shopping mecca, where fashion boutiques, cosmetics stores, street food stalls, and local entertainment coexist.
Voco Seoul Myeongdong hotel**** or similar

Breakfast
Free day or optional excursion to the Cheorwon DMZ.

After breakfast, enjoy a free day to explore Seoul at your own pace, do some last-minute shopping, or revisit your favorite spots in the South Korean capital.

Optional excursion – €110/person, lunch included (Advance booking required at registration)
Full-day excursion to the Cheorwon DMZ, a unique experience at one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world.

After breakfast, depart from your hotel in Seoul to reach the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Cheorwon, located near the border with North Korea.

Your first stop will be the Second Infiltration Tunnel, discovered in 1975 just 800 meters south of the military demarcation line. This tunnel, carved through rock at depths reaching 160 meters, was reportedly designed to allow up to 30,000 fully armed North Korean troops per hour to reach Seoul in the event of an attack. Spanning 3.5 kilometers, this underground site remains a powerful reminder of the ongoing tensions between the two Koreas.

The tour continues to the Peace Observatory, one of the closest accessible points to North Korea from the South. Through high-powered binoculars, you can glimpse North Korean villages and guard posts in an atmosphere that is both tranquil and deeply emotional.

The final stop is at Woljeong-ri Station, a former railway depot on the line to Wonsan, now located in North Korea. Here, you’ll see a train locomotive bombed by UN forces — a rusted relic frozen in time, its twisted windows silently narrating the story of conflict.

A traditional Korean lunch is included during the excursion.

Return to Seoul in the afternoon.

Note: In case of unexpected official events or exceptional circumstances in the DMZ, the program may be replaced with an excursion to Paju. The local operator reserves the right to adjust the itinerary accordingly.
Voco Seoul Myeongdong hotel**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your international flight to Japan.

Upon arrival in Osaka, you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your hotel.
Check-in and room allocation.

The rest of the day is free for you to relax or begin exploring the city at your own pace, whether through its lively neighborhoods, renowned cuisine, or welcoming atmosphere.
hotel Odysis Suites Osaka Airport**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, depart with your guide to discover Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital, renowned for its rich historical heritage. You will visit the majestic Tōdai-ji Temple, dating back to the 8th century, which houses one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.

Next, take a stroll through Nara Park, where over 1,200 freely roaming sika deer often approach visitors. The excursion ends with a traditional Japanese lunch before returning to Osaka in the late morning.

The day continues in the vibrant Dotonbori district, the lively heart of Osaka. Amid colorful neon lights, canals, and bustling shopping streets, you’ll experience the city’s dynamic and culinary soul. Don’t miss the chance to taste takoyaki (octopus balls) or okonomiyaki (savory pancake), two iconic local specialties.
hotel Odysis Suites Osaka Airport**** or similar

Breakfast
Free day or optional excursion.

After breakfast, enjoy a free day to explore Osaka, go shopping, or relax.

Optional “Kansai Culture” Excursion with Lunch – €159/person (Booking required upon registration)
For those joining this cultural experience, your day starts in Arashiyama, a scenic Kyoto district, with a peaceful walk through the famous Bamboo Grove – one of Japan’s most iconic and photographed spots. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates creating a unique path through the mountains.

End the day with a serene Japanese tea ceremony guided by a tea master. Learn the artful gestures and aesthetics of this ancestral tradition, accompanied by wagashi, delicate Japanese sweets.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
hotel Odysis Suites Osaka Airport**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, depart for Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital from 794 to 1868, known for its historic heritage and spiritual landmarks.

Start with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covered in gold leaf, this iconic temple reflects serenely in its pond amidst a tranquil landscaped garden.

Next, visit Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, a grand Buddhist complex belonging to the Jōdo Shinshū school. Admire the main hall’s massive wooden roof, one of the largest in the world.

Before leaving Kyoto, a stop at Kyoto Station offers views of the Kyoto Tower, the city’s modern landmark — perfect for a few memorable photos.

In the afternoon, board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagoya. Upon arrival, visit the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, tracing the brand’s journey from textile manufacturing to automotive and robotics innovation.

Continue to Hamamatsu for an overnight stay.
Concorde Hotel Hamamatsu**** or similar

Breakfast，Lunch，Dinner
After breakfast, head towards the Mount Fuji region, Japan’s sacred symbol and muse for countless artists and pilgrims.

First stop: Gotemba Peace Park, offering a stunning panoramic view of Mount Fuji on clear days. Discover a Buddhist stupa and peaceful gardens perfect for reflection.

Then, explore Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque traditional village with eight crystal-clear ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s snowmelt — revered for their purity and serene beauty.

Next, visit Sengen-jinja Shrine, dedicated to the deity of Mount Fuji. This tranquil sanctuary was once the traditional starting point for ascents of the mountain.

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes. This crater lake offers spectacular views of the volcano, especially when its reflection enhances the magical scenery.
End the day with a cultural experience at a traditional hotel, including a buffet dinner featuring local flavors and a relaxing soak in a Japanese onsen (hot spring bath).
Fuji Kawaguchiko Resort Hotel**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, depart for Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital where ancient traditions coexist with futuristic innovation.

Begin with a visit to Meiji Shrine, nestled in a forest in the heart of the city. This Shinto sanctuary honors Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, figures of Japan’s modernization during the Meiji era.
Next, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where a panoramic observation deck offers sweeping views of the sprawling city – and Mt. Fuji on clear days.

Then visit the historic Asakusa district and the Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most colorful temple. Wander down Nakamise Street, lined with traditional shops and snack stalls.

Optional: Kimono Experience – €49/person (Booking required upon registration)
Stroll through Asakusa dressed in a traditional kimono and take unforgettable photos in this charming, historic setting.

Optional: Teppanyaki Dinner – €96/person (Booking required upon registration)
In the evening, enjoy a Teppanyaki dinner show in a renowned restaurant, where skilled chefs prepare your meal right in front of you with flair and precision.
The Manhattan Makuhari Hotel**** or similar

Breakfast
Free day or optional tour of modern Tokyo.

Use this free day to explore Tokyo on your own – shopping, museums, parks, stylish cafés, or charming backstreets.

Optional Excursion: Exploring Modern Tokyo – €139/person (Booking required upon registration)
Begin with a walk near the Imperial Palace, a symbolic site of Japan’s monarchy with beautiful gardens offering calm amid the city buzz.

Then explore Tsukiji Market, known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere — the perfect place to sample local delicacies.

Continue to Shibuya, Tokyo’s iconic district, where you’ll cross the world-famous Shibuya Crossing and visit the statue of Hachikō, a beloved symbol of loyalty.

End the tour with free time in Shinjuku, a vibrant district known for its shopping, entertainment, and neon lights – a true immersion in the Tokyo of today.

Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
The Manhattan Makuhari Hotel**** or similar

Breakfast
After breakfast, free time depending on your flight schedule, followed by shuttle transfer to the airport for your international flight home.