South Korea, From Seoul to Kyoto

Seoul, Tokyo & Kyoto Trio 3^*

On arrival at Seoul-Incheon (ICN) airport, you will be met at customs by our airport assistant. He or she will give you all the documents you need to ensure your stay in Seoul goes smoothly, as well as an E-SIM card to keep you connected during your trip.

You will then be transferred by bus to your accommodation. After a moment of relaxation to freshen up and rest, you can begin your exploration of Seoul by following the recommendations in your travel guide.

For your first day, immerse yourself in the heart of the city, starting at Gwanghwamun Square and discovering the immediate surroundings of your accommodation.

On this second day, after breakfast, set off to discover Seoul's rich heritage.

Enjoy your day at leisure, following the recommendations in your travel guide:

• Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace: Discover this majestic palace, the main residence of the Joseon dynasty for several centuries.
• Bukchon district: Stroll through this picturesque district to admire traditional Korean houses, known as "hanoks".
• Continue on to the atypical Ikseondong district, where charming old houses, once threatened with destruction, have been restored to house local boutiques and vintage-style cafés.
• Cheonggyecheon Stream: Stroll along this soothing river, the capital's green vein. Its history is fascinating: once a shantytown, then transformed into an expressway, it is now a natural space rehabilitated for relaxation in the heart of the city.

For this third day, why not explore the wonders around the capital? Here are a few suggestions for immersive tours that will immerse you in the region's history and nature:

• Hwaseong Fortress: Admire the exceptional architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage fortress. Its imposing walls and defensive bastions bear witness to the military ingenuity of the Joseon dynasty.
• Bukhansan National Park: Discover one of Korea's most beautiful parks, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. Its spectacular trails, peaceful temples and fortress make it a must for nature lovers.
• Jeonju Hanok Village: Travel back in time through this traditional village, where hundreds of well-preserved "hanok" houses offer an authentic glimpse of Korea's past.

Your day begins with a bus transfer to Seoul Incheon airport, from where you'll catch your flight to Tokyo.

After arrival formalities, a shared shuttle bus will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Tokyo. The transfer takes place by shared shuttle or bus, in the company of other travelers staying at the same or a nearby hotel. Shuttle departures are scheduled between 1h30 and 3 hours after your flight's scheduled arrival, with possible stops to drop off other customers on the way.

On your first day in Tokyo, start by exploring the city's iconic neighborhoods, soaking up its unique, vibrant atmosphere.

Here are a few must-sees to get you started:

• Harajuku: The avant-garde district where fashion and originality are the order of the day.
• Meiji Jingu: A peaceful imperial shrine nestled in a lush forest, offering a spiritual interlude.
• Takeshita-Dori: Tokyo's iconic street, lined with colorful boutiques and cafés, the epicenter of Japanese pop culture.
• Omotesando: Nicknamed Tokyo's Champs-Élysées, this chic avenue is ideal for luxury shopping and modern architecture.
• Shibuya: End your visit at the famous Shibuya crossroads, a world-famous pedestrian thoroughfare and symbol of Tokyo's hustle and bustle.

For this second day of discovery in Tokyo, embark on a circular itinerary through the city's iconic sites, combining modernity and tradition.

Start your adventure at Tokyo Central Station, renowned for its unique architecture, then set off to discover the must-sees:

• Ginza: Stroll through this chic and sophisticated district, renowned for its luxury boutiques, department stores and art galleries.
• Tsukiji: Visit this outdoor food market, a must for sampling local flavors, including the famous fresh sushi.
• Hama-rikyū: Explore this magnificent Japanese garden, an oasis of tranquility surrounded by skyscrapers, where you can admire ponds and tea pavilions.
• Asakusa: Take a cruise on the Sumida River to this traditional district, where you'll find the famous Sensō-ji temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, a sacred place steeped in history.
• Tokyo Sky Tree: End the day on a high note with a climb to the top of the Tokyo Sky Tree, 634 meters high. Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view, ideal at sunset to admire Tokyo in all its glory.

This loop offers a complete immersion in Tokyo's diversity, combining traditional neighborhoods, modern architecture and breathtaking views.

This morning, meet at Tokyo station to board the famous Shinkansen, one of the world's fastest trains, bound for Kyoto. This direct 2.5-hour journey is included in your package and offers a unique glimpse of the Japanese landscape en route to the ancient capital.

With three days to discover Kyoto, start this afternoon by exploring the historic district of Gion, famous for its picturesque alleyways and geishas, as well as its iconic sites:

• Kiyomizu-dera: The "temple of pure water" is perched on a hill, offering a breathtaking view of Kyoto. This must-see site is known for its vast wooden terrace, supported by imposing pillars.
• Sannen-zaka and Ninnen-zaka: Stroll through these charming historic lanes, lined with craft stores and traditional houses, and you'll be transported back to the Japan of yesteryear.
• Kôdai-ji: This peaceful temple, surrounded by magnificent maples and bamboo, is an ideal place to enjoy the serenity of Kyoto's Zen gardens.

This first immersion in Kyoto will immerse you in the city's unique atmosphere, where every street corner seems to bear traces of a timeless Japan.

On your second day exploring Kyoto, marvel at some of its most iconic sites, from glittering temples to serene gardens.

- Ryôan-ji: Start with the famous Zen garden of Ryôan-ji, a minimalist masterpiece of stone and sand, designed to invite meditation.

- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Continue on to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, whose gold-leaf-covered floors reflect on the surrounding pond, creating a scene worthy of a painting.

- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): Then visit the Silver Pavilion, an elegant, soothing temple surrounded by tranquil gardens, embodying the sober beauty of classical Japan.

• Philosophy Path: Follow this enchanting path lined with cherry trees (splendid in season), which links Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji. The path invites you to take a meditative stroll along the water and nature.
• Nanzen-ji: Complete your itinerary with a visit to Nanzen-ji temple, renowned for its large Sanmon gate and sublime gardens.

Then, step inside an authentic teahouse, where you'll be welcomed by a tea master for a traditional tea ceremony. Watch the meticulous preparation of matcha, a vibrant green tea served in handcrafted pottery. Enjoy a wagashi, a refined Japanese pastry, the perfect accompaniment to bubble tea.

This enchanting experience immerses you in the soul of Japanese culture, an invitation to serenity and contemplation in an authentic setting.

For your last day in Kyoto, we suggest a trip to Nara, Japan's first fixed capital, just 50 minutes from Kyoto with your prepaid transport card.

Immerse yourself in Nara's fascinating history, where you can admire several emblematic sites:

• Kasuga-taisha Shrine: Explore this Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns, which create a magical atmosphere.
• Tôdai-ji: Discover the majestic Tôdai-ji temple, home to Japan's largest bronze Buddha, and the monumental Nan-Daimon Gate.
• Kôfuku-ji Temple: Admire this magnificent temple and its five-storey pagoda, reflected in the surrounding ponds, providing a tranquil backdrop.

At the end of the day, return to Kyoto for an unforgettable moment: sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine. This shrine, with its famous 10,000 red torii, creates an enchanting path to the hilltop. The light of twilight adds a mystical touch to this emblematic place, perfect for ending your stay in Kyoto in style.

Sayonara - Goodbye! 🌸

It's time to say goodbye to Japan and its enchanting landscapes. A direct transfer awaits you to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your return flight to Europe.

SOUTH KOREA

**A valid passport is required for entry into Korea ** The 6-month validity period after the date of exit from the country is not required.

Before traveling to Korea, you must ensure that your passport is not torn, damaged or otherwise defective, otherwise you may be refused entry by the immigration authorities.

For short stays of less than 90 days, French nationals are exempt from visa requirements.

However, they must obtain a K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) before departure. This is done online via the official website or the K-ETA application. The authorization is valid for 3 years, or until the passport expires. It is advisable to apply at least 72 hours before boarding.

For further information: https://www.k-eta.go.kr/portal/apply/index.do

JAPAN

On arrival, travelers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of return. A visa is only required for stays of over 3 months.

Non-Japanese nationals entering Japan are required to take biometric data (fingerprints and photographic portrait).

Non-French citizens or dual nationals are advised to consult the consulate or embassy of their destination country.

Minors must have an individual passport. We strongly recommend that minors unaccompanied by their legal guardians carry a copy of their family record book.

SOUTH KOREA:

• Pick-up and airport-hotel-airport transfer by limousine bus
• T-money card x 2 with 12-trip top-up
• International flight tickets from Seoul to Tokyo - economy class seats reserved

JAPAN:

• Transfer airport - hotel in group shuttle
• Tickets for the Nozomi Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto - reserved seats in standard class
• Tokyo Metro Pass for 3 days