Japan, From Tokyo to Seoul

Essential Japan and South Korea with included activities

On arrival at Tokyo Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus.

Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight in Tokyo.

Suggested visits: A stroll through the Asakusa district will take you to Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple, Senso-ji. Here you can discover Japanese traditions and spiritual practices. Wander from stall to stall along the temple’s main avenue to sample a variety of Japanese street food specialities.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Tokyo.

Suggested sightseeing: Explore the trendy districts of Shibuya and Harajuku. Pose in front of the statue of Hachiko, Japan’s most famous dog, and immerse yourself in the world of Japanese fashion. Be amazed by the eccentric styles on display along the famous Takeshita Street. Enjoy a green oasis in Ueno Park.

Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch and dinner are not included.

Overnight stay in Tokyo.

Suggested sightseeing: Visit the Imperial Palace in Tokyo to immerse yourself in Japanese history and take a stroll through its park right in the city centre. Experience the otaku culture of Akihabara with its many electronics shops before wandering through the elegant Ginza district for a spot of shopping.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Train transfer to the town of Hakone using the Hakone Free Pass. Lunch is not included.

Overnight stay at a Japanese inn in Hakone, including a traditional dinner at the ryokan.

Enjoy an onsen experience in Hakone: Situated around Lake Ashi and renowned for its various traditional inns and their hot spring baths, Hakone offers views of the famous Mount Fuji. Enjoy the quintessentially Japanese experience of a night in a ryokan: after a delicious ‘kaiseki’ dinner, make the most of this mountain getaway to unwind in the ryokan’s indoor and outdoor hot springs, known as onsen.

Breakfast at the ryokan.

Explore the city’s main attractions with the Hakone Free Pass.

Train transfer to the city of Kyoto. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Kyoto.

Suggested sightseeing: Explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy a variety of experiences: take a boat trip on Lake Ashi to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji; take the funiculars up into the Owakudani Valley to observe its volcanic sulphur fumaroles; stroll along the lake shore and visit the Hakone-jinja Shrine.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Today, enjoy a unique experience and discover the art of Japanese craftsmanship in the heart of the traditional Gion district. During this immersive workshop, you will make your own pair of chopsticks. With the guidance of an English-speaking instructor, you will shape, smooth and polish your own pair of chopsticks made from natural Japanese wood. You will also learn about the history, symbolism and customs associated with this iconic Japanese everyday object. You can then have your chopsticks engraved to create a unique souvenir of Kyoto.

Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight in Kyoto.

Suggested attractions:

Begin your exploration with unmissable spiritual sites such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famous for its wooden terrace offering panoramic views of the city, or the dazzling Golden Pavilion. Don’t miss the Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine, with its more than ten thousand red torii gates winding their way up the mountain. The majestic Yasaka Pagoda welcomes you into a maze of streets perfect for discovering Japanese craftsmanship. This pedestrianised district offers a glimpse of old-world Japan, with an atmosphere that is even more unique at night by the light of the lanterns.

Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Kyoto.

Suggested sightseeing : Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates stretching up the mountainside. The mystical atmosphere and natural beauty of this place make for an unforgettable experience.

Next, head to the iconic Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji, to explore one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You can also visit its silver counterpart, Ginkaku-ji.

If you have a sweet tooth, try a delicious tayaki filled with red bean paste and discover a whole host of culinary specialities at the century-old Nishiki Market!

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Osaka Airport to catch your flight to South Korea. On arrival in Busan, transfer to your hotel.

Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight in Busan.

Suggested sightseeing: Start your day by strolling along the white sandy beaches such as Haeundae or Gwangalli, to enjoy the beauty of the sea.

Next, head to Dongbaekseom Island, ideal for a leisurely stroll and panoramic views. Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched on the cliffs and offering a spectacular setting by the sea.

To round off the day, explore the lively Seomyeon district, known for its vibrant nightlife.

Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Busan.

Suggested sightseeing: Head to the Gamcheon Culture Village and its stunning, colourful arts district! Lose yourself in its narrow alleyways and admire the murals. After soaking up the local art scene, head to the Beomeosa Temple, nestled in the mountains, for a spiritual break and breathtaking views of Busan. Relax in the peaceful atmosphere before heading back down to the city for a spot of retail therapy or simply to unwind.

Breakfast at the hotel. Train from Busan to Gyeongju. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Gyeongju.

Suggested sightseeing: To soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Busan, head to Jagalchi Market, a must-visit spot for discovering the local food scene. Sample fresh seafood and explore the bustling stalls. Stroll around the harbour, savouring the city’s unique atmosphere and catching the last rays of the day’s sunshine.

Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Gyeongju.

Suggested sightseeing: Explore Daerungwon Park, one of the city’s most iconic sites, where you can admire the tumuli – gigantic burial mounds. These royal tombs, which house the remains of the great kings and queens of the ancient Silla dynasty, offer a fascinating insight into the culture and funeral rituals of the period. Continue your exploration of the Silla dynasty by visiting the Cheomseongdae Observatory, a historical treasure and the oldest of its kind in East Asia.

Breakfast at the hotel. Train from Gyeongju to Seoul.

Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Seoul.

Suggested sightseeing : The Korean capital welcomes you with open arms: step back in time in the historic Bukchon Hanok Village with its traditional buildings. Then take a stroll around Gyeongbokgung Palace, a testament to the former grandeur of the Joseon dynasty. Next, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere in the dynamic Gangnam district. Made famous by the song ‘Gangnam Style’, this business district is a mecca for luxury boutiques.

Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Seoul.

Your immersive hanbok tour: Discover the magic of Seoul by donning a hanbok, the traditional Korean outfit characterised by its bright colours and elegant lines, which symbolises the country's history and culture. Stroll amongst picturesque royal palaces, take unforgettable photos in front of traditional architectural gems, and immerse yourself in Korea’s past. The hanbok's flowing cut and refined fabrics will instantly transport you back in time while celebrating Korean elegance.

Suggested sightseeing: Start your day by exploring Hongdae and its arts scene. This neighbourhood has a youthful, trendy atmosphere with lots of lively cafés, bars and clubs. Lose yourself in its narrow streets adorned with murals and enjoy the excitement of the street performances.

Continue your stroll to Insadong. This charming neighbourhood captivates visitors with its cobbled streets lined with craft shops and traditional art galleries, offering a glimpse into Korean culture and craftsmanship. Finally, don’t miss Itaewon, famous for its cultural diversity. Itaewon boasts a wealth of international restaurants, trendy bars and fashionable shops, attracting a cosmopolitan crowd eager to explore.

Breakfast at the hotel. Lunch and dinner are not included. Overnight stay in Seoul.

Suggested sightseeing: For a peaceful break away from the hustle and bustle of the city, take a stroll along the Cheonggyecheon River and admire the futuristic architecture of the Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Sample local specialities at Gwangjang Market and finish with a panoramic view from the N Seoul Tower, capturing all the magic of Seoul.

Breakfast at the hotel.

Private transfer to Seoul Airport for your flight.

ACCOMMODATION

For technical reasons, hotels may be replaced by accommodation of the same category.

The order of the stops and the itinerary may be subject to change depending on circumstances at the destination.

Any specific requests regarding the type of bed (double bed, twin beds) are subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.

Please note: in Japan and Seoul, hotel rooms are often quite small and the beds are on the small side.

Check-in is usually in the mid-afternoon (3 p.m.–4 p.m.). Check-out is usually in the morning (10 a.m.).

The accommodation included in this trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or for babies (aged 0 to 1.99 years).

MEALS

Breakfast-only package: If, due to schedules imposed by the airlines, the first and last days are shortened by a late arrival or an early departure, no refund for meals will be given.

Depending on the timetables for excursions or transport at your destination (train, bus, transfer, ferry, etc.), any meals that cannot be taken at the hotel are at the guests’ own expense.

TRANSPORT

AIRPORT–HOTEL TRANSFER BY SHARED SHUTTLE: The shared shuttle takes you directly from the airport to your hotel and vice versa. The shuttle may make several stops along the way.

TRAIN TRANSPORT: In Japan, the train is the most convenient means of transport for travelling. Both major cities and villages are well served; the Japanese rail network is extensive and highly efficient. It offers the opportunity to travel on the famous Shinkansen, Japan’s high-speed train, which reaches speeds of 320km! In South Korea, the rail network is very well developed. As South Korea is a small country, the train is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to travel.

HAKONE FREE-PASS: It connects Tokyo (Shinjuku Station) to Hakone via the Odakyu Line in 2 hours. In addition to the train journey, this pass provides unlimited access to the Hakone Tozan buses as well as numerous tourist attractions in the town. For example, why not take a cruise on Lake Ashi and head up to the Hakone Ropeway to admire the Owakudani volcanic area from above? You’ll also benefit from discounts at participating retailers. The pass is valid for 2 days from the date of activation.

AIRPORT TRANSFER BY LIMOUSINE BUS: The limousine bus runs between the airport and the bus stop nearest to your hotel, and vice versa. The vehicle makes several stops along the way.

PRIVATE TRANSFER: With a private transfer, your driver will collect you from the arrivals hall at the airport and drop you off directly at your hotel (and vice versa). Your driver will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name.