13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea
Overview
Experience the perfect blend of ancient tradition and modern innovation on this captivating 13-day journey through Japan and South Korea. Begin in Tokyo, where timeless shrines and dazzling skylines coexist, then marvel at the beauty of Mount Fuji and the serene landscapes of Hakone. Travel by bullet train to Kyoto and Nara, exploring golden temples, imperial palaces, and sacred deer parks before flying to Busan, South Korea's vibrant coastal city. Discover cultural villages, seaside views, and ancient treasures in Gyeongju, then continue to Seoul, where royal palaces meet K-pop energy. A visit to the DMZ offers a profound glimpse into the peninsula's history before your unforgettable adventure concludes in South Korea's dynamic capital.
Tour Highlights
- Tokyo’s Cultural Icons: Discover Japan’s vibrant capital, from the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa to the Imperial Palace Plaza and Tokyo Tower’s panoramic city views
- Majestic Mount Fuji & Scenic Hakone: Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, cruise on Lake Ashi, and ride the Komagatake Ropeway for stunning vistas of Hakone National Park
- Ride the Iconic Bullet Train: Experience Japan’s legendary Shinkansen, renowned for its speed, comfort, and efficiency, as you travel from Hakone to Kyoto
- Coastal Charms of Busan: Take in South Korea’s coastal beauty with a Sky Capsule ride, the glass Oryukdo Skywalk, and the artistic alleys of Gamcheon Culture Village
- Ancient Treasures of Gyeongju: Explore the “Museum Without Walls,” featuring Bulguksa Temple, Yangdong Village, and the picturesque Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond
- Seoul’s Heritage & the DMZ Experience: Discover Seoul’s blend of tradition and modernity at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Myeongdong, then gain rare insight into Korean history with a visit to the DMZ
What’s Included
- 3 nights in a Superior Plus Room at Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
- 1 night in a Standard Western-style Room at Hakone Kowakien Hotel
- 2 nights in a Guest Room at DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station
- 3 nights in a Standard Room at Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae
- 3 nights in a Standard Room at The Hotel Botanik Myeongdong
- One-way bullet train from Hakone to Kyoto
- One-way high-speed train from Busan to Seoul
- All transfers, sightseeing tours and cultural activities as specified in the itinerary
- English-speaking local guides
- 16 Meals: 12 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches
- Hotel taxes and service charges
What’s Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Gratuities, porterage, travel insurance, and visa fees
- Meals, beverages, and optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, drinks, local camera/video fees, and medical expenses
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local taxes (when applicable)
Itinerary
Welcome to Tokyo, Japan's dynamic capital, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. Upon arrival at Tokyo International Airport (Haneda/Narita), you will be transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and recover from your journey.
In the evening, you may wish to explore the surrounding neighborhood at your own pace or enjoy a delightful meal at one of the hotel's restaurants.
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo (Superior Plus Room)
Begin your day with a brief stop at Tokyo Station, a historic hub for Shinkansen (bullet trains). Visit Imperial Palace Plaza and stroll through the serene National Garden, admiring the iconic Nijubashi Bridge. Drive past the National Diet Building and continue to Tokyo Tower for panoramic views of the city. Explore Asakusa with Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate, and Nakamise Street. On the return, pass by Kabukiza Theatre and the elegant Ginza district. Tour ends near Tokyo Station with a free afternoon to explore the city at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo (Superior Plus Room)
Today is free for you to explore Tokyo at your own pace. You may choose to visit the city's modern districts such as Shibuya, famous for its lively crossing and trendy shops, or Harajuku, known for its fashionable boutiques and vibrant street culture. For a more traditional experience, head to Ueno Park to visit its museums and temples, or stroll through Yanaka, one of Tokyo's few remaining old neighborhoods. Alternatively, enjoy shopping and dining in Shinjuku, located right at your doorstep, or take in panoramic views of the city from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo (Superior Plus Room)
Set off on a full-day excursion to Mount Fuji and Hakone aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. Weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking views from Mount Fuji's Fifth Station, located 7,607 feet above sea level. After lunch, take a scenic cruise on Lake Ashi, where, on a clear day, you might see Mount Fuji rising in the distance. Continue with a ride on the Komagatake Ropeway, offering sweeping views of Lake Ashi and the stunning landscapes of Hakone National Park. At the summit, visit Hakone Shrine Mototsumiya, a peaceful shrine nestled atop Mount Komagatake. The tour concludes at Odawara Station, where you'll board a bullet train to Kyoto, Japan's former imperial capital for over 1,000 years. When you arrive, take a short walk to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hakone Kowakien Hotel (Standard Western-style Room)
After breakfast, transfer with your driver to Odawara Station to board the bullet train to Kyoto, an experience that combines comfort and speed as you journey through Japan's scenic landscapes. Upon arrival at Kyoto Station, enjoy a short five-minute walk to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station (Guest Room)
Begin with a visit to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring the elegant Ninomaru Palace with its ornate interiors. Continue to the dazzling Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), whose gold-leaf exterior shimmers over a tranquil pond. Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, once the residence of Japan's Imperial Family, before traveling to Nara, Japan's first capital. Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famed for its thousands of lanterns, and stroll through Nara Park, home to friendly, free-roaming deer. End your day at Todai-ji Temple, another UNESCO site, where you'll see the immense wooden hall housing the Great Buddha. Return to Kyoto in the late afternoon. Tour ends at Kyoto Station.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Kyoto Station (Guest Room)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Busan. Welcome to Busan, South Korea's vibrant coastal metropolis and a dynamic hub of culture, commerce, and natural beauty. As the country's second-largest city, Busan is renowned for its stunning beaches, bustling markets, and one of the world's busiest ports. Upon arrival, meet your driver for a seamless transfer to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae (Standard Room)
Take in Busan's scenic beauty with a Sky Capsule ride at Blue Line Park, views from the Oryukdo Skywalk, and a stroll through Sunrise Park. Visit Hinnyeoul Culture Village and end the day at Gamcheon Culture Village, with its colorful hillside houses and art-filled alleys.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae (Standard Room)
Embark on a journey to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of Silla. Explore UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple and Yangdong Village, then visit the Daereungwon Tomb Complex. Walk along Hwangridan Street for local bites before admiring Woljeong Bridge and the illuminated Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond in the evening. Return to Busan.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae (Standard Room)
Board a high-speed train to Seoul, South Korea's dynamic capital. Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, meet your driver for a private transfer to your centrally located hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Hotel Botanik Myeongdong (Standard Room)
Discover Seoul's blend of tradition and modernity. Begin at Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Folk Museum, then stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village and Insa-dong. In the afternoon, follow K-Star Road to see colorful K-pop–themed statues before ending the day in bustling Myeongdong, famous for fashion, beauty shops, and street food.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Hotel Botanik Myeongdong (Standard Room)
Embark on a full-day tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), visiting Dorasan Station, Dora Observatory, and the Third Tunnel of Aggression. Gain rare insights from a North Korean defector before returning to Seoul. In the evening, enjoy free time or join an optional K-pop dance class.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: The Hotel Botanik Myeongdong (Standard Room)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Dates & Prices
| Departure Dates | Tour Cost | More Info | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18 Jan 26 - 30 Jan 26 | USD $4795 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 08 Feb 26 - 20 Feb 26 | USD $4795 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 08 Mar 26 - 20 Mar 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 22 Mar 26 - 03 Apr 26 | USD $5395 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 05 Apr 26 - 17 Apr 26 | USD $5495 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 19 Apr 26 - 01 May 26 | USD $5295 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 10 May 26 - 22 May 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 17 May 26 - 29 May 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 07 Jun 26 - 19 Jun 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 21 Jun 26 - 03 Jul 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 05 Jul 26 - 17 Jul 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 19 Jul 26 - 31 Jul 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 02 Aug 26 - 14 Aug 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 23 Aug 26 - 04 Sep 26 | USD $5295 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 06 Sep 26 - 18 Sep 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 27 Sep 26 - 09 Oct 26 | USD $5195 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 11 Oct 26 - 23 Oct 26 | USD $5195 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 25 Oct 26 - 06 Nov 26 | USD $5195 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 01 Nov 26 - 13 Nov 26 | USD $5195 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 15 Nov 26 - 27 Nov 26 | USD $5195 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |
| 13 Dec 26 - 25 Dec 26 | USD $4995 | 13-Day Wonders of Japan & Korea | BOOK NOW |

