The Grand Tour of South Korea & Japan

Today you’ll take the first step towards your East Asian adventure. Departure will be from your selected airport, and your flight will be with one or more connecting flights along the way.

Welcome to the Land of the Morning Calm, South Korea.  

Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport on Yeongjong Island, you will pass through immigration and continue to the baggage claim area. In the arrivals hall, your driver will be waiting to greet you and ensure you begin your tour with complete peace of mind.  

From Yeongjong Island, west of the mainland, you’ll travel towards Seoul through gently rolling countryside, where bridges link island and mainland and green hills shape the horizon. Gradually, the city skyline emerges, with glass-and-steel skyscrapers and broad rivers winding their way through the city, while mountains rise like historic guardians around the metropolis. 

After arriving at your hotel, you will check in and have time to settle into your new surroundings. The rest of the day is at your leisure, allowing you to decide what your energy levels permit after a long day of travel.

Perhaps you’re tempted by a stroll in the local area, where sleek modern high-rises line the banks of the Han River. It doesn’t take long to sense Seoul’s distinctive energy, where everyday life and big-city pace blend seamlessly in a neighbourhood that captures the spirit of modern Seoul.  

In the evening, the city lights shimmer in the glossy facades of the skyscrapers, while the surrounding streets come alive with activity. You’ll find a wide range of eateries where you can explore Korean cuisine, sampling local favourites such as crispy fried chicken or savoury vegetable pancakes, yachaejeon. After your first Korean meal, you’ll return to your hotel for a well-earned night’s sleep.  

The morning holds a special significance in South Korea, often referred to as the Land of the Morning Calm. The nickname dates back to Joseon, the country’s last ruling dynasty, whose name loosely translates as “morning calm”.  

As you experience that sense of morning calm for yourself, you can look forward to truly beginning your tour adventure. After breakfast, you’ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby for an informal welcome meeting, where the programme for the coming days will be outlined. You’ll also receive your T-money card for public transport, and your guide will go over practical information and answer any questions you may have.  

You’ll then take the metro together to Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Here, locals and visitors come together in a captivating whirl of lights, sounds, and movement. The area is renowned for its lively street food scene, where many Koreans gather to eat, stroll, and soak up the pulse of the city.  

Along the bustling streets, you’ll pass cosmetic boutiques, fashion shops, and small food stalls. The scent of grilled delicacies and sweet treats fills the air, and your guide will introduce you to some of Korea’s most popular street food classics. You might be tempted by crisp hotteok pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts, steaming tteokbokki in spicy chilli sauce, or freshly grilled skewers of meat and vegetables.  

Your guide will also share insights into the neighbourhood’s development and the culture of modern South Korea, where tradition and contemporary life go hand in hand. The guided tour will conclude in the heart of Myeongdong’s lively bustle, giving you the chance to continue exploring at your own pace and discover even more of its dynamic, ever-changing atmosphere. In the side streets, you’ll also find cafés and small eateries where the pace slows slightly and everyday life unfolds amid the energy of the city centre.  

If you need a break from the many flavours, dive into the district’s endless shopping opportunities. Myeongdong is home to international brands, well-known Korean chains, and small local boutiques, each with its own distinctive character. It’s easy to get swept up in the atmosphere, where shopping, street food, and vibrant city life blend into one intense and entertaining urban experience.  

If you’re craving a breath of fresh air instead, make your way towards Namsan Park. Here, you can take the cable car or walk the final stretch up to N Seoul Tower, where a panoramic view of the city’s seemingly endless skyline awaits. From the top, Seoul stretches out in every direction, with the Han River, surrounding mountains, and towering high-rises creating a dramatic backdrop – a striking contrast to the narrow streets you’ve just explored.  

As night falls, steam rises from the city’s countless kitchens. Seoul is renowned for its diverse and dynamic food scene, and the evening is the perfect time to delve even deeper into it. Treat yourself to flavourful Korean barbecue, where the meat is grilled right at your table and shared together, or a bowl of spicy ramyeon with kimchi and crisp vegetables.

As you enjoy your first meal of the day, you can look forward to a day rich in history, reflection, and scenic experiences, all in beautiful harmony.  

In the morning, you’ll meet your guide in the lobby before setting off towards the borderlands north of Seoul. Along the way, the city’s pulse gradually gives way to sweeping natural landscapes of open fields, rolling hills, and forest-clad mountainsides.  

Before reaching the border, you’ll make your first stop of the day at the tranquil Lake Majang, where picturesque views await across the idyllic surroundings. Here, you can venture out onto the gently swaying yet sturdy suspension bridge, stretching 220 metres from shore to shore and offering exceptional panoramic views. If you prefer solid ground beneath your feet, you can instead enjoy a stroll along the inviting lakeside promenade.  

The tour then continues to Imjingak Park near the demilitarised zone, where modern Korean history is closely interwoven. Today, the area around the border appears surprisingly peaceful and green, with farmland and low rolling hills. In the park, your guide will show you around Freedom Bridge and share the story of the memorial dedicated to the families separated during the Korean War.  

From Imjingak, you’ll board a bus with your guide that takes you into the DMZ itself, following the mandatory passport control. Your first stop will be the Third Infiltration Tunnel, one of four tunnels built by North Korea and later discovered by South Korea. Descending into the tunnel offers a tangible insight into the tense history that continues to shape the peninsula. The experience is then placed into a broader context through films and exhibitions about Korea’s division at the DMZ Exhibition Hall.  

From here, the tour will continue to the Dora Observatory, which offers uninterrupted views across the Demilitarised Zone. Before you stretches a peaceful, green, and gently undulating landscape on both sides of the border, seemingly untouched by the profound historical and political significance the area holds.  

As you let your gaze drift across into North Korea, it can feel both close and distant at the same time. Through the binoculars, you may glimpse small villages, fields, and buildings where daily life appears to carry on as it would anywhere else. At the same time, the area is marked by symbolism and carefully staged elements that reflect the political narrative which is also part of the reality here. It is precisely this balance between ordinary life and the official narrative that creates a paradox, often stirring both curiosity and quiet reflection. The experience can be both sensory and deeply emotional – for many, it is a moment when the calm of nature and the gravity of history meet in an almost unreal equilibrium.  

Before heading home, you will also pass through Unification Village, a rural area of beautifully preserved countryside where rice, soya beans, and ginseng are cultivated. Here, you once again sense the interplay between nature and the weight of history, and it’s the perfect place to sample the area’s famous soya bean ice cream.  

Back in Seoul, you can let the day’s many impressions settle with a visit to one of the many family-run restaurants, which in the evening fill with local colleagues and friends meeting up after work.  

Today, you’ll have plenty of time to explore central Seoul at your own pace – the historic and cultural heart of the city.

With fresh legs, you can easily wander between some of the most atmospheric neighbourhoods, all located within comfortable walking distance of one another. Here, you’ll discover a different side of the capital, characterised by traditional houses, palaces, and narrow alleyways that stand in striking contrast to modern Seoul.

You might begin your day at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul’s largest and most iconic royal palace. The open courtyards and symmetrical wooden buildings, adorned with colourful details and framed by mountains in the background, create an almost ceremonial sense of calm. As you pass through the gates and stroll along the long colonnades, you can almost feel the echoes of history from when the palace was the centre of the Joseon dynasty. If you’re lucky, you may even witness the changing of the guard, where soldiers in traditional dress perform a historic ceremony that brings the past vividly to life in the present.  

From here, you can continue on to Bukchon Hanok Village, where narrow, winding alleyways lead you between traditional hanok houses with curved tiled roofs and wooden façades. The area is still residential, offering a glimpse into a living neighbourhood where past and present exist side by side. Along the way, you’ll come across small viewpoints where you can gaze out over the rooftops and spot the striking contrast between the low, historic buildings and Seoul’s modern skyline in the distance.  

When hunger strikes, head on to Insadong. Tucked between the area’s shops, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants serving everything from classic bibimbap dishes to vegetarian temple cuisine inspired by Buddhist traditions. Afterwards, take time to explore the main street and its charming side alleys, renowned for their many artisan shops where traditional crafts are proudly made and sold. These sit alongside galleries and traditional tea houses, and you’ll find everything from hand-painted ceramics and calligraphy to handmade paper goods, wooden figurines, and beautiful silk textiles.

You can then continue on to Ikseon-dong, a smaller and more intimate neighbourhood where traditional hanok houses have been transformed into contemporary cafés, design boutiques, and creative eateries. Here, old and new come together in a more playful way than in Bukchon. Behind the historic façades, you’ll find colourful interiors, speciality coffee, and small shops showcasing local design. The atmosphere is youthful and creative, and the area buzzes with renewal without letting go of its historical roots.

If you choose to stay in the area into the evening, you can enjoy a delicious meal in atmospheric surroundings, as old street lamps cast their warm glow across the neighbourhood. The many cosy restaurants and cafés serve both local favourites and fusion dishes that define modern Korean food culture. If you fancy something sweet to round off the day, treat yourself to a bowl of bingsu, available in a tempting array of flavours.

The morning is at your leisure before the tour continues onward to the south-east.  

You might like to start the day with a walk to the Han River, just a short stroll away. The wide riverside paths offer a peaceful start to the morning as the city slowly comes to life. Alternatively, visit the large shopping centre by the station or settle into a café and let Seoul’s morning atmosphere unfold around you.  

Later, make your own way to Seoul Station by metro, where you’ll board the train to Busan. If you arrive in good time, you can use the station’s lockers to store your luggage and explore the area freely. From here, it’s an easy walk to nearby Namdaemun Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most atmospheric markets. In its narrow alleyways, you’ll find everything from textiles and kitchenware to steaming street food stalls, making it the perfect spot to enjoy lunch before your train journey.  

After lunch, it’s time to board South Korea’s high-speed KTX train, which swiftly carries you towards the south-east coast. Along the way, urban landscapes give way to mountains and wide-open countryside before you arrive in Busan.  

Once you’ve checked in at your hotel, the evening is yours to explore South Korea’s second-largest city and the country’s maritime heart. Here, city life and the sea come together in an atmosphere that feels more open and relaxed than in the capital. Mountains rise behind the rooftops, the harbour hums with activity, and the coastline leaves its clear mark on both the pace and the character of the city.

You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the local area, where small restaurants and independent shops offer an authentic glimpse into the city’s many facets. If you’d like to mingle with the locals, try the city’s signature dish, dwaeji gukbap. This steaming soup of tender pork and rice is simple yet deeply flavourful and has been a much-loved everyday favourite in Busan for generations.  

Busan’s long coastline, the mountain ranges running parallel to it, and the city’s impressive bridges create a striking panorama that embraces its diverse neighbourhoods and forms a unique blend of traditional and modern maritime life. With the day at your leisure, you are free to explore whichever side of the city appeals to you – either independently or by joining one of our exciting optional tours.  

You might begin in the south-western part of the city with a visit to the charming Gamcheon Culture Village. Its colourful houses are arranged like a living amphitheatre along the mountainside, and the narrow alleyways lead you past small shops and creative art installations. Once a modest residential area, the neighbourhood has transformed into a vibrant and artistic hub filled with cosy cafés. Here, you can enjoy a good cup of coffee or a refreshing drink while taking in the beautiful views over the village, with the sea as a stunning backdrop.  

From here, you can take the bus to Jagalchi Fish Market, South Korea’s largest seafood market, where the day’s catch is laid out on ice in long rows. The atmosphere is vibrant and authentic, making it the perfect place to sample fresh fish or shellfish at one of the nearby restaurants. A few streets away, you’ll find BIFF Square, named after the Busan International Film Festival, where buzzing streets and small stalls serve up local snacks alongside cinemas and shops. From here, continue on to the international Gukje Market, where narrow alleyways, street food kitchens, and small shops create a lively and genuinely authentic atmosphere.  

If you’re keen to delve into South Korea’s fascinating history, spend the day on an excursion to Gyeongju, the country’s former capital during the Silla dynasty. The city is listed on the UNESCO world heritage list and is often described as a living open-air museum, where burial mounds, temples, and historic monuments bear witness to Korea’s rich cultural heritage. While here, you can also visit Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto, both included on the UNESCO world heritage list and considered among the most significant Buddhist monuments in East Asia.  

If you’re keen to experience something a little different, take the metro to the north-eastern part of the city. Here you’ll find Haeundae Beach, one of the country’s most famous beaches, with its wide stretches of sand and an impressive skyline as a backdrop. Stroll along the shoreline and soak up the modern coastal atmosphere that defines this part of Busan. Nearby, you can also visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of Busan’s most atmospheric attractions. Curved stairways and small pavilions lead you down to the temple, dramatically set on cliffs overlooking the sea, where waves crash against the rocks below.  

You can spend the later hours of the day in Seomyeon. This area represents modern Busan and serves as the city’s commercial hub, home to department stores showcasing international brands, Korean designer boutiques, and small independent shops. The atmosphere is lively, with cafés and restaurants inviting you in to sample local specialities such as Korean barbecue or crispy pajeon pancakes, ideally accompanied by a glass of local makgeolli.  

It’s now time to bid farewell to South Korea and turn your attention to the next chapter of your tour, which will take you to the traditional yet modern Japan.  

Well in advance of your departure, you’ll make your way the short distance to Busan Station, from where you’ll take a taxi independently to Gimhae International Airport – a journey of around half an hour. From here, you’ll travel east towards the Land of the Rising Sun, where new contrasts, flavours, and experiences await.

After arriving at Osaka Airport, you’ll pass through immigration and continue to baggage claim. In the arrivals hall, you will be met by your driver, who will be waiting with a sign and ensure you get off to a smooth start on your Japanese adventure.

From the airport, you’ll travel on to Osaka, a modern metropolis located around an hour’s drive away. Gradually, the city skyline rises on the horizon as motorways, harbour areas, and densely packed residential districts slip past. Osaka is energetic, down-to-earth and full of character, and even during the drive, you’ll begin to sense the city’s rhythm, its unfiltered pace, and vibrant atmosphere.

Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel, where you can unpack and settle in, as the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. If you feel up to it, take a short stroll around the local area to shake off the journey. The streets hum with life, neon lights flash overhead, and the scent of grilled specialities drifts out from small, open-fronted restaurants.

Osaka is also known as “Japan’s kitchen” and is celebrated for its laid-back atmosphere and proud food culture. You’ll eat well wherever you go, making it easy to begin your tour on a delicious note before returning to your hotel and unwinding after a day filled with new impressions.

After breakfast, you’ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a welcome meeting designed to give you a reassuring and well-prepared start to your tour. Your guide will talk you through the programme for the coming days, share practical information, and answer any questions you may have.

Next, a captivating walk awaits, leading you through some of the city’s most characterful neighbourhoods, celebrated for their vibrant food culture and the many local specialities that shape both the streetscape and the very soul of the city.

The tour will begin in the charming Shinsekai district, which was dubbed “The New World” when it was built before the Second World War. The area’s architecture and atmosphere still reflect the era’s fascination with both Paris and New York, and its streets exude a nostalgic sense of times gone by. Here, you can sample golden kushikatsu skewers, available with both meat and vegetables – one of the city’s most beloved snacks.  

You’ll then continue through the lively heart of Osaka to the iconic Dotonbori district, where neon lights, music, and towering billboards envelop the streets, and the Glico Running Man reigns as one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Your guide will also lead you down the narrow alley of Hozenji Yokocho, where the moss-covered statue of Fudō Myōō stands tucked away among small restaurants and bars. Here, you’ll hear about the local prayer ritual, as visitors still pour water over the statue as a symbol of respect and purification.  

The culinary walking tour will end at Kuromon Market, a vibrant food market filled with the aromas of freshly grilled fish, steaming soups, and fruit arranged in neat, pastel-coloured displays. Here, you’ll have the chance to sample crispy takoyaki stuffed with octopus before either continuing on your own or returning to the hotel with your guide.  

The rest of the day will be at your leisure, giving you the freedom to take it easy or explore more of Osaka’s many contrasts, depending on your mood. A short walk brings you to the youthful Amemura district, buzzing with creative energy, or you can hop on the metro to the Umeda Sky Building, where the floating observation deck reveals sweeping views across the city’s glittering skyline.  

If you wish, you can also visit Osaka Castle and enjoy a stroll through the surrounding park, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s historical roots in the heart of the modern metropolis. If shopping is more your style, Shinsaibashi offers everything from international brands to small, independent boutiques, while the Nakanoshima area, with its flowing river, museums, and green spaces, provides a peaceful contrast to the city’s vibrant centre.

As evening falls, neon lights shimmer in the Dotonbori Canal while restaurants buzz with life, laughter, and the clink of glasses. You can explore the many small izakayas and eateries, where menus range from grilled skewers to steaming bowls of noodles. The atmosphere is relaxed and infectious, making it easy to be swept up in the city’s vibrant energy and its wholehearted love of living in the moment.  

After a good start to the day with breakfast, you’ll meet your guide, who will accompany you to Shin-Osaka Station, where you’ll board a local train to Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara.

Upon arrival at Nara Station, you will be escorted to your hotel to leave your luggage before setting off on a tour of Nara’s old merchant district, Naramachi.

Here, you’ll wander through narrow streets lined with beautifully preserved wooden houses that reflect the area’s history as a thriving trading centre. Along the way, your guide will share engaging stories about the district’s development, the importance of commerce, and everyday life in old Nara, offering a deeper insight into the area’s culture and traditional architecture. You pass small speciality shops, cosy cafés, and intimate museums where history still feels very much alive. The atmosphere is peaceful and authentic, inviting you to explore at a leisurely pace.

You will also visit a local sake brewery, where you’ll be introduced to the drink’s history and its significance in Japanese culture. Gain insight into the traditional brewing process and enjoy the opportunity to sample a wide range of different varieties. Here, you’ll discover how flavour, aroma, and character vary from brew to brew, while the stories behind each one enrich the experience and deepen your understanding of this proud tradition.

Afterwards, the rest of the day will be yours to enjoy at your leisure. With Naramachi’s charming cafés just around the corner, it’s the perfect place to stop for lunch before taking the short walk to Nara Park later in the afternoon. Here, the landscape opens up into green lawns and ancient trees, where free-roaming deer wander calmly among visitors. The park is home to some of Nara’s most significant attractions, including the impressive Todai-ji Temple with its enormous bronze Buddha statue. 

In the evening, Nara reveals its true character as the day-trippers make their way back to Kyoto and Osaka. The pace slows right down, giving you the space to experience the city at your own rhythm. Settle into one of the small local restaurants or izakayas, where you can dine alongside residents and savour everything from freshly prepared sushi and tempura to steaming noodle dishes – or try Nara’s own speciality, kakinoha-zushi, sushi delicately wrapped in persimmon leaves.

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure, giving you plenty of opportunity to discover even more of Japan’s first permanent capital, where history, nature, and spirituality blend seamlessly.

Although you may have visited Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park yesterday, it’s well worth returning to explore them in greater depth before the day’s many visitors arrive. Wander along the park’s paths, soak up the relaxed atmosphere, and perhaps buy some of the special deer crackers that will instantly make you popular with the curious animals. In the same area, you’ll also find Kōfukuji Temple with its distinctive pagoda, as well as Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where hundreds of lanterns guide you along forest-clad pathways. 

You might also head to the Isuien or Yoshikien gardens, where beautifully laid-out paths, gentle streams, and carefully composed landscapes create a tranquil setting. Here, you can experience Japanese garden design at its most harmonious and simply let the calm wash over you amid the changing colours of the seasons.

If you’re keen to explore further, venture beyond the city centre to some of Japan’s oldest and most significant temples, such as Horyu-ji, Yakushi-ji, and Toshodai-ji, all of which bear witness to the country’s early Buddhist history. Alternatively, make your way up towards Mt. Wakakusa and into the protected Kasuga Primeval Forest, where nature surrounds you and sweeping views over Nara reward your efforts.

Some of Japan’s most beautiful scenery awaits on a full-day excursion to UNESCO-listed Mount Yoshino, where a short cable car ride carries you up through forested slopes that transform with the changing seasons. Here, you can visit the impressive Kinpusen-ji Temple, one of Japan’s largest wooden structures and an important centre for Shugendo practice. The area is perfect for gentle walks along mountain paths dotted with small temples, local shops, and sweeping views that are particularly breathtaking during cherry blossom season or when autumn colours set the hills ablaze.

Back in Nara, you can round off the day in the lively streets around Mochiidonocho and Higashimuki, home to charming boutiques, cafés, and local eateries. After dark, the pace slows as lanterns cast a soft glow over the historic buildings, creating an intimate and authentic atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxed meal, take one last stroll through the old quarters, and let the day’s impressions quietly sink in.

Your day will begin early as you make your own way to Nara Station, where you’ll board a local train bound for Kyoto.

Upon arrival in Japan’s former imperial capital, your guide will be waiting for you on the platform to help you find your way to your hotel, where you can safely and securely leave your luggage.

You’ll then head to Nijo Castle, built by the founder of the Edo shogunate. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the castle is renowned for its distinctive architecture, richly decorated sliding doors, and the famous “nightingale floors”, which chirp softly as you walk across them. The floors were originally designed as a security measure, allowing residents to hear any intruders approaching. 

Stepping away from centuries of history, you’ll continue to Nishiki Market, a narrow shopping street lined with more than 100 small shops and eateries. Often referred to as “Kyoto’s kitchen”, the market overflows with everything from fresh fish and pickled vegetables to sweet treats and local delicacies. It’s a lively spot and the perfect place to enjoy a light lunch, arranged by your guide, while gaining insight into the many ingredients and flavours that define Japanese cuisine.

Today’s cultural highlight is undoubtedly taking part in a traditional tea ceremony, offering you a unique insight into some of Japan’s oldest traditions. In calm and intimate surroundings, you’ll first be served a small Japanese sweet before watching the house’s skilled tea master prepare traditional Japanese matcha in strict accordance with time-honoured customs. You’ll taste the finished tea and receive an introduction to the ritual’s precise movements and symbolism, after which you’ll have the opportunity, under expert guidance, to whisk your own bowl of matcha into a fine green froth. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, the ritual provides a profound insight into Japanese aesthetics, mindfulness, and respect for detail.

After the ceremony, the afternoon will be yours to enjoy at your leisure. The area around the teahouse is more local and tranquil than the city centre, giving you a sense of everyday life that contrasts beautifully with the more visited districts. If you wish, you can take the train a couple of stops south to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates winding their way up the mountainside. Stroll through the iconic gateways and soak up the shrine’s sacred atmosphere before heading back towards the city centre.

Spend the evening soaking up Kyoto’s unique atmosphere and settling into one of the city’s many excellent restaurants. You might be tempted by local obanzai dishes, best enjoyed in a cosy restaurant overlooking the illuminated streets that provide a wonderfully atmospheric end to the day.

Kyoto is home to a wealth of temples, shrines, and charming neighbourhoods, and today is free of planned activities, giving you the freedom to explore whichever sides of the city appeal to you most. Take inspiration from the suggestions below or discover one of our carefully selected optional tours.

A great place to begin is at Kiyomizudera Temple in eastern Kyoto, best visited early in the morning. Admire one of the city’s most iconic landmarks dramatically poised on its wooden terrace overlooking the city, before continuing through the narrow lanes of the charming Higashiyama district. Here, traditional wooden houses, small shops, and teahouses create an enchanting atmosphere that feels like stepping back into old Japan. Visit Kōdaiji Temple with its elegant Japanese garden, and soak up the tranquil ambience at Yasaka Shrine and nearby Maruyama Park, before ending your walk in the affluent geisha district of Gion.

From here, you can take the bus north-east to one of Kyoto’s most iconic attractions, Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion. Admire the temple’s understated elegance and poetic atmosphere, then continue along the Philosopher’s Path – a charming walkway beside a narrow canal lined with cherry trees. The path links several smaller temples and leads to one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, Nanzen-ji, which is well worth a visit in its own right. From here, you can carry on to Heian Jingū Shrine, known for its impressive torii gate and tranquil gardens. 

If you’d like to experience a different side of Kyoto, take public transport west to Arashiyama and visit Tenryu-ji Temple, famed for its classical garden and views of the surrounding green mountains. While you’re here, enjoy a stroll through Arashiyama’s famous bamboo grove, where towering bamboo stalks create glowing green corridors filled with light and serenity. Also worth exploring is the charming Saga Toriimoto district, with its beautifully preserved houses and inviting, narrow lanes.

Although Kyoto is home to many well-known attractions, we also recommend putting the map away for a while and simply letting your curiosity guide you through the city’s streets. Some of the most special moments are often found in the quieter side alleys, where you’ll discover everything from small, characterful eateries and shops to tiny sacred temples that continue to play an important role in the daily lives of local residents.

Once night has fallen, you have another opportunity to explore Kyoto’s culinary scene. You might be tempted by an intimate restaurant serving the city’s distinctive kaiseki cuisine, where each course is a small work of art, or perhaps a more informal izakaya offering grilled specialities and a glass of sake.

The day will begin with breakfast, after which you’ll have half a day at your leisure. 

If you start your day early, you can fit in visits to two of Kyoto’s most famous attractions. Using public transport, head northwest to the renowned Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Its gilded façade is beautifully reflected in the still waters of the surrounding pond, creating one of the city’s most iconic sights. Here, you can follow the carefully designed path through the adjoining gardens, framed by the season’s natural colours.

From here, continue by bus to Kyoto’s former Imperial Palace, surrounded by an impressive park that is well worth a visit in its own right. If you have a smartphone, you can access a free and informative audio guide that расскаnts the story of the palace and the Imperial family as you stroll along the park’s broad gravel paths, taking in the carefully landscaped ponds in the heart of the ancient imperial city.

Before your train journey in the afternoon, you may wish to find somewhere for lunch or do as many Japanese people do and buy a bento box to take on board. These small, beautifully arranged dishes are an experience in themselves and a perfect way to savour one last taste of Kyoto.

Afterwards, you’ll make your own way to Kyoto Station, where first a limited express train and then Japan’s famous high-speed train, the Shinkansen, will take you to Kanazawa, changing in Tsuruga along the way.

After checking in at your hotel, you’ll have the evening at leisure to explore the city, often referred to as “Little Kyoto”. Like its namesake, Kanazawa has preserved its historic charm, with well-kept samurai districts, teahouses, traditional wooden buildings, and a distinctive atmosphere that clearly reflects the elegance of times gone by. 

As you may already have discovered, Japanese cuisine varies from region to region, and Kanazawa is no exception. The city is known for its fresh ingredients from the Sea of Japan and is particularly renowned for high-quality sushi and sashimi. You might also like to try the local speciality, jibuni – a slow-cooked dish of duck and vegetables with flavours that reflect the region’s culinary finesse. Tucked away in the narrow side streets, you’ll find a wealth of intimate izakayas and restaurants, where the atmosphere invites you to slow down and savour both the food and the distinctive calm that characterises Kanazawa.

Breakfast is always best when you have an exciting day ahead – and that’s exactly what awaits you today.

You’ll meet your guide in the hotel lobby, who will accompany you by coach to the historic mountain village of Shirakawa-go, which is listed on the UNESCO world heritage list. Along the way, you can sit back and enjoy the journey through the scenic Japanese Alps, where small villages and the changing seasons colour the forested slopes.

Upon arrival in Shirakawa-go, it’s hard not to be captivated by the village’s fairytale charm. Scattered across the peaceful landscape are traditional farmhouses with steep thatched roofs, specially designed to withstand the region’s heavy winter snowfall. These farmhouses are known as gassho-zukuri, meaning “hands in prayer”, as their distinctive roof construction resembles hands pressed together in prayer.

As you stroll through the village, it will feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Here, you’ll gain insight into the rural way of life that has shaped the area for generations, and you’ll visit one of the village’s largest and best-preserved farmhouses. Once home to a local doctor, the house now stands as a living example of the region’s traditional architecture and way of life. Inside, you can explore the original rooms, tools, and structures, each telling the story of everyday life in the area.

Afterwards, you’ll have time to explore the village at your own pace. Perhaps a short walk up to a viewpoint with panoramic views over the distinctive rooftops will tempt you, or a visit to one of the small shops selling local delicacies and handmade crafts. You might also like to settle into one of the charming cafés with a cup of coffee and something sweet before heading back to Kanazawa.

If you still have the energy, you can round off the day with a stroll through Kanazawa’s historic geisha district, Higashi Chaya. As night falls, the narrow streets are gently illuminated by lanterns, and the beautifully preserved wooden houses from the Edo period create an atmospheric setting for the evening. The pace slows here, and the calm, refined ambience feels like stepping back in time. You might hear soft music drifting from behind a sliding door or catch sight of a geisha’s silhouette on her way to an appointment, as the city gradually settles for the night.

After breakfast, you’ll have a couple of hours at your leisure before the tour continues to Tokyo by Shinkansen.

If you’re an early riser, Kanazawa’s efficient bus network makes it easy to visit more of the city’s attractions. At Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s most celebrated gardens, you can enjoy a peaceful morning atmosphere in beautiful surroundings. Stroll through a harmonious landscape of small lakes, stone lanterns, tea pavilions, and meticulously pruned trees, where every detail reflects careful craftsmanship and refined aesthetics. The garden transforms with the seasons, offering new colours, scents, and moods throughout the year.

Next to Kenrokuen lies Kanazawa Castle, once the seat of the powerful Maeda clan. Its whitewashed walls and impressive gates stand as a testament to the city’s samurai heritage. Explore the castle grounds and reconstructed buildings, where traditional craftsmanship techniques remain clearly visible. Together, the garden and castle provide a vivid insight into Kanazawa’s distinguished past and can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace over the course of the morning. 

Enjoy lunch at the popular Omicho Market before making your own way to Kanazawa Station, where the Shinkansen whisks you towards Tokyo with impressive speed and precision. Sit back, relax in comfort, and watch the scenery drift by as a new chapter of your tour begins in Japan’s vibrant capital.

Upon arrival at Tokyo Station, you’ll step into one of the world’s busiest transport hubs. From here, you’ll make your own way to your hotel by metro or local train. Although it may seem overwhelming at first, the system is efficient and exceptionally well organised. In many ways, the experience reflects everything Japan does so well – and nowhere more impressively than in Tokyo, with its remarkable scale and precision. 

After checking in at your hotel, you’re free to head out and explore the modern city life, sampling everything from local specialities to innovative cuisine in the neon-lit streets. The capital is renowned for its Edomae sushi, but also for its crisp tempura, steaming bowls of ramen, and delicate yakitori skewers served in traditional local izakayas.

Tokyo, one of the world’s largest cities, is wonderfully diverse and full of contrasts, and there’s no single right answer to what you should experience. The coming days are therefore at your leisure, giving you the freedom to explore the Japanese capital exactly as you wish. Feel free to draw inspiration from the suggestions below and spread them across your days, or enhance your stay with one of our exciting optional tours.

You might begin in the lively Asakusa district, home to Tokyo’s oldest and most famous temple, Senso-ji. On your way to the temple, stroll along Nakamise-dori, where the scent of freshly cooked snacks mingles with the temptation of stalls brimming with lucky charms, fans, and local specialities. Just a few streets away, a very different sense of calm awaits on Kappabashi Street, where small shops selling Japanese porcelain and finely crafted kitchen knives sit side by side. Look up and you’ll see Tokyo Skytree rising towards the sky as a striking modern landmark. You can admire the tower from below or, with a valid ticket, head up to the top to take in breathtaking views across the metropolis.

If you’d like to combine several of Tokyo’s iconic neighbourhoods, many of them are conveniently located along the same train line. From Yoyogi Park, where locals jog and unwind beneath the shade of towering treetops, you can stroll on to the tranquil Meiji Shrine, hidden within a dense forest where gravel paths and the scent of cedar offer a welcome escape from the city’s buzz. Continue to Shibuya to greet the Hachiko statue and cross the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, which after dark becomes a mesmerising sea of people – best admired from a bar high above the streets below.

You can enjoy lunch at Tsukiji Market, where small stalls serve freshly prepared sushi, grilled seafood, and classic Japanese dishes cooked right in front of you. From here, head on to Akihabara, where neon signs flash in every direction and shops brim with gadgets, manga, and collectible figures. For a striking contrast, make your way to Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, where moats, tree-lined avenues, and beautifully manicured gardens offer an elegant glimpse into Japan’s imperial history. Round off your day in Shinjuku, where soaring skyscrapers, glowing neon lights, and lively streets showcase the energy of modern Tokyo. You can also visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to take in sweeping views over the city’s glittering skyline or catch the daily light show projected onto its iconic façade.

In contrast to the pace of the big city, you can also spend one of your days on an excursion outside Tokyo. In Nikko, lavishly decorated temples and shrines await, surrounded by forest-clad mountains – including the impressive Toshogu Shrine, which is listed on the UNESCO world heritage list. Alternatively, visit Hakone National Park, where hot springs, a cruise on Lake Ashi, and, on clear days, iconic views of Mt. Fuji make for an unforgettable day.

Whatever the day has brought, the evening is the perfect opportunity to explore Tokyo’s diverse culinary scene. Take your pick from an intimate sushi bar with just a handful of seats, a lively ramen shop with queues out the door, or a restaurant high above street level – and turn dinner into yet another highlight of your day.

Your tour is drawing to a close, but you’ll return home with a suitcase full of experiences, vivid impressions, and unforgettable encounters with the historic cities, living traditions, and modern-day life of South Korea and Japan.

In good time before your flight departs, you’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to the airport, where your journey back to Europe begins with one or more connecting flights along the way.

You’ll land at your selected airport and can look back on a tour filled with atmospheric streets and encounters with many different sides of South Korea and Japan – and hopefully with a small longing planted to return one day.