en
- Signature
- 18-day trip
- From €11,095 p.p.
South Korea and Japan trip | Luxury trip South Korea & Japan
This exclusive trip will take you to South Korea and Japan. Two countries with many contrasts, from hyper modern to centuries-old tradition. You will start this beautiful journey in South Korea's capital, Seoul. Visit its magnificent palaces, bustling markets and hyper-modern districts. Take the high-speed train to the coastal city of Busan and meet the merchants at the Jagalchi fish market. Fly on to Japan's capital, Tokyo, where you can explore the dynamic city at your leisure. Then travel by superfast bullet train to the beautiful Kiso Valley. Here you will be surrounded by spectacular scenery, picturesque villages and famous hiking trails, A visit to Matsumoto, a small castle town surrounded by rice fields, vineyards, wasabi farms and the great Japanese Alps, is scheduled here. The next destination is the beautiful city of Kyoto. Here you will have several activities to explore both Kyoto, and its beautiful surroundings. This will introduce you to pilgrim temples, Japanese tea culture, Buddhist temples and the fascinating Arashiyama bamboo forest. You will then travel on to your final destination of this beautiful round trip: Osaka. Here you will conclude the trip with a fun food tour where you will dive into delicious Japanese cuisine.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to South Korea
- Day 2 Arrival in South Korea
- Day 3 Highlights of Seoul
- Day 4 Free day in Seoul
- Day 5 Seoul – Busan
- Day 6 – 7 Highlights of Busan
- Days 8–10 Stay in Tokyo
- Day 11 Tokyo – Matsumoto – Kiso Valley
- Day 12 Mount Ontaka expedition
- Day 13 Paragliding in the Kiso Valley
- Day 14 Kyoto and surrounding area
- Day 15 Kyoto tea ceremony
- Day 16 Arashiyama walking tour
- Day 17 Journey to Osaka
- Day 18 Departure from Japan
Arrival in South Korea
한국에 오신 것을 환영합니다! or Welcome to South Korea Upon arrival at the airport, you will be kindly welcomed by our local representative and taken to your accommodation. You can spend the rest of the day acclimatising.
Included
• Meet & Greet
• Private transfer to the accommodation
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Seoul highlights
After breakfast, you will be picked up by your guide and start exploring the city. Start the day with a visit to the beautiful Gyeongbokgung Palace to witness the 500-year-old ceremony of the changing of the royal guard. Next, take a walk through Bukchon Village to see several traditional Hanok houses. After a short stop at Insadong, we will head to Gwangjang Street Food Market, the country's first market and the perfect place to sample local delicacies. The last stop is the N Seoul Tower for a panoramic view of Seoul and the surrounding areas.
Included
• Excursion: Discover the highlights of Seoul (private, full day)
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Free day in Seoul
Today you have the day free to spend as you wish. Here are a few suggestions:
- Picnicking on the banks of the Han River (cloth and snacks are available on the bank)
- Walk the city walls
- Visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza
- Discover the vibrant Hongdae district
- Visit the traditional Gwangjang market
Included
• Accommodation including breakfast
Seoul - Busan
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the train station and travel by high-speed train (KTX) to the coastal city of Busan in about 3.5 hours. Upon arrival, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Included
• Private transfer to the railway station
• High-speed train from Seoul to Busan
• Private transfer to the hotel
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Busan highlights
Start the day with a visit to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, situated on the coast in the north-eastern part of Busan. No visit to Busan is complete without a stop at the traditional Gukje International Market, followed by an exciting exploration of the vast Jagalchi Fish Market. Busan is famous for the Jagalchi Market, one of the largest fish markets in Asia. Here, you’ll meet one of the traders to gain an insight into her life. Both markets are teeming with fascinating produce and offer a wonderful way to catch a glimpse of local life. You’ll then visit BIFF Square, Busan’s modern film district. In the square, you’ll see handprints of famous film stars on the pavement.
The following day is yours to spend as you wish. Be sure to visit Haeundae, the country’s most famous beach. Here, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing, or you could visit the spectacular Taejongdae cliffs, situated at the southern tip of Busan.
Included
• Excursion: Highlights of Busan
• Two nights’ accommodation including breakfast
Accommodation Tokyo
You are free to spend the morning as you wish. In the early afternoon, you will be taken to the airport for an international flight to Tokyo.
日本へようこそ (Nihon he youkoso)! Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Tokyo Airport, you will be met by our local representative. Here, you will receive an explanation of the transport system and be given your train tickets and other travel documents. You will then be taken to your accommodation in Tokyo by private transfer.
Tokyo is Japan’s largest, dazzling, futuristic metropolis, open 24/7 to everyone. It is the capital of a country that is constantly moving forward whilst never losing sight of its rich past. Tokyo offers something for young and old alike, culinary delights, countless sights, mega-stores on every corner, mystical temples, palaces and much more.
Included
- Private transfer to the airport
- International flight Busan - Tokyo
- Meet & Greet at Narita airport (English)
- Private transfer to your accommodation in Tokyo
- Overnight stays including breakfast
Tokyo - Matsumoto - Kiso Valley
A private transfer will take you to Tokyo Station, where you will board the train to Nagiso.
On the way, you’ll alight at Matsumoto, a small castle town surrounded by rice fields, vineyards, wasabi farms and the Great Japanese Alps. Upon arrival in Matsumoto, you’ll be welcomed by your English-speaking private guide. You’ll visit Matsumoto Castle, one of only twelve remaining original castles in Japan. It stands out for its black exterior, red arched bridge and views of the Japanese Alps in the background. Just outside the castle grounds lies Nakamachi-dori, a historic commercial district with well-preserved old buildings, including several warehouses characterised by their thick, white-painted walls. After the tour, you will return to the station to continue your journey by train to Nagiso (Kiso Valley).
The Kiso Valley lies between the Central and Northern Alps and is situated in the south-western corner of Nagano Prefecture. Formerly known as Nakasendo, the valley played a key role in connecting western Japan with the economic centre of Tokyo during the Edo period. Today, it is renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes, picturesque villages and famous hiking trails. Once you arrive at your accommodation, you will have the rest of the day at your leisure.
Included
- Private transfer to Tokyo station
- Train from Tokyo to Nagiso with stop in Matsumoto
- Excursion: Matsumoto tour (private, duration approx. 4 hours)
- Taxi from Nagiso station to your accommodation
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast and dinner
Mount Ontaka expedition
Today’s programme features a Mt Ontaka Hike expedition led by a specialist. Mt Ontake has long been one of Japan’s most sacred mountains and has therefore attracted worshippers and pilgrims for over a thousand years. Guests can learn about its sacred origins and also enjoy stunning landscapes such as the sea of clouds and colourful autumn foliage.
Along the way, you can stop to admire the beautiful lakes and waterfalls. Although Mt Ontake is Japan’s largest volcano, beginners can also take part in the activity and take a cable car up to an altitude of 2,100 metres. You will then return to your accommodation, where you’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure.
Included
- Excursion: Mt. Ontaka Hike expedition with a specialist
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast and dinner
Paragliding Kiso Valley
In the morning, you will go paragliding in the Kiso Valley with a specialist; an amazing experience! Later in the afternoon, you will return to Nagiso station and then take the train to Kyoto (via Nagoya). An assistant will welcome you at Kyoto station and escort you to your accommodation.
Included
- Excursion: Paragliding with an expert
- Taxi transfer to Nagiso station
- Train from Nagiso station to Kyoto station via Nagoya
- Assistance at Kyoto station guiding you to the hotel.
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Kyoto area
You’ll start today with a drive to Daigoji, a beautiful temple complex on the eastern outskirts of Kyoto City. The temple’s secluded location creates a peaceful atmosphere, enhanced by the nearby wooded mountain slopes. There are a number of cultural sites to see here, starting with the garden at Sanboin.
Further into the temple grounds lie other treasures, including the famous Bentendo Island shrine and Kyoto’s oldest structure: a five-storey pagoda built in the year 951. Round off your visit to Daigoji with a trip to the Reihokan Museum to admire the temple’s fine collection of antiquities and statues.
At Unryu-in, you’ll stroll through the tranquil prayer halls and learn about the rituals that priests still perform here. Enjoy a bowl of hot matcha tea in a room overlooking a rustic garden whilst the guide explains the finer points of Japanese tea culture to you. Afterwards, you’ll walk to Sennyuji, a temple housing the tombs of countless Japanese emperors. Here, you’ll take a look at a magnificent collection of Buddhist halls featuring grand architecture and stop at an ancient spring where pilgrims sip cool holy water straight from the earth – an activity anyone can take part in.
You’ll continue on foot to the nearby Imakumano Kannonji, a stop on a famous pilgrimage route featuring 33 temples throughout the region. Here, you’ll explore the grounds and then climb a short path to the pagoda on the hill overlooking the temple. A magnificent view of the city of Kyoto awaits you here – the perfect way to round off today’s visit to this peaceful corner of Kyoto.
Included
- Excursion: Serenity in the hills of Kyoto (private, duration approx. 4 hours)
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Kyoto tea ceremony
Today, you’ll delve deeper into Kyoto’s famous Zen culture by taking part in this special experience with a tea master. The tea master, who speaks fluent English, will reveal the secrets of the tea ceremony and the role it plays in Zen Buddhism and Kyoto’s timeless culture. Leave the hotel in a private vehicle and meet your host at the entrance to Daitokuji, a sprawling Zen complex that conceals dozens of small temples behind weathered walls.
You will visit one of these temples, explore the dynamic Zen rock garden and learn the meaning behind the enigmatic landscape. The rich history of the temple complex will be discussed, as well as the role that tea plays in the daily activities of the Zen monks. You will then enter your host’s traditional wooden house on the edge of the temple complex, where the tea ceremony will commence.
You’ll watch as matcha tea is prepared and then savour the moment and the flavour. The host seeks ways for his guests to connect with the concepts of tea in their own personal way. From the charcoal that heats the water to the story behind the craftsmanship in each teacup, a focus on detail makes this a unique experience. After the ceremony, you can ask questions about the ritual and the host’s unique lifestyle.
Optionally, you can go on a bike tour of Kyoto in the afternoon, cycling through the city’s maze of narrow streets to discover hidden teahouses, spot geisha gracefully crossing the road, and encounter scenes from everyday Japanese life at every turn.
Included
- Excursion: Luxury Tea Ceremony & Zen meditation (approximately 3 hours)
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Arashiyama walking tour
Explore a part of Arashiyama today that most tourists never visit. You’ll visit a number of sites related to Buddhism, nature, art and local crafts. Experience the feeling of strolling through a rural village without ever leaving the city limits of Kyoto.
Arashiyama is a major tourist destination in Kyoto, but few visitors venture beyond the bamboo forest and the central shopping area. This half-day walk introduces you to a number of peaceful spots set amidst tranquil countryside and is perfect for travellers wishing to escape the city for a few hours of walking through nature.
You’ll take a taxi to Otagi Nenbutsuji, a secluded Buddhist temple housing one of the city’s most impressive sights: 1,200 moss-covered stone statues arranged across the temple grounds. This unique blend of religion and art tells a fascinating story at this hidden temple. From here, you’ll walk along the side streets – almost all of which are downhill – of the Arashiyama district. Along the way, you’ll visit a number of memorable sites.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Adashi no Nenbutsuji Temple; learn the story of an impossible romance that inspired the picturesque moss garden at Gio-ji Temple; admire the rustic simplicity of Rakushisha, a preserved 17th-century thatched-roof house, once home to a great haiku poet. As you wander, browse shops selling local folk art and charming traditional goods.
Stop for a final tea break in the garden of Okochi Sanso Villa, then stroll through the famous Arashiyama bamboo grove before reaching the main approach to Arashiyama. Too crowded for a selfie? Don’t worry, as the guide will have already pointed out a secret little bamboo grove earlier in the tour. Finish on the main street of central Arashiyama, where the guide can point you towards a number of other delightful spots in the area. From here, it’s easy to return to the city by train or taxi.
Included
- Excursion: Arashiyama Backroads hiking tour incl. guide
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Osaka
On to your final destination, Osaka. Osaka is a major port city and a bustling commercial centre on the Japanese island of Honshu, known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife and delicious street food. Next, check in at your hotel, after which you’ll be picked up later in the day for your food tour.
This food tour offers a glimpse into Osaka’s culinary culture, the heart and soul of the city. Enjoy a variety of Japanese culinary styles at an eclectic selection of venues. Osaka is, after all, a delight for bon vivants. The motto of the city’s exuberant residents is, in fact, ‘kuidaore’ – ‘eating oneself into bankruptcy’. During the tour, you’ll make several stops to sample the local fare. Think traditional Japanese snacks, menchi katsu (a breaded and deep-fried patty made from minced meat), sake and Japanese wine, and Wagyu beef dishes.
Included
- Shuttle transfer to Oboke station
- Train from Oboke station to Osaka station
- Excursion: Flavors of Osaka street food tour (private tour)
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is ideally located in the heart of Seoul with impressive views of the city. From the hotel, you can easily access area attractions. Rooms have natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and spa-like bathrooms with Italian marble finishes.The hotel features...
Four Seasons Hotel Seoul is ideally located in the heart of Seoul with impressive views of the city. From the hotel, you can easily access area attractions. Rooms have natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows and spa-like bathrooms with Italian marble finishes. The hotel features three swimming pools, seven restaurants and bars and a full-service spa.
Your stay: 3 nights
Park Hyatt Busan
The Park Hyatt Busan is located on Marine City Street in Busan's Haeundae District. In this convenient location, the hotel is close to many shopping opportunities, the Oryukdo Skywalk and several beaches.
The 269 rooms have an elegant design with a TV, a Nespresso machine and floor-to-ceiling windows with...
The Park Hyatt Busan is located on Marine City Street in Busan's Haeundae District. In this convenient location, the hotel is close to many shopping opportunities, the Oryukdo Skywalk and several beaches.
The 269 rooms have an elegant design with a TV, a Nespresso machine and room-high windows with inspiring ocean views. Each room offers guests a spacious bathroom with a bathtub, a rain shower, skin care/bath products by Le Labo and soft bathrobes and slippers.
At this hotel, guests can enjoy gourmet delights at the various dining options or enjoy the convenience of meals that can be delivered to the room 24 hours a day. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness centre with a spa, an elegant indoor pool and a sauna for relaxation.
Your stay: 3 nights
Hotel Gajoen Tokyo
Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, founded in 1928 as an elegant restaurant, quickly grew into one of Japan's premier venues for elegant weddings and ceremonies. Owner Rikizo Hosokawa dreamed of offering delicacies not only for the palate, but also for the eyes and senses. The...
Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, founded in 1928 as an elegant restaurant, quickly grew into one of Japan's premier venues for elegant weddings and ceremonies. Owner Rikizo Hosokawa dreamed of offering delicacies not only for the palate, but also for the eyes and senses. The beautiful woodwork, Japanese paintings and lacquer work that adorn the building to this day make for an immersive experience. The fantastic artistry leads visitors to the 'Palace of the Dragon God' during the Showa era. Hotel Gajoen Tokyo still offers the best omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) and perfect memories for couples on their special day. The luxurious rooms, art-lined halls, ornate Hyakudan Kaidan gallery and tempting restaurants surrounded by verdant gardens await your visit.
Your stay: 3 nights
Zenagi The Expedition Hotel
Zenagi The Expedition Hotel is set among mountains, rivers and wilderness in the beautiful Kiso region. It is a beautiful Japanese traditional farmhouse overlooking terraced rice fields. This grand Kominka space seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern finishes, offering just three...
Zenagi The Expedition Hotel is set among mountains, rivers and wilderness in the beautiful Kiso region. It is a beautiful Japanese traditional farmhouse overlooking terraced rice fields. This grand Kominka property seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern finishes, offering just three bedrooms for up to 12 guests. Each duplex room has a bathroom on the first floor and a bedroom on the second floor with a living room. Guests can look forward to delicious traditional dishes at the hotel.
Your stay: 2 nights
HOSHINOYA Kyoto
HOSHINOYA Kyoto is an exclusive ryokan, beautifully located on the banks of the Oi River in Kyoto's rustic Arashiyama district. This serene accommodation is only accessible by boat, which adds to the quiet and secluded atmosphere it offers. The rooms combine traditional Japanese elements, such as...
HOSHINOYA Kyoto is an exclusive ryokan, beautifully located on the banks of the Oi River in Kyoto's rustic Arashiyama district. This serene accommodation is only accessible by boat, which adds to the quiet and secluded atmosphere it offers. Rooms combine traditional Japanese elements, such as tatami mats and sliding doors, with modern amenities and large windows offering panoramic views of the surrounding nature. At HOSHINOYA Kyoto, you can enjoy various cultural activities, such as tea ceremonies, Zen meditation and river cruises on a traditional yakatabune boat. The hotel also offers a sophisticated restaurant serving seasonal kaiseki dishes prepared with the finest local ingredients. With its perfect balance between tradition, modern luxury and a deep connection to nature, HOSHINOYA Kyoto offers a unique and unforgettable experience, ideal for those who want to discover Kyoto in all its tranquillity and splendour.
Your stay: 4 nights
Conrad Osaka
Welcome to Conrad Osaka, your 'address in the sky'. With an impressive presence on Nakanoshima between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers, this sleek luxury hotel offers incredible views of the water and Osaka from all rooms and public spaces. Connect easily to Western Japan's largest city -...
Welcome to Conrad Osaka, your 'address in the sky'. With an impressive presence on Nakanoshima between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers, this sleek luxury hotel offers incredible views of the water and Osaka from all rooms and public spaces. Connect easily to Western Japan's largest city - walk to shops and offices in Umeda and immerse yourself in local food and culture in Namba. Our Conrad team will enrich your stay with intuitive tailor-made service. Conrad Osaka is located on the top floors of the Nakanoshima Festival's West Tower, home to shops, restaurants and an art museum. The festival venue is next door and easily accessible via an underground connection. The hotel is also connected to Higobashi and Watanabebashi stations for quick access to businesses, attractions and ITM and KIX airports. Rooms start at 50 sq m and offer room-high windows and a digital control panel for your lighting, curtain and temperature preferences. Choose an executive room or suite for private check-in and access to the Executive Lounge.
Your stay: 1 night
Destinations
Matsumoto
Matsumoto is a city on the island of Honshu in Nagano Prefecture and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Japanese Alps. The city developed around Matsumoto Castle, which still stands. The castle garden has more than 300 cherry trees and is known as one of the best places in Japan to view flowering cherry trees. About three kilometres outside Matsumoto is the Japan Ukiyoe Museum, which houses one of the world's largest private art collections of more than 100 000 pieces. Those who love wasabi should head to the Daio Wasabi Farm to wander the paths between the fields and taste interesting wasabi products such as wasabi chocolate, wasabi ice cream, wasabi-flavoured crackers and more.
Seoul
The architectural aesthetic of South Korea's capital city reflects a seductive mix of old and new. State-of-the-art skyscrapers, glittering office buildings and large modern shopping malls dominate the skyline. Despite being one of the world's most modern and vibrant mega-cities, tucked away at the foot of this jungle of glass, steel and concrete, you will find a maze of winding streets lined with traditional wooden houses and a host of historical sites, tranquil parks, holy shrines and temples; as well as some quaint teahouses and sprawling night markets where you can sample some of Korea's deliciously spicy national dishes with their tantalising aromas and unique flavours. Seoul is characterised by a fast-paced, frenzied atmosphere with a natural escape nearby in the form of a beautiful chain of peaceful mountains, all within walking distance of the city's remarkably efficient public transport system. Unmissable sights are the opulent palaces from the late 14th century that surround this dynamic and enchanting metropolis.
South Korea
Despite the fact that South Korea remains well off the beaten track, it is a dream destination — an intriguing, hospitable nation that seamlessly combines the conveniences of modernity with a deep respect for its remarkable 5,000-year-old cultural heritage. The capital, Seoul, for example, is full of huge shopping centres alongside traditional markets, whilst ultra-modern skyscrapers stand next to the remains of ancient royal palaces. Travellers wishing to escape this vibrant megacity will find that the tranquillity of nature is easily accessible thanks to the country’s exceptional transport system, which whisks you away to remote wilderness areas where you can explore stunning mountainous regions, surrounded by densely forested national parks and dotted with tranquil villages set amongst picturesque rice paddies. Whilst South Korea’s cities offer enough adventure to fill any itinerary, it is outside these urban areas that its true natural beauty unfolds in all its surprising variety.
Kiso Valley
Sandwiched between the Central and Northern Alps, the Kiso Valley is located in the southwestern corner of Nagano Prefecture. Formerly known as Nakasendo, the valley played an important role in connecting western Japan to Tokyo's economic centre during the Edo period. Today, it is known for its spectacular natural landscapes, picturesque villages and famous hiking trails. Visitors flock here to explore the area on foot and embark on numerous hikes, the most famous of which is the scenic walk between the villages of Tsumago and Magome. These two historic villages serve as well-preserved living museums with restored wooden buildings, cobbled streets and rustic shops. Other popular activities include: cycling, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing and skiing at one of the resorts scattered around the Kiso Valley.
Nagano Prefecture
Nagano prefecture, also called the "Roof of Japan", is a mountainous sports mecca with the highest mountain ranges in the country. In the countryside are quaint rural villages that could have been plucked straight from a samurai film, and the chic town of Karuizawa is one of Japan's most popular holiday destinations. Wander the trendy main street full of boutiques, cafés and restaurants serving cosmopolitan cuisine. Other popular attractions include the Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park, Lake Kizaki and the hot springs of Nagano Onsen. Take a journey through history at Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's oldest shrines, and at Zenko-ji, an important place of pilgrimage. In Nagano Prefecture, you will find plenty of natural beauty with its exuberant highlands, towering mountain peaks that offer challenging but scenic hiking trails, and some of the country's largest ski resorts, notably Shika Kogen and Mount Hakuba.
Kyoto
As one of Japan’s ancient capitals, Kyoto plays a significant role in the country’s history and, even today, retains all the atmosphere and elegance you would expect from the former imperial residence. The city boasts seventeen historic sites that have been designated as World Heritage Sites. Visit Nijo Castle to see an example of Japanese architecture combined with stunning interior design. The city is famous for its vibrant colours, gastronomy and lush natural surroundings. The nearby Arashiyama, known for its bamboo forests, is within easy reach by train and highly recommended for a second or third day in Kyoto.
For a stunning view of Kyoto, we recommend the large wooden veranda at Kiyomizu, built high above a deep valley.
Tokyo
The world's most populous metropolis. The contrasts between huge, rich and fascinating neighbourhoods with high-tech visions of the future alongside a glimpse of traditional Japan are stark. The Tokyo Metropolis, varied in its geography, includes not only the city but also spectacular rugged mountains to the west and beautiful subtropical islands to the south. The various neighbourhoods of this phenomenal city vary enormously in character, from the electronic appearances of Akihabara to the magnificent imperial gardens and shrines of Chiyoda, from the vibrant mecca for youth culture of Shibuya to the beautiful pottery shops and temple markets of Asakusa. Tokyo's world-famous public transport takes you quickly, efficiently and punctually to the various districts.
Osaka
Osaka is a major port city and busy commercial centre on the Japanese island of Honshu, known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife and delicious street food. This bustling city has a number of attractive attractions, including the restored 16th-century Shogunate Osaka Castle, surrounded by a moat, plum and cherry blossom trees. The city also has an impressive array of museums, including the National Museum of Ethnology, the Open Air Museum of Old Japanese Farms and the Japan Folk Crafts Museum. Other must-see attractions include Universal Studios Japan and the Expo Commemoration Park, with its iconic Tower of the Sun.
Busan
Located on South Korea's southern peninsula, this thriving port city has an instant cosmopolitan appeal, offering an eclectic mix of sights, sounds and tastes for travellers, as well as being surprisingly relaxing. Don't miss the Beomeosa Temple deep in the mountains and the Yonggungsa Temple along the coastline; wander the halls of the Busan Modern History Museum and the colourful alleys of Gamcheon Cultural Village; visit Dongbaek Island or Nakdong River Estuary for bird watching; or stroll through the fish markets to sample a wide range of seafood. And when the day is over, enjoy a drink on the promenade at sunset.
Japan
Honshu
Dominated by the towering Japan Alps, Honshu is the largest island in Japan's archipelago. This enormous island is home to most of Japan's population and boasts the majority of the nation's most popular attractions. Visitors flock here from around the world to enjoy the impressive geothermal spas, ski resorts, old castle- and temple-towns, and charming traditional villages tucked away in remote valleys. From the neon lights and pulsing energy of Tokyo in the east, across the dramatic Alps in the central Chubu region, to the tranquil rural beauty of the Chugoku region in the west, Honshu offers an extraordinary variety of scenic landscapes, appealing attractions, and world-class cities. Must-see attractions include: the iconic Mt. Fuji; the historic little town of Nikko; and the Peace Park at Hiroshima.
Kyoto Prefecture
Extending from the central region of the Japanese island of Honshu to the Sea of Japan, Kyoto is a scenic prefecture famous for its classical Buddhist temples, Japanese gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines and traditional wooden houses. The capital, Kyoto city, served as the national capital for over a thousand years ensuring a rich history featuring uniquely Japanese customs such as kaiseki dining and traditional geishas. Feast your eyes on the beautiful Uji tea fields; take a boat ride up the beautiful Hozu River; or explore the forests of Kyoto, known for their rows of thatched-roof houses and delicious matsutake mushrooms. Absolute must-sees include Amanohashidate, a pine-covered sandbar spanning the mouth of Miyazu Bay; the impressive Fushimi Inari and Ujigami-jinja Shrines; and the ancient Nijo Castle, dating all the way back to 1603.
Osaka Prefecture
Located in the Kansai region on the island of Honshu, Osaka is Japan's second smallest province after Kagawa. The prefecture's capital of the same name is a major port city known for its innovative, modern architecture, vibrant nightlife and delicious street food. Visitors can look forward to exploring a number of historic temples and shrines, as well as an impressive variety of museums, such as the National Museum of Ethnology, the Osaka Museum of History and the Open Air Museum of Ancient Japanese Farms. Other popular attractions in the area include the beautifully restored 16th-century shogunate Osaka Castle and the 300-metre-high Abeno Harukas, the country's tallest skyscraper with stunning views from an observation deck on the 60th floor.
South Korea and Japan trip | Luxury trip South Korea & Japan
We offer the described trip from €11,095 per person.
The price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• International flight from Busan to Tokyo
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive lodges and hotels
• First-class train tickets
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All excursions as listed in the ‘itinerary’, including a fantastic Mt Ontaka hike expedition with a specialist
• All necessary private transfers as mentioned
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• Entrance fees where applicable
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Train journeys
Not included
• International flight to Seoul and from Osaka
• Room category upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)