Grand Tour of Japan and South Korea

Welcome to Tokyo. Be met on arrival and transferred to your luxurious hotel. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers at a welcome dinner at your hotel, savouring Japanese flavours with a modern flair.

Embark on your Freedom of Choice activity and be transferred to Tokyo’s old town of Asakusa. After free time to enjoy lunch, take part in a Signature Experience. Next, is a visit to the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, Sensoji. Stroll through the Namikase shopping street indulging in traditional snacks and souvenir shopping. Transfer by coach to your hotel.

Signature Experience – Calligraphy Lesson

Take part in a Japanese calligraphy lesson, learning all about the nation’s three alphabets — kanji, hiragana and katakana — and try your hand at writing your own characters under the guidance of an expert instructor. 

Freedom of Choice — Hamarikyu Garden and Tokyo Tower

Explore the picturesque Hamarikyu Garden before admiring the panoramic views of the Japanese capital from the main deck of Tokyo Tower.  

Freedom of Choice — Tokyo National Museum and Yanaka District

Delve into the history of Japan at the vast Tokyo National Museum before setting off on a walk through the historic old town of the Yanaka district. Observe scenes of local life in this residential area. 

Following breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a visit to the Imperial Palace East Gardens before being transferred to Tokyo Station where you’ll board a bullet train to Karuizawa. Savour a packed lunch on board. Karuizawa is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous resort towns, offering stunning mountain views, serene nature and a fascinating history. Set within tranquil alpine forests, the town was a regular summer retreat for John Lennon and Yoko Ono. On arrival, set off for a Signature Experience, then be transferred to your hotel where dinner awaits this evening. 

Signature Experience - Kitsukura Sake Brewery

Savour an in-depth visit to Kitsukura Sake Brewery, which, at more than 300 years old, is one of Japan’s oldest sake breweries. Learn about the traditional brewing process and the way the brewery sources its fine ingredients and taste the carefully handcrafted sake right from the source. 

After breakfast, board a private coach to Shiraito no Taki Waterfalls, which translates to “The Waterfall of White Threads”. Just three metres tall but 70 metres wide, the serene waterfall acts as a natural curtain as the groundwater flows gracefully into a pond amid lush forest. Stop off next at the picturesque Kumoba Pond for a leisurely stroll, then return to Karuizawa to visit Karuizawa Ginza, a lively shopping street in the heart of the town. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.

This morning, you’ll enjoy a visit to Manns Wines Komoro Winery, where Japanese wine has been produced for more than 50 years. Soak in the scenery at the winery, which boasts a chateau surrounded by Japanese garden and vineyard of Japanese grapes. Be transferred to Matsumoto City and enjoy a Signature Experience. Your next stop is the spectacular Matsumoto Castle. One of Japan’s most complete original castles, the structure dates back to the 16th century, and you’ll have the chance to tour the castle and its pristine grounds. Later, be transferred to your hotel where you'll enjoy a delicious dinner. 

Signature Experience – Ishii Miso Brewery

Delight in a visit to Ishii Miso brewery, which was founded in 1868. See behind the curtain to discover how the soybean paste continues to be produced by a unique traditional method and enjoy a taste of the delicious produce with lunch at the brewery. 

Today is set aside for two fantastic Signature Experiences in this beautiful alpine region, first in the Jigokudani Valley before heading to a wasabi farm in Azumino. Following the experiences, return to Matsumoto. 

Signature Experience — Jigokudani Monkey Park

Come face-to-face with playful Japanese macaques – commonly known as snow monkeys – at the Jigokudani Monkey Park in the heart of the geothermal Jigokudani Valley. Admire the social monkeys and get up close as they gather in the natural hot springs which dot the landscape here. 

Signature Experience — Daio Wasabi Farm

Enjoy a visit to the Daio Wasabi Farm, one of Japan’s largest wasabi farms. Stroll along the walking paths between the wasabi fields and savour an inspired restaurant lunch at the pristine farm, which has perfected the difficult production of the iconic plant. 

After breakfast, travel to the Japan Ukiyoe Museum, which houses more than 100,000 woodblock prints, making it the world’s largest private collection of the traditional artworks. Then, travel by private coach to Narai Juku, a beautifully preserved Edo-period post town on the historic Nakasendo Trail. Known as 'Naira of a Thousand Houses', it's charming kilometre-long street is lined with traditional wooden buildings, shops and eateries, offering a glimpse into Japan's past. Later, enjoy a delectable Hida beef dinner at a local restaurant.

After breakfast, travel to Takayama Jinya, a historical building from the Edo period which served as the local government office and is now a charming museum. Stroll through the beautifully preserved San-machi Suji district, the traditional home of Takayama merchants and sake brewers where inns, shops and taverns can trace their history back for generations. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Festival Floats museum, which displays the ornamental floats from the famous Takayama festival. Later, return to your hotel.

This morning, explore the Miyagawa morning market, one of Japan’s biggest morning markets, featuring stalls selling various local crafts and produce. This is a great opportunity to try some of the region’s delicious fruit and vegetables as the only people allowed to set up a stall are independent farmers and craftsmen. Then, enjoy a Signature Experience. Later, travel by Limited Express Train to Nagoya and continue by bullet train to Kyoto.

Signature Experience – Sarubobo-Making Workshop

Enjoy a Sarubobo-making workshop. An amulet particularly common in Takayama and the nearby Hida region, Sarubobo are red dolls with no facial features. Learn how to make the dolls and discover why these amulets are believed to bring good luck.

An exciting day of sightseeing lies ahead. Set out for Arashiyama this morning, climbing aboard a rickshaw for a ride past the Nonomiya Shrine and through the spectacular Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Following your rickshaw experience, head to the famous Kinkakuji Temple, commonly known as the Golden Pavilion for its gold-leaf-covered upper floors. Return to your hotel and enjoy time at leisure this afternoon before your Signature Experience this evening.  

Signature Experience - Dinner with a Maiko or Geisha

A special night of private entertainment with a maiko or geisha awaits. Enjoy a wonderful dinner and drinks and have the chance to learn more about geisha and their daily lives, all accompanied by music played on a shamisen, a traditional stringed instrument. 

Following breakfast, travel to the nearby town of Uji for a Signature Experience. After, visit the World Heritage-listed Byodo-In Temple and enjoy its pristine gardens and impressive architecture including the Phoenix Hall, which features on the 10-yen coin. After lunch, be transferred to the lively city of Osaka and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Tonight, dine at a local Okonomiyaki restaurant.

Signature Experience – Matcha Experience

Take part in a special tea experience where you’ll try your hand at grinding matcha from whole leaves to a powder and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of the beloved green tea. 

This morning, choose your own sightseeing with a Freedom of Choice activity. Enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Freedom of Choice – Kuromon Market and Dotonbori

Enjoy a tour of the lively Kuromon Market and stroll past stalls selling street food, fresh produce and souvenirs. Then, head to Dotonbori, famous for its extravagant neon street signage and vibrant atmosphere.

Freedom of Choice – Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building

Visit the historic Oskaka Castle and wander through its beautiful garden setting before making your way to the impressive Umeda Sky Building, a two-tower skyscraper which boasts stunning views of Osaka from its atrium.

Set off by private coach for the nearby town of Nara, once the Japanese capital for 74 years in the eighth century. Visit the incredible Todaiji temple, one of the world’s largest wooden structures and home to the country’s grandest statue of Buddha. Visit Isuien Garden to discover lush views and traditional pagodas, originating in the Meiji era. Then, pause for lunch at a local restaurant. You’ll then visit Nara’s most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha, which was established in AD768. Next is a wander through the surrounding Nara Park, which is freely roamed by a large population of friendly deer who will generally bow their heads for a treat. Be transferred to your hotel before savouring the dinner of your choice. 

Freedom of Choice Dining - Azekura

Experience an authentic Japanese dining adventure at Azekura, where you can indulge in traditional regional dishes. The restaurant's interior, inspired by an ancient treasure house, enhances the stylish and inviting atmosphere, making each meal a memorable experience.

Freedom of Choice Dining - Silk Road Dining

Indulge in a diverse array of cuisines at Silk Road Dining, where each dish is thoughtfully crafted by skilled chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients alongside global selections. Enjoy a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western flavours, while watching the talented chefs prepare your meal in the open kitchen.

Following breakfast at your hotel, enjoy your choice of touring. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. 

Freedom of Choice - Hasedera Temple

Today, you might like to visit the enchanting Hasedera Temple for a fascinating morning service. Bask in the beauty of one of the oldest temples in Kamakura and appreciate the Main Hall, a true national treasure of Japan. 

Freedom of Choice - Horyuji Temple

Visit the World Heritage-listed Horyuji Temple, which features the world’s oldest surviving wooden structures and is one of the country’s oldest temples. 

Freedom of Choice - Asuka

Set out on a guided walk through the ancient town of Asuka, the political and cultural capital of Japan in the fifth and sixth centuries. Witness glorious landscapes and learn about the town’s captivating history in the roots of Buddhism.

Be transferred to Kyoto Station and board a bullet train to Odawara, enjoying a packed bento box for lunch at your seat. Enjoy an in-depth visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum, located in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Built in 1969, the museum is dedicated to sculptures and showcases an array of captivating art. After your visit, be transferred to your hotel where dinner awaits tonight.

After breakfast, be transferred to Mount Fuji’s fifth station where, when the weather is clear, you’ll be able to admire panoramic views of the country’s greatest icon. You'll continue to marvel at Japan’s tallest mountain throughout the day should the weather be on your side. Following lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum to view artist Kubota Itchiku’s exquisite works of dyed silk. Later, return to your hotel and enjoy a night at leisure.

Cruise across Lake Ashi to Hakone-en, enjoying views of the surrounding hills and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. From here, board a ropeway to ascend Mount Komagatake, a dormant volcanic peak overlooking the lake. At the summit, take in wide-ranging views across Lake Ashinoko and the Hakone region. A short walk leads to Hakone Shrine Mototsumiya, the original shrine site, set in a quiet position at the top of the mountain. Later, descend by ropeway, taking in the scenery from a different perspective. After lunch, continue to Tokyo and, tonight, enjoy a special Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Sumo Demonstration and Dining Experience

Enjoy an exhilarating sumo demonstration performed by former professional sumo wrestlers. Witness this renowned sport firsthand and soak in the atmosphere while savouring the specialty of chankonabe, a delicious stew with vegetables, meat, fish and tofu. Learn all about Japan’s most peculiar and fascinating sport in this exciting lunch experience.

Your journey in Japan comes to an end after breakfast this morning with a transfer to the airport, where you'll board a flight to Seoul in South Korea. Be met on arrival and transferred to your luxurious hotel where you'll have time to settle in before a welcome briefing. Tonight, gather with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for your Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Welcome Dinner

Savour a special welcome dinner where you’ll experience Korean royal cuisine and try local drinks including soju and rice wine.

Enjoy a full day to explore South Korea’s vibrant capital today. Following breakfast, head to Gyeongbokgung Palace for a Signature Experience before touring the palace grounds, where grand halls, intricate architecture and landscaped courtyards offer insight into Korea’s royal past. Continue to the National Folklore Museum, where exhibits showcase traditional Korean life, customs and culture across generations.

Later, explore the character-filled streets of Insadong Alley, known for its traditional tea houses, galleries and artisan shops, before wandering through Ikseondong Alley, where hanok-style buildings have been reimagined as cafés, boutiques and eateries. Spend time browsing Myeongdong Shopping Street, one of Seoul’s most popular retail districts. This evening, enjoy another Signature Experience before choosing where to dine.

Signature Experience – Changing of the Guard Ceremony

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the country’s largest royal residence, served as the seat of power for more than five centuries. Witness the changing of the guard ceremony where colourful uniforms and traditional music bring this historic tradition to life.

Signature Experience – Nan-ta Performance with VIP Seating

Enjoy a VIP seat at the energetic Nan-ta non-verbal performance, where high-energy percussion, comedy and culinary theatrics combine in a vibrant, fast-paced show.

Freedom of Choice Dining – Restaurant Voisin

A refined French restaurant offering a sophisticated, modern dining experience that artfully blends classic French cuisine with subtle Korean influences.

Freedom of Choice Dining – Samwon Garden

Experience the iconic flavours of South Korea as you sit down for mouth-watering Korean BBQ at Samwon Garden. 

Embark on a morning tour of the fascinating Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) on the border with North Korea. Following a drive to Paju, see Imjingak Park, then visit the DMZ Theater and Exhibition Hall and walk along the Third Infiltration Tunnel. At the North Korea Experience Hall you will also have the unique opportunity to meet with a North Korean defector.

Return to Seoul for a traditional Korean lunch, and spend the afternoon enjoying a Freedom of Choice experience.

Freedom of Choice – Hanok Village and Tea Experience

Eunpyeong Hanok Village celebrates the beauty of traditional hanok architecture, with homes crafted from natural materials including wood, stone and clay. Offering a tranquil retreat from Seoul’s busy streets, it’s the perfect place to relax with a quiet tea at a local tea café.

Freedom of Choice – War Memorial Hall Visit

Visit the War Memorial of Korea, where extensive indoor and outdoor exhibits trace the nation’s military history through artefacts, equipment and immersive displays.

Following breakfast at your hotel, board a KTX express train to Jeonju, a city renowned for its vibrant food scene. Upon arrival, enjoy free time around lunch in the Jeonju Hanok Village, where you can explore and savour street food or traditional dishes. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Jeonju Hanok Village, discovering landmarks like Gyeonggijeon Shrine and Jeongdong Cathedral. For dinner, indulge in an immersive Signature Experience, showcasing the best of local flavours.

Signature Experience - Learn how to make Bibimbap

Learn how to make bibimbap, South Korea’s most popular dish, and enjoy your creation for dinner.

This morning, transfer by coach to Damyan for a Signature Experience. Continue to Gwangju for an afternoon exploring key historical sites, including the May 18th National Cemetery, Democracy Square and the Jeonil Building 245 historical exhibition hall, which offers insight into the city’s modern history. Later, visit Yangnimdong History & Cultural Village, known for its blend of traditional and early modern architecture. Check in to your hotel and enjoy time to relax before savouring a local Korean BBQ for dinner.

Signature Experience – Explore Juknokwon Bamboo Garden

Visit Juknokwon Bamboo Garden, where winding paths lead through towering bamboo groves, offering a serene escape from the bustle of the city. Inhale the fresh air and take in the calming sound of bamboo leaves moving in the wind. Glimpse views of the nearby town and surrounding mountains as you stroll along the peaceful gardens.

Transfer to Busan and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon, visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, set dramatically on the coastline, before continuing to nearby Haeundae Beach. Take a walking tour along Cinema Street, celebrating Busan’s film culture.

Embark on an in-depth discovery of Busan today. Head downtown for a walking tour of Gamcheon Culture Village. Marvel at the village’s street art and pastel-coloured houses before taking a cable car to Songdo Island. Visit BIFF Square, a bustling movie district, and Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest of its kind in South Korea. Enjoy panoramic views from Busan Tower before stopping at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, which is the only one of its kind and features 22 unique burial sites designated to each nationality of the buried service members.

Travel to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. Visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bulguksa Temple, renowned for its intricate architecture, and continue to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Seokguram Grotto, home to a serene stone Buddha overlooking the sea. After lunch, discover Tumuli Park, where royal burial mounds dot the landscape, and see Cheomseongdae Observatory, one of the oldest astronomical observatories in Asia. Conclude your day at Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, a former royal residence set beside a picturesque reflecting pool.

Transfer to the station this morning and take a KTX express train back to Seoul in the luxury of a deluxe seat. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in before setting off on the activity of your choice. Tonight, toast your trip with an unforgettable Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Walking on the Cloud

Savour delectable European-inspired fine dining with a magnificent farewell dinner at Walking on the Cloud, which boasts sensational views of the city from its vantage point atop a skyscraper.

Freedom of Choice – Seoul Fortress Wall & Gwangjang Market

Transfer to the Gwangjang market area for a walking tour of the Seoul Fortress Wall. Built in 1396, this historic wall protected the city for over 600 years. While partially damaged during modernisation, its original form still stands as a cultural heritage blending with the modern city. Afterward, visit the Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most popular traditional markets, where stalls offer local street food, handmade goods, textiles and vintage clothing.

Freedom of Choice – Modern Seoul Tour

Be picked up from your hotel and transferred to COEX Mall, where you can explore the vibrant shopping centre and visit the famous Byeolmadang Library and the iconic Gangnam Style statue. Next, head to the Lotte Tower Observatory for panoramic views of the city.

Your luxury holiday comes to an end after breakfast this morning with a transfer to Incheon International Airport.