13 Day Inspired Japan & South Korea: A Women's Only Journey

Welcome to Tokyo! Make your way to the hotel using the airport trains, or local taxi. Your women-only adventure through this captivating land of contrasts begins in Tokyo, a vibrant city where tradition blends seamlessly with modern life. Explore the city through the eyes of the women who call it home, discovering hidden gems, local stories, and culinary delights along the way. Tokyo sets the tone for a journey designed for women who travel with curiosity, connection, and authenticity, offering experiences that are as inspiring as they are unforgettable. There are no planned activities this evening. Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.

After breakfast, begin your day with a welcome meeting at your hotel before stepping out to explore the vibrant Sensoji Temple and bustling Nakamise Street. From there you will continue to the serene Meiji Shrine, pausing for a leisurely early lunch along stylish Omotesando Street. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in creativity at the Origami Kaikan (Origami Museum). Here, you'll experience the art work of Kosuke Kobayashi, the founder of Yushima no Kobayashi, began his paper dyeing business in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, in 1858. Prior to that, he honed his Washi skills crafting paper sliding doors as a Fusuma-gami artisan at Kan-eiji Temple in Ueno. Today, over 160 years later, the store continues to thrive, cherished by Washi enthusiasts. After, you'll take park in a traditional tea ceremony, and take in sweeping city views from the Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck, the workplace of Tokyo's female governor, Ms. Koike. Conclude your day with a gentle walk back to your hotel, before enjoying an Izakaya Welcome Dinner with your fellow travel companions. Inspiring Highlights Sensoji Temple & Nakamise Street Imperial Palace Parliament Building Meiji Shrine Omotesando Street Origami Kaikan Tea Ceremony Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck Izakaya Dinner

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, before departing for Hakone. Journey toward the iconic Mount Fuji, ascending to the 5th Station for breathtaking views (weather permitting). If the skies are overcast, visit the nearby World Heritage Museum instead. Continue through the dramatic landscapes of Owakudani Valley, pausing for a relaxed lunch along the way. In the late afternoon, arrive at your traditional Ryokan, where you can unwind before enjoying a beautifully prepared dinner, soaking in the serene surroundings and the comfort of authentic Japanese hospitality. Inspiring Highlights Mt Fuji 5th Station Owakudani Valley Ryokan Stay Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours

After breakfast, we will depart your Ryokan for a short drive to Odawara Station, where you will board a Shinkansen and travel to the beautiful city of Kyoto. Once checked in, we'll head straight to Kiyomizu for a fun, hands-on Japanese Pottery Class – a perfect way to get creative and take home a little piece of Kyoto. The evening is free for you to explore at your own pace. Wander through the historic streets of Gion and maybe spot a Geisha, or treat yourself to Nishin Soba, a traditional Kyoto dish of soba noodles in a rich, savory broth. Inspiring Highlights Shinkansen Bullet Train Kiyomizu Pottery Class Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours The cost of international shipping for your pottery will be paid locally and is at your own expense.

We'll start the day with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari, wandering through its famous torii gates before heading to the Tale of Genji Museum to discover the story behind Japan's classic literary masterpiece. Next, we'll roll up our sleeves for an Obanzai-style home cooking class and enjoy a delicious lunch of traditional Kyoto dishes that you helped prepare. In the afternoon, we'll explore the serene beauty of Arashiyama, with its bamboo groves and charming streets. The evening is free to relax back at the hotel or continue exploring Kyoto at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Fushimi Inari Tale of Genji Museum Obanzai-style Home Meal Cooking Class Arashiyama

After an early breakfast, we will begin our journey to Hiroshima. Upon arrival to Hiroshima, we will visit to Hiroshima Peace Park, a place of reflection and resilience. Continue to the Peace Museum, where a moving talk from an atomic bomb survivor offers a deeply personal perspective on the city's history and hope for peace. This evening will be at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Hiroshima Peace Park Hiroshima Peace Museum Meet an Atombic bomb survivor Special Information Today is a long day of travel. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours

After an early breakfast, we will begin our journey to the serene beauty of Miyajima Island, one of Japan's most enchanting destinations. Take a short ferry ride from Miyajimaguchi Port and visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate that rises gracefully from the sea. Enjoy free time to wander the island's charming streets and savour a leisurely lunch before taking part in a Momiji Manju baking experience, creating the island's signature maple-leaf treats. As the day winds down, return to the mainland and continue to Osaka. Inspiring Highlights Miyajima Island Itsukushima Shrine Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours

Today, we say goodbye to Japan and begin our journey to South Korea, flying to the vibrant city of Busan. After checking into our beach-side hotel, we head out to meet the extraordinary Haenyeo, South Korea's famed female free divers. These remarkable women dive without breathing equipment, harvesting seafood like abalone, sea urchins, and seaweed, often in challenging conditions, a tradition passed down through generations. Their courage, resilience, and deep connection to the sea embody the strength and spirit of women in Korea. The day concludes with an included dinner, offering a moment to reflect on their inspiring stories and the rich culture unfolding on this journey. Inspiring Highlights Haenyeo Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours On your departure from Osaka you will say goodbye to your tour leader, and your group will be met by a new tour leader in Busan, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free.

Today is all about relaxation and indulgence, giving yourself some well-deserved “me” time. Stroll along the beautiful beaches of Busan, feel the sea breeze, and soak in the serene coastal views. Explore the colorful streets of Gamcheon Culture Village, wander through Jagalchi Fish Market to sample fresh seafood, or visit the stunning Haedong Yonggungsa Temple perched on the coast. Whether you choose to unwind with a good book, enjoy a peaceful walk, or simply watch the waves, this day is yours to recharge, reflect, and savour the vibrant beauty of Busan.

After breakfast, we leave the beautiful coastline of Busan and head north to Andong, enjoying the scenic countryside along the way. In Andong, meet a remarkable female master of fermented soy sauce, representing a family business passed down through four generations. Experience a farm-to-table concept, observing the traditional production process before enjoying a delicious meal at the restaurant. You'll have the chance to engage with your host as she shares stories and her insights on running a family business, or meet a local Confucianist woman who shares her life and experiences in traditional Korea—a truly unique and inspiring encounter. Tonight, you'll stay in a Hanok - a traditional Korean house. Staying in a hanok offers a serene experience, letting you sleep on traditional bedding, enjoy quiet inner gardens, and immerse yourself in a space that reflects Korea's history, craftsmanship, and harmony with the environment. Inspiring Highlights Andong Village Meet Fermented Soy Master Farm to table meal Hanok Stay Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours

After breakfast, we leave the traditional scene of Andong and make our way to the country's capital, Seoul, via the KTX line. Enjoy this scenic and smooth train ride while your luggage is portered to your hotel in Seoul. Upon arrival, begin your Seoul city tour, immersing yourself in the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture. Explore the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, wander the charming streets of Bukchon Hanok Village, and browse the galleries and tea houses of Insadong. Experience the bustling energy of Myeongdong or Dongdaemun markets, find serenity at Jogyesa Temple, and enjoy sweeping city views from N Seoul Tower, capturing both the historic and contemporary spirit of Korea's capital. Inspiring Highlights KTX train ride Gyeongbokgung Palace Bukchon Hanok Village Myeongdong Markets Jogyesa Temple Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours

Today is an early start and begins with a journey to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a place of profound history and reflection on the division of the Korean Peninsula. Explore key sites and gain insights into the region's past and present before returning to Seoul in the afternoon. Meet a courageous female North Korean defector, who will share her personal story, offering a rare and inspiring perspective on resilience and hope. The day concludes with a farewell group dinner, celebrating new friendships and the remarkable experiences shared on this journey. Inspiring Highlights DMZ Meet North Korean Defector Special Information Please remember to bring your passport, as it is required for entry to the DMZ. The DMZ tour may occasionally be cancelled by the government or due to unforeseen circumstances on the day. If this occurs, an alternative program will be offered, including visits to Imjingak Park, Freedom Bridge, the Peace Gondola, and Odu Unification Observatory, providing views of North Korea, before returning to Seoul City Hall.

Today, our journey through Japan and South Korea comes to an end. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.