23 Day Inspiring Japan & South Korea Small Group Tour

Welcome to Japan! On arrival, please make your own way from the airport to your hotel. Your journey through this magical land of contrasts begins in Osaka, a vibrant city renowned for its food culture. Known as tenka no daidokoro (the nation's kitchen), it's a dream for foodies. Try some of its famed street food like takoyaki (octopus and pickled ginger in batter), kushikatsu (deep-fried meat and vegetable skewers) or Osaka-style okonomiyaki (a delicious savoury pancake). Arrival & Check-in information The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Osaka (Itami) International Airport (Itami) is to book airport transfers using your Traveller Hub (booked 7+ days in advance). Alternatively, both airports have reliable public transport services into central Osaka as well as the Limousine Bus which services many hotels in the central Osaka area. For more information or assistance with these services, please check with the Passenger Information Desk after leaving the Baggage Claim area. Special information There are no scheduled activities today. If arriving prior to check-in time, which is usually from 2-3 pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. Use this time to familiarise yourself with the hotel and rest before touring commences tomorrow. 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.

Please meet in the hotel lobby for your welcome meeting this morning at 8:15 am to discuss tour logistics and to give you a chance to meet your fellow travellers We'll tour central Osaka today, starting with a tour of the extensive grounds of Osaka Castle, an important historic monument of feudal Japan. It was built in the 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's most famous warlords. At the time of completion it was the largest castle in the country. Please note, entry to the Castle keep is not included but you will have time if you would like to enter. We'll go to the Namba area and see Shinsaibashi, a shopping district with everything from fast fashion to luxury brands. The flashy district of Dōtonbori is a hive of activity; a shopping, food and entertainment hotspot. You'll find a host of gastronomic delights here, from Michelin-starred establishments to exciting street food – no surprise given the city's strong food heritage. With its colourful neon lights and signs, it's home to one of Osaka's most photographed icons, the neon Glico running man sign. Dōtonbori Street runs parallel to the eponymous canal and is a great place to pick up souvenirs. Here you will have time to get some some of your first Japanese food for lunch. We'll head for magical Kyoto and visit Fushimi Inari Shine on arrival. This important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto was dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and sake, by the Hata clan in the eighth century. A magical path of over 5000 vibrant orange torii gates winds its way through the hills behind the shrine. A contrast to bustling Osaka, Kyoto showcases the essence of traditional Japanese culture and rich history with its timeless charm. Kyoto is considered by many to be the jewel in Japan's crown and one of the only cities in Japan to escape destruction during World World II, leaving its countless relics intact. Perhaps stroll the streets of Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district. With any luck you might spot a geisha, otherwise known as a geiko or maiko. Inspiring Highlights Osaka Castle Shinsaibashi & Dōtonbori districts Fushimi Inari Shrine Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

After breakfast, we'll see the sights of ancient Kyoto, starting with Tofukuji Temple, one of Japan's oldest and most famous temples. Its grand sanmon entrance gate, the oldest in Japan, is a National Treasure. This vast complex includes 24 sub-temples and four distinctly different gardens, each facing in a different direction. Many of these buildings date back to the Muromachi period (1338-1573) and are shining examples of Zen architecture of the time. Nearby Heian Jingu Shrine is a relatively young sacred location – built in 1895 – but this Shinto shrine is very impressive, with its enormous torii (sacred gate) standing almost 25 metres high. We'll continue onto some of Kyoto's most iconic sites, like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This is a Zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold, set within a beautiful classical Zen garden. We'll stop for lunch at Arashiyama before a mesmerising experience – standing amongst the soaring stalks of bamboo at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It's green, peaceful and the seemingly endless boughs make for a serene experience, even with the tourist crowds. Take in the sound of rustling bamboo as you stroll these paths – if there's a bit of wind, the groves will gently sway back and forth which only adds to the magic. Inspiring Highlights Tofukuji Temple Heian Jingu Shrine Kinkaku-ji Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

After breakfast we'll travel south over the Awaji Bridge to the Naruto Strait to reach our destination of Takamatsu, which is on the north coast of Shikoku island. This scenic port city is known for its udon noodles, a Japanese favourite. Today's lunch will be at a highway service stop, but in Japan, these stops are renowned for offering high-quality food Touring the open-air museum of Shikoku Mura is the perfect chance to explore Japan's history and heritage, with a glimpse of old village life. Over 20 restored traditional buildings and structures, built in the Shikoku style and mainly from the Edo and Meiji periods, were relocated here from all over the island. This hillside village includes farmhouses, storehouses, production workshops for soy sauce and sugar, a thatched kabuki theatre and a vine suspension bridge made of vine and wood. There is also a small, modern art gallery. We will also visit the Ritsurin Garden, an exquisite traditional garden. Built during the Edo period – when the city was a castle town controlled by the Matsudaira clan – it's a National Treasure and arguably one of the most beautiful gardens in the country. There are six ponds and 13 buildings in this tranquil oasis, including a lush lotus pond and the Okedoi-no-Taki waterfall. Pine-covered Mount Shiun at the garden's western border provides a gorgeous backdrop. There is also a tea house and various folk art and craft exhibits. Inspiring Highlights Shikoku Mura Ritsurin Garden Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

This morning after breakfast, we drive by impressive Matsuyama Castle on the way to Matsuyama, including a brief stop and visit to the Ishiteiji Temple, one of the 88 pilgrim temples and a popular tourist attraction. After, we will head onto the historic Dogo Onsen area for another photo stop and a chance to get some lunch. At Misaki, we'll board a ferry to the onsen town of Beppu, known for its spectacular hot springs. It's on the island of Kyushu, Japan's third-largest island. Inspiring Highlights Ishiteiji Temple Dogo Onsen area Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

This morning after breakfast, we will explore Kyushu Island, which is onsen country, with hot springs dotted all over. The city of Beppu is home to over 2,000 hot springs but this morning we'll visit the most bizarre. The Hells of Beppu are a spooky sight – each hot spring bubbles and steams somewhat violently. These jigoku (hells) can reach temperatures of about 98 degrees. They are for viewing, not bathing! Each ‘hell' is distinctly different. We will be visiting the the largest of the seven pools, Umi (Sea) Jigoku which earned its name for its vivid turquoise colour. Fun Fact - the oldest hell Chinoike (Blood Lake) Jigoku is – you guessed it – blood red, a magnificent sight with steam rising from it. We'll travel south to Nagasaki, one of two cities in Japan destroyed by an atomic bomb during World War II. Our first stop is a visit to Glover Garden, for an insight into Nagasaki's cosmopolitan past. This open air museum has six Western-style buildings from all over the city that were relocated here – grand mansions that were once home to Nagasaki's foreign residents, such as European diplomats and foreign traders. Take in the lovely views over the harbour. Nearby here is Oura Church, said to be the oldest church in Japan. Lunch will be in Nagasaki today, so tuck into some local cuisine. You'll arrive at your hotel after a fulfilling day of sightseeing with the rest of your evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights The Hells of Beppu Nagasaki Glover Garden Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours

Today's sightseeing starts after breakfast with the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park. The museum is a difficult but important visit, with photos and other relics from the period that were found after the bomb. The harrowing gallery displays stories compiled from survivors. 75,000 people lost their lives in the attack and its aftermath. Nagasaki Peace Park is next to the museum, located near the hypocentre of the atomic bomb blast. In the Zone of Hopes, the towering Peace Statue at the back of the park points up to the sky with its right hand and its left arm is horizontal to represent the wish for peace. On either side of the statue are two small shrines draped with origami crane garlands, in memory of Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes. There are five zones in this grand park, a serene place for reflection. We will spend the majority of our morning here before we drive to Dejima Wharf, where we will have lunch at your leisure. This is a waterfront area in Nagasaki. Historically, it served as an artificial island constructed in the 17th century to accommodate foreign traders, primarily Dutch merchants. During Japan's Sakoku (closed-country) period, when the country had limited interactions with the outside world, Dejima was one of the few places where foreign trade was permitted. The Dutch East India Company was the only European entity allowed to conduct trade with Japan during this era, and Dejima was their designated trading post. The rest of your afternoon is at leisure before an early start tomorrow morning. Inspiring Highlights Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park Dejima Wharf

There is an early start this morning for a full day of incredible sightseeing. We will start our travel to Hiroshima via Miyajima Island. Known for its lush forests, ancient shrines and temples, and freely roaming sika deer, this island is just as popular with Japanese tourists as it is with international visitors. We will have an early lunch today, at a highway service stop - in Japan these stops are renowned for offering high-quality food Just offshore we'll spy a 'floating' vermilion torii, which becomes partially submerged at high tide. It marks the entrance to Itsukushima Shrine, which was first built in the 12th century. We'll tour the shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will then travel onwards for our night in Hiroshima. Inspiring Highlights Miyajima Island Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After breakfast, we'll head to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park where we will spend approximately two hours at The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which is home to the ruins of the Genbaku Dome, one of the few buildings that were left standing near ground zero. In Hiroshima today, locals have mixed feelings about the UNESCO World Heritage Site structure: some see it as a reminder of war, while others consider it a tribute to the lost that ensures we'll never forget the tragic events that took place here. The flame in the cenotaph is intended to burn until the last nuclear weapon has been destroyed. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, located in the Peace Memorial Park, is a sobering experience for those who wish to explore further. We'll then travel to the Himeji area where we will make a brief stop for lunch, then continue onto a tour of magnificent Himeji Castle, the largest surviving example of a traditional Japanese castle. Comprising 83 buildings, the white roof of this UNESCO-listed complex is said to evoke the wings of a heron taking flight, hence the popular name ‘Shirasagi-jō', meaning White Heron Castle. Himeji Castle is said to be the most visited in Japan, and the site offers some wonderful views of surrounding Himeji city. To finish off the day, you will Japan's world-famous bullet train, a shining example of this country's technology and engineering prowess, is an absolute must-do. We'll take the shinkansen to Osaka. Inspiring Highlights The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Hemeji Castle Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After breakfast, we'll travel to the city of Kanazawa, on the northwestern shore of Honshu, once the base for the powerful Maeda clan. During World War II, Kanazawa was Japan's second largest city (after Kyoto) to escape destruction by air raids. This means that parts of the old castle town, such as the Nagamachi samurai district and chaya entertainment districts, have survived. We will get lunch enroute to our next destination. On arrival, we'll tour Kenrokuen Garden, heralded as one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Developed over the course of more than 200 years, starting in 1620, the garden contains almost 9000 trees and 200 plant species. We'll enjoy a walking tour of the Higashi Chaya District, famous for its well-preserved wooden teahouses where geisha perform. Inspiring Highlights Kenrokuen Garden Higashi Chaya District Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours

Step back in time to see the small, historical village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Japanese Alps. Enjoy a walk through this village to see the traditional thatched houses (gassho-zukuri) and beautiful mountain scenery. Then we'll head to the city of Takayama, nestled in the Hida mountains. Here, you will enjoy lunch at your own leisure. This city still retains a traditional feel, especially in its beautifully preserved old merchant district. Here you'll find quaint, old latticed wooden buildings and Sannomachi Street, with pretty homes, restaurants and sake breweries. Enjoy a walking tour of the old town before travelling to Matsumoto. Inspiring Highlights Shirakawa-go Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours

This morning, we'll take head to Matsumoto Castle for a photo stop, and visit the charming old town area surrounding the castle. Nakamachi Street is a quaint, charming street with well-preserved old buildings, like restored Edo-period storehouses. Here you'll find craft shops, a sake brewery, restored Japanese ryokan (inns) and restaurants. This used to be the main street when Matsumoto was a castle town. Across the river, pedestrian-friendly Nawate Street is a great place to pick up quirky souvenirs and snacks. Matsumoto Castle, with its wide moat, is also known as ‘Crow Castle' due to its dramatic black exterior. The donjon (keep) – Japan's oldest remaining wooden keep, completed around 1593 – is listed as a National Treasure of Japan. On a clear day, the backdrop of the Japanese Alps is the perfect touch on this majestic setting. After lunch at one of Japan's high-quality service stops, it's then about a three-hour journey to the revered peak, Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This enduring cultural symbol has been considered sacred since ancient times. It's an imposing sight, standing 3,776 metres high. We'll travel to Mount Fuji 5th Station, about halfway up the mountain, at an elevation of 2,300 metres. You'll savour spectacular views over the Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone National Park. You'll be staying in the Lake Kawaguchiko area. This is the most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes; popular sightseeing spots for admiring the dramatic peak. Iconic Mount Fuji is notoriously shy, but in clear conditions the views from these spots are stunning. This lake is also home to a cherry blossom festival held during the season, one of the most popular in the country. Inspiring Highlights: Mount Fuji Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

This morning we will take a short sightseeing cruise that offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Lake Kawaguchi and its surroundings from the water. The lake itself is beautifully situated with Mount Fuji providing a breathtaking backdrop, making it an ideal spot for photography and sightseeing. Following this, enjoy a visit to Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to learn about the revival of the lost art of Tsujigahana silk dyeing for kimonos, thanks to celebrated 20th-century textile artist Kubota Itchiku. This serene complex in the wooded hills, ensconced in nature with extensive gardens and a traditional tea room, is home to a vast collection of the artist's works. Then it's onto Tokyo, famed metropolis, arguably one of the most extraordinary capital cities on the planet. Japan's eclectic capital is a city of wonder. The Tokyo metropolitan area spreads over three prefectures with 38 million residents. On the way to our hotel, if conditions are clear, we'll stop at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for late afternoon panoramic city views over this energetic city. Inspiring Highlights Lake Kawaguchi cruise Itchiku Kubota Art Museum Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

In a city of such frenetic pace, a stop at the charming Asakusa neighbourhood is a refreshing taste of older Tokyo. It's home to the ancient seventh-century Sensō-ji Temple. Built in the Asuka era, it's the oldest and most important Buddhist temple in Tokyo – be prepared for crowds! It's known for its imposing entrance gate, Kaminarimon (also known as ‘Thunder Gate'), with its magnificent red lantern. We'll walk along Nakamise, the shopping street connecting the front gate and main hall of the temple. It's a wonderful atmosphere, with food stalls and souvenir shops, selling authentic Japanese items like traditional crafts. You'll find great souvenirs here. Then, foodies will be in heaven at Tsukiji Outer Market, a shopping district adjacent to the enormous former wholesale fish market. This lively area is home to everything food-related – fresh ingredients, street food vendors, kitchen utensils. There's great sushi and other restaurants around here, too. Next, we'll venture into the vibrant neighborhood of Shibuya, allowing you some time to explore at your leisure and discover a delightful local eatery for lunch (at your own expense). You'll have the option to extend your stay in this bustling district or return to the hotel with the group, where the evening will be yours to savor and relish your final moments in Tokyo! Inspiring Highlights Sensō-ji Temple Nakamise Tsukiji Outer Market Shibuya

Today, your journey through Japan will come to an end. You will make your own way independently to the airport to catch your flight from Tokyo to Seoul. Upon arrival in the vibrant capital city of Seoul, you will be transferred to your hotel. This bustling metropolis perfectly blends high-tech skyscrapers and pop culture with ancient temples and traditional markets. Take the rest of your first day to settle in and begin exploring the local neighborhood at your own pace. Special Information Note: There is no airport transfer included in Tokyo. Please speak with your tour leader or hotel concierge for details on how to travel to the airport.

After breakfast, we begin our South Korea adventure with a guided city tour of Seoul. Our day starts with a walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautifully restored urban waterway in the heart of the city, before continuing to the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic of Seoul's royal palaces. We then visit Bukchon Hanok Village, where hundreds of traditional Korean houses offer a glimpse into the city's past, followed by time to explore Insadong Street, known for its galleries, antiques and local crafts. The day concludes with sweeping panoramic views over Seoul from N Seoul Tower. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers. Inspiring Highlights Cheonggyecheon Stream Gyeongbokgung Palace Bukchon Hanok Village Insadong Street N Seoul Tower

After breakfast, we depart Seoul and journey south to the lively coastal city of Busan. On arrival, we experience the city's vibrant atmosphere with a visit to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea's largest seafood market, where the day's catch is traded straight from the harbour. We then explore the nearby Gukje Market, one of Korea's largest traditional markets, known for its local street food, textiles and souvenirs. We also visit the UN Memorial Cemetery, the only United Nations cemetery in the world, offering a peaceful and poignant reflection on Korea's modern history. The evening is at leisure, with time to relax or discover Busan's dining and waterfront precincts at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Jagalchi Market Gukje Market UN Memorial Cemetery Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours

Today is dedicated to discovering the unique character of Busan. After breakfast, we visit the colourful Gamcheon Cultural Village, famous for its maze-like streets, hillside setting and vividly painted houses, often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of Busan.” In the afternoon, we travel to Haeundae Beach, Busan's most famous stretch of coastline, followed by a leisurely walk around Dongbaek Island, where scenic paths offer beautiful coastal views and city skylines. This evening is free to enjoy Busan at your leisure — whether exploring the city's lively nightlife or sampling fresh local seafood. Inspiring Highlights Gamcheon Cultural Village Haeundae Beach Dongbaek Island

After breakfast, we begin the day at the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare seaside temple perched dramatically on the cliffs above the ocean. From here, we journey inland to Gyeongju, often called “the museum without walls” for its wealth of historic treasures. In the afternoon, we explore the city's rich heritage with visits to the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, the ancient Cheomseongdae Observatory, and the Royal Tombs, each offering a fascinating glimpse into Korea's past. We then conclude our sightseeing at the elegant Donggung Palace and the serene Wolji Pond, a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of this historic city. The evening is free to relax and enjoy Gyeongju at your own pace. Inspiring Highlights Haedong Yonggungsa Temple Bulguksa Temple Cheomseongdae Royal Tombs Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

After breakfast, we journey to Andong, a city celebrated for its deep-rooted traditions and cultural heritage. We begin at the serene Byeongsan Seowon, a historic Confucian academy set amidst peaceful landscapes, before exploring the world-renowned Hahoe Folk Village, where time-honored customs and beautifully preserved hanok houses offer a fascinating glimpse into Korea's past. From Buyongdae Cliff, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the village and surrounding countryside, a truly memorable vantage point. We then savor a special farm-to-table meal, crafted from the region's freshest ingredients, offering a taste of Andong's authentic culinary traditions. Inspiring Highlights Byeongsan Seowon Hahoe Folk Village Buyongdae Cliff Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

After breakfast, we make our way back to the capital. Upon arriving in Seoul, we explore the stylish Gangnam district, strolling along the famous Gangnam Street and visiting the impressive Coex Mall. This is the perfect opportunity to shop, soak up the modern city vibes, or simply enjoy the energy of one of Seoul's most dynamic neighborhoods. Your final evening in Seoul is free to spend as you wish, whether indulging in local cuisine, revisiting a favourite spot, or simply relaxing. Inspiring Highlights Gangnam Street Coex Mall Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours

Today provides a deeply moving glimpse into Korea's modern history with a visit to the iconic Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). We will have the rare and unforgettable opportunity to meet a North Korean defector and hear their personal story, offering a powerful and human perspective on the country's past and present. This evening, we gather one last time for a farewell dinner to celebrate the memories made throughout our journey. Inspiring Highlights DMZ Visit Meeting with North Korean Survivor Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

Your South Korean adventure comes to an end today. Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. We hope you take home many wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. 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. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.