Discover South Korea with Japan
Discover South Korea with Japan
Discover South Korea with Japan
16 Days Starting in Seoul, South Korea and ending in Kyoto, Japan
Visiting: Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Tokyo, Kyoto
Tour operator:
Tour code:
OSE2-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Korea and Japan with our "Discover South Korea with Japan" tour. Begin in Seoul, exploring the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace and the poignant Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Experience the serene lifestyle of Buddhist monks at Golgulsa Temple in Gyeongju, and marvel at the historic Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. In Busan, enjoy a coastal walk on Dongbaekseom Island and a vibrant Korean cooking class. Fly to Tokyo to discover the city's rich culture, from the Meiji Shrine to the bustling Nakamise shopping arcade. Conclude in Kyoto, visiting the stunning Kinkakuji Temple and the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine. Travel in luxury with high-speed trains and premium accommodations, making this a truly immersive cultural experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Seoul,South Korea
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul
Welcome to Seoul, the nation’s capital. With its ancient history and modern innovation, the city is full of opportunities to experience the traditional culture. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
Day 2: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SEOUL Palace Gates & Plentiful Plates Begin your vacation with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces. Continue to the National Museum of Contemporary Korean History to learn how Korea has transformed from an agricultural society to an economic powerhouse. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Gwangjang traditional market, one of the oldest in Korea. Then, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, home to over 900 hanoks (traditional Korean houses). This historic district has been restored to evoke the country’s timeless charm. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ! (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT COLORFUL DYNASTIES & CULTURAL DRESS Gyeongbokgung Palace is the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, originally built in 1395. The palace complex was razed by the Japanese invasion of 1592 and sat abandoned for nearly 300 years before it was rebuilt in the mid-19th century. Tour the palace and witness the ceremonial changing of the guard. If you wish, experience a taste of Korean culture and don a traditional outfit called hanbok for memorable photos of your visit.
Day 3: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul
Meals Included: Breakfast
SEOUL A Tale of Two Countries Journey to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for an unforgettable tour of the world’s most fortified border. Your Local Guide will explain the various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum, and the Dora Observatory. Return to Seoul and enjoy the balance of the day at your leisure. Consider an optional rickshaw ride through the city’s popular streets and alleyways. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTA LEGENDARY LAND Since 1953, the DMZ has separated North and South Korea. This stretch of land measures about 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. For decades, it has been steeped in history and intrigue. Please note this is a politically sensitive area, so tour with discretion.
Day 4: Seoul,Gyeongju
Location: Gyeongju
Accommodation Name: Lahan Select Gyeongju
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
SEOUL–GYEONGJU Relics & Rituals Travel by high-speed train to Gyeongju, often called the “Museum without Walls” due to its rich cultural history and natural beauty. The capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, the city today is known for its relics, temples, and palaces. Upon arrival, visit Golgulsa Temple for a unique opportunity to [LF] experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITESMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Join your small group for a unique experience to learn the art of Seonmudo. This Korean meditative martial art style was a secret of Buddhist monks for many years as a practice of developing mindfulness through motion. You’ll also learn about temple etiquette and try your hand at archery before enjoying dinner at the temple.
Day 5: Gyeongju
Location: Gyeongju
Accommodation Name: Lahan Select Gyeongju
Meals Included: Breakfast
GYEONGJU Pavilions, Pagodas & Parks Your full day sightseeing tour of Gyeongju includes a visit to Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. End your day with a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Visit Bulguska Temple with its ancient wooden pavilions and pagodas built on lush, forested hills. Within the temple complex is stunning Seokguram Grotto, one of Asia’s finest shrines, with its large Buddha statue overlooking the Sea of Japan. Then, visit Gyeongju National Museum, housing artifacts reflecting the art, culture, and history of the Silla dynasty, and Tumuli Park to see several tombs from the Silla period, including King Michu.
Day 6: Gyeongju,Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: Park Hyatt Hotel Busan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
GYEONGJU–BUSAN Historic Village & Harbor Views This morning, visit Yangdong Folk Village, one of the best-preserved historic villages dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Then, continue to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, known for its stunning beaches and harbor views. Before dinner at local restaurant, join your Tour Director for a coastal walk on Dongbaekseom Island. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCONFUCIOUS SAYS Surrounded by forested mountains and open fields, Yangdong Folk Village features clusters of houses with mud walls and thatched roofs facing the river. Visit the village shrine and Confucius school, and stroll along the village trail to admire the traditional hanoks.
Day 7: Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: Park Hyatt Hotel Busan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
BUSAN Beautiful Busan Sightseeing today starts with a walking tour of Gamcheon, originally founded by refugees of the Korean War and today transformed into an artistic center with galleries and cafés. Participate in a [LF] Korean cooking class for lunch, then proceed to Jagalchi fish market, Korea’s largest and most famous seafood market. This afternoon, take a cable-car ride across the ocean for panoramic views of Songdo Beach and rock cliffs. You’ll also experience stunning views from Songdo Yonggung Supension Bridge. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITESMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Korean cuisine is unmatched! Learn authentic and local specialties with a private cooking class under the instruction of a local chef. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste local rice wine. Collect the recipes and try to recreate your masterpiece at home.
Day 8: Busan
Location: Busan
Accommodation Name: Park Hyatt Hotel Busan
Meals Included: Breakfast
BUSAN Korea to the Tea This morning, visit Un Cemetery which honors fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Later, enjoy a tea tasting. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Experience Korea’s floral tea culture with your small group as you taste different types of local floral and herbal teas to soothe the senses with aromatic flavors. Learn how to create your own blend!
Day 9: Busan,Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation Name: Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Fly to Seoul, then visit Insadong Arts and Craft Street, a vibrant hub for Korean traditional culture and craftsmanship. Walk along the Seoul City Wall, built more than 600 years ago. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Korea.
Day 10: Seoul,Tokyo,Japan
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hilton Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Tokyo, the capital of Japan, where you will be met by a Globus representative. Please note: Your Tour Director does not accompany you to Japan.
Day 11: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hilton Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
TOKYO Tokyo Go! Today, meet your Local Guide and hop on Tokyo’s subway system for a private guided sightseeing tour of the city. Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. Reach new heights at Tokyo Skytree. Tour the Samurai and Ninja Museum for a hands-on history lesson of Japan’s famous warriors, including the armor, weapons, and swords from the Medieval era. Lastly, visit bustling Nakamise shopping arcade and Asakusa Kannon Temple, the oldest of their kind in Tokyo. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHT TOUCH THE SKY Ascend to Sorakara Point on the 450th floor of soaring Tokyo Skytree. Reach the highest point accessible to visitors at some 450 meters(1500 feet). Marvel at the stunning panoramic views over the city and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji.
Day 12: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Hilton Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
TOKYO Get to Know Tokyo • Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B)ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Tokyo with a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Utilize your included Tokyo Metro Pass to explore more of Tokyo’s unique neighborhoods, take a day trip to Mount Fuji, or visit the street-food markets for local specialties.
Day 13: Tokyo,Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Kyoto Century Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, travel by shinkansen (bullet train) to historic Kyoto, former capital of Japan.
Day 14: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Kyoto Century Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
KYOTO Gold Leaf & Goddesses Your sightseeing tour uses efficient public transportation to take you around the city with your Local Guide. Start at stunning Kinkakuji, Temple of the Gold Pavilion, covered with shimmering gold leaf. Next, take a walking tour through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, which is also known for its high concentration of machiya-style merchant houses. Continue to Sanjusangendo Temple. Conclude your tour with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for the thousands of brightly colored Torii Gate. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHT IN THE ARMS OF THE GODDESS Visit Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Flanking the main statue are 1,000 life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, with 40 arms said to have the power to save 25 worlds.
Day 15: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Kyoto Century Hotel
KYOTO Capturing Kyoto Enjoy a full day at your leisure. ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Kyoto with an optional excursion to nearby Nara or explore more of Kyoto’s historic temples and shrines using your included subway and bus pass.
Day 16: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: Kyoto Century Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Transport
Travel by high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju, and by shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto. Flights are included between Busan and Seoul, and Seoul and Tokyo.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul, Lahan Select Gyeongju, Park Hyatt Hotel Busan, Hilton Tokyo, and Kyoto Century Hotel.
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Meals
Meals are included as specified in the itinerary: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), and Dinner (D).
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Guided Tours
Guided sightseeing tours are included in Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Tokyo, and Kyoto.
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Special Experiences
Special experiences such as a Korean cooking class, tea tasting, and visits to various cultural and historical sites are included.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a rickshaw ride in Seoul and day trips in Tokyo and Kyoto are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into South Korea and Japan are not included.
UNESCO Sites
Bulguska Temple|Seokguram Grotto
Accommodation
Seoul:Fraser Place Namdaemun SeoulGyeongju:Lahan Select GyeongjuBusan:Park Hyatt Hotel BusanTokyo:Hilton Tokyo
Mode of Transport
Travel by high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju, and by shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto. Flights are included between Busan and Seoul, and Seoul and Tokyo.
Notes
While Seoul's Bukchon Hanok Village is rich in Korea's ancient history, please be considerate of its current, local residents while touring. Visiting the DMZ on Day 3 requires a passport.
Meals
14 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is included in the tour?
The tour includes travel by high-speed train from Seoul to Gyeongju, and by shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Kyoto. Flights are included between Busan and Seoul, and Seoul and Tokyo.
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What type of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in luxurious accommodations including Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul, Lahan Select Gyeongju, Park Hyatt Hotel Busan, Hilton Tokyo, and Kyoto Century Hotel, offering comfort and premium amenities throughout your journey.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, meals are included as specified in the itinerary: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), and Dinner (D).
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What special experiences are included in the tour?
Special experiences such as a Korean cooking class, tea tasting, and visits to various cultural and historical sites are included.
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What is the itinerary for the first day in Seoul?
On the first day, you will arrive in Seoul, the nation's capital, and check into your hotel in the mid-afternoon. The city offers opportunities to experience traditional culture.
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What activities are planned for the visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)?
During the visit to the DMZ, you will tour various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum, and the Dora Observatory.
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What can I expect during the visit to Gyeongju?
In Gyeongju, you will visit Bulguska Temple, Gyeongju National Museum, Woljeong Bridge, and Wolji Pond. You will also experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks at Golgulsa Temple.
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What will we do in Busan?
In Busan, you will take a walking tour of Gamcheon, participate in a Korean cooking class, visit Jagalchi fish market, take a cable-car ride across the ocean, and visit Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge. You will also visit Un Cemetery and enjoy a tea tasting.
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What are the highlights of the Tokyo tour?
In Tokyo, you will visit Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Skytree, the Samurai and Ninja Museum, Nakamise shopping arcade, and Asakusa Kannon Temple. You will also have a full day at leisure to explore the city.
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What will we see in Kyoto?
In Kyoto, you will visit Kinkakuji (Temple of the Gold Pavilion), Gion district, Sanjusangendo Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. You will also have a full day at leisure to explore more of Kyoto or take an optional excursion to nearby Nara.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as a rickshaw ride in Seoul and day trips in Tokyo and Kyoto are available but not included in the tour package.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Are gratuities included in the tour package?
No, gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Are visa fees included in the tour package?
No, visa fees for entry into South Korea and Japan are not included.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
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