Essence of South Korea & Japan

Essence of South Korea & Japan

1,008 Views
16 Days From

$9412

Essence of South Korea & Japan

16 Days Starting in Seoul, South Korea and ending in Tokyo, Japan

Visiting: Seoul, DMZ, Gyeongju, Busan, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Kurashiki, Osaka, Kyoto, Hakone, Tokyo

Tour operator:

Wendy Wu

Tour code:

2338

Group size:

12 - 28

Physical rating:

Level1

Age range:

12-99

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Boat/Cruise Excursion

From: $9412

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant cultures and rich histories of South Korea and Japan with the "Essence of South Korea & Japan" tour. Begin your adventure in Seoul, where you'll explore iconic landmarks like Gyeongbok Palace and indulge in a Korean cooking class. Visit the DMZ, a poignant reminder of Korea's divided past, before traveling to Gyeongju and Busan to uncover ancient relics and bustling markets. Cross the sea to Japan, starting in Fukuoka and moving on to Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park. Discover the historical charm of Kurashiki and Okayama, and immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Kyoto. Conclude your journey in Tokyo, where tradition meets modernity, with visits to Meiji Shrine and a bonsai museum. This tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes, promising an enriching adventure across two fascinating countries.

Highlights

  • Explore the vibrant city of Seoul, including the Gyeongbok Palace and a Korean cooking class.

  • Visit the DMZ, the heavily militarized border between North and South Korea, and explore Gwangjang Market.

  • Discover the cultural relics of Gyeongju, including Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto.

  • Experience the lively atmosphere of Busan, with visits to Jagalchi Fish Market and Haeundae Beach.

  • Explore Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park and the holy island of Miyajima with Itsukushima Shrine.

  • Stroll through Kyoto's Arashiyama bamboo forest and visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine.

  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from Hakone and participate in a Yosegi marquetry craft experience.

  • Discover Tokyo's Meiji Shrine, Sensoji Temple, and enjoy a dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Fly overnight to South Korea's dazzling capital, Seoul. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3: Explore Seoul

Location: Seoul

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In Seoul's urban landscape of skyscrapers and nightlife, an immersion of culture and tradition awaits. Start your full-day tour at Gyeongbok Palace for the captivating 'Changing of the Guards' ceremony and a palace exploration. Then, indulge in a Korean cooking class to create and enjoy the flavors of Bibimbap for lunch. Experience the city's beauty from N Seoul Tower and explore the artistic allure of Insadong Antique Alley, a hub of traditional Korean treasures.

Day 4: Visit The Dmz

Location: DMZ

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Created as a buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea at the end of the Korean War, the DMZ is part of the most heavily militarised border in the world. An early start is needed today as tickets the DMZ are limited. See the DMZ Theatre & Exhibition Hall and walk along the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, visit Dora Observatory & Station and see the Bridge of Freedom. (Should tickets not be available, take a ride on the DMZ gondola and visit the Odusan Unification Observatory). Return to Seoul explore the huge Gwangjang Market.

Day 5: Explore Gyeongju

Location: Gyeongju

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Embark on a train journey from Seoul to the captivating city of Gyeongju, known as 'the museum without walls' for its abundant cultural relics. Former capital of the Silla Kingdom for over 1,000 years, Gyeongju boasts an astonishing array of tombs, temples, statues, and ruins to explore. In the afternoon, marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Bulguksa Temple, an architectural gem of Silla heritage, and the awe-inspiring Seokguram Grotto. End your day with a serene stroll along the enchanting Anapji Pond, where echoes of the city's illustrious history resonate amidst the tranquil waters.

Day 6: Explore Busan

Location: Busan

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day with a visit to Gyeongju National Museum and Tumuli Park's royal tombs. Then, journey by road to Busan, a city brimming with character, traditional charm, and scenic wonders like mountains, beaches, temples, and delectable seafood. In the afternoon, experience the lively atmosphere of Jagalchi Fish Market and Gukje Market's bustling stalls. Later, find tranquility on Dongbaekseom Island before relishing the sandy shores of Haeundae Beach.

Day 7: Goodbye South Korea, Hello Japan

Location: Fukuoka

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

It's time to say goodbye to South Korea and hello to Japan! Board the ferry to Fukuoka.

Day 8: From Fukuoka To Hiroshima

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Discover the allure of Fukuoka, Kyushu Island's largest city, nestled on the northern shores of Japan. Begin your day with a visit to the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shinto Shrine, followed by an exploration of the National Museum, unveiling the city's vibrant past. After lunch, board the bullet train to Hiroshima, a city that resonates with historical significance, symbolizing resilience and peace.

Day 9: Hiroshima & Miyajima

Location: Hiroshima

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start the day at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which pays homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb, followed by a visit to an oyster farm by boat. In the afternoon, hop on the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima and visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site, located on the edge of the waters of the Seto Island Sea.

Day 10: Discover Ancient Kurashiki & Okayama

Location: Kurashiki

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer by bullet train to Kurashiki to explore the beautifully-preserved Bikan Historical Quarter, where the streets along the banks of the Kurashiki River are lined with white-walled kominka (traditional houses). Next, head to Okayama and visit Korakuen Garden, one of the 'Three Great Gardens of Japan'. Later, board the bullet train to the vibrant city of Osaka.

Day 11: Explore Nara & Osaka

Location: Osaka

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to Nara and enjoy a leisurely walk through Nara Park to Todaiji Temple before returning to Osaka. Enjoy lunch at Dotonbori Street, famous for its eye-catching signage and billboards and then visit the impressive Osaka Castle.

Day 12: Travel To Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Journey by road to Kyoto – an enchanting city, Kyoto was Japan's capital city for 1,000 years; today it is a testament to ancient Japan, packed with tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens. Visit Ryoanji, the 'temple of the peaceful dragon' and the famous Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion'. Later immerse yourself in the culture by experiencing the sacred rituals of a tea ceremony with a tea master.

Day 13: Explore Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit the vibrant district of Arashiyama and stroll through the bamboo forest with its towering and impressive thickets before trying your hand at the art of fan painting. Next you'll have the opportunity to have lunch with a Maiko – an apprentice Geisha. In the afternoon, visit to one of Kyoto's most famous sites – Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates, and follow a forested hillside pathway passing numerous shrines along the way.

Day 14: Visit Hakone

Location: Hakone

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Take the bullet train to Odawara. Upon arrival, visit the Hakone shrine, situated on the shores of Lake Ashi and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji in the background. After lunch, take part in a Yosegi marquetry craft experience, before continuing by road to Tokyo – Japan's capital city.

Day 15: Explore Tokyo

Location: Tokyo

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech neon-lit frontage and you will find plenty of tranquil backstreets and ancient temples. Begin the day with a visit to Meiji Shrine, before driving past the famous Shibuya crossing. Next, wander through the old district of Asakusa to soak up the atmosphere at Sensoji, Tokyo's most famous and beloved temple. After lunch, visit a bonsai museum and observe a demonstration before trying your hand at pruning your own. End the day with a dinner cruise on the beautiful Tokyo Bay.

Day 16: Fly Tokyo To Uk

Location: Tokyo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fly to the UK, arriving home the same or following day.

What's Included

  • 3* plus - 4* accommodation

  • Domestic transportation

  • All meals

  • Touring with guides and entrance fees

Mode of Transport

Transportation includes flights to Seoul, ferry to Fukuoka, and bullet train journeys within Japan, offering a mix of air, sea, and rail travel experiences.

Accommodation

Crown Park Hotel

Located in Myeong-dong, the hub of business, tourism and culture within Seoul, the 4* Crown Park Hotel is the perfect destination, with department stores, duty-free shops and business centres all within close proximity. Relax in one of the hotel's spacious and modern rooms and enjoy all day dining as well as access to the fitness centre open 24-hours a day.


Gyeongju Commodore Hotel

The 3* Gyeongju Commodore Hotel is perfectly located within walking distance to the Art Sonje Museum, the Miso Theatre and Gyeongju World Amusement Theme Park. Each room is equipped with free Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries and more. Leisure time can be spent indulging in delicious Korean dishes at Arirang, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.


Busan Asti Hotel

Perfectly located in the heart of the city of Busan and a short walk from Busan station, the modern 4* Asti Hotel is the ideal centre for tourism and business. Rooms are finished with sophisticated interiors and include a refrigerator, complimentary coffee and tea as well as air conditioning and in room safe. Take time to visit the Gusto Restaurant that provides unparalleled views of the city, before enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the Alpastor & Spumante bar located at the 21st floor.


Ana Crown Fukuoka

Located within walking distance to the Canal City shopping complex in Fukuoka Japan, Nakasu entertainment district and outdoor food stalls, the 4* Ana Crown Fukuoka Hotel makes for an ideal hotel equipped with a fitness centre and restaurant. Guest rooms are completed with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, luxurious bedding and flat-screen TV hosting an array of international channels.


Grand Prince Hotel

Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, Grand Prince Hotel offers 5 dining options, a seasonal outdoor pool and hot spring baths. Air-conditioned rooms with a large picture window and a flat-screen TV await guests of the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima.


Osaka Excel Hotel

The 4* Osaka Excel Hotel is ideally located within walking distance to Dotonburi, a major entertainment district with a wide array of shops and restaurants. Each room will have a green tea set, complimentary toiletries, air purifier and more. The hotel is also home to a restaurant, bar and lounge area as well as a fitness room.


Kyoto Tower Hotel

Staying at the Kyoto Tower Hotel, will mean you have the Kyoto Tower, the city symbol, right by your doorstep. Guests will be able to enjoy the observation deck on-site, providing panoramic views of the city, as well as leisure at the hotel's shopping complex. Your room will be completed with air conditioning, coffee/ tea maker and refrigerator.


Mercure Hibiya

Conveniently located in the fashionable district of Hibiya, Tokyo, and a short walk from the Imperial Palace, one of Tokyo's most popular sightseeing spots, the Mercure Hibiya Hotel is a great place to stay. Rooms are inclusive of Wi-Fi, a refrigerator and toiletries. Leisure time can be spent at the state-of-the-art gym or by La Scène, the hotel's restaurant and bar that incorporates traditional French cooking techniques.


Experiences

Visit the DMZ

Embark on an informative and unusual adventure to the DMZ, the buffer zone between the Koreas. Your visit will include the Bridge of Freedom, DMZ Theatre & Exhibition Hall and the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel.


Cultivate a Bonsai Tree

Visit a bonsai museum in Tokyo and see a demonstration before trying your hand in

the art of cultivating these miniaturised trees and shrubs that sit within a pot.


Visit an Oyster Farm

The Japan Inland Sea provides most of the nation's kaki (oysters). Visit an oyster farm whilst at Miyajima Island and learn first-hand how the fishermen breed and take care of this marine delicacy.


Check out our Q&As

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour of Seoul?

    In Seoul, you will experience the 'Changing of the Guards' ceremony at Gyeongbok Palace, participate in a Korean cooking class to make Bibimbap, and explore the artistic Insadong Antique Alley.

  • What can I expect to see at the DMZ?

    At the DMZ, you will visit the DMZ Theatre & Exhibition Hall, walk along the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, visit Dora Observatory & Station, and see the Bridge of Freedom. If tickets are unavailable, you can take a ride on the DMZ gondola and visit the Odusan Unification Observatory.

  • What historical sites will be visited in Gyeongju?

    In Gyeongju, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, and enjoy a stroll along Anapji Pond.

  • What activities are planned in Busan?

    In Busan, you will visit the Gyeongju National Museum and Tumuli Park's royal tombs, explore Jagalchi Fish Market and Gukje Market, and relax on Dongbaekseom Island and Haeundae Beach.

  • What will we do in Hiroshima?

    In Hiroshima, you will visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, take a boat to an oyster farm, and travel to Miyajima to see the Itsukushima Shrine.

  • What unique experiences are offered in Kyoto?

    In Kyoto, you will visit Ryoanji and Kinkakuji Temples, participate in a tea ceremony with a tea master, stroll through the Arashiyama bamboo forest, try fan painting, and have lunch with a Maiko.

  • What will we do in Tokyo?

    In Tokyo, you will visit Meiji Shrine, drive past Shibuya crossing, explore Asakusa and Sensoji Temple, visit a bonsai museum, and enjoy a dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.

  • Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?

    Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.

  • What is 'Happy to Share'?

    Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.

  • Do you allow children on your tours?

    We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.

Reviews of this operator

Feefo Rated Customer  

Colours of Costa Rica

26-Mar-2020

This was our first tour with you and from start to finish we were guided by Isaac who made sure everything went smoothly. He was laid back - but on the ball - always available and very informative.

Excellent
Feefo Rated Customer  

Ultimate South America

21-Mar-2020

We were hoping this tour would be the holiday of a lifetime and it certainly was. Our guide, Corina, was fantastic and evry country we visited had something special. FANTASTIC

Excellent
William  

Japan Uncovered

12-Nov-2022

A superb trip which ticked all our boxes and covered all the main experiences you would wish for on a trip to Japan! We were looked after by excellent local guides. All of our accommodation was very good. With all meals included we got the chance to experience the local cuisine

Alastair  

Christmas in Vietnam

06-Jan-2023

Vietnam at Christmas, Excellent Experience From start to finish Vietnam at Christmas was amazing, The tour group, Local Guide Loc, we must have been blessed as the weather was excellent only one day of rain. Tour Group 11/10 Guide 11/10 Hotels 8/10 Food 8/10 Itineary10/10 Faboulous experience on Christmas in Vietnam

Feefo Rated Customer  

Highlights of Sri Lanka

24-Mar-2020

Great Country. Good range of different things to do and places to see - temples to beaches to wildlife. Hotels ranged from adequate to excellent. Food quality and variety was better than we expected A really good tour guide and our fellow travellers were excellent company. Would recommend despite the impact of Corona Virus cutting out a few later trips but that was beyond anyone's ability to control..

Excellent

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 09, 2024 - Nov 24, 2024
$9412

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 09, 2024 - Nov 24, 2024
$11607 $10445

Operator discount: -$1162

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 09, 2024 - Nov 24, 2024
$11207

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 09, 2024 - Nov 24, 2024
$13402 $12240

Operator discount: -$1162

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$10961

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$11994

Including UK Flights

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Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$12833

Saturday - Sunday

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$13866

Including UK Flights

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Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$10961

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$11994

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$12833

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$13866

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

May 10, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$10832

Saturday - Sunday

May 10, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$11865

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

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$12704

Saturday - Sunday

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$13737

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$10187

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$11865 $11220

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$12059

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$13737 $13092

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$10316

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$11994 $11349

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$12188

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 08, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$13866 $13221

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$10961

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$12640 $11994

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$12833

Saturday - Sunday

Mar 28, 2026 - Apr 12, 2026
$14512 $13866

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$10961

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$12640 $11994

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$12833

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026
$14512 $13866

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

May 09, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$10832

Saturday - Sunday

May 09, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$12511 $11865

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

May 09, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$12704

Saturday - Sunday

May 09, 2026 - May 24, 2026
$14383 $13737

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$10832

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$12511 $11865

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$12704

Saturday - Sunday

Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$14383 $13737

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$10832

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$12511 $11865

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$12704

Saturday - Sunday

Oct 10, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$14383 $13737

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$10832

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$12511 $11865

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$12704

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 07, 2026 - Nov 22, 2026
$14383 $13737

Operator discount: -$646

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 31-Oct-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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