Best of JAPAN & KOREA
PLEASE NOTE: This tour combines our previous SEOUL Plus and Best of JAPAN itineraries into one seamless package. If you’ve want to explore both countries in a single, well-paced trip—without the stress of coordinating the logistics yourself—this is the tour for you!
JAPAN & KOREA is designated as a Walking Tour. For a typical day, guests should be able to handle 10,000 steps, ten or more flights of stairs, and lots of ups and downs on uneven terrain. The good news is: we won’t be in a race, so the pace will be relaxed!
This tour begins in Seoul on Sun Oct 18. After 7 nights in Seoul, we will spend 6 nights in Kyoto, ending with 4 nights in Tokyo. This Land Package does not include a trans-Pacific flight from Canada, but does include the regional flight from Korea to Japan. As with all our tours, we try to keep hotel changes to a minimum—with just two on this trip—so you can spend less time repacking and more time enjoying the experience.
We begin in Seoul, one of Asia’s most exciting mega-cities. It’s a place where centuries-old palaces sit just blocks from futuristic malls, and where traditional tea houses coexist with K-pop cafes and cat lounges. We'll visit royal landmarks, stroll through hanok villages, and take in sweeping views from the top of Korea’s tallest tower. There’s also a full-day trip to Seoraksan National Park, Korea’s most famous mountain destination.
Then we fly to Japan, where we'll soak in the calm elegance of Kyoto and the energy of modern Tokyo, with a bit of Osaka and Hiroshima in between. Along the way, we’ll explore iconic sites like the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, the Golden Pavilion, and the Tokyo Imperial Palace, and take a day trip to Mount Fuji.
This 18 day tour brings together the highlights of Korea and Japan in one well-paced, thoughtfully planned itinerary. From the liveliness of Seoul to the calm of Kyoto and the buzz of Tokyo, you’ll experience a range of landscapes, histories, and cultures without feeling rushed. So, if you've always wanted to see Japan and Korea like that, we hope you will join us!
TOUR DETAILS
LAND PACKAGE: $9,980
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $3,250
TYPE: Classic
HOTELS: 3 star & 4 star
GROUP: Max 12 guests (4 Remaining)
DURATION: 18 days (17 hotel nights)
Begins in Seoul: October 18, 2026
Ends in Tokyo: November 5, 2026
DAILY AGENDA (2026)
Day 0 (Sat Oct 17) Depart Toronto
You’ll depart from Toronto one day before the tour officially begins in Seoul to allow for travel time and time zone changes. While flights are not included in the land package, we recommend Air Canada flight AC61, a direct option departing Pearson at 13:35, which ensures timely arrival. Other flight options are also available, and we’re happy to assist with recommendations.
Day 1 (Sun Oct 18) Arrive in Seoul
Welcome to Korea! After landing at Incheon International Airport, you’ll be greeted by Barry, who will be there to personally welcome you and accompany you to our comfortable hotel located in the heart of downtown Seoul. Depending on your flight’s arrival time and how everyone’s feeling, there may be an opportunity to enjoy a light dinner at a nearby local restaurant.
Han River, Seoul
DAY 2 (Mon Oct 19) Royal Palace & Hanok Village (B,L,D)
After breakfast and a brief overview of our time together, we’ll walk to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, originally built in 1395. We'll tour the palace grounds and explore its role in Korea’s history. From there, we’ll visit Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic neighborhood once home to aristocrats and officials, where preserved traditional houses offer a glimpse into life in old Korea.
DAY 3 (Tue Oct 20) Namsan & City Hall (B)
This morning we head to Namsan Park for a walk to Seoul Tower, where sweeping city views will help orient you in the city. The peaceful forest setting offer a refreshing start to the day. In the afternoon, we explore the Seoul City Hall area, including the modern plaza and nearby historic buildings, before returning to Insadong for free time.
Hanok Village
DAY 4 (Wed Oct 21) Seoraksan Day Trip (B,L,D)
We’ll set out early for a full-day tour of Seoraksan National Park, Korea’s most famous mountain destination. Towering peaks, dense forests, and clear mountain streams make this a favorite destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. We’ll take a cable car up the mountain for sweeping views, visit a Buddhist temple dating back to the Silla Dynasty, and walk along the mountain stream.
DAY 5 (Thu Oct 22) Dongdaemun Markets & Cheonggyechun (B)
This morning we dive into the buzz of Dongdaemun Markets, a lively maze of fashion, fabrics, and street snacks that’s full of local color. In the afternoon, we trade the bustle for a peaceful walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a quiet escape in the heart of the city where flowing water, shaded paths, and gentle breezes offer a relaxing break from the urban energy.
Seoraksan National Park
DAY 6 (Fri Oct 23) Gangnam & Lotte Tower (B,L)
Today we head south to explore Gangnam (yes, just like that song), one of Seoul’s most vibrant and stylish districts. Gangnam offers a fascinating glimpse into modern Korean life. To cap off the day, we’ll ascend Lotte World Tower, Korea’s tallest skyscraper at 555 meters, where panoramic observation decks offer breathtaking twilight views over the sprawling cityscape.
DAY 7 (Sat Oct 24) Seoul Free Day (B)
Today is a free day to explore Seoul your way. You might visit Changdeokgung Palace, the Seodaemun Prison Museum, or Bongeunsa Temple. For something different, try a cat or dog café, take a Korean art or cooking class, or test your skills in an escape room or VR zone. You could also bike along the Han River, explore Itaewon’s global vibe, enjoy a tea tasting, or catch the Nanta Show.
Lotte Tower
DAY 8 (Sun Oct 25) Fly Seoul to Osaka & Train to Kyoto (B,D)
Today we say goodbye to Korea and catch a midday flight from Seoul to Osaka. After landing, we'll head to the train station for a scenic ride to Kyoto, offering peaceful views of Japan’s countryside along the way. Upon arrival in Kyoto, we’ll check in to our hotel and have a bit of time to settle in and unwind before heading out together for a group dinner on the town.
DAY 9 (Mon Oct 26) Imperial Palace & Gion (B)
Today, we’ll start with a guided tour of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you’ll step into the refined world of Japan’s former emperors and enjoy the peaceful beauty of its traditional gardens and architecture. Later, we’ll head to Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, for a walk through its charming streets lined with wooden teahouses. After Gion, guests can keep roaming or heat back to the hotel for a free evening.
Japanese women in traditional kimonos
DAY 10 (Tue Oct 27) Nara Day Trip (B,L)
Today we’ll take a train to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. We’ll visit Todaiji Temple, a UNESCO site home to the massive bronze Great Buddha inside the impressive Daibutsuden hall. Surrounding the temple is Nara Park, where deer roam freely, bowing to visitors in exchange for treats. In the early afternoon, guests can return to Kyoto with Barry or stay to explore more of Nara before heading back on their own.
DAY 11 (Wed Oct 28) Hiroshima Day Trip (B,D)
Today, we’ll take a day trip to Hiroshima, beginning with a morning train ride through Japan’s scenic landscape. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum—a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the 1945 atomic bombing. The museum offers a profound look into the city’s past, highlighting both the tragedy of the event and Hiroshima’s journey of resilience.
Atomic Remnant, Hiroshima
DAY 12 (Thu Oct 29) Bamboo Forest & Gold Pavillion (B)
Our day begins with a peaceful walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo stalks sway gently overhead, creating a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Afterward, we’ll make our way to Kinkaku-ji, the famous Golden Pavilion, where the shimmering gold-leaf exterior reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond—a true highlight of Kyoto.
DAY 13 (Fri Oct 30) Fushimi Gates & Osaka Evening (B)
We start the day early with a visit to Fushimi Shrine, known for its thousands of vermillion Torii gates that wind up Mount Inari—one of Japan’s most iconic sights. After returning to the hotel, the afternoon is free to explore Kyoto. In the evening, we’ll take a train to Osaka to explore the lively Minami District, filled with neon lights, bustling streets, and great local food. Afterward, we’ll return to our hotel in Kyoto.
Fushimi Gates
DAY 14 (Sat Oct 31) Kyoto or Osaka Free Day (B)
Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Stay in Kyoto to dive deeper into its temples, gardens, and cultural districts, or take a short train to Osaka for street food, shopping, and modern attractions. Whether you're into history, shopping, food, or just soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a great chance to personalize your day. Barry will be available to offer tips and help with planning.
DAY 15 (Sun Nov 1) Train Kyoto to Tokyo & Ginza Evening (B,D)
Today, we’ll make our way to Tokyo by train, watching the landscape shift from Kyoto’s timeless charm to the dynamic energy of Japan’s capital. After settling into our hotel, we’ll spend the evening exploring Ginza. From high-end department stores and designer shops to sleek cafés, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, it’s a vibrant area perfect for strolling, browsing, and soaking in the city's sophisticated side.
Ginza District
DAY 16 (Mon Nov 2) Royal Palace (B)
Today, we’ll begin with a visit to the Tokyo Imperial Palace, the primary residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. We’ll explore the palace grounds and learn about its historical and cultural significance. In the afternoon, guests will have free time to explore Tokyo at their own pace—whether it’s discovering a new neighborhood, visiting a museum, or enjoying some shopping and local cuisine.
DAY 17 (Tue Nov 3) Day Trip to Mount Fuji OR Day Trip to Nikko (B)
Today, guests can choose between two exciting day trips.
Option 1: A full-day bus tour to Mount Fuji, offering breathtaking views and plenty of photo opportunities of Japan’s most iconic peak.
Option 2: A visit to Nikko, home to the stunning Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its elaborate carvings and deep historical roots.
Mount Fuji
DAY 18 (Wed Nov 4) Tokyo Free Day (B,D)
Today is a free day for you to explore Tokyo however you like. Whether you feel like wandering through a new neighborhood, visiting a museum, shopping for souvenirs, or simply relaxing and soaking up the city’s vibrant energy, the day is yours to enjoy however you wish. In the evening, we’ll come together for our Farewell Dinner—a chance to enjoy one final night together in Japan.
DAY 19 (Thu Nov 5) Depart Tokyo; End of Tour (B)
After a relaxed morning, we’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of the hotel. From there, we’ll head to Tokyo Haneda Airport. Those heading home to Toronto will catch their 18:10 flight. Guests who are continuing their travels in Japan can head off to their next destination and carry on with their plans. Safe travels!
Tokyo Street