Our Three Bases
Seoul
We spend a full week in Seoul and there is lots to take in. We visit the royal palaces, walk through old hanok villages, and ride up to the top of Korea’s tallest tower for a sweeping view of the city. You will also get a taste of modern Seoul with its cafés, K pop culture, and the energy that makes it such a fun place to be. One of the highlights is a full day trip out of the city to Seoraksan National Park, the country’s best known mountain destination.
Kyoto
Kyoto is where we slow down and enjoy the quieter side of Japan. Over six nights we visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and the Golden Pavilion, but also spend time in the backstreets and gardens that give Kyoto its charm. This is the city that shows us Japan’s traditions at their best, and with nearly a week here we will not feel rushed.
Tokyo
We finish with four nights in Tokyo, a city that has just about everything. We see the Imperial Palace, explore lively neighborhoods, and head out of town to round out the trip with food and culture in Osaka, history in Hiroshima, and a classic view of Mount Fuji. It is a big finish to the tour and a great way to experience the modern side of Japan alongside its most iconic sights.
ITINERARY
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 accompany you to our hotel located in the heart Seoul. Depending on how everyone is feeling, there may be an opportunity to enjoy a light dinner at a nearby local restaurant.
Day 2 (Mon Oct 19)
Royal Palace & Hanok Village
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.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 (Tue Oct 20)
Namsan & City Hall
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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 4 (Wed Oct 21)
Seoraksan Day Trip
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.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5 (Thu Oct 22)
Dongdaemun Markets & Cheonggyechun
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.
Meals included: Breakfast
DAY 6 (Fri Oct 23)
Gangnam & Lotte Tower
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.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 7 (Sat Oct 24)
Seoul Free Day
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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 8 (Sun Oct 25)
Fly Seoul to Osaka; Train to Kyoto
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 time to settle in before a group dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 9 (Mon Oct 26)
Kyoto Highlights Day #1
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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 10 (Tue Oct 27)
Nara Day Trip
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.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 11 (Wed Oct 28)
Kyoto Highlights Day #2
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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 12 (Thu Oct 29)
Hiroshima Day Trip
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.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 13 (Fri Oct 30)
Fushimi Gates & Osaka Evening
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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 14 (Sat Oct 31)
Kyoto or Osaka Free Day
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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 15 (Sun Nov 1)
Train Kyoto to Tokyo; Mount Fuji
Today, we’ll make our way towards Tokyo by train, watching the landscape shift from Kyoto’s timeless charm to the dynamic energy of Japan’s capital. We will disembark the train at Fuji Station, where we will be picked up by a private bus to show us the sights of Mount Fuji before delivering us to our Tokyo hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 16 (Mon Nov 2)
History & Culture Tour of Tokyo
Today, we'll have a local guide take us to multiple historic sites, including the ...
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 17 (Tue Nov 3)
Popular Tourist Attractions in Tokyo
Barry will lead guests on a general sightseeing tour of the city, ending with dinner in Shinjuku.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 18 (Wed Nov 4)
Tokyo Free Day
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.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 19 (Thu Nov 5)
Depart Tokyo
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!
Meals included: Breakfast
The TravelMaven Touch
Smart Pace
Instead of rushing from one hotel to the next, we carefully designed this journey with just three bases: seven nights in Seoul, seven in Kyoto, and four in Tokyo. This means less packing and unpacking and more time to enjoy each destination in depth.
Freedom Within a Group
Our tours give travelers the structure of a group with room to make personal choices. We include some meals and leave others open, so you can choose what suits you best. You will also have free time on select days to explore on your own, giving everyone the chance to do something they're interested in.
Very Small Group
With a maximum of twelve guests, our tours feel personal and efficient. Smaller groups move easily through busy city streets, fit comfortably into local restaurants, creating a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.