Japan & South Korea

4 Nights – Tokyo
2 Nights – Shizuoka
3 Nights – Osaka
2 Nights – Hiroshima
1 Night – Fukuoka
2 Nights – Busan
3 Nights – Jeju island
2 Nights – Seoul

✈️ UK – Tokyo (4 nights): You’ll begin your journey in Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital where you’ll spend 4 nights exploring the city’s eclectic mix of modern and traditional architecture and attractions. Visit iconic sites including the Senso-ji Temple in historic Asakusa and the bustling area of Shibuya with its world-famous pedestrian crossing.  Don’t miss the opportunity to try the fresh seafood at Tsukiji Outer Market and take in panoramic views from the Tokyo Skytree skyscraper.

🚝 Tokyo – Shizuoka (2 nights): From Tokyo, you’ll take the bullet train (Shinkansen) to Shizuoka, home to half of Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak which straddles both Shizuoka and neighbouring Yamanashi.  There are various ways to explore the mountain including walking trails, observation decks and guided tours.  The region is also famed for its tea plantations where you can explore the serene tea fields and taste some of the world’s finest green tea.

🚝 Shizuoka – Osaka (3 nights): You’ll continue your journey by taking another bullet train to Osaka, known as the ‘kitchen of Japan’ due to its world class cuisine.  For a true taste of the city, head to Dotonbori’s neon-lit streets, where you’ll find delicious street food including takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Fugu, the potentially deadly pufferfish, is a delicacy here in Osaka and is often served as thinly sliced ‘fugu sashimi’. Beyond food, there are plenty of historic sites to visit including Osaka Castle which stands amid modern skyscrapers.

🚝 Osaka – Hiroshima (2 nights): Hop back on the bullet train for your next stop to Hiroshima, a city with a deep history and a strong commitment to peace. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the atomic bombing during World War II. Hiroshima also offers beautiful parks including Shukkeien Garden.

🚝 Hiroshima – Fukuoka (1 night): After Hiroshima, you’ll take the bullet train to Fukuoka for a night’s stay. While here, make sure you sample Hakata ramen, a famous local dish, and explore the bustling areas of Tenjin and Nakasu. If time allows, visit Ohori Park for a relaxing stroll around the lake.

🚢 Fukuoka – Busan (2 nights): You’ll embark on a short ferry trip across the Korea Strait to Busan and this is where the South Korean part of your adventure starts.  Here you can bask in the vibrant atmosphere of the Jagalchi Fish Market and relax on the sandy shores of Haeundae Beach, known for its bustling beachfront scene.  Also, make sure you head to the colourful and historic Gamcheon Culture Village, where narrow alleys are filled with colourful houses, sculptures and beautifully painted murals.

✈️ Busan – Jeju Island (3 nights): Next we’ll whisk you off on a short plane flight to the beautiful volcanic Jeju island.  Located off the southern coast of the Korean peninsula and often referred to as ‘the Hawaii of South Korea’ Jeju island boasts breath-taking scenery, waterfalls and pristine beaches.  A highlight of Jeju island is the iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong, a volcanic crater that was formed over 5,000 years ago when an underwater volcano erupted.  Its name ‘Ilchulbong’ means ‘sunrise peak’ as it’s the best place on the island to watch the sunrise over the sea.  Other highlights include relaxing on the stunning beaches of Hyeopjae beach, Jungmun beach and Gwakji beach or exploring the lava formations at Manjanggul Cave or hiking to the top of Mount Hallasan.

✈️ Jeju Island – Seoul (2 nights): For the final leg of your epic adventure, you’ll take another short flight to Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Immerse yourself in Seoul’s rich history by exploring the magnificent palaces of Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, where you can witness the grandeur of Korean royalty. Stroll around the charming streets of Bukchon Hanok Village and the bustling markets of Myeongdong.  The food here is fabulous, so make sure you take in all the diverse culinary scene including the Korean barbecues and street food.

✈️ Seoul to UK:  Finally, we’ll take you to the airport ready for your return flight back home to the UK.