South Korea and Japan Small Group: 16 Day Tour from Seoul to Kyoto
16 Day Tour from Seoul to Kyoto
Globus Tours
If ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies are tempting your travel fantasies, then join us for a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries of South Korea. Did we mention the palaces, Hanok houses, and temples to meditate on an adventure like no other. Stroll or roll through Seoul on a rickshaw ride and glide aboard a high-speed train to the city of Gyeongju to peruse its pavilions, pagodas, and parks. Take aim and pull back with an archery lesson or lean into some sage advice at a local Confucius school. From the serenity of Buddhist monks to the savory seafood markets and stunning seascapes, this tour of South Korea will suit you to a tea!
Your adventure in Asia continues with a flight to Tokyo where the art of Japanese living is waiting to enchant you. From tales of master samurais and marvelous shrines, the history and legends of this colorful culture is yours for the discovering. Shining shrines and sumptuous dines are served in elegant style only as Japan can deliver.
You’ll also be enchanted by Kyoto’s shimmering golden temples, serene goddesses, and stylish geishas, mesmerized by the natural beauty of Japan’s landscapes passing by your bullet train window, and awed by the view of Mount Fuji from the city’s Skytree tower. A dizzying and dreamy experience in ancient secrets and modern marvels are yours to discover on this vacation in Japan and South Korea.
16 Day Tour from Seoul to Kyoto
Globus Tours
If ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies are tempting your travel fantasies, then join us for a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries of South Korea. Did we mention the palaces, Hanok houses, and temples to meditate on an adventure like no other. Stroll or roll through Seoul on a rickshaw ride and glide aboard a high-speed train to the city of Gyeongju to peruse its pavilions, pagodas, and parks. Take aim and pull back with an archery lesson or lean into some sage advice at a local Confucius school. From the serenity of Buddhist monks to the savory seafood markets and stunning seascapes, this tour of South Korea will suit you to a tea!
Your adventure in Asia continues with a flight to Tokyo where the art of Japanese living is waiting to enchant you. From tales of master samurais and marvelous shrines, the history and legends of this colorful culture is yours for the discovering. Shining shrines and sumptuous dines are served in elegant style only as Japan can deliver.
You’ll also be enchanted by Kyoto’s shimmering golden temples, serene goddesses, and stylish geishas, mesmerized by the natural beauty of Japan’s landscapes passing by your bullet train window, and awed by the view of Mount Fuji from the city’s Skytree tower. A dizzying and dreamy experience in ancient secrets and modern marvels are yours to discover on this vacation in Japan and South Korea.
16 Day Tour from Seoul to Kyoto
Globus Tours
If ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies are tempting your travel fantasies, then join us for a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries of South Korea. Did we mention the palaces, Hanok houses, and temples to meditate on an adventure like no other. Stroll or roll through Seoul on a rickshaw ride and glide aboard a high-speed train to the city of Gyeongju to peruse its pavilions, pagodas, and parks. Take aim and pull back with an archery lesson or lean into some sage advice at a local Confucius school. From the serenity of Buddhist monks to the savory seafood markets and stunning seascapes, this tour of South Korea will suit you to a tea!
Your adventure in Asia continues with a flight to Tokyo where the art of Japanese living is waiting to enchant you. From tales of master samurais and marvelous shrines, the history and legends of this colorful culture is yours for the discovering. Shining shrines and sumptuous dines are served in elegant style only as Japan can deliver.
You’ll also be enchanted by Kyoto’s shimmering golden temples, serene goddesses, and stylish geishas, mesmerized by the natural beauty of Japan’s landscapes passing by your bullet train window, and awed by the view of Mount Fuji from the city’s Skytree tower. A dizzying and dreamy experience in ancient secrets and modern marvels are yours to discover on this vacation in Japan and South Korea.
Trip Itinerary and Additional Information
1 ARRIVE IN SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
Old & New in the Capital City
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
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!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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. You can also don a traditional hanbok for memorable photos of your visit.
Day 3 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - A 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. Steeped in history and intrigue, it's a politically sensitive area, so tour with discretion.
4 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 experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
LOCAL FAVORITE - MOVING THE MIND
Learn the traditional Korean form of moving meditation called Sunmodo, 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
Pavilions, Pagodas & Parks
Your full-day sightseeing tour of Gyeongju includes a visit to Bulguksa Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. End your day with a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond.
Meals Included: Breakfast
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION
Visit Bulguksa Temple with its ancient wooden pavilions and pagodas built on lush, forested hills. Within the temple complex is the Seokguram Grotto, one of Asia’s finest shrines, with its large Buddha statue overlooking the Sea of Japan. Also visit Gyeongju National Museum, housing artifacts from the Silla dynasty, and Tumuli Park to see several tombs, including that of King Michu.
Day 6 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 a local restaurant, join your Tour Director for a coastal walk on Dongbaekseom Island.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CONFUCIUS SAYS
Yangdong Folk Village features clusters of houses with mud walls and thatched roofs facing the river. Visit the village shrine, Confucius school, and stroll along the village trail to admire traditional hanoks.
7 BUSAN
Beautiful Busan
Start your day with a walking tour of Gamcheon, a historic village turned artistic center. Participate in a Korean cooking class for lunch, followed by a visit to Jagalchi fish market, Korea’s largest seafood market. This afternoon, take a cable car across the ocean for panoramic views of Songdo Beach and rock cliffs. You'll also experience stunning views from Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL FLAVORS
Learn authentic Korean cuisine during a cooking class led by a local chef. You'll also get to taste local rice wine and collect recipes to recreate your masterpiece at home.
8 BUSAN
Korea to the Tea
This morning, visit the UN Cemetery which honors fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Later, enjoy a tea tasting session. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - BERRY GOOD TEA
Experience Korea's floral tea culture as you taste various local floral and herbal teas. Learn how to create your own blend and enjoy the soothing aromatic flavors.
9 BUSAN–SEOUL
Seoul Searching
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 journey through Korea.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
10 SEOUL–TOKYO, JAPAN
So Long, Seoul!
Fly to Tokyo, the capital of Japan.
Meals Included: Breakfast
11 TOKYO
Tokyo Go!
Start your private guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent Shinto monument. Ascend Tokyo Skytree for stunning panoramic views and visit the Samurai and Ninja Museum for a hands-on history lesson. Lastly, visit bustling Nakamise shopping arcade and Asakusa Kannon Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - TOUCH THE SKY
Ascend to Sorakara Point on the 450th floor of Tokyo Skytree, the highest point accessible to visitors. Enjoy panoramic views over the city and, on a clear day, a sight of Mount Fuji.
12 TOKYO
Get to Know Tokyo
Enjoy a full day at your leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
13 TOKYO–KYOTO
Kyoto Bound
Travel by shinkansen (bullet train) to historic Kyoto, the former capital of Japan.
Meals Included: Breakfast
14 KYOTO
Gold Leaf & Goddesses
Your guided sightseeing tour takes you to the stunning Kinkakuji Temple (Temple of the Golden Pavilion) covered in shimmering gold leaf. Next, take a walking tour through Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. Continue to Sanjusangendo Temple and conclude your day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - IN THE ARMS OF THE GODDESS
Visit Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. These life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf, are flanked by the main statue in the hall, each said to possess the power to save worlds.
15 KYOTO
Capturing Kyoto
Enjoy a full day at your leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
16 KYOTO
Safe Travels Until We Meet Again
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
Meals Included: Breakfast
