Royal Grandeur & Cultural Marvels

Step into Korea’s royal past with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces, where guards in traditional attire add cinematic flair. Walk over to the charming streets of Bukchon Hanok Village, home to preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks), offering photo-worthy moments at every turn. The afternoon leads you to Insadong, famous for its art shops and tea houses. Cap off your day sampling Korean street food at the famed Gwangjang Market, a sensory overload of sizzling sounds and tantalising aromas.

Seoul’s Modern Pulse & Hidden Corners

Dive into Seoul’s modern spirit, beginning with the architectural masterpiece Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Explore Korea’s contemporary art scene before heading to COEX Mall, Asia’s largest underground shopping complex, complete with a library and aquarium. Balance your modern adventures with tranquillity at Bongeunsa Temple, a serene spiritual sanctuary nestled among the high-rises. In the evening, take a cable car up to N Seoul Tower and enjoy panoramic views over the sprawling metropolis, sparkling in every direction.

Into the Heart of History

A rare chance awaits with a guided tour to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a powerful and thought-provoking journey into one of the world’s most fortified borders. Walk through the Third Infiltration Tunnel, peer into North Korea from Dora Observatory, and explore the narrative behind the Korean divide. Return to Seoul for a delicious bibimbap dinner and perhaps wind down in a traditional jjimjilbang (Korean sauna)—a cultural experience in itself.

High-Speed to Coastal Charm: Busan Awaits

Wave goodbye to Seoul as you zip to Busan aboard the KTX bullet train, a sleek and scenic ride through South Korea’s rolling landscapes. Arrive in the beachside city of Busan, known for its laid-back charm, seafood culture, and mountain-meets-ocean views. Check in at the stylish Ramada Encore by Wyndham Busan Haeundae , just steps away from golden sands. Spend the evening watching the sun melt into the horizon over Haeundae Beach with a cold Korean beer in hand.

Temples, Villages & Vibrant Markets

Begin your day with a spiritual visit to Haedong Yonggungsa, a rare seaside Buddhist temple built on dramatic cliffs overlooking the East Sea. Wander through Gamcheon Culture Village, a kaleidoscope of murals, pastel houses, and quirky art installations. Later, get a taste of local life at Jagalchi Fish Market, where the catch of the day is served fresher than anywhere else. Feast on spicy fish stew or grilled clams, cooked to order.

Leisure & Luxury by the Sea

Take it easy today with options to suit every taste. Lounge along Gwangalli Beach or discover underground shopping arcades. For relaxation, head to Spa Land Centum City, housed in the world’s largest department store, for a rejuvenating Korean spa ritual. If you're feeling adventurous, hop on a coastal cable car for sweeping views of Busan's dramatic landscape.

Flight to Japan: Osaka Beckons 

Fly from Busan to Osaka, Japan’s foodie capital and home to a fierce urban personality. Upon arrival, transfer to the comfortable Miyako City Osaka Tennoji . Unwind before immersing yourself in Dotonbori, the electric heart of the city, where neon signs reflect in the canal and smells of sizzling takoyaki fill the air. Try local favourites like kushikatsu and ramen in the bustling street food alleys.

Castles & Culture in Osaka

Spend your day exploring Osaka Castle, a striking symbol of samurai heritage surrounded by tranquil gardens and moats. Head to Shitennoji, one of Japan’s oldest temples, before exploring the retro delights of Shinsekai. Round off your day shopping in Shinsaibashi-suji, then feast on okonomiyaki—Osaka’s savoury pancake delicacy—at a lively izakaya.

Shinkansen to Kyoto: Tradition Begins

Board the legendary bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural soul. Settle into Hotel M’s Plus Shijo Omiya 3★, ideally placed for exploring the city’s old-world charm. Walk through the lantern-lit lanes of Gion, where geisha traditions still whisper through the air. Dine at a quaint kaiseki restaurant, savouring seasonal flavours in artfully prepared courses.

Sacred Paths: Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour

Today, dive deep into Kyoto’s spiritual heart with your included Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour. Escape the crowds and explore serene forest trails winding through thousands of crimson torii gates. Learn about Shinto traditions and enjoy panoramic views over Kyoto’s rooftops. This off-the-beaten-path experience is a photographer’s dream and a memory that lingers.

Zen Temples & Bamboo Dreams

Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), shimmering beside a reflective pond, then lose yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Wander through Tenryu-ji Temple, take a rickshaw ride, or visit a traditional tea house. In the evening, opt for a riverfront dinner along Pontocho Alley, where the air buzzes with elegance.

Kyoto Your Way

A free day to design your own Kyoto experience. Visit the Kyoto Railway Museum, indulge in local crafts shopping at Nishiki Market, or take a day trip to Nara to see the majestic Todai-ji Temple and its friendly deer park. Those seeking serenity can try a Zen meditation session or wear a kimono for a cultural photo shoot.

Speed into the Future: Kyoto to Tokyo

Board the high-speed Shinkansen to Tokyo, a metropolis of contrasts. Check into Hotel Keihan Asakusa 4★, perfectly placed for urban exploration. Begin your Tokyo adventure in Asakusa, home to the historic Senso-ji Temple and the lively Nakamise shopping street filled with traditional souvenirs and sweets.

Icons of Tokyo

Today is packed with iconic experiences—start at the serene Meiji Shrine, then venture into Harajuku for youth fashion and crepes. Visit the trendy streets of Omotesando, cross the world-famous Shibuya Scramble, and spend your evening watching the skyline from Tokyo Skytree or enjoying sushi on a conveyor belt in Shinjuku.

Your Tokyo, Your Way

Choose your perfect finale—whether it’s a magical day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea, exploring the futuristic art world of teamLab Planets, or soaking in culture at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. In the evening, take a romantic dinner cruise in Tokyo Bay or toast to your adventure from a rooftop bar.

Farewell to the Far East👋

Your extraordinary twin-country adventure concludes today. Transfer to the airport for your return flight, enriched with once-in-a-lifetime memories, cultural encounters, and breathtaking views across Korea and Japan. The fusion of tradition and modernity lingers long after your journey ends.