Highlights of Japan & South Korea: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Seoul - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo (Japan), Explore the Capital on Your Own

Welcome to Japan and the bustling capital of Tokyo! Upon arrival, meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel, where you can stay in and fight off jet lag or venture out to explore on your own. A good place to start is Shibuya, one of the largest shopping districts in the city. Browse the array of trendy shops, department stores, and boutiques along Shibuya Center Street before crossing over one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, Shibuya Crossing. Relax at one of the cafés overlooking the crosswalk, where you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the constant crowds.

If you want to continue shopping, take the metro to the glamorous side of the city in Ginza, renowned as one of the most upscale shopping and dining districts in the world. Look out at the towering skyscrapers, high-end boutiques, and flagship stores of prestigious international brands. In the evening, watch as the district comes alive with neon lights illuminating the streets. Food lovers will thrive here, as the neighborhood is full of Michelin-starred restaurants, chic cafés, and traditional izakayas, Japanese-style pubs. End the night with a pint of Sapporo before returning to the hotel to rest.

Day 2: Full-Day Tour of Tokyo, Explore Akihabara on Your Own

Join your guide this morning for a full day exploring Tokyo's iconic landmarks, starting at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, built in 1920 to commemorate Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Step through the towering torii gate into the expansive grounds enveloped in a lush forest. Follow the gravel path to the main complex to take in the grandeur of traditional Japanese architecture and witness solemn Shinto ceremonies. Participate in a ritual yourself by praying and leaving an offering at the shrine before continuing to the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, a bustling hub for food enthusiasts.

Navigate the narrow lanes lined with stalls offering a variety of seafood-heavy dishes, such as fresh sushi or grilled scallops. Once you've had your fill, continue to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the only part of the complex that's open to the public. Stroll along the meandering paths and look out at the traditional tea houses, scenic ponds, and picturesque bridges. Another highlight is a stop at Senso-ji, the oldest temple in the city, built in 645 CE. Admire the main hall adorned with sacred artifacts and pick up an omikuji to read your fortune before ending the tour at Nakamise-dori, a bustling shopping street.

Browse the stalls full of souvenirs, crafts, and street food, like freshly grilled senbei, a Japanese rice cracker that comes in different savory or sweet flavors. If you're not too tired, you can continue to the Akihabara district to explore on your own. Often called "Electric Town," Akihabara is home to animé shops, electronics stores, and gaming centers all covered in neon lights. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, end the night at a maid café, where servers wear elaborate maid costumes and perform in between serving your food and drinks. 

Day 3: Full-Day Tour of the Fuji Five Lakes Region

Trade the city for the countryside this morning as you transfer 1.5 hours to the Fuji Five Lakes region to see Mount Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park. Ascend to the Chureito Pagoda perched on the hillside for panoramic views of the snowcapped mountain surrounded by seasonal foliage (like pink cherry blossoms if you visit in spring). Trek back down the hill to visit the charming village of Oshino Hakkai, home to eight spring-fed ponds surrounded by lush greenery and traditional thatched-roof houses. 

Stroll through the village and take in the serene atmosphere while you enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji reflected in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, jump on a boat and cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Kawaguchi, passing charming lakeside villages set against the backdrop of the towering mountain. If you're not a fan of boats, you can take a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway instead.

As the cable car ascends, enjoy sweeping views of the lake, the lush greenery, and the picturesque villages. After thoroughly appreciating the mountain's beauty, start the journey back to Tokyo, stopping at Fuji Gotemba Distillery on the way. Step inside and learn about the meticulous whisky-making process, from the malting to the fermentation and distillation stages. Sample the different malt and grain whiskies before returning to your hotel in the city.

Day 4: Train to Kyoto, Partake in a Tea Ceremony, Visit the Samurai Ninja Museum

Say goodbye to Tokyo as you head to the station this morning to catch a 2.5-hour bullet train to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. Make your own way to the hotel, where you can refresh before the tea ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya. When you arrive, change into a kimono and learn about the ceremony, called sado or chanoyu. Sit down on a tatami, a type of straw mat, and join in the ritualistic preparation and consumption of matcha led by a knowledgeable tea master. 

After the ceremony, walk five minutes to the Samurai Ninja Museum to learn about these legendary warriors. Browse the collection of authentic samurai armor, weapons, and artifacts, all showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of these revered warriors. Watch the multimedia presentations to gain a deeper insight into the lives and philosophies of the samurai and ninja. Before you leave, try on a full samurai armor and choose from a selection of replica swords to take a commemorative picture.

Day 5: Full-Day Tour of Kyoto, Sample Local Dishes at Nishiki Market

Although Kyoto is no longer the capital of Japan, it's considered the country's cultural capital and is home to numerous shrines, temples, palaces, and gardens. Spend half the day exploring some of these sites, starting at the UNESCO-listed Kinkaku-ji, better known as the Golden Pavilion, as it's covered entirely in gold leaf. Stroll through the landscaped gardens and look out at the golden structure reflected in the surrounding ponds. Since you can't enter the temple, continue to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo Castle, home to the first shogun (military leader) of the Edo period.

Enter the main palace to see the walls adorned with intricate paintings depicting scenes from nature and Japanese folklore. Head outside to stroll through the expansive gardens, looking out at the serene reflecting ponds. After taking in the peaceful atmosphere, visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha, a shrine with over 10,000 red torii gates, all donated by individuals or businesses and inscribed with their names and wishes. Follow the torii-lined route up to the observation deck atop the mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the gates and the surrounding forest.

In the evening, visit the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto's Kitchen," to browse the hundreds of stalls offering an array of fresh produce, Kyoto specialties, and handmade goods. Sample pickled vegetables, yuba (tofu skin), Kyoto-style sushi, and other regional delights before ending the night with a sweet matcha-flavored treat, such as mochi, ice cream, or dorayaki, a pancake filled with matcha paste. Before you leave and return to the hotel, check out the Japanese kitchen knives, ceramics, and tableware to admire the artisans' attention to detail.

Day 6: Train to Nara, Full-Day City Tour, Train to Osaka

This morning, take a short, one-hour train ride to Nara, a quaint city renowned for its picturesque parks, ancient temples, and free-roaming deer. Meet your guide and set off on a full-day tour of the city, starting at Kofuku-ji, an ancient Buddhist temple built in 669. Admire the five-storied pagoda, offering a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of the Nara period. Explore the sprawling temple complex encompassing multiple halls and structures, each housing significant Buddhist artifacts and statues. Continue to Nara Park to discover another Buddhist temple, Todai-ji.

Enter the Great Buddha Hall to see Daibutsu, one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. Visit the UNESCO-listed Kasuga-taisha next, a Shinto shrine adorned with intricate details and surrounded by the Kasugayama Primeval Forest. As you walk through the grounds, look out for the playful deer, who bow in exchange for food. End the tour at Isuien Garden, dating back to the Meiji era, to see the picturesque ponds, carefully manicured landscapes, and traditional tea houses before jumping on a 30-minute train to your hotel in the port city of Osaka.

Day 7: Visit Osaka Castle & Shinsaibashi, Fly to Seoul (South Korea)

With just one day in Osaka, you don't have time to waste, so start your self-guided tour of the city at Osaka Castle, a grand structure that served as both a castle and fortress in the 16th century. Cross over the moat to get to the main tower, adorned with gilded embellishments and imposing stone walls. Ascend to the upper floors for panoramic views of the city's modern skyline and discover the museum within. Browse the collection of artifacts, armor, and artwork before continuing to the Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street to explore the kaleidoscope of fashion, entertainment, and gastronomic delights.

Pop in and out of shops, ranging from international brands to quirky boutiques, to shop for clothing or traditional Japanese crafts. Visit one of the street food stalls to try some of the dishes the city is known for, like takoyaki, a savory octopus ball drizzled with sauce and bonito flakes, or okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with your choice of protein and toppings, like scallions or cabbage. In the afternoon, return to the hotel to grab your bags and meet your driver to transfer to the airport for a two-hour flight to Seoul, South Korea's capital. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel to rest for the night.

Day 8: Full-Day Tour of Seoul's Iconic Landmarks

Spend a full day exploring Seoul's highlights, starting at Gyeongbokgung, a palace built in 1395 during the Joseon dynasty. Enter at the imposing Gwanghwamun Gate to discover the intricate architecture, traditional courtyards, and lush gardens. The palace is also home to the National Folk Museum, which you can enter to see the collection of artifacts, tools, and household items, offering insight into the culture and traditions that have shaped Korean society. Before you leave, watch the changing of the guard ceremony at the main gate.

Continue to the nearby Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic neighborhood full of well-preserved hanoks, traditional Korean houses. Walk along the narrow, winding alleyways to admire the intricate wooden structures now housing cultural centers, art galleries, and traditional tea houses. For lunch, head to Gwangjang Market, one of the oldest and largest markets in the country. Browse the stalls brimming with handmade goods and Korean street food, like bindaetteok, mung bean pancakes, and bibimbap, rice topped with marinated meat and sautéed vegetables.

Once you're full, take a stroll through Namsan Park, a serene escape from the bustling urban landscape sitting at the base of Namsan Mountain. Follow the well-maintained trails up the mountain, or take a cable car to the top to get to N Seoul Tower. If you visit at night, you can watch the tower, adorned with colorful LED displays, come alive. Look at the love locks attached to the bridge at the base of the tower or attach your own, then head up to enjoy panoramic views of the city glowing with lights to end this action-packed day.

Day 9: Visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone, Explore Myeongdong Shopping Street

Dive deeper into Korea's rich history today with a visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone just 27 miles (45 km) north of Seoul. Stop at Imjingak Park first to see the Bridge of Freedom, which was used by prisoners of war and soldiers returning from North Korea during the Korean War. Take a bus to the Third Tunnel of Aggression, built by the North Korean army in the 1970s to infiltrate South Korea. If you're up for it, descend into the tunnel to observe the walls coated with coal and get a better understanding of what went on here. 

Continue to the Dora Observatory to look at North Korea with binoculars and take in panoramic views of the surrounding Demilitarized Zone. End the tour at Dorasan Station, the northernmost stop on South Korea's railway line, which stands as a symbolic testament to the hopes of eventual reunification between the North and South. Return to Seoul for a food tour along Myeongdong Shopping Street, where you can sample local delights, like tteokbokki, sweet and spicy rice cakes, or odeng, fish cake skewers served with a hot broth, while the streets come alive with neon lights.

Day 10: Depart Seoul 

After seeing some of Japan and South Korea's most iconic landmarks, your 10-day adventure comes to a close today. Spend your last few hours in the city exploring on your own by shopping for souvenirs along the Myeongdong Shopping Street or enjoying a stroll through Seoul Forest, an expansive public park that blends nature, art, and recreational spaces. Discover the butterfly conservatory, deer enclosure, and botanical gardens within the park before returning to the hotel to grab your bags and meet your driver to transfer to the airport in time for your flight home. Safe travels!

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