Highlights
- Explore miniature landmarks in a 17th-century Japanese garden in Kumamoto
- Row a boat to a waterfall beneath the dramatic cliffs of Takachiho Gorge
- See the steaming, vibrant-colored hot springs of the Seven Hells of Beppu
- Walk along the walls of the ancient Namhansanseong Fortress near Seoul
- Sweat and soak away your cares in one of Seoul's famous bathhouses
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Fukuoka (Japan), See Fukuoka Castle & Canal City, Dinner at Yatai Market | Fukuoka |
| Day 2 | Day Trip to the Canals of Yanagawa & Temples of Dazaifu | Fukuoka |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Nagasaki, Tour Nagasaki Peace Park & Glover Garden | Fukuoka |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Kumamoto, Tour Kumamoto Castle & Suizenji Jojuen Gardens | Kumamoto |
| Day 5 | Takachiho Gorge Boating & Shrine Visit | Kumamoto |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Beppu, Discover the Hells of Beppu Hot Springs & Mount Tsurumi | Beppu |
| Day 7 | Soak in the Onsen of Beppu | Beppu |
| Day 8 | Train to Fukuoka, Fly to Seoul (South Korea) | Seoul |
| Day 9 | Palaces, Shrines, Gardens, Parks & Murals in Seoul | Seoul |
| Day 10 | Visit Namhansanseong Fortress & Icheon Ceramics Village | Seoul |
| Day 11 | Train to Daegu, Daegu Cultural Discovery | Daegu |
| Day 12 | Visit Gayasan National Park & Haeinsa Temple | Daegu |
| Day 13 | Train to Seoul, Jjimjilbang Sauna Experience | Seoul |
| Day 14 | Transfer to Incheon, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Fukuoka (Japan), See Fukuoka Castle & Canal City, Dinner at Yatai Market
Welcome to Fukuoka, the capital of the beautiful Japanese island of Kyushu. Kyushu, known for its gorgeous beaches, hot springs, and rich culture, is the southwesternmost of Japan's main islands. Check into your hotel, then stretch your legs on a half-day tour. Walk through Ohori Park, a lovely green space centered around a large pond. Ohori translates to "moat" in Japanese, and the pond here was once part of the moat system of Fukuoka Castle. Visit the ruins of the castle nearby, and if you happen to be here in spring, spot the cherry blossoms in bloom.
Next, follow your guide to Nanzo-in Temple to see the colossal reclining Buddha ensconced there before continuing to Uminonakamichi Park, known for its miles of blooming fields. Admire wooden architecture at the ancient Kushida Shrine, then head to Canal City, where you'll find over 250 shops, cafés, and restaurants. See the canal running through the complex (hence the name) as you walk around the area and get ahead on your souvenir shopping.
Following the tour, you'll probably have worked up an appetite, so make your way to one of the many Yatai Food Stalls set up nightly in the city's Nakasu, Tenjin, and Nagahama districts. Hop between stalls like the locals do, sampling the many specialties, such as the local favorite, hakata tonkotsu ramen (pork bone ramen), a rich noodle soup that makes for a hearty and satisfying end to the day.
Day 2: Day Trip to the Canals of Yanagawa & Temples of Dazaifu
Step outside the city today as you join your driver for a scenic one-hour drive through the countryside to Yanagawa. Known for its many canals, this quaint village might remind you of Venice—it's often called the "Venice of Kyushu"—as you see locals traveling about by boat. Take a guided boat tour and learn more about the region's history from your expert guide as they navigate the interconnecting waterways lined with drooping willow trees and old townhouses. Then, have lunch at a local restaurant, sampling some freshly caught eel, a regional specialty.
In the afternoon, you'll transfer for about 45 minutes to the nearby town of Dazaifu, home to the Komyozenji Temple. Explore its surrounding Zen rock gardens of pebbles, moss, and maple trees, then head north to discover the age-old architecture of Dazaifu's Tenmangu Shrine. Wander the expansive grounds, crossing arched bridges and strolling through groves of plum trees, then hop back in the car for the 15-minute return trip to Fukuoka.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nagasaki, Tour Nagasaki Peace Park & Glover Garden
After breakfast in Fukuoka, meet your guide for a day trip to historic Nagasaki on Kyushu's northwest coast. The town sits on a natural harbor, with terraced hills surrounding it. Once you arrive, follow your guide to see some of the city's most notable sights and discover its rich history and culture. You'll begin with a visit to Nagasaki Peace Park to learn about the tragic bombing that took place in the city during World War II, with stops at the nearby Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Memorial Hall.
Then, explore the picturesque Glover Garden, which features the former 19th-century homes of European merchants built after Japan's era of seclusion. Explore the manicured gardens and the well-preserved rooms of some of the houses to see the original lifestyle of their wealthy inhabitants, then enjoy a cup of tea from the café on one of the garden patios. Continue your exploration of the city at the iconic 17th-century Meganebashi, an elegant stone bridge resembling a pair of eyeglasses reflected in the water below.
Finish the day with a journey via cable car or ropeway to the top of Mount Inasa, which towers over 1,000 feet (333 m) above the city. Considered one of the best views in Asia, the summit is also ideal for incredible sunset views. After you descend, meet your driver for a two-hour transfer back to Fukuoka for your final night in the city.
Day 4: Transfer to Kumamoto, Tour Kumamoto Castle & Suizenji Jojuen Gardens
Enjoy a 1.5-hour transfer through the rural countryside this morning from Fukuoka to Kumamoto. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and meet a local guide to discover the city. Begin at the 400-year-old Kumamoto Castle, one of the three premier castles in Japan. This immense structure has seen the rise and fall of the feudal lords, survived wars, and witnessed various changes in politics, social structures, and lifestyles. Explore the buildings and grounds, then visit the Kumamoto City Museum to discover more of the city's history and culture.
End your full-day tour in a traditional Japanese-style garden, the 17th-century Suizenji Jojuen, characterized by mountain-fed ponds, stone bridges, rock gardens, and miniature recreations of other Japanese landmarks, such as Mount Fuji. As you explore, see reproductions of the 53 post stations of the Tokaido, an essential route during the Edo Period that connected Kyoto to Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Then, savor a cup of tea in the garden's teahouse and visit the colorful koi before heading to your hotel to rest for tomorrow.
Day 5: Takachiho Gorge Boating & Shrine Visit
Today, you'll explore the scenic area of Takachiho, an hour's drive from Kumamoto. When you arrive, make your way through lush forested trails down to the famous Takachiho Gorge, a volcanic canyon where you can rent a row boat to get a closer look at the spectacular Manai Waterfall, which cascades 55 feet (17 m) into the Gokase River. Admire the steep volcanic rock walls of the gorge, carved over thousands of years by the winding river, and marvel at the crystal-clear water.
Afterward, stop for lunch and sample the local specialty, nagashi soumen noodles, before embarking on a short hike along the cedar-lined Kyushu Nature Trail to the ancient shrine Takachiho Jinja. Your guide will share some of the many legends surrounding the shrine and forest as you walk to the Kunimigaoka Viewing Platform for panoramic views of mountains and lush greenery. At the end of the day, return to Kumamoto for your final night in the city, enjoying local food and drink.
Day 6: Transfer to Beppu, Discover the Hells of Beppu Hot Springs & Mount Tsurumi
You're off to the famous onsen (hot springs) town of Beppu today. After a 2.5-hour transfer, check into your accommodation and head out to discover a series of natural thermal springs called the Seven Hells of Beppu. Characterized by bright colors, sulfur clouds, and bubbling mud, these spectacular steaming springs once frightened and angered the people who tried to settle here. With your guide, you'll visit two of these springs to witness the same gas emissions, blowing steam, and hot mud that have spooked guests and locals for centuries.
Visit Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell) to marvel at its unusual milky-blue color and wander its peaceful garden, and Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) to witness its distinctive red-orange waters. While the Seven Hells springs are too hot for bathing, local people have been cooking food in the springs' hot steam for generations. Visit the nearby Steam Cooking Center, where you can sample traditional food and even steam some yourself.
Then, head to Mount Tsurumi. At more than 4,500 feet (1,375 m), this imposing mountain overlooks Beppu, with tons of hiking trails, small shrines, and photo-worthy views. Ride the Beppu Ropeway up to a small park near the summit and enjoy panoramas of the city and ocean, or hike around the area under a canopy of shady trees before returning to your hotel.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 7: Soak in the Onsen of Beppu
Now that you've explored Beppu's hottest geothermal springs, today you'll discover the city's many thermally heated spas and soak and relax in the healing waters. Try a one-of-a-kind sand bath on the beaches of Beppu, where you'll be submerged in the hot sand along the shore, leaving only your head and face exposed to take in the ocean views. Or, if you prefer, visit Takegawara Onsen, a hot spring bathhouse that offers traditional baths as well as indoor sand baths. The sand, heated by the nutrient-rich waters, is thought to have various health benefits.
Alternatively, opt for a natural mudbath at Beppu Onsen Hoyoland to sink into a soothing pool of creamy, mineral-rich mud that enriches your skin. If you'd rather not immerse in water, mud, or sand, head to the Kannawa Steam Bath. Here, you'll change into a traditional yukata robe and relax in a stone hut heated by geothermal steam. Try them all, or mix and match, and then enjoy a restful night's sleep—your last one in Japan.Day 8: Train to Fukuoka, Fly to Seoul (South Korea)
Enjoy one more soak this morning in one of Beppu's many hot springs, or visit one of the Seven Hells' pools you missed out on seeing. Witness the turquoise waters of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), the many crocodiles who live in Oniyama Jigoku (Crocodile Hell), the bubbling gray mud of Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Shaven Head Monk's Hell), or watch the geyser shoot up at Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell).
Then, have a meal of steamed eggs and vegetables at Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell) before heading to the train station for the 2.5-hour trip back to Fukuoka. Once you arrive, head to the Fukuoka Airport to catch a 1.5-hour flight to Seoul, South Korea's dynamic and bustling capital. Once there, you'll meet your driver at the airport, transfer to your hotel, and check in for the next three nights.
Day 9: Palaces, Shrines, Gardens, Parks & Murals in Seoul
Set off on a full-day tour exploring Seoul's landmarks, beginning at Changdeokgung, the only one of Seoul's five major palaces to receive UNESCO recognition. Be sure to see the palace's Secret Garden, full of lotus ponds, intricate pavilions, and ancient trees. Continue to the neighboring Chongmyo Royal Shrine, one of the oldest Confucian royal shrines in the world, dating from 1395 CE. Follow the serene pathway to the main hall and learn about the deceased kings and queens of the Joseon dynasty to whom the shrine is dedicated.
After immersing yourself in South Korea's rich history, head with your guide to the slopes of Mount Naksan to tour Ihwa Mural Village. There, you'll find paintings and installation art from nearly 70 local artists under the Art in City Project. See the brightly colored murals on the sides of cafés, boutiques, and homes as your guide details the area's transformation from a dangerous and neglected place to a vibrant, artistic village. Stop for a cup of coffee at one of the cafés, then end the day at the hidden gem of Naksan Park to see the incredible views of Seoul at sunset.
Day 10: Visit Namhansanseong Fortress & Icheon Ceramics Village
Enjoy the South Korean countryside today as you head with your driver to the UNESCO-listed fortress, Namhansanseong, on the mountainous slopes of Namhansan. In addition to its picturesque location, which is beautiful year-round, the fortress is steeped in history. Originally dating back to the seventh century, the walls of the fortress run along the ridge for over 7 miles (12 km). Inside the walls, you can visit the Emergency Palace, designated for the royal family, the ancient Hyeonjeolsa Temple, and the Jwajeon Royal Ancestral Shrine.
Afterward, head with your guide to Icheon Ceramics Village, which was a center for traditional pottery from the Joseon Dynasty. Here, you'll learn about pottery production and participate in a hands-on pottery workshop, during which you'll create your own souvenir to take home. Then, return to Seoul and visit Banpop Hangang Park on the southern bank of the Han River. Take a boat ride on the river to soak up skyline views and see the light show at the Banpodaegyo Bridge Rainbow Fountain before returning to your hotel.
Day 11: Train to Daegu, Daegu Cultural Discovery
Board a two-hour train to the city of Daegu today. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and head out for a half-day cultural discovery tour of this energetic city. Start at the UNESCO-listed Dodong Seowon Confucian Academy. Step back in time as you explore the complex, discovering the ancient walls, the views from Suwollu Pavilion, and Jungjeongdang, the main hall. Then, continue to one of South Korea's best medicinal herb wholesale markets, Daegu Yangnyeongsi, to purchase traditional herbs, such as ginseng, goji, and ginkgo.
Once you've explored the bustling stalls, visit the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine next door to learn more about the history of Korean medicine. Immerse yourself in these traditional methods by experiencing an herbal medicine foot bath, creating herbal soap and lip balm, and drinking medicinal tea. At the end of your tour, return to your hotel or explore more of Daegu's vibrant markets and shopping districts.
Day 12: Visit Gayasan National Park & Haeinsa Temple
Take a day trip one hour west of Daegu to the spectacular Gayasan National Park, known for its many waterfalls, forested valleys, and wildlife. It's also an important sacred site in South Korea. Walking through the forest with your guide, you'll come upon Haeinsa Temple on Mount Gayasan. Wander the temple's grounds and woodland, following the sounds of chanting, drums, and temple bells.
When you arrive at 15th-century Janggyeong Panjeon, learn how a 500-year-old ventilation technique preserves the "Tripitaka Koreana," a collection of 13th-century Buddhist writings engraved onto 80,000 woodblocks. Peer through wooden slats in the building to glimpse these well-preserved national treasures. After a complete immersion in the wonders of Haeinsa Temple, your driver will return you to Daegu for your last night in the city.
Day 13: Train to Seoul, Jjimjilbang Sauna Experience
After breakfast, head to the station to catch a two-hour train to Seoul. Check into your hotel and then spend your last full day in South Korea utilizing the spa facilities of one of Seoul's famous jjimjilbang (bathhouses). Most jjimjilbang offer public baths that are ideal for pampering and exfoliating, along with sauna facilities. Choose from some of the city's best, including Supsok Hanbang Land, known for its traditional charcoal-fired kiln saunas, Spa Lei, the Spa in Garden 5, or Insadong Hanjeungmak.
While there, sample food from the on-site snack bars, work out in one of the exercise rooms, relax in indoor and open-air baths, soak your feet in a flower bath, or sweat out toxins in one of the on-site saunas. If you're up for more indulgence, try an amethyst sauna, a hydrotherapy treatment, or a traditional therapy massage. Then, after a day of relaxation and pampering, head to one of Seoul's many markets to discover its epic street food scene.
Day 14: Transfer to Incheon, Depart
Today, your journey in South Korea comes to an end. Your driver will transfer you to Incheon International Airport in time to board your departing flight. Safe travels, wherever you're heading next!
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