Discover South Korea with Japan

16 days
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Small Group Tour
This Small Group Discovery tour of South Korea and Japan reveals the ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies that are tempting your travel fantasies with a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries. Did we mention the palaces, Hanok houses, and temples to meditate on an adventure like no other. Stroll or roll through Seoul o...
From$7,969
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

What's this trip about?

    This Small Group Discovery tour of South Korea and Japan reveals the ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies that are tempting your travel fantasies with a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries. 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 sensational Small Group Discovery tour of Japan and South Korea.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transport
Start City SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
End CityKYOTO

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • 50 Plus

Destinations

Attractions

  • Busan
  • Gyeongju
  • Kyoto
  • Seoul
  • Tokyo

Activities

  • Culture

Itinerary

Day 1: ARRIVE IN SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

Your Small Group Discovery tour begins! 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 agricultur...

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...

Day 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 arri...

Day 5: GYEONGJU

Pavilions, Pagodas & Parks Your full day sightseeing tour of Gyeongju includes a visit to Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. End your day with a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond. (Breakfast) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Visit Bulgus...

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. B...

Day 7: BUSAN

Beautiful Busan Sightseeing today starts with a walking tour of Gamcheon, originally founded by refugees of the Korean War and today transformed into an artistic center with galleries and cafés. Participate in a [LF] Korean cooking class for lunch, then proceed to Ja...

Day 8: BUSAN

Korea to the Tea This morning, visit Un Cemetery which honors fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Later, enjoy a tea tasting. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Experience Korea’s floral tea culture wit...

Day 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 discovery of Korea. (Breakfast,Dinner)

Day 10: SEOUL–TOKYO, JAPAN

So long, Seoul! Today, fly to Tokyo, the capital of Japan, where you will be met by a Globus representative. (Breakfast)

Please note: Your Tour Director does not accompany you to Japan.

Day 11: TOKYO

Tokyo Go! Today, meet your Local Guide and hop on Tokyo’s subway system for a private guided sightseeing tour of the city. Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. Reach new heights at Tokyo Skytree. Tou...

Day 12: TOKYO

Get to Know Tokyo

• Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (Breakfast) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Tokyo with a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Utilize your included Tokyo Metro Pass to explore more of Tokyo’s unique neighborhoods, take a day trip to Mount Fuji, or visit the street-food markets for local specialties.

Day 13: TOKYO–KYOTO

Kyoto Bound Today, travel by shinkansen (bullet train) to historic Kyoto, former capital of Japan. (Breakfast)

Day 14: KYOTO

Gold Leaf & Goddesses Your sightseeing tour uses efficient public transportation to take you around the city with your Local Guide. Start at stunning Kinkakuji, Temple of the Gold Pavilion, covered with shimmering gold leaf. Next, take a walking tour through Gion...

Day 15: KYOTO

Capturing Kyoto Enjoy a full day at your leisure.

ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Kyoto with an optional excursion to nearby Nara or explore more of Kyoto’s historic temples and shrines using your included subway and bus pass.

Day 16: KYOTO

Safe travels until we meet again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

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Dates & Availability

Price From $7,969
Price per day$498
Last Updated: 3/11/2025
Departure Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Availability
27 Mar 2025
11 Apr 2025
$8,269
Sold Out
17 Apr 2025
02 May 2025
$8,269
Sold Out
08 May 2025
23 May 2025
$7,829
Please Call
05 Jun 2025
20 Jun 2025
$7,449
Sold Out
17 Jul 2025
01 Aug 2025
$7,449
Sold Out
21 Aug 2025
05 Sep 2025
$7,449
Sold Out
18 Sep 2025
03 Oct 2025
$7,969
Sold Out
02 Oct 2025
17 Oct 2025
$7,969
Sold Out
16 Oct 2025
31 Oct 2025
$7,969
Available
26 Mar 2026
10 Apr 2026
$9,039
Available

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Globus.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Globus Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
Excellent
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1,960
Average
386
Disappointing
102
Terrible
220
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Other Globus Reviews

M

Marilou Spero

Feb 2025

Written on

Our guide

Our guide, Evie, was wonderful. She was knowledgeable, and so very helpful. Also very friendly and respectful. The bus driver was a very experienced driver. He ke...

S

Stacy Kelly

Feb 2025

Written on

I did not care for our tour guide…

I did not care for our tour guide Barbara. On a personal level she was very nice but no one cared about the things she talked about on the bus rides. No history of ...

J

Janet Abell

Feb 2025

Written on

I have enjoyed traveling with Globus…

I have enjoyed traveling with Globus they always hel...

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Tour Operator

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Logistics

Accommodation

Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul

From the refined comfort of Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul, where elegance and convenience collide in the center of the city, take in the lively energy of Korea's capital. The rooms are designed to blend traditional Korean easthetics with a contemporary edge. The warm neutral hues permeate the expertly designed rooms, which are enhanced by modern amenities, unique artwork, and sleek wooden furnishings.

Seoul

South Korea

58, Sejong-daero Jung-gu

Lahan Select Gyeongju

Lahan Select is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery surrounding Bomun Lake. Enjoy the stunning four seasons of Bomun Lake and the rich cultural legacy of Gyeongju, and take advantage of a number of extra amenities and unique hotel experiences that will add even more value to your trip.

Gyeongju

South Korea

338 Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Park Hyatt Hotel Busan

Park Hyatt Busan is situated in the heart of Haeundae, the city¿s premier shopping and beach destination, alongside world-class shopping malls and sprawling views of the ocean and Gwangan Bridge. Be it for business or leisure travel, Park Hyatt Busan offers residential comfort with personalized experiences, welcoming guests with fine art, unique food and beverage offerings, and gracious service.

Busan

South Korea

51, Marine City 1-ro, Haeundae-Gu

Hilton Tokyo

The Hilton Tokyo is the the perfect base for exploring the vibrant, energetic city of Tokyo. The hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Lobby and Marble Lounge. Rejuvenate in the 24-hour health club within the hotel and relax in the sauna or soothing whirlpool spa. Choose from seven tempting restaurants offering a range of delicious cuisine. Favorites include Dynasty authentic Chinese restaurant, and Musashino, featuring sushi, tempura and teppanyaki. For a relaxing evening drink, visit St. George's Bar.

Tokyo

Japan

6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku 6 Chome

Kyoto Century Hotel

Kyoto Century Hotel boasts a superb location just minutes away from JR Kyoto and subway stations, yet the modern classicial interior allows for an escape from the bustle of the city.

Kyoto

Japan

680, Higashi-Shiokoji-cho, Shimogyo-ku

Transportation & Flights

Participation in this tour requires a purchase of additional local flights. ,
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
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Trip ID
globus-OSE2

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