Let's Discover South Korea & Japan: The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Modernity. SOUTH KOREA Get ready to dive into the heart of Seoul as we explore its vibrant streets and iconic landmarks together! We’ll visit the DMZ and the 3rd Tunnel, a fascinating glimpse into the history and tension that shaped the Korean Peninsula. Walk through the peaceful trails of Nami Island, famous for its stunning scenery, and experience a touch of tradition with a hanbok and temple visit, stepping into the tranquility of Korea’s cultural heritage. JAPAN Next, we’ll head to Japan, where we’ll explore the dynamic cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. To make this an unforgettable experience, I have chosen some unique activities for us to do, such as a traditional tea ceremony, Samurai Experience, a day trip to Mount Fuji and Kawaguchi Lake, and trying lots of local food! This trip is packed with adventure, history, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From Seoul’s cultural landmarks to Mount Fuji’s majestic landscapes and Kyoto’s timeless traditions, this is the perfect way to explore South Korea and Japan. What to expect from this trip: 🏯 - Visiting major cities such as Seoul, Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo 🗻 - Day trip to Mount Fuji 🏞️ - Nami Island, DMZ zone 🍵 - Traditional Tea Ceremony 🎎 - Kimono & Hanbok rental 🎋 - Temples & Bamboo forest 🤺 - Samurai Experience 🍜 - Tasty local food 🛼 - lots of fun activities and more! Flights, visas, food & drinks, and train pass/shinkansen are not included in the cost.
About me: I am Windy, I am naturally adventurous, I already organized several trips on JoinMyTrip and it was always fun! Go to my profile for more various hiking & adventurous trips🪂 I am looking for open-minded and EASY GOING tripmates, someone who loves adventure and isn't afraid to try new things but also enjoys a tranquil day out and exploring new places! This is a small group, to keep everyone comfortable the group will be limited to a maximum of 5-6 people.
Details about the accommodation: Seoul: 4-bedroom full furnished city apartment with excellent location! Osaka: City apartment, Tsutenkaku Tower can be seen from our window. Metro and train stations were 5-10 minutes away. Kyoto: Hotel in the heart of the city. Manga Museum, TKP Garden City Kyoto, Gion Shijo Station are within walking distance. Tokyo: 4-bedroom full furnished city apartment, 300 metres from Saikoji Temple and 600 metres from Shirahige Shrine & railway access nearby. All rooms are shared with separate beds. Same gender occupancy, unless couple. WIFI & towels included. Non Smoking! Dividing the trip, for example, only South Korea or only Japan is possible. Chat me for more details. Any questions about the trip? You can let me know in the Q&A section!
What's included?
Accommodation (shared room)
Kimono & Hanbook rental
Walking tour: Seoul & Tokyo
Nami Island day trip
DMZ tour & Suspension Bridge
Samurai Experience
Traditional Tea Ceremony
Matcha Making Experience
Welcome and farewell Dinner together!
Mount Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi trip
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You can chat with Windy once you reserve your spot.
Trip Itinerary
1
Seoul
Day 1-2
Annyeonghaseyo! We will meet in the afternoon in our accommodation in Seoul and get to know each other, the accommodation will be a cozy place for us to feel at home. In the evening we will have a delicious local dinner together and take a rest after your long flight because tomorrow we start exploring!
2
Seoul
Day 2-3
Introduction to Seoul, the capital of South Korea on a walking tour. This will be ideal for travelers who want to learn more about the underbelly of South Korean society and see Seoul's cultural and historical highlights. Our guide will share personal recommendations for nightlife, restaurants, and other activities in Seoul. Afterwards, we will head to Gyeongbokgung, the largest and most grandiose palace in Seoul. Here we will rent our Hanbok for about two hours, as we walk through the palace grounds we can take some amazing photos to remember our trip. We will also visit Changdeokgung Palace and its beautiful Secret Garden. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a serene escape in the city.
3
DMZ zone
Day 3-4
We will join a DMZ half day tour from Seoul, it will be a unique and unforgettable experience for sure! We will get a glimpse into North Korea from across the most heavily fortified border in the world! While the Cold War happened a long time ago, Korea is the only country that still remains divided as a consequence. In the evening, we will have a well-deserved dinner in Seoul. You might want to try some Korean barbecue or a local specialty.
4
Nami Island
Day 4-5
Today is all about connecting to the nature, outside of the capital city. Our adventure begins with a visit to the Garden of Morning Calm, a botanical garden nestled amidst serene mountains. Next, set to Nami Island, an iconic destination known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural charm. The island was named after General Nami, a military officer falsely accused of treason during the reign of King Sejo. Although his body was never discovered, he was supposed to be buried in that general area. I heard the food in this area is amazing!
5
Seoul
Day 5-6
Last day in Seoul will be open day, relaxing day, shopping day or anything in between. You can join me shopping, souvenirs for sure, but also skincare! I heard Korean skin care are among the best, and I also would love to explore gangnam area. The next day check out from our hotel in Seoul, hop on early flight to Japan...
6
Osaka
Day 6-7
Kon'nichiwa! The first day in Japan is a slow day, allowing you to settle in at your own rhythm. You can take this opportunity to acclimate to your new surroundings and uncover some hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Stroll through the neighborhood, savoring local cuisine at a nearby cafe, or simply unwinding in the comfort of the accommodation.
7
Osaka
Day 7-8
We will start the day with breakfast together! Afterward, we head to Osaka Castle, an iconic symbol of the city. Explore the castle grounds and visit the museum inside to learn about its history. In the afternoon, we stroll along Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street, a bustling area filled with shops, boutiques, and department stores. It's a great place for shopping and people-watching.
8
Kyoto
Day 8-9
Today we are taking the bullet train "Shinkansen" from Osaka to Kyoto, it is only half an hour away from Osaka, which means, we will have a lot of time to explore today! Kyoto once the capital of Japan, is still one of the most visited cities in the country. Our accommodation will be in the city center, everything nearby will be completely walkable. Take a walk over the Nishiki Market most known for its hundreds of tiny stalls featuring all sorts of street foods, perfect for a late lunch! After we can stroll through Kyoto and visit the diverse spread-out temples and parks.
9
KIMONO TEA CEREMONY KYOTO MAIKOYA at NISHIKI
Day 9-10
Today we will attend a Traditional Tea Ceremony while in Kimono! Experience the true art of tea drinking by taking part in this tea ceremony. We will learn about the ancient ritual of tea drinking and its social significance in Japanese culture, you will also be sampling traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi, which will vary in flavors, shapes, and colors. After our tea ceremony, take a stroll down in our Kimono to the historical Gion District.
10
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Day 10-11
Samurai experience & Discover samurai weapons: You’ll also get a glimpse of what it was like to be one of the most prestigious ruling classes of old Japan. Bear the honor of the samurai as you learn how to hold and sheath a katana, just like the samurai and their two swords – one for the enemy, and one for their honorable punishment.
11
Tokyo
Day 11-12
Today we are taking the bullet train "Shinkansen" from Kyoto to Tokyo for a bit over two hours. We will drop our luggage at the hotel and head out to explore or rest! We will decide what we will do on this day, If we are tired, we can just take a rest or explore in a slow mode, Also a food tour is always a good idea! You can sample fresh sushi and explore the bustling stalls selling seafood and Japanese snacks.
12
Shibuya
Day 12-13
Get ready for Tokyo Introduction 101, you will learn about the old and new Tokyo, the food, religion, history and culture. Around the evening will experience the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world. Enjoy the view from a café or take part in the crossing itself. Wrap up your day with dinner in Shibuya, where you'll find a wide range of dining options, from izakayas to international cuisine.
13
Mount Fuji
Day 13-14
Today, we will go out of Tokyo and connect with nature again. We'll wake up early to be able to take the Fuji Excursion train from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station - the trip will take around 1 hour and 50 minutes and from there on out we'll explore the area and take the most Instagramable pictures with Mount Fuji in the background. We'll have lunch there and depending on how much we can do there, when we're done exploring we'll take the Fuji train back to Tokyo.
14
Tokyo
Day 14-16
Extra day in Tokyo, since it is a big city and there is a lot to see, we will have one more day to explore based on our interests! There is no fixed program yet, we can discuss what to do together or split the group. Nevertheless, the evening will end with a last group dinner or drinks together. Make sure to also try Sake! It is an integral part of Japanese culture and cuisine, and it's a must-try beverage for visitors. The next morning, we will have breakfast together and check out of our accommodation. You can continue your own journey or take your flight back home. Hopefully we will see each other on another trip!
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Hotel & Bed & Breakfast
16 days trip
Seoul, Seoul & 12 more
Transportation
Car, Plane, Trekking, Train
What's excluded?
Flights, Visa, Transports
Food, drinks, souvenirs, etc
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Eastern Asia
Japan & South Korea 
Accommodation (shared room) 
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