16-day tour of South Korea and Japan from Seoul

Welcome to South Korea! Upon arrival in Seoul, our staff will greet you and transfer you comfortably to your hotel. You will have the rest of the day free to begin exploring this vibrant metropolis at your own pace, immersing yourself in the unique blend of modernity and tradition that defines the South Korean capital.

In the afternoon, you will receive all the necessary information to start your tour, including schedules, excursion details, and useful travel tips.

Greca Tip: We recommend taking a walk around Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s liveliest neighborhoods—perfect for a first taste of local culture, with shops, street food, and a vibrant atmosphere.

We will begin the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before departing early to the Cheorwon region, home to one of the most iconic sections of the DMZ, the Demilitarized Zone that marks the historic border between North and South Korea.

In the morning, we will explore the Second Tunnel, secretly excavated by the North Korean army and discovered in 1975—a silent witness to the tensions that shaped the peninsula. Next, we will visit the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, offering panoramic views of the DMZ and the first villages of North Korea. Inside, a small museum brings to life the stories and photographs of the Korean War.

Our visit continues with the disused Woljeong-ri train station and the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, honoring the courage of a French UN battalion during the conflict. Before returning to Seoul, we will enjoy an included lunch and visit a local producer of Makgeolli, the traditional Korean rice liquor.

In the afternoon, we will stroll past Seoul City Hall, an architectural marvel shaped like a tsunami wave, and discover the nearby Deoksugung Palace, where tradition and modernity coexist gracefully. The day concludes in the bustling Myeongdong district, with its lively streets, shops, and included dinner, before returning to the hotel by Seoul’s modern metro.

Greca Tip: While exploring Myeongdong, savor local street treats like tteokbokki and hotteok—an authentic and delicious way to end a truly unforgettable day in Seoul.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will dedicate the day to a complete five-hour tour of the South Korean capital. Our journey begins at Changdeokgung Palace, a complex of palaces surrounded by a vast park declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire traditional Korean architecture at its finest.

Next, we will stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic neighborhood that preserves small traditional wooden houses known as hanok. We will then visit the War Memorial, an impressive museum that tells the story of the major conflicts experienced by Korea throughout its history, with special emphasis on the Korean War and the participation of soldiers from various countries under the United Nations.

We will enjoy lunch included at a local restaurant before heading to the modern Gangnam District, one of the liveliest areas of Seoul, famous for its shopping centers, luxury stores, and vibrant urban life. Finally, we will stop at the imposing Lotte World Tower, a 550-meter-high skyscraper where you will have free time to go up to its observation deck (entrance not included) or stroll through the park and the exclusive shopping malls surrounding it.

Return to the hotel and free time to rest or continue exploring the city on your own.

Greca Tip: If you decide to go up the Lotte World Tower, don’t miss the sunset; the panoramic views of Seoul lighting up are truly unforgettable.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will begin the day immersed in the history of Seoul with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, a magnificent complex that has stood for over 600 years. If our timing is right, we will witness the traditional changing of the guard ceremony, a vibrant display of color, precision, and symbolism that evokes the grandeur of the Joseon dynasty.

By late morning, we will travel south to Suwon, the former capital of Korea, renowned for its impressive fortress walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will walk along these fortified walls, marveling at the watchtowers and defensive structures, before exploring Hwaseong Haenggung, the summer palace where kings once sought refuge and respite, an elegant reminder of royal life.

After enjoying an included lunch, our journey continues to Jeonju, where we will wander through the enchanting Hanok Village, its narrow streets lined with traditional houses, craft workshops, and art galleries that immerse us in the living culture of Korea.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss tasting bibimbap, Jeonju’s signature dish of rice, vegetables, and egg; its local rendition is considered the finest in the country and a must-try culinary delight.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Sunchang Gochujang Village, nestled at the foot of Amisan Mountain. This charming village, with its traditional hanok houses and courtyards filled with clay jars known as hang-a-ri, is home to skilled artisans who create gochujang (Korean chili paste) using centuries-old techniques. We will have the unique opportunity to learn the art of preparing this iconic sauce.

Next, we will journey to Damyang to explore the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, whose meandering paths have been declared the most beautiful in Korea—perfect for quiet reflection amid the gentle rustle of bamboo. The area also offers fascinating bamboo crafts, showcased in places like the Bamboo Museum.

Our included lunch will feature the region’s signature dish: rice cooked and served inside a bamboo stalk, a meal as memorable as the scenery surrounding us.

We will then continue to Haeinsa to visit one of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 802 AD, it safeguards the Tripitaka Koreana, the most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures, engraved on 80,000 wooden tablets.

Finally, we will reach Busan, a dynamic coastal city teeming with life, where we will settle into our hotel and enjoy a restful evening after a day of rich cultural discoveries.

Greca Tip: In Busan, don’t miss sampling fresh fish and seafood at the famous Jagalchi Market—an authentic taste of the city’s maritime spirit.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin our day by heading to Haedong Yonggung, a majestic 14th-century Buddhist temple that rises dramatically over the sea. We will walk along stone stairways, surrounded by the sound of the waves and the scent of incense, while admiring the golden statues that guard this sacred site. The view of the temple against the blue horizon will take our breath away — it is one of the few temples in Korea built right by the sea, and its serenity feels suspended in time.

We will then return to Busan to continue our journey at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, a place of deep respect where soldiers from various countries who fought in the Korean War are laid to rest. Among its immaculate gardens and rows of headstones, we will reflect on peace and sacrifice.

Later, we will immerse ourselves in the daily life of the city at Nampo Fish Market, the largest in the country. Surrounded by stalls overflowing with fresh seafood and vendors calling out their offerings, we will discover the authentic flavors of local cuisine. We will enjoy lunch featuring the region’s freshest marine specialties.

In the afternoon, we will head to Busan Airport to catch our flight to Fukuoka, Japan. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel and settle in to rest after a day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.

Greca Tip: At Haedong Yonggung, take a moment to listen to the sound of the sea blending with the temple chants — it is an experience that will connect your spirit with the calm of the ocean.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our journey toward Iwakuni, a charming city that welcomes us with its most iconic treasure: the Kintai-Kyo Bridge, an elegant wooden structure that arches gracefully over the Nishiki River. We will cross its five spans, admiring the mastery of its traditional architecture and the landscapes that shift with the seasons, reflecting the poetic essence of Japan.

We will then continue to Miyajima, where we will board a ferry to this sacred island known as “the place where humans and gods coexist.” From the sea, we will marvel at the torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float on the water when the tide rises. This shrine, dedicated to the guardian goddess of the seas, surrounds visitors with an atmosphere of profound spirituality. We will enjoy free time to explore its charming center, wander through streets lined with traditional shops, and savor a lunch filled with local flavors.

In the afternoon, we will head to Hiroshima, a city that rose from the ashes to become a symbol of peace and hope. We will walk through the Peace Memorial Park, observe the moving Atomic Bomb Dome, and visit the Peace Memorial Museum, a place that invites reflection on the value of life and human resilience.

At the end of the day, we will share an included dinner in a peaceful setting, recalling the emotions experienced throughout the day before resting at our accommodation in Hiroshima.

Greca Tip: Upon arriving in Miyajima, stay until sunset by the floating torii; the contrast between the shrine’s bright red and the golden sky will gift you one of Japan’s most unforgettable postcards.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will set off on a ferry to Shikoku Island, a scenic journey of about two and a half hours that allows us to admire the gentle waves and islands that shape Japan’s unique geography.

Upon arrival in Matsuyama in the morning, we will ascend by cable car to the Matsuyama Castle, an imposing fortress that crowns the city and offers panoramic views that capture the spirit of Japan’s historic landscapes. Our exploration continues with Ishiteji, a serene Buddhist temple and revered pilgrimage site, where the intricate architecture and sacred atmosphere invite reflection and wonder.

For lunch, we will savor local flavors at a traditional restaurant, enjoying the harmony of Japanese cuisine.

In the afternoon, we will immerse ourselves in the culture at Dogo Onsen, a 19th-century bathhouse where warm waters and historic surroundings offer the perfect moment to relax and connect with centuries of Japanese tradition.

Greca Tip: Allow yourself to fully enjoy a soak at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest thermal baths, whose healing waters and historic architecture create a uniquely serene experience.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Kotohira, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of sailors. This pilgrimage site is located on Mount Zosu and is accessed by climbing 785 steps, an experience that connects you with Japanese spirituality and tradition.

Next, in Takamatsu, we will visit Ritsurin Garden, considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan, where the harmony between nature and landscape art captivates all the senses.

We will enjoy lunch included at a local restaurant before continuing to Naruto, where an impressive bridge spans the sea. We will stop to admire this engineering marvel and walk on its glass floor to observe the powerful whirlpools 45 meters below.

Our route, rich in scenic beauty, will continue crossing large bridges connecting islands over the sea until we reach Kobe, where we will stay overnight.

Greca Tip: In Kobe, be sure to try its famous beef, renowned worldwide for its exceptional texture and flavor, a culinary experience not to be missed.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the Earthquake Memorial Museum in Kobe, a space dedicated to remembering the tragic earthquake that devastated the city in 1995 and highlighting its impeccable reconstruction process (on certain dates, the entrance to the Earthquake Museum may be replaced by a visit to the Sake Museum or a climb up the Kobe Tower).

We will then continue to Osaka and later head to the sacred mountain of Koya, the most important center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. This magical pilgrimage site houses over 120 temples and monasteries. We will visit the Okuno Mausoleum, a spiritual site that is also a vast natural cemetery with more than 200,000 graves. We will also explore Kongobuji Temple, built in 1593.

Tonight we will stay in a Buddhist monastery, where the monks will offer us a Zen meditation practice (Ajikan). Dinner will be included and vegetarian. If you wish, you may attend the religious ceremony held at the temple during the early morning hours.

We consider staying in a monastery a deeply valuable experience. Please note that the rooms are simple, without private bathrooms, and feature traditional Japanese tatami flooring; bathrooms are shared.

We cannot guarantee meditation practice on dates with high tourist demand. Accommodation capacity at the temples on Mount Koya is limited; occasionally, groups may stay in nearby hotels with half board included.

Greca Tip: Spending a night in a monastery on Mount Koya offers a unique connection to Japanese spirituality and the opportunity to experience an ancient way of life. Take advantage of this to disconnect and find inner peace.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will bid farewell to the temple’s spiritual surroundings and depart early in the morning for Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan from 794 to 1868 and the cultural heart of the country. For more than a thousand years, Kyoto served as the seat of the imperial court and holds an unparalleled historical legacy. Unlike other major Japanese cities, Kyoto was not bombed during World War II, allowing it to preserve its extraordinary artistic and architectural heritage. In 1997, the historic international agreement known as the Kyoto Protocol was signed here.

During our visit, we will explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the impressive Fushimi Inari-taisha, famous for its thousands of red torii gates; the Kyoto Imperial Palace, former residence of the imperial family; and the majestic Kinkaku-ji, the renowned “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by delicate gardens reflected in a serene pond.

Later, we will enjoy a stroll through Gion, the traditional geisha district, with its wooden houses, lantern-lit streets, and timeless atmosphere. You will have free time to continue exploring at your own pace.

We will stay overnight in Kyoto, where you can rest and prepare for new adventures in the days ahead.

Greca Tip: Walking through Gion at sunset is a truly unique experience. Notice the subtle architectural details and enjoy a matcha tea or a traditional sweet, connecting with the most authentic essence of Kyoto and its ancient culture.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will begin the morning journey to Tsumago, a charming wooden village that seems frozen in time and is considered one of Japan’s most picturesque towns. You will have free time to wander its cobbled streets, admire the traditional wooden houses, and immerse yourself in the village’s timeless atmosphere.

At midday, we will enjoy lunch included at a local restaurant before continuing to Matsumoto, a city renowned for its impressive 16th-century castle, affectionately called “Crow Castle” for the deep black color of its walls. Here, you can marvel at the grandeur of its architecture and feel the weight of centuries of history.

In the late afternoon, we will transfer to Nagano, where you will settle in for overnight accommodation, resting after a day filled with culture, history, and unforgettable landscapes.

Greca Tip: In Matsumoto, don’t miss the chance to savor soba, traditional Japanese noodles made from buckwheat flour—a culinary specialty deeply rooted in the region’s culture.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will begin the day in Nagano with a visit to Zenko-ji Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site that houses Japan’s first Buddhist statue. We will participate in the Gomakuyo ceremony, a traditional ritual that invites good luck, immersing ourselves in centuries of spiritual devotion.

In the late morning, we will journey into the majestic Japanese Alps, surrounded by towering peaks, to explore the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park. Here, amidst forests, rivers, and steaming hot springs, we will enjoy an included lunch while observing Japanese macaques bathing in their natural habitat.

The afternoon will bring breathtaking mountain landscapes, reaching altitudes of up to 2,172 meters, with views of semi-active volcanoes and serene valleys. We will arrive in Kusatsu, a lively hot spring town, and continue to Ikaho, strolling through its historic streets lined with traditional stairways.

We will stay overnight at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, where you can unwind in soothing hot spring baths and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner included.

Greca Tip: Don’t miss the onsen in Kusatsu, renowned for its healing waters that refresh both body and mind—an ideal way to relax deeply and experience authentic Japanese culture.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will set off for Nikko, a charming town nestled among mountains where history and spirituality blend seamlessly. In the morning, we will explore the magnificent Nikko-Toshogu Temple, renowned for its Dragon Sound Hall, whose mystical echoes inspire awe and curiosity.

We will then visit the Taiyuinbyo Mausoleum, set in a serene and breathtaking location, where the harmony of architecture and nature invites reflection and calm.

In the afternoon, we will stroll along the river at Kanmangafuchi, where hundreds of Jizo statues silently watch over us, creating an atmosphere both magical and contemplative. You will also have free time to wander through the city center and absorb the traditional ambiance before departing for Tokyo, with an estimated arrival around 6:30 p.m.

Greca Tip: In Nikko, be sure to try the traditional sweets called yuba, made from tofu skin. This delicate local treat offers a delicious taste of the region’s culture and will leave a memorable culinary impression of your visit.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we will get ready to immerse ourselves in the unique energy of Tokyo with a guided tour of approximately five hours. This vibrant and fascinating metropolis blends the modernity of its most cutting-edge neighborhoods with corners of deep spirituality.

We’ll begin with a brief stop at Zojoji Temple, where hundreds of Jizo statues, guardian deities of children, will welcome us, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and tiny windmills. From this point, you can enjoy an unforgettable view of Tokyo Tower.

Next, we will head to Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections on the planet, to experience one of Tokyo’s most iconic moments.

We’ll continue on to the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, before traveling by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue. We will admire the Imperial Palace gardens and the symbolic Nijubashi Bridge, then pass through Akihabara, the heart of manga and anime culture, and by the Kokugikan Sumo Stadium. We’ll end our tour in Asakusa, with a visit to the majestic Sensō-ji Temple and the traditional Nakamise shopping street. Lunch included at a local restaurant. Return to the hotel.

In the evening, around 6:30 p.m., we’ll meet our guide again and take the subway (tickets included) to the lively Shinjuku district. There, we’ll walk through its dazzling lights and bustling streets before enjoying dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant (included). Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.

Greca Tip: As night falls, Shinjuku reveals its most vibrant side. We recommend experiencing the contrast between its modern skyscrapers and the traditional alleys like Omoide Yokocho, perfect for discovering the true flavor of Tokyo.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will have free time to do any last-minute shopping or sightseeing around the city as you wish.

At the agreed time, you will be transferred from your hotel to Tokyo Narita International Airport in a private vehicle.

With this transfer, our services come to an end, hoping that this journey with Greca has provided you with unforgettable experiences and the desire to soon return and discover more of Japan.

Greca Tip: At Tokyo airport, you will find a variety of duty-free shops and restaurants where you can enjoy one last Japanese bite before your departure. Have a great trip!