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Product Code: MT-2633
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20 Day Fly, Stay & Guided Tour discovering the highlights of South Korea and Japan, from vibrant Seoul and Scenic Kyushu to Mount Fuji and Tokyo
Book By 31 October 2026
20 Day Fly, Stay & Guided Tour discovering the highlights of South Korea and Japan, from vibrant Seoul and Scenic Kyushu to Mount Fuji and Tokyo
International flights to Seoul, returning from Tokyo
Flight from Busan to Fukuoka
Experience the best of South Korea and Japan on an unforgettable 20-day adventure filled with ancient traditions, vibrant cities and breathtaking scenery. Wander the royal palaces and historic hanok villages of Seoul, uncover the fascinating stories of the DMZ, explore the ancient treasures of Gyeongju and soak up the coastal charm of Busan before crossing to Japan to discover the cultural heart of Fukuoka, Beppu, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Hakone and Tokyo.
From making traditional kimchi and discovering Japan’s famous porcelain heritage to cruising beneath Mount Fuji, visiting sacred shrines, magnificent castles and the iconic Miyajima Island, every day brings a new highlight. Journey aboard Korea’s KTX and Japan’s world-famous bullet trains, enjoy authentic cultural experiences including a tea ceremony and kimono dressing, and savour the flavours of both countries along the way. With 19 nights in hand-selected hotels, expert local guides and a perfect balance of guided sightseeing and free time, this remarkable journey showcases the very best of two fascinating nations in one extraordinary holiday.
South Korea Highlights
Japan Highlights
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Welcome to Seoul! Upon your arrival at Incheon International Airport, you will be greeted by a tour representative and transferred to your hotel, where check-in commences from 3:00 pm. The remainder of the day is free for you to start discovering this vibrant city at your own pace.
Please note: Due to flight times and schedules, some customers may be required to depart the day prior on an overnight flight from Australia.
Meals: N/A
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Seoul at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most magnificent of Korea’s royal palaces, where you can witness the lively Changing of the Guard ceremony. Enjoy a welcome lunch and savour the delicious Korean cuisine for yourself. Continue to Bukchon Hanok Village, home to hundreds of beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses dating back more than 600 years. Later, experience the bright lights, street food and endless shopping of bustling Myeongdong.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Today, travel to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), one of the world’s most heavily guarded borders, for a fascinating insight into the history of the Korean Peninsula. Explore the DMZ and visit one of its historic infiltration tunnels, secretly built beneath the border. After lunch, return to Seoul for a fun afternoon kimchi-making class, where you’ll learn how to prepare one of Korea’s most popular dishes and enjoy a hands-on taste of Korean culinary culture.
Please note: As the DMZ is a restricted border area, all guests must carry their original passport with them for the duration of today’s excursion.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
This morning, board the high-speed rail (KTX) for a comfortable journey from Seoul to Gyeongju, often called the “museum without walls” for its remarkable collection of ancient treasures from the Silla Kingdom, one of Korea’s Three Kingdoms.
On arrival, enjoy an included lunch before Visit either Bulguksa Temple, one of Korea’s most important Buddhist temples. Continue exploring Gyeongju at Daereungwon Tumuli Park, home to the ancient royal burial mounds of the Silla kings, before visiting Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest surviving astronomical observatory in Asia. Finish the day strolling along Hwangridan-gil, Gyeongju’s vibrant café and shopping street, where beautifully restored hanok buildings blend seamlessly with trendy boutiques, artisan stores and local eateries.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Step back in time with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Yangdong Folk Village, one of South Korea’s best-preserved traditional villages where centuries-old homes and Confucian traditions remain alive today.
Next, visit the spectacular Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, dramatically perched on rocky cliffs overlooking the East Sea, before travelling to Busan to explore the colourful laneways of Gamcheon Culture Village, affectionately known as the “Santorini of Korea” for its brightly painted hillside homes and vibrant street art.
As evening sets in, experience the Songdo Cable Car, which glides high above the coastline and showcases some of Busan’s most impressive ocean and city views.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Busan. Relax on the golden sands of Haeundae Beach, savour the city’s renowned seafood or venture out to discover South Korea’s vibrant coastal city at your own pace. Spend the day exploring lively markets, picturesque seaside precincts, boutique shopping streets or relaxing in one of Busan’s many cafés.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, say farewell to your Korean guide and South Korea as you are transferred to Busan Airport for your flight to Fukuoka, Japan. After landing, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your new Japanese guide before transferring to your hotel and settling in.
With the afternoon free to relax or begin discovering Fukuoka at your own pace, take some time to soak up the atmosphere of your new surroundings. Your Japanese adventure begins here!
Meals: Breakfast
Today, embark on an enriching tour of Fukuoka, where you’ll discover the city’s fascinating history, vibrant culture, and stunning sights. Begin with a visit to the revered Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine. While the main hall is currently undergoing renovations, the expansive grounds remain breathtaking, offering a tranquil start to your day.
Then, immerse yourself in the artistry of Fukuoka with a traditional handicraft experience, offering hands‑on insight into local craftsmanship and a personal keepsake to take home.
To cap the day, head to the beautiful Itoshima Coast to see the famous Sakurai Futamigaura Couple’s Stones. Two sacred rocks, known as the ‘Married Couple Rocks’, sit just offshore and are joined by a traditional Japanese rope. Framed by a white torii gate and the sea, this is a beautiful place to experience Japan’s connection between nature and tradition.
Meals: Breakfast
Journey into Saga Prefecture, the heartland of Japanese porcelain. Explore the hidden kiln village of Okawachiyama, once closely guarded by the Nabeshima clan, this is where skilled artisans produced exquisite porcelain for Japan’s ruling elite. Wander among the traditional workshops and atmospheric streets, discovering the artistry and history behind this remarkable craft.
Continue to Arita, the birthplace of Japanese porcelain. Here, visit the historic Izumiyama Quarry and the unique Sueyama Shrine with its unique porcelain torii gate, followed by an included lunch served on beautiful local ceramics.
This afternoon, go behind the scenes at Koraku Kiln to discover how generations of craftsmanship continue today. Then continue to Karatsu for your overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
This morning, take in the spectacular scenery of Saga from Mt. Kagamiyama Observation Deck, with sweeping views across Karatsu Bay and the surrounding coastline. Continue to the Karatsu Kunchi Festival Hikiyama Float Exhibition Hall, where you’ll see the magnificent floats used in one of the region’s most celebrated festivals and learn more about the traditions that have shaped Karatsu for generations.
Enjoy an included lunch and some leisure time before beginning the journey towards Beppu. Along the way, pass the historic Karatsu Castle and travel through Niji-no-Matsubara, one of Japan’s most scenic pine groves, stretching along the coast for several kilometres.
Continue inland towards Oita Prefecture and cross the impressive Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi Bridge, surrounded by the dramatic mountain scenery of Kyushu. Your journey ends in Beppu, Oita’s famed hot spring town, where you can settle in and look forward to experiencing one of Japan’s great onsen destinations.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
With more hot springs (onsen) than anywhere else in Japan, Beppu takes the crown as the nation’s top hot spring destination. The morning is spent exploring the geological wonders of Beppu including a tour of some of the Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri). These natural wonders, with names like Blood Pond Hell and Sea Hell, offer visitors a captivating and surreal experience of the Earth’s geothermal activity.
The tour also includes entrance to the Beppu Onsen Museum which delves into the science, history, and culture of the hot springs in Japan. We then head out to the picturesque town of Yufuin. Here you can stroll through quaint streets, treat yourself to lunch, pop into some boutiques and handicraft stores, and admire the serene Lake Kinrin.
Meals: Breakfast
Today we set out by ferry and travel across the Seto Inland Sea to Iwakuni. After arriving, discover one of Japan’s most recognisable bridges, the Kintai-kyo Wooden Arch Bridge, a remarkable five-arch bridge first built in 1673 and known for its elegant design and beautiful setting.
Continue to the Iwakuni Shirohebi White Snake Shrine, dedicated to the rare white snakes native to the Iwakuni area and considered a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. We then continue onward to Hiroshima, arriving later in the day.
Meals: Breakfast
Explore the history and beauty of Hiroshima, beginning with a ferry to Miyajima, a scenic island known for its iconic Itsukushima Shrine and famous vermillion torii gate. Take time to wander the island’s charming streets, browse local shops and cafes, and see the friendly deer that roam the area. (Hot Tip: Miyajima’s oysters are legendary for a reason! If you’re a seafood fan, treat yourself to a taste of the island — you won’t regret it.)
Return to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Museum, offering a moving insight into the events of 1945 and the experiences of those affected. Continue through Peace Memorial Park, where memorials and monuments reflect on the past and the importance of peace, before reaching the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the few structures to remain standing near the hypocentre of the bombing and now a powerful symbol of remembrance.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, travel by bullet train from Hiroshima to Himeji, home to one of Japan’s most celebrated castles. Begin with a stroll through the peaceful Koko-en Gardens, a collection of traditional Japanese gardens beautifully designed around ponds, streams and seasonal landscapes. Continue to the Somen Noodle Museum, where you’ll discover the history and craftsmanship behind these delicate Japanese noodles before enjoying a freshly prepared somen lunch.
After lunch, visit the magnificent Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s best-preserved original castles and a striking example of traditional Japanese castle architecture. Take time to explore its impressive grounds before continuing by coach to Kyoto, arriving in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Discover some of Kyoto’s most iconic sights and traditions. Begin in Arashiyama, where you can wander through its famous bamboo grove and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this scenic riverside district. Continue to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, one of Kyoto’s most recognisable landmarks, beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond.
Next, explore the lively Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, where colourful stalls showcase local ingredients, snacks and traditional specialities. Finish the day with an authentic tea ceremony and kimono experience, offering a hands-on introduction to two of Japan’s cherished cultural traditions.
Meals: Breakfast
Today is yours to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Discover more of the city’s temples, gardens and traditional neighbourhoods, or browse the shops and markets. You could also venture further afield with a day trip to Nara, home to ancient temples and its famous friendly deer, or Osaka, known for its vibrant streets, food and lively atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast
Today, leave Kyoto behind and travel by bullet train to Mishima Station before continuing by coach to the scenic mountain region of Hakone. Known for its mountains, lakes and volcanic landscapes, Hakone offers beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, with opportunities to enjoy views of Mount Fuji from various points across the region (weather permitting).
Board the Lake Ashi Pirate Ship for a cruise across the lake, surrounded by forested mountains and, on a clear day, views towards Mount Fuji. Then ride the Hakone Ropeway over Owakudani’s volcanic valley, where steaming sulphur vents create a striking natural landscape. You may even like to try the famous local kuro-tamago, or black eggs, said to extend your life by seven years for every egg you eat!
After exploring Hakone, continue by coach to Tokyo, arriving in the evening.
Please note: Mount Fuji is a spectacular but elusive sight, and visibility is dependent on weather conditions on the day.
Meals: Breakfast
Discover the many sides of Tokyo, from its imperial heritage and traditional neighbourhoods to its vibrant modern streets. Begin in the Imperial Palace area, where you’ll see the elegant Nijubashi Bridge, before continuing to Asakusa. Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and stroll along Nakamise-dori, a lively street lined with traditional shops and local treats.
Continue to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views across the vast Tokyo skyline, before finishing in the energetic Shibuya district. Experience the famous Shibuya Crossing and see the beloved Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty and one of Tokyo’s most recognisable landmarks.
Meals: Breakfast
Today is yours to experience Tokyo your way. Relax and enjoy some free time, browse the shops for souvenirs or venture beyond the sights already included in your tour to discover more of this fascinating city.
Meals: Breakfast
Today we say sayonara to Japan. At the appropriate time make your own way to the airport, bidding farewell to Japan and taking home incredible memories from an amazing trip across two incredible countries.
Please note: A departure airport transfer is not included. Due to flight times and scheduling, you may arrive in Australia on Day 20 or 21. Final documents will confirm travel timings.
Meals: Breakfast
Price based on tours starting:
Extra charges apply for:
Price based on departing from Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Extra charges apply for:
Itinerary
Our multi-stop South Korea and Japan tour is carefully designed to give a real insight into the highlights, culture, and beauty of each country and region visited. Each day will be different, with a combination of travel days, sightseeing and some free time to explore or take a breather as you wish.
Pace and Fitness
This is a moderately paced tour that showcases the highlights of South Korea Japan. Expect a mix of sightseeing, scenic drives, high speed rail journeys, with some early starts and travel days between destinations. You’ll typically spend one to two nights in each location, allowing you to experience a variety of sightseeing opportunities.
A moderate level of fitness is required. You must be able to move about unassisted, including boarding and disembarking vehicles and trains, navigating stairs and walking for extended periods over a variety of surfaces, including uneven pathways and gentle inclines. As with many destinations in South Korea and Japan, coaches may not always be able to stop directly outside hotels or attractions, so short walks with your luggage may be required. This tour is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchairs, mobility scooters or specialised assistance.
For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose any physical ailments at the time of booking.
Transfers
Arrival transfers are included on Day 1 in Seoul, Day 7 in Busan, and upon arrival in Fukuoka. Departure transfers are not included on the final day of the tour in Tokyo.
Transfers are only provided on the specified tour arrival days. If you arrive before Day 1 or make independent travel arrangements, transfers will not be included.
Please note that transfers may operate at scheduled times and may be provided on either a shared or private basis. Shared transfers may involve a short wait at the airport while other passengers arrive, collect their luggage, and clear customs.
Group Experience
On a tour you will meet like-minded travellers and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 20 people and a maximum group size of approximately 36 people. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a refund or an alternative date.
Tipping
In South Korea and Japan, tipping is not part of everyday culture. However, within the travel industry it is a common way to show appreciation for the service provided by your tour leaders and drivers. While tipping is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended. A suggested amount is the equivalent of AUD $5 per person, per day.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Currently a visa is generally not required for Australian passport holders visiting South Korea and Japan for the purpose of short-term tourism, however, this policy is subject to change without notice. Passengers who are not travelling on an Australian passport must check with their respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required. Visa requirements for each origin and destination country are the responsibility of the customer to check and obtain (if required) with the local consulate or embassy. The customer is liable for all visa application costs and fees due to the failure to obtain the required travel documents.
Full travel advice for South Korea can be found on Smartraveller: South Korea
Full travel advice for Japan can be found on Smartraveller: Japan
Accommodation note:
While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. They may not all be centrally located, but your friendly guide will provide helpful advice in all locations you visit. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3- and 4-star local rating. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and a final hotel list will be provided on your final documentation sent no later than 30 days prior to departure.
A single supplement from $3,000*pp is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms can sometimes be smaller than twin/double rooms in South Korea and Japan.
Exclusions
Departure airport transfers in Tokyo, meals not stated, beverages, optional tours, travel insurance (strongly recommended), personal expenses, tipping and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.
Payment
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.
Solo Occupancy
A single supplement from $3000*pp is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms can sometimes be smaller than twin/double rooms in South Korea and Japan.
Triple Share
Triple share is not available.
Child Policy
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Children 12 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.
Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Change & Cancellation Fees
Changes for any reason will incur a fee of $110 per person per change in addition to any travel service provider fees. Cancellation for any reason will incur a fee of $550 per person in addition to any travel service provider fees. Travel service provider fees for the tour and air components of the package are dependent on the date of the change or cancellation as follows:
Airfares are generally non-refundable but any refundable ticket taxes will be returned. Full details of the change and cancellation fees is outlined in the Terms & Conditions available on our website.
Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.
Breakaway
Guests must remain with the tour group at all times and may only leave the group if prior written approval has been obtained before departure or directly from the Tour Guide while in-destination.
Any guest who leaves the group without such approval will forfeit ongoing travel arrangements, including hotel accommodation and transportation. Aside from scheduled free time listed in the itinerary, all guests are required to stay with the group for the full duration of the tour unless previously arranged and approved.
In cases where it becomes necessary to leave the group unexpectedly, the local tour guide must be notified immediately.
Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that all names are full names, exactly matched to the passport, with six months’ validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information, and expired passports.
Visa Requirements
Currently a visa is generally not required for Australian passport holders visiting South Korea and Japan for the purpose of short-term tourism, however, this policy is subject to change without notice. Passengers who are not travelling on an Australian passport must check with their respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required. Visa requirements for each origin and destination country are the responsibility of the customer to check and obtain (if required) with the local consulate or embassy. The customer is liable for all visa application costs and fees due to the failure to obtain the required travel documents.
Full travel advice for South Korea can be found on Smartraveller: South Korea
Full travel advice for Japan can be found on Smartraveller: Japan
Health
It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19, and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise, and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing, and quarantine costs are the responsibility of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a maximum of one bag weighing no more than 20kg for the duration of the tour. This allowance supersedes any other baggage allowance that may apply to your international or other flights. Excess baggage is not permitted on tour, and you may be required to pay any excess baggage fees applicable to internal flights. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly.
An additional small day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included, and you are responsible for carrying and managing your own luggage throughout the tour. Luggage and personal belongings are carried at your own risk, and we accept no liability for lost, stolen or damaged belongings.
In South Korea and Japan, due to baggage restrictions on high-speed trains, you may be required to pack a separate small bag or backpack containing essential items, while your main luggage is transferred separately to your next accommodation. You will be responsible for carrying your essential items with you during these journeys.
High-Speed Train Transportation
The high-speed train transportation featured in the itinerary is based on Ordinary (Standard) Reserved Seats. Due to factors outside our control, such as operational changes, last-minute track maintenance, or unfavourable weather conditions, train travel may be substituted with an alternative means of transport to maintain the continuity of the itinerary while prioritising the safety of all guests.
Your large suitcase will be transferred separately by luggage transfer not aboard the bullet train, therefore ensure you pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible or suggested dining options nearby.
Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements or allergies. While we will endeavour to pass on any dietary requirements advised at the time of booking, we cannot guarantee that accommodation providers, restaurants, or other suppliers will be able to accommodate all requests. Alternative meals, specially prepared dishes, or substitute breakfast options may not be available.
You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Guide whilst on tour.
Accommodation
Hotel rooms in South Korea and Japan are generally smaller than Western standards. All hotel rooms will feature either a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (one queen bed). All bedding requests cannot be guaranteed however all special requests should be made known at time of booking. Rooms are lead-in or run-of-house unless stated otherwise. All hotel rooms will be requested as non-smoking, however, please be aware that some hotels offer smoking rooms and smoking floors.
Hotel names listed are indicative and may change; final hotels will be confirmed in your travel documents. All hotel ratings are local or self-rated 3 to 4-stars. Standard check-in is usually from 3:00 pm, and check-out by 10:00 am, though times may vary by property.
International Flights
International flights are based on economy class with a full-service carrier including China Southern Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines or similar (subject to availability).
The outbound flight may depart one day prior to Day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one day after the final day shown on the itinerary. Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes, or government fees at the time of booking flights, an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing should this situation arise or offer you an upgrade amount if you wish to fly with a premium carrier instead. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. Non-attendance of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.
Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land, and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.
Itinerary
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19, or other factors beyond our control, including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control, such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing, and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment, and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’, or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.
Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed within 30 days prior to departure. For packages consisting of multiple tours or countries, documentation will be emailed individually within 30 days prior to departure of each respective tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.
Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In the case of force majeure or other extraordinary events that prevent safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone, or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-2633
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