Essence of South Korea & Japan

Your fare excludes:

Days 1-2: Fly Overnight To Seoul

Fly overnight to South Korea's dazzling capital, Seoul. Depending on your time of arrival, the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Includes: Dinner

Day 3: Explore Seoul

In Seoul's urban landscape of skyscrapers and nightlife, an immersion of culture and tradition awaits. Start your full-day tour at Gyeongbok Palace for the captivating 'Changing of the Guards' ceremony and a palace exploration. Then, indulge in a Korean cooking class to create and enjoy the flavors of Bibimbap for lunch. Experience the city's beauty from N Seoul Tower and explore the artistic allure of Insadong Antique Alley, a hub of traditional Korean treasures.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Visit The Dmz

Created as a buffer zone between North Korea and South Korea at the end of the Korean War, the DMZ is part of the most heavily militarised border in the world. An early start is needed today as tickets to the DMZ are limited. See the DMZ Theatre & Exhibition Hall and walk along the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, visit Dora Observatory & Station and see the Bridge of Freedom. (Should tickets not be available, take a ride on the DMZ gondola and visit the Odusan Unification Observatory). Return to Seoul explore the huge Gwangjang Market.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Explore Gyeongju

Embark on a train journey from Seoul to the captivating city of Gyeongju, known as 'the museum without walls' for its abundant cultural relics. Former capital of the Silla Kingdom for over 1,000 years, Gyeongju boasts an astonishing array of tombs, temples, statues, and ruins to explore. In the afternoon, marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Bulguksa Temple, an architectural gem of Silla heritage, and the awe-inspiring Seokguram Grotto. End your day with a serene stroll along the enchanting Anapji Pond, where echoes of the city's illustrious history resonate amidst the tranquil waters.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Explore Busan

Begin the day with a visit to Gyeongju National Museum and Tumuli Park's royal tombs. Then, journey by road to Busan, a city brimming with character, traditional charm, and scenic wonders like mountains, beaches, temples, and delectable seafood. In the afternoon, experience the lively atmosphere of Jagalchi Fish Market and Gukje Market's bustling stalls. Later, find tranquility on Dongbaekseom Island before relishing the sandy shores of Haeundae Beach.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Goodbye South Korea, Hello Japan

It's time to say goodbye to South Korea and hello to Japan! Fly 1 hour to Fukuoka on the Japanese island of Kyushu. Upon arrival, your Japanese guide will meet you at Fukuoka Airport and welcome you to Japan.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: From Fukuoka To Hiroshima

Discover the allure of Fukuoka, Kyushu Island's largest city, nestled on the northern shores of Japan. Begin your day with a visit to the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shinto Shrine, followed by an exploration of the National Museum, unveiling the city's vibrant past. After lunch, board the bullet train to Hiroshima, a city that resonates with historical significance, symbolizing resilience and peace.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Hiroshima & Miyajima

Start the day at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which pays homage to the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb, followed by a visit to an oyster farm by boat. In the afternoon, hop on the ferry to the holy island of Miyajima and visit the Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed Site, located on the edge of the waters of the Seto Island Sea.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Discover Ancient Kurashiki & Okayama

Transfer by bullet train to Kurashiki to explore the beautifully-preserved Bikan Historical Quarter, where the streets along the banks of the Kurashiki River are lined with white-walled kominka (traditional houses). Next, head to Okayama and visit Korakuen Garden, one of the 'Three Great Gardens of Japan'. Later, board the bullet train to the vibrant city of Osaka.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Explore Nara & Osaka

Travel to Nara and enjoy a leisurely walk through Nara Park to Todaiji Temple before returning to Osaka. Enjoy lunch at Dotonbori Street, famous for its eye-catching signage and billboards and then visit the impressive Osaka Castle.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Travel To Kyoto

Journey by road to Kyoto – an enchanting city, Kyoto was Japan's capital city for 1,000 years; today it is a testament to ancient Japan, packed with tranquil temples, silk-clad geisha and sublime gardens. Visit Ryoanji, the 'temple of the peaceful dragon' and the famous Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the 'Golden Pavilion'. Later immerse yourself in the culture by experiencing the sacred rituals of a tea ceremony with a tea master.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Explore Kyoto

Visit the vibrant district of Arashiyama and stroll through the bamboo forest with its towering and impressive thickets before trying your hand at the art of fan painting. Next you'll have the opportunity to have lunch with a Maiko – an apprentice Geisha. In the afternoon, visit to one of Kyoto's most famous sites – Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its 10,000 vermilion torii gates, and follow a forested hillside pathway passing numerous shrines along the way.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Visit Hakone

Take the bullet train to Odawara. Upon arrival, visit the Hakone shrine, situated on the shores of Lake Ashi and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji in the background. After lunch, take part in a Yosegi marquetry craft experience, before continuing by road to Tokyo – Japan's capital city.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Explore Tokyo

Tokyo is the ultimate 24-hour city, but look behind its frantic, high-tech neon-lit frontage and you will find plenty of tranquil backstreets and ancient temples. Begin the day with a visit to Meiji Shrine, before driving past the famous Shibuya crossing. Next, wander through the old district of Asakusa to soak up the atmosphere at Sensoji, Tokyo's most famous and beloved temple. After lunch, visit a bonsai museum and observe a demonstration before trying your hand at pruning your own. End the day with a dinner cruise on the beautiful Tokyo Bay.

Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16-17: Fly Tokyo To Australia

Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.

Includes: Breakfast

* The above itinerary is subject to change.

• 12 Apr 2025 - 27 Apr 2025
  from $15,490 pp twin share / $17,690 pp solo
• 10 May 2025 - 25 May 2025
  from $15,490 $14,590 pp twin share / $17,690 / $16,790 pp solo
• 20 Sep 2025 - 05 Oct 2025
  from $15,490 pp twin share / $17,690 pp solo
• 08 Nov 2025 - 23 Nov 2025
  from $15,490 $14,890 pp twin share / $17,690 / $17,090 pp solo
• 28 Mar 2026 - 12 Apr 2026
  from $16,690 $16,090 pp twin share / $18,990 / $18,390 pp solo
• 04 Apr 2026 - 19 Apr 2026
  from $16,690 pp twin share / $18,990 pp solo
• 09 May 2026 - 24 May 2026
  from $16,690 $16,090 pp twin share / $18,990 / $18,390 pp solo
• 12 Sep 2026 - 27 Sep 2026
  from $16,690 $16,090 pp twin share / $18,990 / $18,390 pp solo
• 10 Oct 2026 - 25 Oct 2026
  from $16,690 pp twin share / $18,990 pp solo
• 07 Nov 2026 - 22 Nov 2026
  from $16,690 $16,090 pp twin share / $18,990 / $18,390 pp solo

Advertised pricing subject to departure date and availability. Please call 1300 414 198 to confirm up-to-the-moment availability and pricing.

Crown Park Hotel - Seoul
Located in Myeong-dong, the hub of business, tourism and culture within Seoul, the 4* Crown Park Hotel is the perfect destination, with department stores, duty-free shops and business centres all within close proximity. Relax in one of the hotel's spacious and modern rooms and enjoy all day dining as well as access to the fitness centre open 24-hours a day.

Gyeongju Commodore Hotel - Gyeongju, South Korea
The 3* Gyeongju Commodore Hotel is perfectly located within walking distance to the Art Sonje Museum, the Miso Theatre and Gyeongju World Amusement Theme Park. Each room is equipped with free Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries and more. Leisure time can be spent indulging in delicious Korean dishes at Arirang, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Busan Asti Hotel - Busan, South Korea
Perfectly located in the heart of the city of Busan and a short walk from Busan station, the modern 4* Asti Hotel is the ideal centre for tourism and business. Rooms are finished with sophisticated interiors and include a refrigerator, complimentary coffee and tea as well as air conditioning and in room safe. Take time to visit the Gusto Restaurant that provides unparalleled views of the city, before enjoying the vibrant atmosphere at the Alpastor & Spumante bar located at the 21st floor.

Ana Crown Fukuoka - Fukuoka, Japan
Located within walking distance to the Canal City shopping complex in Fukuoka Japan, Nakasu entertainment district and outdoor food stalls, the 4* Ana Crown Fukuoka Hotel makes for an ideal hotel equipped with a fitness centre and restaurant. Guest rooms are completed with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, luxurious bedding and flat-screen TV hosting an array of international channels.

Grand Prince Hotel - Hiroshima
Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, Grand Prince Hotel offers 5 dining options, a seasonal outdoor pool and hot spring baths. Air-conditioned rooms with a large picture window and a flat-screen TV await guests of the Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima.

Osaka Excel Hotel - Osaka, Japan
The 4* Osaka Excel Hotel is ideally located within walking distance to Dotonburi, a major entertainment district with a wide array of shops and restaurants. Each room will have a green tea set, complimentary toiletries, air purifier and more. The hotel is also home to a restaurant, bar and lounge area as well as a fitness room.

Kyoto Tower Hotel - Kyoto, Japan
Staying at the Kyoto Tower Hotel, will mean you have the Kyoto Tower, the city symbol, right by your doorstep. Guests will be able to enjoy the observation deck on-site, providing panoramic views of the city, as well as leisure at the hotel's shopping complex. Your room will be completed with air conditioning, coffee/ tea maker and refrigerator.

Mercure Hibiya - Tokyo
Conveniently located in the fashionable district of Hibiya, Tokyo, and a short walk from the Imperial Palace, one of Tokyo's most popular sightseeing spots, the Mercure Hibiya Hotel is a great place to stay. Rooms are inclusive of Wi-Fi, a refrigerator and toiletries. Leisure time can be spent at the state-of-the-art gym or by La Scène, the hotel's restaurant and bar that incorporates traditional French cooking techniques.