Cultural Highlights of Sth Korea & Japan
Private Tour of South Korea and Japan
Only a short distance separates South Korea and Japan and they share many cultural similarities as well as differences. This combination explores the very best of these two fascinating and historic countries. Discover both ancient and modern Korea, exlploring the contrasts between high-tech, high-rise Seoul, a city great for shopping (particularly duty free and traditional craft items), and traditional rural villages, ancient achitecture and unspoilt nature. Similarly, Japan is a striking contrast of old and new, from the electric lights of high-tech Tokyo to the ancient temples and Geisha streets of Kyoto.
New departure dates from 22 August 2009 until 30 November.
A 15 Day Private Tour of South Korea and Japan
Day 1: London-Seoul
Direct overnight flight with Asiana Airlines to Seoul, capital of South Korea.
Day 2: Seoul
Arrive in Seoul in the afternoon and transfer to your hotel.
Day 3: Seoul
Discover modern and ancient Seoul on a full day tour. Visit Geyongbokgung Palace, one of the capitals five royal palaces and the National Folklore Museum as well as Jongmyo Royal Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Insadong Antiques Alley and East Gate Market. (B)
Day 4: Seoul - DMZ-Seoul
Go on a facinating trip into modern Korean History, travelling to the DMZ or Demilitarised zone, which sepreates North and South Korea. Visit the 3rd tunnel of infiltration, discovered in 1974 and the Dora Observatory. (B)
Day 5: Seoul-Gyeongju
This morning drive to Gyeongju. A ’museum without walls’ Gyeongju has been designated a World Heritage Site and was the capital of the Silla Kingdom for over a thousand years until 918. In the afternoon visit Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple, one of Korea’s best known temples originally built in 535. (B)
Day 6: Gyeongju-Busan
Today visit Cheomseongdae Observatory, Anapji Pond and the graves of the Silla Royal Family in Tumuli Park, follwoed by Gyeongju National Museum which houses the excavated treasures from the tombs. In the afternoon drive to Busan, Korea’s main port city. Continue to Taejongdae Seaside Park and admire the view from the top of the Busan Tower. (B)
Day 7: Busan-Jeju
Take an early morning visit to the famous Jagalchi fish market before atching a short flight to the semi-tropical, volcanic island of Jeju with its spectacular scenery. Visit Samseonghyeol Hole, from where it said the Jeju people emerged, the folklore and National History Museum and the botanical gardens of Hallim Park. (B)
Day 8: Jeju
Enjoy a full day excursion travelling around Dragon’s Head Coast, famous for the rock shaped like a dragon head and it’s beautiful cliffs. See Jeongbang waterfall, which cascades directly into the sea and the unusual rock formations of Jusangeolli created by erosion from ocean waves and wind. (B)
Day 9: Jeju-Seoul-Tokyo
Transfer to Jeju airport for your morning flight to Tokyo via Seoul. After checking into your hotel the rest of your afternoon is free. (B)
Day 10: Tokyo
Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Tokyo including visits to the Imperial Palace Plaza, Asakura Kannon Temple, Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Tower Observatory and boat ride on Sumida River. (B,L)
Day 11: Tokyo-Mount Fuji-Hakone
Drive through the countryside and halfway up Mt Fuji,then onto Hakone, a famous spa area for a cruise on Lake Ashi. Take the mount Komagatake Arial Cableway and enjoy fantastic views. Spend a night at an onsen hot spring hotel. (B,L)
Day 12: Hakone-Kyoto-Nara-Kyoto
Drive to Odawara and board the Shinkansen or bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s Capital for over a thousand years. This afternoon take a tour to Nara, a major cradle of Japanese arts and culture. Visit Todaji Temple, a World Heritage site and claimed to be the worlds largest wooden structure. Also see the Kasuga Shrine and Nara Park.
Day 13: Kyoto
Enjoy a full day tour of Kyoto and see the Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, home of the marvellous views of the city. Also visit Sanjusangendo Temple and the golden pavilion. (B,L)
Day 14: Kyoto
The day if left free for you to explore. With hundreds of shrines, temples and gardens, there is plenty for you to see in Kyoto. Overnight stay in a Ryokan a Japanese style Inn. (B,D)
Day 15: Kyoto-Osaka-London
Transfer to Osaka airport for your flight to London via Seoul with Asiana. (B)
Tour Inclusions:
- Asiana Airlines, Economy Class international flights
- UK airport passenger duty and airport taxes
- 2 Korean Air internal flights
- 12 nights in 3-and 4-star hotel accommodation, 1 night in a traditional Ryokan
- 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner
- Sightseeing program including all entrance fees
- Guided transfers to and from all airports
- Guides and drivers expenses
- In Korea - English speaking guide and vehicle is provided on a private basis
- In Japan - English speaking guide and touring is on a shared coach tour basis
- One express train journey ticket in tourist class.
| Prices from: | £3,450 per person |
| Applicable travel dates: | 22 August - 30 November 2009 |
| Book by: | On Request |
Pricing on this offer is no longer valid. For the latest prices call one of our tailor-made travel experts now on 0845 643 6561.
To book, call 0845 643 6561
To book this travel offer, call one of our tailor-made travel experts now, quoting reference WEX382.
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