Seoul, Tokyo & Kyoto
Discover the dynamic contrast of modern and traditional Asia on this self-guided tour of Seoul, Tokyo, and Kyoto.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of these two capital cities while exploring their rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the convenience of included accommodations, internal transportation, and travel between South Korea and Japan for a truly carefree adventure.
Set off on a trip through Seoul, Tokyo, and Kyoto – three iconic cities that promise unforgettable experiences.
10-day itinerary in Seoul, Tokyo and Kyoto
- Departure city/Airport : Seoul (Incheon Airport : ICN)
- Seoul (3 nights)
- Tokyo (3 night)
- Kyoto (3 nights)
- Return city/Airport : Kyoto (Kansai International Airport : KIX)
Please find below the itinerary details.
Tour length : 9 nights / 10 days (+ 1 day at the beginning if you leave from Europe)
PLEASE NOTE: The departure and end dates shown on this page only apply to your stay in Japan. You must therefore leave Europe the day before the first day of your tour. The date of your return flight and that of your return to Europe are identical due to the time difference.
Example :
- Departure from Europe : January 1st
- Arrival in Tokyo (= the date to be selected in the calendar when booking) : January 2nd
- Return flight from KIX airport / Return to Europe : January 11th
Please note that flights are not included in the price of your tour.
This tour information was last updated on August 9, 2024.
Why this trip to Japan ?
- Our team will welcome you at each airport (Seoul and Tokyo)
- Get settled in the heart of the three cities in your 3* hotels chosen for their comfort and location
- Take advantage of the transportation included in the three cities
- Have a comfortable flight and airport transfers between Seoul and Tokyo
- Savor the true essence of Japan with an authentic tea ceremony in Kyoto
- Enjoy unlimited internet access thanks to your E-Sim in Seoul and Pocket WiFi in Tokyo
- If needed, contact our bilingual Japanese/English-speaking assistance team available 7/7
- Numerous guided days or other optional activities available
- Benefit from the expertise of Japan Experience, European leading travel agency in Japan
Your trip in detail
Itinerary
Day 1 : Wake up in the Land of the Morning Calm
Arrival at Seoul airport (Incheon ICN).
You will be welcomed through customs by our airport assistant, who will provide essential information for a smooth trip to Seoul and will give you your E-Sim, before transferring you by bus to your accommodation.
You will have time to freshen up and rest before starting your exploration of Seoul by following your travel diary. During your first day, you will explore the heart of Seoul and the immediate surroundings of your accommodation, starting with Gwanghwamun Square.
Day 2 : A stunning capital
It's the second day of your stay in Seoul. After breakfast, you will set off to discover the historic heart of the city.
You have a free day today and your travel journal contains the following recommendations:
- Visit the royal palace of Gyeongbokgung, which was the main residence of the Joseon dynasty for several centuries. Note that Changdeokgung Palace may also be an alternative depending on the opening days ;
- Take a stroll through the Bukchon neighbourhood to admire its traditional houses. Discover the unique Ikseondong neighbourhood, where old houses destined for destruction have found salvation thanks to vintage renovation and the opening of small local shops ;
- Take a walk along the small Cheonggyecheon River, which is the green vein of the capital. This river has undergone a unique evolution, having been a former slum, then a highway before becoming a river again.
Optional:
- Let a knowledgeable guide unveil Seoul's hidden gems.Day 3 : The past so present
For your third day in Seoul, why not take the day to explore the area surrounding the capital ?
- Hwaseong Fortress and its unique architecture, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site ;
- Bukhansan National Park, home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the region, as well as several temples and a fortress ;
- Jeonju Hanok Village and its traditional houses that will transport you back in time.
Optionally, take a half-day guided tour to the border between the two Koreas, to the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) near Doran Station where the Korean War Armistice was signed.
After dark, check out the city's nightlife in the lively districts of Gangnam, Itaewon or Honda.Day 4 : Depart for Tokyo 東京
Transfer to Seoul Incheon airport by bus (included).
Flight to Tokyo.
Arrival at Tokyo airport (Narita NRT or Haneda HND).
Welcome to Japan! 日本へようこそ!Welcome through customs by our airport assistant, who will give you all your travel documents and your Pocket WiFi. Unaccompanied transfer from the airport to Tokyo (see details).
The transfer is done in a shared shuttle or bus, with other guests departing for the same hotel or a hotel close to yours. These transfers depart between 1.5 and 3 hours after your scheduled flight arrival, and stops may be made before your hotel.
If you would like a private, non-stop transfer directly after the arrival of your flight, feel free to take the "Private Taxi from the Airport" option.
Check in at Hotel OMO3 Tokyo Akasaka by Hoshino Resorts or similar category 3* hotel (rooms available from 3pm).
Day 5 : First steps in the capital
What to do in Tokyo on your first day
We recommend that you start your visit to Tokyo slowly by visiting the following districts:
- Harajuku, the avant-garde district ;
- Meiji Jingû, the imperial sanctuary ;
- Takeshita-Dôri, a must-see street in the capital ;
- Omotesandô, Tokyo's Champs-Élysées ;
- Shibuya and its impressive crossroads.One of our many experienced English-speaking guides can also accompany you to visit the classic sights of Tokyo (optional, from 9am to 5pm).
End your day in style with an evening stroll through Shinjuku, one of Tokyo's most important districts. Meet your guide at 7 p.m. for an unique walk lasting around 2 hours, during which you will pass through Kabukichô and the Golden Gai, among others. More details on the exact day and meeting place in your travel diary.
Day 6 : The big loop
For this second day of sightseeing in Tokyo, we recommend the following "loop".
Start at Tokyo Central Station, with its original architecture, then head off to visit:
- Ginza, Tokyo's chic district ;
- Tsukiji, the small outdoor food market ;
- Hama-rikyû, the Japanese garden between Tokyo's buildings ;
- Asakusa, a traditional district and place of pilgrimage, accessible by cruise on the Sumida river ;
- Sensô-ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in the Japanese capital ;
- Tokyo Sky Tree, 643 metres high, with its panoramic view of Tokyo at sunset.Between Hama-rikyû Garden and Asakusa, why not enjoy a cruise on the Sumida River ?
Day 7 : On the way to the former capital
In the morning, head to Tokyo Station to board one of the fastest trains in the world : the Shinkansen ! Your next destination is Kyoto (direct, approx. 2h30, including reserved tickets). Once arrived, check into the RAKURO 京都 by THE SHARE HOTELS or equivalent (rooms available from 3pm).
You have 3 days to visit Kyoto. Start in the afternoon in the historic Gion district and its surroundings:
- Kiyomizu-Dera, the impressive water temple ;
- The historic lanes of Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka ;
- Kôdai-ji, Kyoto's temple of maple trees and bamboo.Day 8 : Gold and Silver Treasures
For your second day in Kyoto, we recommend the following itinerary:
- The Zen garden of Ryôan-ji ;
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) ;
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) ;
- The enchanting Philosopher's Path ;
- Nanzen-ji temple.Then, step into a serene tea room and be graciously welcomed by a tea master for a traditional tea ceremony. Witness the meticulous preparation and presentation of matcha, a vibrant green tea, served in exquisite handcrafted pottery.
Savor the delicate flavours of wagashi, a traditional Japanese sweet, alongside the frothy tea. This enchanting experience promises a glimpse into the heart of Japanese culture.
Day 9 : Between temples and deer
For the last day, we recommend taking the 50 minute journey to Nara.
Visit Nara, Japan's first fixed capital in the 8th century and discover:
- The Kasuga-taisha Shinto shrine and its thousands of lanterns ;
- Tôdai-ji, with its great bronze Buddha and the imposing Nan-Daimon gate ;
- Kôfuku-ji temple and its delightful pagoda.Return to Kyoto and stop to see the sunset at the Fushimi Inari-taisha, Kyoto's immense shrine of 10,000 torii.
If you wish to be accompanied on this day, one of our English-speaking guides will reveal all the secrets of Japan's first capital (optional).
Day 10 : Sayonara, and see you next time!
Take a direct transfer to Kansai International Airport (included but not accompanied).
Return flight to your home country.
Don't hesitate to extend your trip by a few days, in the Kansai area or elsewhere... Get in touch and we would be happy to advise you!
Accommodation
- 3 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of the city of Seoul
- 3 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of the city of Tokyo
- 3 nights in a 3* hotel in the heart of the city of Kyoto
The basic rate includes a twin room for two people.
Transport
- Seoul Metro Pass 12 rides
- International flight tickets from Seoul ICN > to Tokyo HND or NRT, seats reserved in economy class
- Airport transfer to Seoul ICN and Tokyo HND or NRT
- Return airport transfer Kyoto > Kansai International Airport KIX
- Prepaid public transport card
- Tokyo Metro Pass 3 days
- Shinkansen Nozomi tickets from Tokyo > to Kyoto, seats reserved in standard class
Experiences and meals
- Airport meet and greet in Seoul and Tokyo
- The breakfasts in Seoul
- Night guided tour of Shinjuku, Tokyo
- Tea ceremony in Kyoto
Included in your self-guided tour
Additional services
- Unlimited internet with the E-Sim in Seoul and with the Pocket WiFi in Tokyo
- Complete digital travel guide sent before your departure
- Telephone assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Japanese bilingual. The number will be given to you in your travel pack. This phone number is valid for telephone calls and also for WhatsApp.
Not included in the price of your trip
- Flights Europe > Seoul and Tokyo > Europe
- Optional insurance
- Personal expenses, including meals (breakfasts can sometimes be added as an option at your hotel reception, see details). For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack
- Public transport once your transport cards have run out (see details)
- Everything not mentioned in the section "Included in your tour"
When you buy, Japan Experience offers you 2 types of protection:
Japan Experience Flex :
Cancellation insurance before departure under conditions.
Japan Experience Protect :
Pre-departure cancellation insurance under conditions and on-site assistance under conditions.
Frequently asked questions
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