Classic Japan: Land of the Rising Sun with Seoul

This tour of Japan and South Korea is perfect for value-minded travelers who enjoy history, beautiful scenery, and fascinating architecture. Begin your journey in Seoul, where you’ll explore the grandeur of Gyeongbok Palace and stroll through the charming traditional lanes of Bukchon Hanok Village for a vivid glimpse into Korea’s royal and cultural heritage. Continue on to Japan, where you’ll overnight in Tokyo, the Mount Fuji area, Osaka, Hiroshima, and conclude in Kyoto. Highlights throughout both countries include visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In Japan, you’ll see Mount Fuji—long worshipped as a sacred mountain—along with majestic views of Lake Kawaguchi during a cable-car ride (weather permitting). In Hiroshima, visit Itsukushima Shrine, built over water and famous for its iconic floating Torii gate, and explore Peace Memorial Park to witness the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the only remaining structure from the first atomic bomb in 1945. In Kyoto, visit the Temple of the Golden Pavilion, covered in beautiful gold leaf, and participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Your journey also includes stops at two of Japan’s premier gardens dating back to the 1600s: stroll the tranquil Koraku-en and the Shinjuku Gyoen, the “Imperial Garden,” home to 1,000 cherry blossom trees. Enjoy a local lunch and try Japan’s legendary okonomiyaki, often called “Japanese pizza.” Plus, experience the thrill of riding the famous bullet train, or shinkansen. History, scenery, culture, cuisine, and fun experiences—this Japan and South Korea vacation has it all!