Splendors of Japan and Korea 15 Days
From $3999 W/Air departing from Vancouver
From $4299 W/Air departing from Toronto
Code: NHFJK15
Osaka - Nara - Kyoto - Nagoya - Mount Fuji - Tokyo - Seoul - Andong - Busan - Dageu - Gyeongju - Seoul
Immerse yourself on an incredible journey covering two fascinating countries, Japan and South Korea. Discover South Korea’s capital city, Seoul. Seoul is Korea’s financial, political, commercial and cultural centre with over 600 years of history. Travellers can explore the many archaeological sites and temples before enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes this country has to offer. After an enchanting tour of South Korea, you will explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Japan. Discover a new level of cool with a journey through cherry blossoms, mountains, bustling cities and ultimately, history. The combination of places visited in these two countries will provide you with an unforgettable life-time experience. Make sure you are packing already!
Day 1: Canada - Osaka
Board an overnight flight to Osaka.
Day 2: Osaka
Upon arrival at Osaka Airport, you will meet our representative with name board at the airport exit. We will assist you to board an airport shuttle and then transferred to your hotel on your own. After hotel check-in, the rest of the day is at leisure on your own.
Day 3: Osaka - Nara- Osaka (B)
This morning, you will move to Nara, now known as Nara remains full of iconic sites. Then see Todai-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most famous and historically significant temples, constructed in the 8th century. In its huge area houses various national treasures of Japan. Step foot in the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), housing the world’s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana. Wander through Nara Park, where over 1,200 wild sika deer roam free, before travelling back to Osaka. Visit the Osaka Castle, which played a major role in the unification of Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period in the sixteenth century, before being dropped off at Donburi, which exemplifies Osaka’s vibrant food culture.
Day 04: Osaka (B)
Spend today free at your own leisure. You may join the optional Kansai Culture Tour (US$169). Which consist of visit Kiyomizu Temple, also known as the Pure Water Temple, is one of more famous temples in Japan. One of the things that stands out is the wooden stage in the main hall that is 13 meters above the hill. During the spring season, this will a panorama view of the cherry blossom surround the city. Kiyomizu Temple is also listed on the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Then visit one of the most sacred and impressive destinations – Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine and walk through the famous vermilion Torii Gates, the most picturesque location on tour. Lunch will be included at a local Japanese restaurant. Next, visit the Gion District and see the beauty of Maikos in kimono. With only a few Geishas remaining, Gion is one of the few places you might catch a glimpse of these elusive figures. You may also choose the optional Kimono Rental (US$50) and explore great photo opportunities along the ancient street in Japan’s beautiful national dress. Then return to your comfortable vehicle for the relaxing journey back to your hotel. The rest of day is free at leisure on your own.
Day 05: Osaka - Kyoto - Nagoya (B)
This morning experiences a true modern marvel by riding the Shinkansen (bullet Train) to Kyoto Station. Kyoto was Japan’s capital and the emperor’s residence from 794 until 1868. Countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today. Enjoy a moment of quiet reflection at the vibrant Heian Shrine then head to absorb the sacred ambience of Kinkaku-ji Temple, World Cultural Heritage featuring a shining golden pavilion and a pond-centered garden. Visit the shining Kinkaku (Golden Pavilion) with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold and detailed architecture incorporating three distinct styles of Shinden, Samurai, and Zen. Enjoy a sweeping view of the entire city of Kyoto from its lofty terrace and grand walkways that meander through the Higashiwama mountain’s foothills. Experience the Japanese special Tea ceremony, it’s a choreographic ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea, called Matcha. Travel to Nagoya to visit Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. Here you will learn about the history of Toyota which started out as a textile machinery manufacturer and how it became a successful mass exporter and manufacturer of automotive technology, including robots.
Day 06: Nagoya - Hakone - Mt. Fuji (B,D)
Today, visit Oshino Hakkai. Known as the springs of Mount Fuji, the eight ponds are fed by melting snow filtering down from the slopes of nearby Mount Fuji, through porous layers of lava, resulting in very clear spring water that is revered by locals. Enjoy the picturesque view of Mount Fuji from a distance onboard the cruise on Lake Ashi, a crater lake famous for its views of the famous peak. Afterwards, visit Gotemba Peace Park to capture a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, and Hakone Shrine. Lunch will be on your own along one of the many rest stops or service areas on the highways where you can enjoy an abundance of unique eats and snacks that will surprise you. Finish the day with a true cultural experience in our hot spring hotel. Dress in Yukata bath robes and enjoy a traditional dinner.
Day 07: Mount Fuji - Tokyo (B)
Visit Meiji Shrine in the morning, dedicated to the deified the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. Later, stroll through the Asakusa Kannon Temple, one of Tokyo’s most colorful and popular temples. Then walk along the famous 820-ft long Nakamise shopping street where you can explore the lines of stalls selling different Japanese-styled goods and souvenirs. Your last stop today is Tokyo Metro to enjoy a panoramic view of enormous Tokyo city. In the evening, experience Japanese tradition & cuisine by enjoying the optional Japanese Kaiseki Dinner (min 4pax, US$90). Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner which balances the taste, texture, appearance, and colors of food. Only fresh seasonal ingredients are used and are prepared in ways that aim to enhance their flavor. Dishes are also beautifully arranged and garnished.
Day 08: Tokyo (B)
Spend today free at your leisure. Enjoy a free day to explore and enjoy bustling Tokyo at your leisure. Perhaps discover Japanese history and art at a museum or indulge in some retail therapy at Tokyo’s cutting-edge stores - the choice is yours. Alternatively, you may join our optional day trip to Kamakura and Yokohama.(min 6 pax US$159). Explore two of Japan’s most captivating cities on a full-day Kamakura and Yokohama trip from Tokyo. After pickup from your Tokyo hotel, travel southwest by coach to Kamakura, a picturesque seaside city nestled in forested hills on Sagami Bay renowned for its Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and rich history. Next, continue to Yokohama, Japan’s second largest city. See the Red Brick Warehouse, where early-20th century custom buildings now house stylish shops, and stroll in waterside Yamashita Park.
Day 9 Tokyo - Seoul (B)
After breakfast, take the transfer shuttle to the airport to board your flight to Seoul. After arrival, transfer to the hotel and the rest of the day is on your own.
Day 10: Seoul - Andong - Busan(B/D)
Visit the traditional village, Andong, which features traditional houses of the Joseon Dynasty period (1392-1897). Then transfer to Busan, stop at one of Korea’s largest markets, Nampo Dong Gukje Market for a wide variety of goods at affordable prices. Then visit Nurimaru APEC House, a memorial hall and prestigious international conference hall located near Haeundae Beach, offering visitors spectacular views of the nearby natural landscape.
Day 11: Busan - Daegu (B)
In Busan, we visit Haedong Yonggungsa (East Sea Dragon Palace Temple), situated on the coast of the north-eastern portion of the city and overlooking the ocean. Afterwards, you will have an opportunity to view the waves while looking down through the transparent floor of the 15 metre high Oryukdo Skywalk, which is set over a 35 meter-high coastal cliff. Travel to Gamcheon Culture Village situated on the foothills of a coastal mountain and nicknamed ‘Machu Picchu of Busan’. You will be thrilled by the many alleys cutting through this village, vibrantly decorated with murals and sculptures created by the local resident. Then transfer to Daegu to visit Gatbawi Shrine, which is a medicinal Buddha shrine and national treasure, some 850m above sea level and said to date back to AD 638. Then take a stroll in Dongseongno Shopping District, a major fashion retail district. The streets are packed with hundreds of stores full of personality that reflect the city’s fast-paced fashion trends.
Day 12: Dageu – Gyeongju – Seoul (B/L)
Today we explore the many archaeological sites and temples, royal tombs, and monuments of Gyeongju, the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom (57 BC – 935 AD). Visit Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory, Royal Tumuli Park, Gyeongju National Museum, Bulguksa Temple, and Seokguram Grotto Temple. Enjoiy the special Samgyetang Lunch (Chicken soup with ginseng). Then transfer back to Seoul.
Day 13 Seoul (B)
This morning, visit Changdeokgung Palace, one of the ‘Five Grand Palaces’ built by the Kings of the Jeoson Dynasty, and Insadong, a street full of traditional Korean antique and art shops, restaurants and tea houses. Here we will visit the Ginseng Centre and Cosmetic Shop. Continue to Cheonggyecheon Stream and admire this urban oasis before visiting Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s main commercial districts.
Day 14 Seoul (B)
Today is free on your own or join the optional DMZ tour with lunch. Visit North Korea’s 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, located within the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), a 44 km drive northwest of Seoul. In the event of an invasion from the North, an entire infantry division could have move through the tunnel in an hour. View North Korean territory, including the Propaganda Village, People’s School, and Gaeseong City – the old capital city of the Goryeo Kingdom – from the Dora Observation Platform. Also visit Freedom Park, dedicated to the 5 million people who left their families and homes in North Korea. North Hall contains displays of North Korean lifestyle. Later, try on a hanbok, the traditional attire of the Korean people at Namsan Hanbok Culture Experience Centre before experiencing the city’s best night view at Namsan Tower.
Day 15: Seoul - Canada (B)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport to board your flight to Canada.
Departure Dates | Price (double occupancy)CAD P,P International flight included |
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Return Date | Vancouver | Toronto | |
2021/09/07 | 2021/09/21 | N/A | CAD$4499 |
2021/10/13 | 2021/10/27 | N/A | CAD$4499 |
2021/10/20 | 2021/11/03 | N/A | CAD$4499 |
2021/11/03 | 2021/11/17 | N/A | CAD$4699 |
2021/11/17 | 2021/12/01 | N/A | CAD$4299 |
Single Supplements | +CAD$1499 |
Price Include
• Return international airfares from Toronto/Vancouver;
• Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
• All intra-flights: Osaka - Seoul
• 13 nights 3-4 star First Class accommodations
• Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
• Shinkansen ticket from Osaka to Kyoto (bullet Train)
• Lake Ashi Cruise and West Lake Boat Ride
• Japan airport shuttle bus arrangements and all transfers
• Meals and featuring regional delicacies mentioned in the itinerary
• Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
• Services of English-speaking tour guides
• Entrance fees per itinerary
Price Not Include
• Visa Fee
• Prepaid Tipping: USD$140/person for the entire trip
• Travel insurance.
• Personal expenditures
http://www.osakadaiichi.co.jp/en/
kyotoYamanakako Sun Plaza Hotel
tokyoTokyo Dome Hotel
kyotoKansai Airport Washington Hotel
http://kansai-ap.washington-hotels.jp/
160, Sapyeong-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Tele: +82-2-1330
Founded in June, 1982, Seoul Palace Hotel is a 5-star hotel located in Banpo, the heart of business and finance in Seoul. With its spacious guestrooms, homey yet high-tech executive lounge, and numerous convenience facilities, Seoul Palace Hotel provides guests with the ultimate experience in luxury and comfort.
410-2, Sinpyeong-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Located in the middle of the Bomun Tourist Complex in Gyeongju, Commodore Hotel has been in service for over 20 years. Its unique interiors and exteriors, influenced by Buddhism, regularly attract film makers and photographers. The hotel is also popular because of its location in Gyeongju, the ancient city full of historical treasures as the capital of the Silla Kingdom. In addition, popular promenades or hiking trails are located around Bomun Lake, just a five minute walk from the hotel.
305, Dongdaegu-ro, Suseong-gu, Daegu
+82-53-742-0001
The Grand Daegu Hotel is located in Beomeo-Dong, the heart of Daegu’s transportation networks and business operations. In addition to luxurious interior and high-tech conveniences, the hotel features 150 guest rooms, a Korean-Japanese restaurant, a Chinese restaurant, a buffet, saunas for men and women, a fitness center, and banquet halls for various occasions.
Kansai Culture Tour (US$169 min10 pax).
First visit Kiyomizu Temple, also known as the Pure Water Temple, is one of more famous temples in Japan. One of the things that stands out is the wooden stage in the main hall that is 13 meters above the hill. During the spring period, this will give you an amazing view of the cherry blossom. Kiyomizu Temple is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Then visit one of the most sacred and impressive destinations –Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine and walk through the famous vermilion Torii Gates, where you take the most Japanese photo during the tour. Lunch will be included at a local Japanese restaurant. Next, visit the Gion District and see the beauty of Maikos in kimono. With only a few Geishas remaining, Gion is one of the few places you might catch a glimpse of these elusive figures. You may also choose the optional Kimono Rental (US$50) and explore great photo opportunities along the ancient street in Japan’s beautiful national dress. Then return to your comfortable vehicle for the relaxing journey back to your hotel. The rest of day is free at leisure on your own.
Japanese Kaiseki Dinner (min 4pax, US$90).
Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner which balances the taste, texture, appearance, and colors of food. Only fresh seasonal ingredients are used and are prepared in ways that aim to enhance their flavor. Dishes are also beautifully arranged and garnished.
Optional day trip to Kamakura and Yokohama.(min 10 pax US$159).
Explore two of Japan's most captivating cities on a full-day Kamakura and Yokohama trip from Tokyo. After pickup from your Tokyo hotel, travel southwest by coach to Kamakura, a picturesque seaside city nestled in forested hills on Sagami Bay renowned for its Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and rich history. Next, continue to Yokohama, Japan's second largest city. See the Red Brick Warehouse, where early-20th century custom buildings now house stylish shops, and stroll in waterside Yamashita Park.
Pottery Making Experience (60 minutes)
Pottery Making $99
Pottery is the oldest art form and earthenware traditions in Japan believed to have started around 12,000 years ago. Today, there are thousands of potters who make a living out of producing pottery-wares across the country. The pottery produced in each region varies in design because of the type of clay found there.
Highlights:
Try your hand at making your own cup or bowl by using the spinning wheel and clay.
Receive a pre-made sake cup made by the instructors as a souvenir.
Golden Joinery (60 minutes)
Golden Joinery $109
Learn the art of golden joinery (kintsugi or kintsukuroi), a technique of repairing broken cups, bowls, or plate using lacquer resin laced with gold powder. As a philosophy the mended aws become part of the object’s design. The result is that the object looks more beautiful than the original after being broken and repaired.
Highlights:
Mend broken cups, bowls or plates using powdered gold.
Take home the object you repaired as a unique souvenir.
Kimono Photo Shoot (60 minutes)
Kimono Photo Shoot Male $100, Female $120
The kimono is the traditional dress of Japan and is representative of its culture and heritage. The dress consists of a long robe with wide sleeves that is usually made of various materials and patterns. Today the kimono is only worn sparingly on formal occasions, such as weddings, funerals, tea ceremonies or other special events.Take part in a memorable photo shoot at a studio where you can dress up in a kimono of your choice. You can take photos with your own camera or you may choose to purchase a photo package plan from the photographers.
Highlights:
Dress up in a kimono of your choice for the photo shoot.
Have your photos taken for free with your own camera or purchase the photos from the professional photographers.
Cooking Class (120-180 minutes)
Cooking Class $129 Popular!
Japanese cuisine (washoku) is well known for its refined taste and elegant presentation. Take part in a Japanese cooking experience and learn from one of Tokyo’s most popular cooking instructors whose book has been published in English. Bring home with you a set of new cooking skills and culinary techniques that will leave your friends and family impressed.
Highlights:
Learn to cook different types of Japanese foods, such as sushi, soup and various side dishes.
Learn the ingredients, culinary techniques and methods used in creating home made Japanese dishes.
Enjoy your own cooked dish for lunch.
Note:
Transportation is not included. However, optional program venues are located in the easily accessible Tokyo CBD.
You may join up to 2 programs per day (exception: Nikko Day Tour).
Optional programs are subject to availability and must be booked more than 1 month before departure.
The electrical current is 220V in Korea, 100V in Japan. Plugs and Outlets come in a variety of shapes. You are advised to bring along adapters and converters for your U.S. purchased appliances. Clients can borrow adapters and converters from Housekeeping at most hotels. Hair dryer and iron are readily available. Simply contact hotel housekeeping when you need them.
Japan weather throughout the four main islands that make up Japan is generally temperate, with four distinct seasons. The weather can get very hot during the summer months. June, July and August are hot and humid and after June the country experiences its wettest months. In the south winters are cool but sunny, but as one move further north temperatures drop and snow falls. The island of Hokkaido in the far north of Japan is bitterly cold in the winter, with snow guaranteed.
Tokyo has four distinct seasons, similar to New York. The summer months (June, July and August) are hot and sticky while winter can be freezing. Tokyo is best visited in spring or autumn.
Korea The climate in Korea is temperate with four very distinct seasons. Summers are very hot and humid, while in winter temperatures plummet to below freezing. Autumn and spring are the most comfortable seasons to visit South Korea. Most of the rain falls in summer during a monsoon season known as 'jangma'.
Seoul is classed as having a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but temperature differences between the hottest part of summer and the depths of winter are extreme. In summer the influence of the North Pacific high-pressure system brings hot, humid weather with temperatures soaring as high as 95°F (35°C) on occasion. In winter the city is topographically influenced by expanding Siberian high-pressure zones and prevailing west winds, temperatures dropping as low as 7°F (-13.7°C). The bitterly cold days tend to come in three-day cycles regulated by rising and falling pressure systems, however, bringing some relief. The most pleasant seasons in the city are spring and autumn, when azure blue skies and comfortable temperatures are a sure bet. The city experiences heavy rainfall, but most of it falls in the summer monsoon period between June and September.
Unless noted, Gratuities are usually not included in your tour cost. They are customary, and their purpose is to encourage and reward quality service. Our tour guides, drivers, hotel porters do their utmost to make the trip smooth and pleasant. Gratuities are a way of showing your appreciation and also constitute a large part of their monthly income.
If you take prescription medication, be sure to bring enough to last the entire trip. Always carry medications in the original prescription container when traveling. Keep the medications with you and do not pack them in checked baggage.
Long-term travel overseas might cause tourists to develop stomach upset; a change in water, food, sleep habits and/or climate may all cause discomfort. Bring anti-diarrhea medications such as Imodium and Lomotil just in case.
Vaccinations are not mandatory for travel to with the exception of anyone traveling from or via an infected area.
For the latest overseas travel health information, please contact Foreign Affairs Canada by visiting their website for more information.
Tap water is considered safe to drink in Japan and Korea. Bottled purified water and soft drinks are easily obtained at reasonable prices either in hotel or in grocery markets. Nexus Holidays provides one bottle of pure water for free to each group travelers every day. You will also find that your hotels offer boiled water to your room daily; with this boiled water you can safely make your own tea or drink directly. This is the similar case while you travel to other Southeast Asia countries.
Most of meals are included per itinerary. Breakfasts included on your tour are familiar American Breakfasts to give you a good start to the day. Lunches and Dinners are usually served in set menu family style and feature a variety of regional specialties. One beverage of your choice (beer, pure or mineral water and soda) is included per person per meal at no additional charge; Tea is usually complimentary.
Shopping is always a part of the travel experience. Asia is known as bargain shoppers' paradise, offering a marvelous selection of arts and crafts such as jade, silk, rugs, cloisonné, ceramics, antique, painting, furniture and more. Purchasing an item in the area where it is "noted for" has proven to be the best value. Your National Tour Guide and Local Tour Guides will be glad to assist you with detailed shopping orientation. However, your tour guides might not be an expert on gemstones, porcelain, jade, paintings, etc., so if you intend to purchase items of this nature, please do some research before departing and have an idea of what you are looking for as well as the price you are prepared to pay. In addition, please carefully check the quality of the products, and always ask for a receipt with product descriptions.
When shopping it is wise to use credit card for large purchases. Retain all receipts. Purchase insurance for items that you have shipped. A supply of one dollar bills is very handy when shopping with street vendors. Always keep in mind that a purchase is between the buyer and the seller. Nexus Holidays and its staff are not involved in and are not responsible for any purchases you make during the trip, whether that merchant is part of the scheduled itinerary or not. It is also suggest learning what are Restricted and Prohibited by Canadian Border Services Agency.
Major Airline Contacts | |||||
Air China | N. America | 800-882-8122 | China Eastern | N. America | 888-358-1582 |
Beijing | 86-10-59281588 | Beijing | 021-95530 | ||
Seoul | 82-2-7746886 | Seoul | 82-2-518-0330 | ||
Osaka | 81-724-565128 | Osaka | 81-066448-5161 | ||
Tokyo | 81-3-64280311 | Tokyo | 81-033506-1166 | ||
China Southern | N. America | 888-338-8988 | United Airline | N. America | 800-864-8331 |
Guangzhou | 020-95539 | Seoul | 82-2-751-0300 | ||
Seoul | 82-2-775-9070 | Osaka | 81-3-6732-5011 | ||
Osaka | 81-6-64486655 | Tokyo | 81-3-6732-5011 | ||
Tokyo | 81-3-51578011 | ||||
Cathay Pacific | N. America | 800-268-8888 | Korean Airline | N. America | 800-438-5000 |
Hong Kong | 852 2747 3333 | Seoul | 1588-2001 | ||
Seoul | 82 1644-8003 | Osaka | 0088-21-2001 | ||
Osaka | 0120-46-3838 | Tokyo | 0088-21-2001 | ||
Tokyo | 0120-46-3838 | ||||
Air Canada | N. America | 800-268-8888 | Japan Airline | N. America | 800-525-3663 |
Seoul | 82-2-3788-0100 | Seoul | 82-02-757-1711 | ||
Osaka | 0570 014 787 | Osaka | 0570-025-121 | ||
Tokyo | 0570 014 787 | Tokyo | 0570-025-121 | ||
All Nippon Air | N. America | 800-235-9262 | Asiana Airline | N. America | 800-438-5000 |
Seoul | 02-2096-5500 | Seoul | 82-2-2669-8000 | ||
Osaka | 03-6741-1120 | Osaka | 81-6-6282-1888 | ||
Tokyo | 06-7637-6679 | Tokyo | |||
Canadian Embassy/Consulate | ||
Seoul | 82-2-3783-6000 | 21, Jeongdong-gil (Jeong-dong), Jung-gu Seoul, 100 - 120 |
Tokyo | 03-5412-6200 |
7-3-38 Akasaka, Minato-ku Tokyo 107-8503, Japan |
Osaka | 06-6681-0250 |
1-8-19 Hirabayashi Minami, Suminoe-ku Osaka, 559-8550, Japan |