South Korea & Japan

Discover the Highlights of South Korea & Japan combined on this tour from Seoul to Tokyo.

Begin in Seoul, South Korea's buzzing capital city and explore its compelling mix of modern and ancient. There is much about Seoul which may surprise you.

From Seoul drive down to Songnisan National Park in the centre of the Peninsula with a stop at the Folk Village at Yongin. Enjoy the landscape and visit Beopjusa Buddhist Temple. From Songnisan delve into Korean history and culture in Gyeongju where two nights are planned to discover this important region of Korean cultural heritage.

From Gyeongju head to Busan for a night and a taste of city life in this lively and pleasant port city before taking the short flight to Osaka in Japan for 4 nights in Japan's cultural capital Kyoto.

Travel by rail from Kyoto to Hakone/Mount Fuji and on to Tokyo for the culmination of this exciting journey.

As with all of our holidays, this South Korea & Japan tour can be tailored to suit your interests and budget so just let us know how we can help create your perfect tour of South Korea & Japan.

Is this a Private Tour or a Group Tour?

All of our South Korea and Japan tours are private, tailor-made itineraries, designed entirely around your preferences. Every element can be adjusted — from the pace and sightseeing to the level of accommodation. This particular South Korea and Japan trip includes flights, accommodation, and transfers (and where applicable, domestic travel by train or car).

What are the Departure Dates?

As this is a private trip, there are no fixed departure dates. You can travel whenever suits you best. We’ll advise on the ideal time to visit each region — whether it’s spring cherry blossom season, summer festivals, autumn foliage, or winter snow landscapes — as well as periods to avoid due to weather or local holidays.

Which Airlines do you use?

We work with all major airlines flying to South Korea and Japan, including Korean Air, Virgin, Asiana Airlines, British Airways, and Finnair. If you prefer a specific carrier or departure airport, let us know. There are direct flights from the UK to Seoul and Tokyo. We can also arrange convenient connections from regional UK airports.

Which Hotels do you use?

We handpick hotels based on quality, location, and local character, always guided by your preferences. Japan and South Korea both offer an exceptional range of accommodation — from stylish boutique city hotels and traditional stays such as ryokan or hanok guesthouses, to modern international chains and even temple lodgings for a truly immersive cultural experience.

In major cities like Tokyo, Seoul, Kyoto, or Busan, hotel rooms can be compact due to space, while in smaller towns, mountain regions, and national parks, accommodations tend to be more spacious but simpler in style. Whether you value design, authenticity, scenic views, or specific amenities, we’ll tailor the options to match your preferences and enhance your overall experience.

Getting Around

Most of our itineraries make use of Japan and South Korea’s excellent transport networks, combining efficiency, comfort, and convenience.

• In both countries, high-speed trains — the Shinkansen in Japan and the KTX in South Korea — connect major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongju quickly and smoothly.

• For more scenic or rural regions, such as Hakone, Mount Fuji, Mount Seoraksan, or Jeju Island, we can arrange private transfers with English-speaking drivers to provide greater flexibility and ease of travel.

• While car hire is possible in both destinations, we generally recommend relying on trains and private transfers for comfort, efficiency, and safety, as road signs, parking, and navigation can be challenging outside larger cities.

Are South Korea and Japan Expensive?

Well, Yes and No, but mostly no! We think Japan and South Korea are incredibly good value for money destination.

While Japan has a reputation for being expensive, we find that—when planned carefully—it offers outstanding quality and experiences at very fair prices.

We understand where the best value lies in hotel choices, excursions, and transportation, and we design our itineraries around that knowledge. In both countries, dining out can be remarkably affordable, with countless options from casual ramen, yakitori, or Korean BBQ spots to refined kaiseki or hanjeongsik (traditional multi-course) meals.

Transport is another strong point — the Japan Rail Pass and South Korea’s KTX high-speed network are among the best-value systems anywhere, making travel fast, easy, and economical.

In Japan, the things that tend to be more expensive include taxis, traditional ryokan stays, and private guided tours, while in South Korea, luxury hotels and private experiences can cost more during peak seasons.

Many of our trips blend guided excursions with time for independent exploration, offering flexibility, cultural depth, and excellent value. Whether you’re discovering Japan’s serene temples or South Korea’s dynamic cities, we tailor every itinerary to balance comfort, experience, and budget perfectly.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit South Korea or Japan?

UK citizens do not currently need a visa for short visits to either South Korea or Japan - you can visit for up to 90 days in each country. 

For South Korea, travellers must complete the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation) online before travelling — a quick and simple process.

For Japan, UK travellers do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or visiting friends and family.

If you hold a different passport, or plan a longer stay in either country, please let us know and we’ll provide the appropriate guidance.

What’s Included in the Price?

Your quotation will clearly outline everything included — typically flights, accommodation, private transfers or rail passes, and any guided experiences. Local taxes are generally included, though some hotels may charge small service fees upon check-out. We’ll make sure there are no hidden extras, and provide clear payment details at the quotation stage. 

How Much Luggage Can I Take?

International airlines to South Korea and Japan usually include one checked bag (20–23kg) and one cabin bag. Domestic flights or rail journeys have generous luggage allowances, and porters or luggage delivery services can be arranged between cities if preferred.

Will My Mobile Phone Work in South Korea or Japan?

Most UK and European mobile networks offer roaming in South Korea and Japan. Alternatively, we recommend purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM upon arrival for reliable data and maps. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and public transport.

What About Jet Lag and Time Zones?

South Korea and Japan are 9 hours ahead of the UK. We plan our itineraries with an easy arrival day to help you adjust — often including light sightseeing or a cultural walk before you rest. Staying hydrated, eating lightly, and adjusting your sleep schedule a day before flying can help reduce jet lag.

Seoul

Buzzing, bold, and brilliantly multifaceted, Seoul is a city where ultra-modern skyscrapers and high-tech subways coexist with serene temples, ancient palaces, and quiet hanok villages.

Often described as the heartbeat of South Korea, Seoul is a place where centuries-old tradition and cutting-edge innovation merge seamlessly. Neon-lit districts like Gangnam and Hongdae pulse with energy, fashion, and music, while tranquil spots such as Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace whisper stories of dynasties past.

Beyond its glittering skyline, Seoul is a cultural powerhouse—home to pioneering design, dynamic street food, vibrant K-pop culture, and an ever-evolving art and café scene that keeps it perpetually fresh and fascinating.

Mount Songnisan National Park

Tucked away in the heart of the Korean Peninsula, Mount Songnisan National Park is a place of spiritual serenity and rugged natural beauty.

The park’s dramatic peaks, ancient pine forests, and crystal-clear streams form the backdrop to one of Korea’s most revered temples, Beopjusa—home to a towering bronze Buddha and centuries of Buddhist heritage.

Visitors come here to hike winding mountain trails that lead to breathtaking panoramas and to experience the peaceful rhythm of temple life that has endured since the Silla Dynasty.

Whether you’re seeking a moment of quiet reflection or an invigorating trek through pristine wilderness, Songnisan offers an enchanting escape into Korea’s beautiful landscape.

Gyeongju

Often referred to as “the museum without walls,” Gyeongju is a living testament to Korea’s ancient Silla Kingdom and one of the most historically rich destinations in the country.

Here, royal tombs dot the landscape as grassy mounds, ancient pagodas sit beside peaceful lotus ponds, and centuries-old stone carvings are found along the nearby mountainsides.

Strolling through Gyeongju feels like stepping back in time—each corner reveals traces of Korea’s golden age, from the exquisite Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto to the charming traditional streets around Hwangnidan-gil.

Busan

South Korea’s spirited second city, Busan, perfectly balances urban energy with laid-back coastal charm.

Set between forested mountains and the shimmering sea, Busan is famed for its golden beaches, bustling seafood markets, and colorful hillside neighborhoods that tumble down toward the water.

Haeundae and Gwangalli beaches draw crowds in summer, while the jagged cliffs of Taejongdae and the vibrant alleys of Gamcheon Culture Village reveal a more artistic, introspective side.

Add in world-class film festivals, steamy natural hot springs, and some of the best seafood in Asia, and it’s clear why Busan captures the imagination of travelers seeking both excitement and escape.

Kyoto

Often called Japan’s cultural heart, Kyoto is a city where history, art, and tradition converge.

Here, centuries-old temples and shrines nestle among bamboo groves and serene gardens, while the iconic Gion district showcases geisha culture against the backdrop of traditional wooden machiya houses. The city’s streets are lined with teahouses, artisan shops, and quiet lanes that feel untouched by time.

Visitors can wander through the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji, the tranquil rock gardens of Ryoan-ji, and the vibrant torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, each offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage.

View Itinerary in Detail

To view a sample holiday, click on one of the links below. This will open the itinerary up in a new window.

All of our South Korea and Japan Holidays are completely tailor made and we can put together any kind of itinerary to suit your interests and budget.

We have many other options so if you have a particular hotel in mind just let us know and we'll put together a price and itinerary for you.