Seoul, Tokyo & Kyoto (2024)

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Japan Experience

Duration : 10 days
Locations : Seoul, Tokyo, Kyoto

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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-dayitinerary 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 unlimitedinternet accessthanks to your pocket WiFi
If needed, contact our bilingual Japanese/English-speaking assistance team available 7/7
Numerous guided days or other optional activities available
Benefitfrom the expertise ofJapan 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, 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 orsimilar 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 ;
- Takesh*ta-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 ;
- Kôf*cku-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).
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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!

Included in your self-guided tour

Accommodation
- 3 nights in a3*hotelin the heart of the city of Seoul
- 3nights in a3*hotelin the heart of the city of Tokyo
- 3nights in a3*hotelin 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 publictransport 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

Additional services
- Unlimited internet access in Seoul (public Wi-Fi everywhere) and with 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"

More about your trip

Your tour :

The prices displayed on this page may vary according to the exchange rate of the Japanese ¥.
Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Children and babies accepted. From 3 to 11 years old a child rate is offered. In each accommodation, a standard adult bed will be offered to them, and a standard seat will be allocated to them in transport. From 0 to 2 years old inclusive, a "baby" rate is offered. This price corresponds to the allocation of a cot in the majority of the accommodation of the chosen circuit. However, we cannot guarantee a baby cot in each accommodation.
This programme is subject to change due to circ*mstances such as weather conditions or any other case of force majeure. The order of visits may also be modified. Please note that due to the current circ*mstances, any information mentioned is subject to change or modification.
Your travel documents will be given to you as follows
- Travel diary by email 3 weeks before departure, and other electronic documents ;
- Korea paper documents (airport transfer tickets, transport card) when you arrive at Seoul airport by our airport assistant ;
- Japan paper documents (airport transfer ticket, transportation card) and Pocket WiFi upon arrival at the Tokyo airport by our airport assistant.
In very rare cases, mostly in very high season, steps might be reversed. You will be informed in your mini travel-guide. Thanks for your kind understanding.

Your accommodation :

Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the city and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the booking price. Normally, it is 200¥/night/person (about £1.37/1.93$) but can be slightly higher in 4* hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception. For traditional Japan Experience accommodations, it is included in the initial tour price.
Room size: in Japan, a densely populated country where everything is compact, 3-star luxury hotels are of very good quality but the rooms are often quite narrow (12to 20m2/129 sq ft to 215 sq ft) depending on the hotel. Please note the size of the single room, between 10 and 16m2 (107sq ft and 172 fq ft). For more comfort, you can choose our luxury 4*accommodation upgrade option.
Double room: Rooms for two people in western hotels have 2 single beds (twin rooms) by default, which can usually be joined together.As an option, you can select a double room instead of a twin if you prefer a double bed.
Single room: People travelling alone and wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. The single room supplement is compulsory for orders with an odd number of participants.
3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, a triple room will be allocated to you.
In the case of a group order (> 5 people), it is possible, depending on hotel availability, that not all members of the group will be accommodated in the same hotel. Nevertheless, we aim to keep you close.
Names of the hotels: The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled. Hotels, corresponding to local standards, are given as an indication and may be changed on site for hotels of a similar category.

Your transport :

Europe -> Seoul et Tokyo -> Europe flights are not included in this tour. Do not hesitate to contact us if you would like to include flights in your order. Flights in economy class with stopovers or direct flights, eco-premium or business air upgrades, provincial departures or abroad: we will be able to advise you.
The departure and end dates of the tour presented on this page relate to your stay in Asia. You will arrive in Korea via Seoul Incheon Airport (ICN) via Tokyo and depart from Tokyo (Narita NRT or Haneda HND). You will have to leave Europe the day before and land at 6:30pmat the latest to make the most of the airport services of your tour (welcome and transfer to Seoul). The return flight from Tokyo is on the same day due to the time difference, with a departure time of 9am at the earliest. Please do not hesitate to consult us for any uncertainty or need for precision in the choice of international flights.
If the flights have been purchased by your care without the intervention of Japan Experience, it is necessary to send us by mail 1 month before your departure your flight information (flight number, airport, date and time of arrival) to allow us organise your welcome and airport transfer.
Airport transfers in Seoul and Tokyo: The shared shuttle bus leaves from the airport and stops either in front of your hotel or at a stop located between 1 and 15 min walk from your hotel. Our airport assistant will drive you to the platform to take the airport transfer. Then this transfer to the hotel is done without assistance.
For Japan: The tour includes a pre-paid transport card with 1500¥ loaded in advance (about £10.30 / 14.54$, Suica or Pasmo), a Tokyo Metro Pass 3 days and Shinkansen Nozomi tickets from Tokyo > to Kyoto (seats reserved in standard class). These cards should cover a large amount of your journeys in Tokyo. Please note that the Metro Pass is valid for 72 hours after the first use, until the expiry date printed on the back of the pass on this first use. This pass allows you to use all 13 of Tokyo's underground lines (Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway). The JR regional train lines are only accessible with the pre-payment card, where the journey is charged to you. When the 3-day metro pass and the 1,500¥ pre-paid transport card expire, you will have to pay for all your journeys by reloading your pre-paid transport card (in the ticket machines at all stations and metro stations. A metro ticket in Tokyo costs around£1.71 / 2.42$, depending on the length of the journey).
For Korea: The tour includes a Seoul public transport pass with 12 intra-city trips (given to you upon arrival in Seoul) and international flight tickets from Seoul ICN > to Tokyo HND or NRT (seats reserved in economy class). Beyond that, all travel will be at your own expense.

Your trips:

Airport reception, in both Seoul and Tokyo, will be conducted in English. Your airport assistant will be waiting for you at the customs exit holding a sign with the name of the reservation. They will give you your travel documents and take you to your airport transfer. They will not accompany you to Tokyo(this is possible, but optional).

Your meals :

Except for breakfasts in Seoul, no meals are included in your package.Breakfasts which are not included in your package can be added at the reception when you arrive at the hotel. However, you will find many cafés near your hotel serving copious breakfasts, often tastier than those in the hotels, which sometimes have tight schedules and are predominantly savoury. However, if you would like to add breakfast to your offer when you make your reservation, you can select it as an option.

Your additional services:

A pocket wifi is included in your tour. It allows unlimited high-speed internet access. Your Pocket WiFi will be given to you at the airport of arrival.
It comes with a small booklet to operate your device (don't panic: simple operation) and a prepaid envelope to return your device at the end of your stay. Your pocket wifi will work naturally until the last day of your trip to Japan.
A maximum of 5 devices can be connected to a pocket wifi (phone, tablet, computer).
A single pocket wifi is provided for a circuit order of 1 to 5 people. For an order of 6 people or more, a second pocket wifi will be added automatically and at no extra cost to your reservation.

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

As of October 11, 2022, Japan will open its borders to all Europeans (including the European Union, the United Kingdom and Switzerland) and North Americans (Canada and the United States) without requiring a visa.

Only non-triply vaccinated travelers need a negative PCR test performed within 72 hours prior to departure.

Do I still need a visa to travel to Japan as a tourist?

No, no visa is required for blue countries including all European countries (European Union, United Kingdom and Switzerland included) and North American countries (Canada and United States). List of blue countries: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/short/novisa.html. If you have another nationality, please contact the Japanese embassy in your country of residence to obtain this visa.

Do I still need a PCR or antigen test to go to Japan?

No, if you are triple vaccinated with the vaccines approved by Japan (Pfizer, Moderna, ...exhaustive list here : https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page24e_000317.html) there is no need for any test.

I do not have 3 doses of vaccine or I am not vaccinated against COVID, can I enter Japan?

Proof of Covid vaccines is no longer required for travelers from "blue" countries. Therefore, unvaccinated travelers can enter Japan if they live in blue countries. But a negative PCR test is required at embarkation for travelers who are not vaccinated 3 times.

Is there still a quarantine upon arrival in Japan?

Quarantine and testing on arrival have been eliminated for travelers from blue countries.

Is insurance mandatory?

No, but it is recommended. Japan Experience, as an option of its tours, provides appropriate travel insurance solutions.

What anti-covid measures are still in place in Japan?

The mask must be worn indoors (except in exceptional cases) and in transportation.

What applications should I download before entering Japan?

For tracking the evolution of the coronavirus epidemic, the Japanese government recommends downloading several applications:

MySOS, the health and location tracking app (it will be used to confirm your location, health status and accommodation).

COCOA, the COVID-19 contact confirmation app (this will be used to notify you of possible contact with a COVID-19 positive person).

For more information, please visit: https://www.hco.mhlw.go.jp/manual/pdf-en/summary.pdf

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, ranked in the top 10 by the Global Peace Index.

Therefore travelling alone is safe. Women and girls can travel alone without fear of being harassed or solicited in public places. The same goes for children, who can be seen going to school alone in the metro from the age of 7. This can give you an idea of the country's level of safety. Last but not least, Japan is a haven for children: the safety, the amusem*nt parks, the friendly attitude of the population.

It's very simple and easy, just book directly online through our website:

(1) Choose the tour of your choice, your departure date and indicate the number of participants. Several options are available to you.

(2) Pay a deposit of 35% of the total amount* online and confirm your reservation.

(3) You will then receive an e-mail confirming the conditions of your registration.

(4) Book your flight ticket, either with Japan Experience or by yourself (taking into account the necessary schedules for your tour)

(5) One month before departure, settle the balance of your booking.

For more information on the tours or to make a reservation, please contact our advisors on +33 (0)1 42 61 60 83 or at contact@japan-experience.com, or come and visit us at our agency in Paris.

* travel insurance and options included

You can pay online by credit card.

In our agency, you can pay by credit card, cash (under €1.500) or cheque with proof of identity (France only).

Few Japanese speak English, even in the tourism sector. With the exception of hotel staff in the major tourist cities, few Japanese are fluent in English. However, this does not prevent them from doing everything to help tourists in need.

One or more guided activities are included in all Japan Experience tours. This will allow you to get a closer look at Japan's thousand-year-old culture. Feel free to add one or more optional guided days.

Guided tours are led by bilingual Japanese guides, for total immersion without effort!

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