Overview
Discover South Korea with Tokyo
This Small Group Discovery tour of South Korea and Japan reveals the ancient dynasties and authentic delicacies that are tempting your travel fantasies with a spectacular journey through the history, mystery, and modern discoveries. Did we mention the palaces, Hanok houses, and temples to meditate on an adventure like no other. Stroll or roll through Seoul on a rickshaw ride and glide aboard a high-speed train to the city of Gyeongju to peruse its pavilions, pagodas, and parks. Take aim and pull back with an archery lesson or lean into some sage advice at a local Confucius school. From the serenity of Buddhist monks to the savory seafood markets and stunning seascapes, this tour of South Korea will suit you to a tea! Your adventure in Asia continues with a flight to Tokyo where the art of Japanese living is waiting to enchant you. From tales of master samurais and marvelous shrines, the history and legends of this colorful culture is yours for the discovering. Shining shrines and sumptuous dines are served in elegant style only as Japan can deliver. A dreamy experience in ancient secrets and modern marvels are yours to discover on this Small Group Discovery tour of Japan and South Korea.
Highlights of Discover South Korea with Tokyo
City Highlights
Price Details US
Transportation
Notes
Travelers Notes
Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 24 guests in Asia, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours. We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available). Enhance your free time with your GlobusGO mobile app!
Inclusions
We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect vacation—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available).
Product Group
Discover Korea
Itineraries
Day 1
ARRIVE IN SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA Your Small Group Discovery tour begins! Welcome to Seoul, the nation’s capital. With its ancient history and modern innovation, the city is full of opportunities to experience the traditional culture. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
Day 2
SEOUL Palace Gates & Plentiful Plates Begin your vacation with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most impressive of Seoul’s five palaces. Continue to the National Museum of Contemporary Korean History to learn how Korea has transformed from an agricultural society to an economic powerhouse. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore Gwangjang traditional market, one of the oldest in Korea. Then, visit Bukchon Hanok Village, home to over 900 hanoks (traditional Korean houses). This historic district has been restored to evoke the country’s timeless charm. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a special welcome dinner featuring Korean BBQ! (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT COLORFUL DYNASTIES & CULTURAL DRESS Gyeongbokgung Palace is the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, originally built in 1395. The palace complex was razed by the Japanese invasion of 1592 and sat abandoned for nearly 300 years before it was rebuilt in the mid-19th century. Tour the palace and witness the ceremonial changing of the guard. If you wish, experience a taste of Korean culture and don a traditional outfit called hanbok for memorable photos of your visit.
Day 3
SEOUL A Tale of Two Countries Journey to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for an unforgettable tour of the world’s most fortified border. Your Local Guide will explain the various sites and exhibitions including the Freedom Bridge, 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, Imjingak Park, the DMZ Museum, and the Dora Observatory. Return to Seoul and enjoy the balance of the day at your leisure. Consider an optional rickshaw ride through the city’s popular streets and alleyways. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTA LEGENDARY LAND Since 1953, the DMZ has separated North and South Korea. This stretch of land measures about 160 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. For decades, it has been steeped in history and intrigue. Please note this is a politically sensitive area, so tour with discretion.
Day 4
SEOUL–GYEONGJU Relics & Rituals Travel by high-speed train to Gyeongju, often called the “Museum without Walls” due to its rich cultural history and natural beauty. The capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, the city today is known for its relics, temples, and palaces. Upon arrival, visit Golgulsa Temple for a unique opportunity to [LF] experience the lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITESMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Join your small group for a unique experience to learn the art of Seonmudo. This Korean meditative martial art style was a secret of Buddhist monks for many years as a practice of developing mindfulness through motion. You’ll also learn about temple etiquette and try your hand at archery before enjoying dinner at the temple.
Day 5
GYEONGJU Pavilions, Pagodas & Parks Your full day sightseeing tour of Gyeongju includes a visit to Bulguska Temple and Gyeongju National Museum. End your day with a walk to Woljeong Bridge and Wolji Pond. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Visit Bulguska Temple with its ancient wooden pavilions and pagodas built on lush, forested hills. Within the temple complex is stunning Seokguram Grotto, one of Asia’s finest shrines, with its large Buddha statue overlooking the Sea of Japan. Then, visit Gyeongju National Museum, housing artifacts reflecting the art, culture, and history of the Silla dynasty, and Tumuli Park to see several tombs from the Silla period, including King Michu.
Day 6
GYEONGJU–BUSAN Historic Village & Harbor Views This morning, visit Yangdong Folk Village, one of the best-preserved historic villages dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Then, continue to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, known for its stunning beaches and harbor views. Before dinner at local restaurant, join your Tour Director for a coastal walk on Dongbaekseom Island. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCONFUCIOUS SAYS Surrounded by forested mountains and open fields, Yangdong Folk Village features clusters of houses with mud walls and thatched roofs facing the river. Visit the village shrine and Confucius school, and stroll along the village trail to admire the traditional hanoks.
Day 7
BUSAN Beautiful Busan Sightseeing today starts with a walking tour of Gamcheon, originally founded by refugees of the Korean War and today transformed into an artistic center with galleries and cafés. Participate in a [LF] Korean cooking class for lunch, then proceed to Jagalchi fish market, Korea’s largest and most famous seafood market. This afternoon, take a cable-car ride across the ocean for panoramic views of Songdo Beach and rock cliffs. You’ll also experience stunning views from Songdo Yonggung Supension Bridge. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITESMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Korean cuisine is unmatched! Learn authentic and local specialties with a private cooking class under the instruction of a local chef. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste local rice wine. Collect the recipes and try to recreate your masterpiece at home.
Day 8
BUSAN Korea to the Tea This morning, visit Un Cemetery which honors fallen soldiers from the Korean War. Later, enjoy a tea tasting. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Experience Korea’s floral tea culture with your small group as you taste different types of local floral and herbal teas to soothe the senses with aromatic flavors. Learn how to create your own blend!
Day 9
BUSAN–SEOUL Seoul Searching Fly to Seoul, then visit Insadong Arts and Craft Street, a vibrant hub for Korean traditional culture and craftsmanship. Walk along the Seoul City Wall, built more than 600 years ago. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your discovery of Korea. (B,D)
Day 10
SEOUL–TOKYO, JAPAN So long, Seoul! Today, fly to Tokyo, the capital of Japan. (B)
Day 11
TOKYO Tokyo Go! Today, hop on Tokyo’s subway system for a private guided sightseeing tour of the city. Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a magnificent 20th-century Shinto monument set in a man-made forest. Reach new heights at Tokyo Skytree. Tour the Samurai and Ninja Museum for a hands-on history lesson of Japan’s famous warriors, including the armor, weapons, and swords from the Medieval era. Lastly, visit bustling Nakamise shopping arcade and Asakusa Kannon Temple, the oldest of their kind in Tokyo. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHT TOUCH THE SKY Ascend to Sorakara Point on the 450th floor of soaring Tokyo Skytree. Reach the highest point accessible to visitors at some 450 meters(1500 feet). Marvel at the stunning panoramic views over the city and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji.
Day 12
TOKYO Get to Know Tokyo • Enjoy a full day at your leisure. (B)ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Tokyo with a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Utilize your included Tokyo Metro Pass to explore more of Tokyo’s unique neighborhoods, take a day trip to Mount Fuji, or visit the street-food markets for local specialties.
Day 13
TOKYO Safe travels until we meet again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Departures
| # | Air Start Date | Land Start Date | Land End Date | Land Only Price | Discount | Final | Departure Code | Status |
| 1 | 2025-03-26 | 2025-03-27 | 2025-04-08 | $6559 | $0 | $6946 | OSE50327K | Available |
| 2 | 2025-04-16 | 2025-04-17 | 2025-04-29 | $6559 | $0 | $6946 | OSE50417K | Available |
| 3 | 2025-05-07 | 2025-05-08 | 2025-05-20 | $6429 | $0 | $6816 | OSE50508K | Available |
| 4 | 2025-06-04 | 2025-06-05 | 2025-06-17 | $6049 | $0 | $6436 | OSE50605K | Available |
| 5 | 2025-07-16 | 2025-07-17 | 2025-07-29 | $6049 | $0 | $6436 | OSE50717K | Available |
| 6 | 2025-08-20 | 2025-08-21 | 2025-09-02 | $6049 | $0 | $6436 | OSE50821K | Available |
| 7 | 2025-09-17 | 2025-09-18 | 2025-09-30 | $6429 | $0 | $6816 | OSE50918K | Available |
| 8 | 2025-10-01 | 2025-10-02 | 2025-10-14 | $6509 | $0 | $6896 | OSE51002K | Not Available |
| 9 | 2025-10-15 | 2025-10-16 | 2025-10-28 | $6509 | $0 | $6896 | OSE51016K | Available |
| 10 | 2026-03-25 | 2026-03-26 | 2026-04-07 | $7169 | $0 | $7591 | OSE60326K | Available |
| 11 | 2026-04-15 | 2026-04-16 | 2026-04-28 | $7239 | $0 | $7661 | OSE60416K | Available |
| 12 | 2026-05-06 | 2026-05-07 | 2026-05-19 | $7069 | $0 | $7491 | OSE60507K | Available |
| 13 | 2026-06-03 | 2026-06-04 | 2026-06-16 | $6649 | $0 | $7071 | OSE60604K | Available |
| 14 | 2026-07-15 | 2026-07-16 | 2026-07-28 | $6649 | $0 | $7071 | OSE60716K | Available |
| 15 | 2026-08-19 | 2026-08-20 | 2026-09-01 | $6649 | $0 | $7071 | OSE60820K | Available |
| 16 | 2026-09-16 | 2026-09-17 | 2026-09-29 | $7069 | $0 | $7491 | OSE60917K | Available |
| 17 | 2026-09-30 | 2026-10-01 | 2026-10-13 | $7149 | $0 | $7571 | OSE61001K | Available |
| 18 | 2026-10-14 | 2026-10-15 | 2026-10-27 | $7149 | $0 | $7571 | OSE61015K | Available |
Hotels
| # | Name | Description | City | Address | Rating |
| 1 | Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul | From the refined comfort of Fraser Place Namdaemun Seoul, where elegance and convenience collide in the center of the city, take in the lively energy of Korea's capital. The rooms are designed to blend traditional Korean easthetics with a contemporary edge. The warm neutral hues permeate the expertly designed rooms, which are enhanced by modern amenities, unique artwork, and sleek wooden furnishings. | Seoul | 58, Sejong-daero Jung-gu | Superior First-Class |
| 2 | Lahan Select Gyeongju | Lahan Select is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery surrounding Bomun Lake. Enjoy the stunning four seasons of Bomun Lake and the rich cultural legacy of Gyeongju, and take advantage of a number of extra amenities and unique hotel experiences that will add even more value to your trip. | Gyeongju | 338 Bomun-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do | Superior First-Class |
| 3 | Park Hyatt Hotel Busan | Park Hyatt Busan is situated in the heart of Haeundae, the city¿s premier shopping and beach destination, alongside world-class shopping malls and sprawling views of the ocean and Gwangan Bridge. Be it for business or leisure travel, Park Hyatt Busan offers residential comfort with personalized experiences, welcoming guests with fine art, unique food and beverage offerings, and gracious service. | Busan | 51, Marine City 1-ro, Haeundae-Gu | Deluxe |
| 4 | Hilton Tokyo | The Hilton Tokyo is the the perfect base for exploring the vibrant, energetic city of Tokyo. The hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Lobby and Marble Lounge. Rejuvenate in the 24-hour health club within the hotel and relax in the sauna or soothing whirlpool spa. Choose from seven tempting restaurants offering a range of delicious cuisine. Favorites include Dynasty authentic Chinese restaurant, and Musashino, featuring sushi, tempura and teppanyaki. For a relaxing evening drink, visit St. George's Bar. | Tokyo | 6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku 6 Chome | Moderate Deluxe |
