21 Day Best Of Japan, South Korea & Taiwan
A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Return international airfares included
✓ Incredible sightseeing, including Kyoto's Fushimi Inari and Golden Pavilion, Seokguram Grotto, marvel at sacred Mount Fuji, discover the dazzling cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul and Taipei
✓ 19 nights in central 3 and 4-star accommodation
✓ Breakfast daily
✓ International flights from Tokyo to Seoul and Seoul to Taipei
✓ Escorted by professional English-speaking tour guides in Japan and South Korea
✓ Expert local guides in Taiwan
✓ Comfortable, dedicated transportation throughout
✓ In-depth sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Today, board your flight to Tokyo.
Upon arrival into Tokyo, take the evening to relax after your flight and prepare for your first full day of touring tomorrow.
Arrival & Check-in information
Haneda International Airport (HND). The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Haneda International Airport (HND) to Tokyo Central is by train or by Monorail. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle bus service from around 1300 Yen per person.
Narita International Airport. The best way to travel from Narita International Airport to Tokyo Central is by the Narita Airport Express. The journey to most Tokyo stations takes approximately 1hr and the ticket costs 4070 Yen. The airport is also serviced by many 'Limousine Bus' services which offer shared shuttle buses from around 1300 Yen per person.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Hotel Check-in
Travellers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotels discretion.
Note: Some flights may depart the day earlier.
Enjoy breakfast this morning before you meet your Tour Leader this morning at approximately 08:30am before you start your full day of sightseeing. Our day starts with a stop at Oishi Park on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, well known for its serene, flower-lined walking path and its spectacular view of Mount Fuji.
Then, we stop by the eight ponds at Oshino Hakkai, a small village in the Fuji Five Lake region fed by the snow melt from the nearby mountains. See traditional thatched roof farmhouses in the shadow of the iconic Mount Fuji.
After our day in the Mount Fuji area we continue to Hamamatsu. Enjoy an evening at leisure.
Today we head to Nara, famous for its many temples and its free-roaming deer. First, we visit Todaiji (Great Eastern Temple), one of Japan's most famous temples. This massive building houses one of Japan's largest bronze statues of Buddha (Daibutsu). We then wander through Nara Park, home to hundreds of friendly Sika deer.
We then continue to Osaka, where we’ll enjoy a walking tour of the Dōtonbori area. One of Osaka's most popular tourist destinations, this street runs parallel to the Dōtonbori canal and is a hugely popular destination for shopping, street food, bars and entertainment. At night the streets here are illuminated by hundreds of colourful neon lights and mechanised signs, including the famous running Glico Man sign and the Kani Doraku crab sign.
Enjoy an evening at leisure in Osaka.
We’ll see the sights of ancient Kyoto this morning, starting with Kyoto’s famed Fushimi Inari Shrine – known throughout the world as the ‘Path of the Red Gates.’ Take time to appreciate the quieter corners of the shrine, and if you’re feeling fit, a walk to the halfway point provides stunning city views.
We’ll continue on to some of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, like Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion). This is a Zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with two floors covered entirely in thin layers of pure gold, set within a beautiful classical Zen garden.
Afterwards, stand amongst the soaring stalks of bamboo at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. It’s green, peaceful and the seemingly endless boughs make for a serene experience, even with the tourist crowds. Take in the sound of rustling bamboo as you stroll these paths – if there’s a bit of wind, the groves will gently sway back and forth which only adds to the magic.
Before leaving Kyoto, we visit the authentic Gion district. This historic area is home to many geisha and is packed with bars, restaurants and cafes.
We head back to Osaka for another evening at leisure.
After breakfast we depart Osaka for Shizuoka. On the way, we will visit the Ninja Museum of Igaryu where you can see a ninja trick house, ninja museum and experience a ninja show (if time permits, at own expense).
We then visit the historic 17th-century Nagoya Castle. The castle is the most iconic landmark in Nagoya and is an impressive sight. Afterwards, we continue to Shizuoka for an evening at leisure.
After breakfast we travel back to Tokyo, where we embark on a tour of this energetic city.
In a city of such frenetic pace, a stop at the charming Asakusa neighbourhood is a refreshing taste of older Tokyo. It’s home to the ancient seventh-century Sensō-ji Temple. Built in the Asuka era, it’s the oldest and most important Buddhist temple in Tokyo – be prepared for crowds! It’s known for its imposing entrance gate, Kaminarimon (also known as ‘Thunder Gate’), with its magnificent red lantern.
We’ll walk along Nakamise, the shopping street connecting the front gate and main hall of the temple. It’s a wonderful atmosphere, with food stalls and souvenir shops, selling authentic Japanese items like traditional crafts. You’ll find great souvenirs here. We’ll then stop at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for late afternoon panoramic city views.
Afterwards, we check in to our hotel for an evening at leisure.
Today, you will make your own way to Tokyo Airport in time for your flight from Tokyo to Seoul.
Upon arriving into Seoul’s Incheon International Airport, you will be transferred (included) to your accommodation in the nation’s capital.
This evening you will have a briefing regarding your itinerary throughout South Korea.
After breakfast, we make our way to Jeonju.
En route, we visit the UNESCO listed Tomb of King Muryeong and the Royal Tombs. Dating back to 500AD, the tomb complex was only re-discovered in 1927 and gives an insight into the Ungjin Period.
We then visit the impressive Gongsanseong Fortress before continuing to Buyeo, an ancient capital of the Baekje Dynasty.
We continue to Jeonju where we spend the night.
After breakfast at our hotel, we continue our journey to Gwangju, the leading city of Honam, the region and birthplace of a modern democratic movement in Korea. Here we visit May 18th National Cemetery dedicated to those who participated in the Gwangju Uprising in 1980.
Our journey continues to Suncheon where we will visit Suncheon Bay Garden. Afterwards, we travel to Yeosu, where we tour the modern port city before checking into our hotel.
NOTE: Suncheon Bay Garden will be closed on the last Monday of every month staring from April and will be replaced to Suncheon Nakaneupseong Folk Village.
Our first stop today is the Jinjuseong Fortress, historically linked to the Japanese invasion in 1592.
We then continue to Busan and visit the Jagalchi-Fishery Market, Busan’s largest seafood market, before seeing Haeundae Beach and Dongbaek Park. Our tour continues to the historic coastal city of Gyeongju where we check in to our hotel before an evening at leisure.
Today is a real highlight and our first destination is the Unesco World Heritage-listed Seokguram Grotto. The religious site was constructed between 742 and 765 AD and still serves as a significant site for Korean and international Buddhists for its ceremonial and artistic value.
We then visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bulguksa Temple before continuing to Andong Hahoe Folk Village, which has preserved the housing architecture and the village structure of the Joseon Dynasty. Moreover, the Village was naturally formed with people who actually live there. It has become world-famous for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain.
From here, we continue to Pyeongchang - home of the 2018 Winter Olympics and the Woljeongsa Temple, a 9-storey octagonal pagoda.
Today we visit the venues of the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang.
Continue onto Seoraksan National Park - the peaks of the Seoraksan Mountains break through the clouds while jade-like water flows through the valleys, creating breathtaking views and making this Korea's most famous national park. Due to the many rare species found here, UNESCO designated this national park a Biosphere Preservation District in 1982. You have the opportunity to take a cable car to the summit (additional expense) before we transfer back to Seoul for our final evening in South Korea.
Please note: due to unforeseen circumstances dictated by the local government, the National Park may not be visitable. Alternative touring may be arranged by our local representatives.
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Taipei.
Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport following customs, immigration formalities and baggage collection, you will be transferred to your accommodation.
After breakfast, use your 1 Day Taipei Double-Decker sightseeing Bus ticket to explore Taipei!
The Red Route takes in Taipei 101, Huashan 1914 Creative Park, etc. The Blue Route takes in the Shilin Official Residence, National Palace Museum, etc. There is onboard English audio-guide information.
After breakfast, drive to Sun Moon Lake via the picturesque Central Cross-Island Highway and Wuling on Mt. Hehuan , the highest spot (3275m above sea level) of the highway and the best place to have a panoramic view over the Central Mountain Ranges. Continue to Sun Moon Lake, a designated National Scenic Area, and drive along the lake to indulge yourself in the natural beauty all around, visiting Wen-wu Temple with beautiful lake views.
After breakfast, drive to Alishan National Scenic Area. Sunrise, sea of clouds, railway, forest and sunset are the images of the five wonders that always come to mind when Alishan is mentioned. As soon as dawn arrives in the early morning, a glimpse of sunlight slowly makes its appearance above the mountain, and a new day begins. At dusk, the orange red sunset is another breathtaking scene. On the other hand, Alishan’s sea of clouds, one of the top 8 scenes in Taiwan, are usually seen during sunrise and sunset on a sunny autumn day.
Next, take a ride on one of the three remaining mountain railways in the world. It was built to transport wood in the past, but nowadays it has transformed to a tourism train, and shuttles tourists throughout the forest. Visitors who don’t want to take the train can take a walk on the trails and enjoy the nature and fresh air. You will discover the charming side of an alpine forest.
Today enjoy a trip from the beautiful Alishan to the ancient capital of Tainan. For over 200 years, Tainan was the capital of Taiwan. To this day, it retains a traditional vibe, with some of the country’s most important historical attractions and temples. Many locals also consider it the food capital of Taiwan.
In the afternoon you will visit Anping Old Fort, formerly known as Fort Zeelandia. A historical site in Tainan, it was originally built by the Dutch East India Company over a ten-year period from 1624 to 1662. The fort served as the administrative center for the Dutch regime in Taiwan and was a hub for trade. This evening you are free to explore this cultural city.
This morning, we head to Kaohsiung to visit the Chihkan Tower and the first Confucian Temple to be built in Taiwan to get an insight into the ancient Confucian ceremonies and rituals.
Afterwards, enjoy a light vegetarian lunch at the Fonguanshan Monastery with a tour through the main shrine and Buddhist museum as well as a tour through downtown Kaohsiung City.
Tonight, stroll through the Liu He Night Market where you can try a variety of delicious seafood on offer. Bring your appetite and enjoy the downtown energy!
Today, visit the colourful Dragon and Tiger Pagoda located on Lotus Lake. Afterwards, visit the Spring and Autumn Pavilions to capture the beautiful reflection of this unique building over the lake. Then, visit Lukang which is famous for the Longshan Temple and markets. Follow the winding Lukang Old Market Street to traditional Taiwanese styled houses, the narrow alleyways and the array of seafood and traditional foods. After this, your tour guide will take you back to Taipei city where the rest of the evening is at leisure.
Today marks the end of your incredible tour through Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. At the appropriate time, join your included transfer to Taipei Airport for your onward journey.
Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Arrive home today. We hope you've been inspired.
Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This package includes international airfares or has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city.
If international airfares are included this will be stated in the ‘Inclusions’ section
Alternatively, if international airfares can be added to your booking you will be able to select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and flights will be added to your booking.
Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:
Baggage
Included baggage differs based on your country of origin. Included baggage will be as per the following:
|
Country of Origin |
Carry-on Baggage |
Checked Baggage |
|
Australia |
7kgs |
20kgs |
|
New Zealand |
7kgs |
20kgs |
|
United States of America |
15lbs |
45lbs |
|
Canada |
15lbs |
45lbs |
|
India |
7kgs |
20kgs |
|
United Kingdom |
7kgs |
20kgs |
Baggage allowances provided by the airline might differ to the values stated above. However limitations are required due to transport storage restrictions on your selected tour or package.
Flight requests, amendments or preferences
We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalised quote tailored to your specific requirements.
To make a flight request, please click ‘Book Now’ and select Would you like us to contact you around our flight service? By selecting this option you will be sent a request form after completing your purchase to make your request.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
If we can’t fulfill your request and you still wish to proceed with the booking, please select Land Only (excluding UK customers). This will allow you to travel on the land portion of the package without the included airfares. You will then be able to arrange your own flights separately.
FAQs
For more frequently asked questions please view our FAQs section.
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a”3”
Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Suggested amount for your guide, 500Y per person per day. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Twin Share Bedding Configuration
At any time, bedding configuration is subject to confirmation by the hotel and based on availability. While you have the option to select either twin or double bedding at time of booking, our recommendation when travelling to Japan is to choose twin bedding, as the rooms are often bigger than those that have a double bed. If insisting on double bedding, please note that the rooms will be smaller and more narrow. As a general expectation, we cannot always guarantee bedding at all hotel stays.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,681.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this deal that you will receive a single room, which is smaller in size than a twin/double room. Unfortunately this is typical for Japan, as the cost to solely occupy a double/twin size room is incredibly high. We appreciate your understanding.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
20-40 people
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Cherry Blossoms
Please note: cherry blossoms are weather dependent and it is not guaranteed that they will be in bloom at the time of your arrival.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
Post Tour Accommodation
Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
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