26 Day Inspiring Japan & South Korea Small Group Tour
This package does not include international airfares from your home airport. Any flights within your tour itinerary are included. If you would like to add international airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available after your booking is made.
Designed to take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Travel with no more than 26 people (on average 16-20), allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience.
This tour is either fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader or guided by experienced local guides at each destination. If your itinerary includes local guides, a new guide will meet you in each location, and any internal flights will be unescorted. For further details, please refer to the Essential Information for this tour.
Our Steady tours offer a good mix of guided sightseeing and personal free time. With a combination of 2-3 night stays and occasional 1 night stops in key locations, this pace allows for deeper exploration while minimising long travel days.
✓ 25 nights in 3 to 4-star accommodation, including an onsen hotel stay near Mount Fuji
✓ Breakfast daily and 4 dinners
✓ Ride the iconic Japanese bullet train
✓ Private transportation throughout
✓ Economy Flight from Tokyo to Seoul
✓ Fully escorted by dedicated tour leaders, with a new leader in each country
✓ Incredible sightseeing including entrance fees as per itinerary
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
🛏️ Shared room available for solo passengers. This tour offers solo passengers the option to share a room with a fellow passenger of the same gender and avoid the Single Traveller supplement.
From the steaming Hells of Beppu and Miyajimas floating torii to Kyoto golden temples, the thatched villages of Shirakawa-go and sacred Mount Fuji, then on to Seoul’s palaces, Busan coast, the royal tombs of Gyeongju and the DMZ. Two countries, old traditions and modern marvels in one journey.
Welcome to Japan. On arrival in Osaka you will make your way to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to settle in and rest after your flight.
Once you have found your feet, the evening is yours to wander the streets for a first taste of the city before your tour begins.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer 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 time is at 3pm. If arriving prior to this, you will be able to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
After breakfast you will leave Osaka behind and travel by private coach onto the island of Shikoku. The route crosses the great Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, and skirts the Naruto Strait, where powerful tidal whirlpools turn between the islands.
Arriving in Takamatsu, you will visit Shikokumura, an open-air museum where historic farmhouses, an old kabuki theatre and a swaying vine bridge have been gathered from across the region. From there you will walk in Ritsurin Garden, a beautifully composed landscape of ponds, stone bridges and sculpted pines that took generations of feudal lords to complete.
Later, settle into your hotel in Takamatsu.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
After breakfast, travel by private coach to Matsuyama, pausing for photographs at Ishite-ji, an atmospheric temple on the ancient Shikoku pilgrimage trail. You will then visit Matsuyama Castle, set high on a hilltop with wide views across the city to the sea.
Nearby stands Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest hot spring bathhouses in Japan and said to have inspired a much-loved animated film. Continuing to the coast at Yawatahama, you will board a ferry for the crossing to Beppu on the island of Kyushu.
On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours. Note that ferry schedules vary and travel time is approximate, covering the coach leg plus the Yawatahama–Beppu ferry.
After breakfast, give yourself over to Beppu, a town that sits on so much geothermal activity it sends columns of steam drifting over the rooftops.
You will visit several of the Jigoku, the vivid hot springs known as the hells, among them the cobalt pool of Umi Jigoku and the bubbling grey mud of Oniishibozu. Later, ride the Beppu Ropeway to the summit of Mount Tsurumi, where the view reaches out over Beppu Bay and, on a clear day, far along the Kyushu coast.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, travel by private coach to Nagasaki, a port city with a long and unusual history of contact with the wider world.
On arrival you will visit Glover Garden, a hillside of preserved merchant houses with sweeping views over the harbour, and the nearby Oura Church, the oldest standing Christian church in the country.
The remainder of the day is yours. You might stroll through the lantern-lined streets of Shinchi Chinatown or wander along the waterfront. Tonight is at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Approx Start Time: 1900
Approx Finish Time: 21:30
Duration: Approx 3 hrs
Stroll through central Nagasaki in the evening, stopping for a bowl of champon ramen noodles, Nagasaki-style. Champon is a classic Nagasaki dish and reflects the city’s cosmopolitan past and history with early Chinese and Western traders. Afterwards, head up Mount Inasa for stunning panoramic views of this attractive port city at night.
Inclusions:
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
After breakfast you will visit the Nagasaki Peace Memorial, a moving tribute to the events of 1945, followed by the waterfront at Dejima Wharf.
The afternoon is at leisure. With your free time you might walk to the Megane Bridge, the graceful double-arched stone bridge whose reflection forms the shape of a pair of spectacles, visit the colourful Confucius Shrine, or simply relax beside the harbour. Tonight is at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, travel by private coach towards Fukuoka, stopping along the way at Dazaifu. Here you will visit Dazaifu Tenmangu, a shrine set among ancient trees and dedicated to the deity of learning, alongside the striking Kyushu National Museum.
Continuing into Fukuoka, you will see Ohori Park, laid out around a wide central lake with gardens and walking paths. This evening you may wish to head to the Nakasu or Tenjin districts, famous for their yatai, the open-air food stalls where locals gather over ramen and grilled skewers (dishes here are at your own expense).
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
After breakfast, travel by private coach to Hiroshima.
On arrival you will visit the Peace Memorial Park, the Peace Memorial Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome, which together stand in quiet remembrance of August 1945 and the city’s enduring message of peace.
Tonight will be at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
After breakfast, take the short ferry across to the island of Miyajima to visit Itsukushima Shrine, with its great vermilion torii gate that appears to float on the water when the tide is high.
Returning to Hiroshima, the afternoon is at leisure. With your free time you might visit Shukkeien, a classical garden of miniature landscapes, walk in the grounds of Hiroshima Castle, or browse the covered Hondori shopping arcade. Tonight is at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Approx Start Time: 20:00
Approx Finish Time: 21:30
Duration: Approx 1.5 hrs
Tonight, you will be able to enjoy an okonomiyaki dinner. Okonomiyaki is a savoury Japanese pancake, famed in Hiroshima for its layering of ingredients including batter, cabbage and pork to which you can add optional items such as squid, octopus or more vegetables.
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
After breakfast, your main luggage will be sent ahead to Kyoto, leaving you free to travel light. By private coach you will make your way to Himeji to visit its famous castle, a brilliant white hilltop fortress and one of the grandest to survive anywhere in Japan.
From Himeji you will board the shinkansen, the bullet train, for the swift journey on to Kyoto, where you will transfer to your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your main luggage will be transported separately to Kyoto. Please keep anything you need for the day, including medication and valuables, in your hand luggage.
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
After breakfast, spend a full day among the temples and shrines of Kyoto, for centuries the imperial capital.
You will visit Tofuku-ji, known for its wooden halls and garden bridges, the vermilion gateways of Heian Jingu, and Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion that seems to float above its mirror-still pond.
Later, walk among the towering stems of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove on the western edge of the city.
Inspiring Highlights
Enjoy an evening walking tour of downtown Kyoto – from the heart of the city’s geisha culture in Gion to the tiny backstreets and bars of Ponto-chō. Experience Gion’s atmospheric streetscape at night and catch glimpses of geisha on their way to work. Visit neighborhood shrines illuminated at night and stop at a bar and sample some local sake and food.
Please note: The following menu is a sample only, and dishes may vary depending on the venue, seasonal availability, and daily specials.
Sample Menu
- Assorted sashimi
- Small appetizer (e.g. local veggie pickles or so)
- Deep-fried dish of the season
- Grilled dish of the season
- Chef’s choice main dish
- Assorted sushi
- Homemade dessert
- Free-flow beverages, including beer, sake, and soft drinks
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Approx Start Time: 20:00
Approx Finish Time: 23:00
Duration: Approx 3 hrs
Today is a free day in Kyoto to explore at whatever pace suits you.
You might wander the covered aisles of Nishiki Market, lined with stalls selling pickles, sweets and kitchenware, or stroll the old wooden lanes of the Gion district. The Philosopher’s Path makes for a gentle walk along a willow-lined canal, and the grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace are open to visitors. As evening falls, the riverside lanes of Pontocho come softly to life.
Tonight is at your leisure.
After breakfast, travel by private coach up into the mountains of central Japan to the old castle town of Takayama.
On arrival you will visit the Takayama Yatai Kaikan, where the tall, gilded floats of the town’s celebrated festivals are kept on display, and the Kusakabe Folk Museum, a finely preserved merchant’s house. The rest of the day is yours to relax. Tonight is at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
After breakfast, travel by private coach to Shirakawa-go, a village tucked into a mountain valley and listed by UNESCO for its steep thatched gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some of them more than two centuries old.
Returning to Takayama, you will have time to wander the preserved streets of the old town at Kamisanomachi, where dark timber merchant houses now hold sake breweries, craft shops and tea houses.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Meeting Point: At venue
Approx Start Time: 14:00 or 15:00
Approx Finish Time: 14:40 or 15:40 at venue
Duration: Approx 40 mins
Sample some fine sake produced from Takayama’s clear alpine waters in an old sake brewery located in the heart of Takayama’s old town area. Experience different sake styles from aged forms to newly released varieties made from the latest rice harvest. Enjoy the traditional rustic ambience of a merchant’s house from Japan’s feudal era.
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
Meeting Point: At venue
Approx Start Time: 12:45
Approx Finish Time: 13:45
Duration: Approx 1 hr
Experience a classic Japanese bento, served lunch-box style in a traditional building near the town’s old centre. The ingredients used are sourced from Takayama’s farms and served in lacquered boxes.
Please note that times are subject to change and are a guide only.
After breakfast, travel by private coach to Matsumoto, pausing for photographs at its castle, one of the oldest in the country and instantly recognisable by its black timber keep. There is also time along Nakamachi, an old merchant street of white-walled storehouses.
Continuing towards Mount Fuji, you will ride up to the 5th Station on its northern slopes (weather and road conditions permitting) for a closer look at Japan’s most famous peak. This evening you will arrive at your hotel beside Lake Kawaguchiko, where a traditional dinner is served and a soak in the natural hot springs is a fine way to end the day.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Access to the Mount Fuji 5th Station depends on weather and road conditions. If the road is closed, an alternative such as the Fujisan World Heritage Centre will be offered.
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
After breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing cruise on Lake Kawaguchi, with Mount Fuji rising beyond the far shore on a clear morning, followed by a visit to the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum and its collection of intricate dyed kimono.
Later, travel by private coach to Tokyo, passing the Metropolitan Government Building for wide city views (traffic permitting), before checking in to your hotel. Tonight is at your leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Celebrate the end of your Japan adventure with a casual meal at Izakaya, followed by a visit to a karaoke bar for that quintessential Japan experience!
Please note: The following menu is a sample only, and dishes may vary depending on the venue, seasonal availability, and daily specials.
Sample Menu
Please note:
Items (6)–(8) are served individually
All other dishes are served as shared plat
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Inclusions: English-speaking guide, food and drinks
Approx Start Time: 18:30
Approx Finish Time: 22:00
After breakfast, spend the day exploring Tokyo.
You will visit Senso-ji, the city’s oldest temple, approached along Nakamise, a shopping street that has served visitors and pilgrims for centuries. From there, continue to the Tsukiji Outer Market, a maze of food stalls and knife shops, and on to the famous scramble crossing at Shibuya.
Inspiring Highlights
Today, your journey through Japan will come to an end. You will make your own way independently to the airport to catch your flight from Tokyo to Seoul.
Upon arrival in the vibrant capital city of Seoul, you will be transferred to your hotel. This bustling metropolis perfectly blends high-tech skyscrapers and pop culture with ancient temples and traditional markets. Take the rest of your first day to settle in and begin exploring the local neighborhood at your own pace.
Special Information
Note: There is no airport transfer included in Tokyo. Please speak with your tour leader or hotel concierge for details on how to travel to the airport.
After breakfast, we begin our South Korea adventure with a guided city tour of Seoul. Our day starts with a walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautifully restored urban waterway in the heart of the city, before continuing to the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic of Seoul’s royal palaces.
We then visit Bukchon Hanok Village, where hundreds of traditional Korean houses offer a glimpse into the city’s past, followed by time to explore Insadong Street, known for its galleries, antiques and local crafts. The day concludes with sweeping panoramic views over Seoul from N Seoul Tower.
This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, we depart Seoul and journey south to the lively coastal city of Busan. On arrival, we experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere with a visit to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, where the day’s catch is traded straight from the harbour. We then explore the nearby Gukje Market, one of Korea’s largest traditional markets, known for its local street food, textiles and souvenirs.
We also visit the UN Memorial Cemetery, the only United Nations cemetery in the world, offering a peaceful and poignant reflection on Korea’s modern history.
The evening is at leisure, with time to relax or discover Busan’s dining and waterfront precincts at your own pace.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours
Today is dedicated to discovering the unique character of Busan. After breakfast, we visit the colourful Gamcheon Cultural Village, famous for its maze-like streets, hillside setting and vividly painted houses, often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of Busan.”
In the afternoon, we travel to Haeundae Beach, Busan’s most famous stretch of coastline, followed by a leisurely walk around Dongbaek Island, where scenic paths offer beautiful coastal views and city skylines.
This evening is free to enjoy Busan at your leisure — whether exploring the city’s lively nightlife or sampling fresh local seafood.
Inspiring Highlights
After breakfast, we begin the day at the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare seaside temple perched dramatically on the cliffs above the ocean. From here, we journey inland to Gyeongju, often called “the museum without walls” for its wealth of historic treasures.
In the afternoon, we explore the city’s rich heritage with visits to the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, the ancient Cheomseongdae Observatory, and the Royal Tombs, each offering a fascinating glimpse into Korea’s past. We then conclude our sightseeing at the elegant Donggung Palace and the serene Wolji Pond, a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.
The evening is free to relax and enjoy Gyeongju at your own pace.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours
After breakfast, we journey to Andong, a city celebrated for its deep-rooted traditions and cultural heritage. We begin at the serene Byeongsan Seowon, a historic Confucian academy set amidst peaceful landscapes, before exploring the world-renowned Hahoe Folk Village, where time-honored customs and beautifully preserved hanok houses offer a fascinating glimpse into Korea’s past.
From Buyongdae Cliff, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the village and surrounding countryside, a truly memorable vantage point. We then savor a special farm-to-table meal, crafted from the region’s freshest ingredients, offering a taste of Andong’s authentic culinary traditions.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours
After breakfast, we make our way back to the capital. Upon arriving in Seoul, we explore the stylish Gangnam district, strolling along the famous Gangnam Street and visiting the impressive Coex Mall. This is the perfect opportunity to shop, soak up the modern city vibes, or simply enjoy the energy of one of Seoul’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
Your final evening in Seoul is free to spend as you wish, whether indulging in local cuisine, revisiting a favourite spot, or simply relaxing.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours
Today provides a deeply moving glimpse into Korea’s modern history with a visit to the iconic Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). We will have the rare and unforgettable opportunity to meet a North Korean defector and hear their personal story, offering a powerful and human perspective on the country’s past and present.
This evening, we gather one last time for a farewell dinner to celebrate the memories made throughout our journey.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours
Your South Korean adventure comes to an end today. Following breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey.
We hope you take home many wonderful memories of this beautiful country.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations.
Special Information
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.
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.
Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected during the booking process, or once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding
Pre/post accommodation
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.
Please note: All add-ons, including upgrades, pre/post accommodation, and optional tours, are subject to availability until confirmed by our operators. We recommend waiting for final confirmation of all itinerary components before making irreversible bookings like flights.
Upgrades
Not available
Airport Transfers
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with three options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $3,750.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.
Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
3- Shared Room with a fellow traveller
In this tour you can opt to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same gender – as specified in your passport - and avoid paying a single supplement.
If you believe you may prevent your travelling companion from enjoying a peaceful night’s rest, please refrain from selecting this option.
You will meet your rooming companion at the beginning of your tour.
Should you wish to change from a shared room to a solo room, this would be at the cost of the traveller who has requested to change the room type. Changes to room configuration during the tour must be organised by travellers directly with the hotel, subject to availability and additional charges.
This option is not available on additional accommodation booked before or after
Triple Share
Not available
Payment Information
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:
Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
Terms and conditions
Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation, which will be provided approximately 14–30 days before departure, for your confirmed hotel list.
If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at 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 hotel’s discretion.
Note: If you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.
As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. These must be booked at least 70 days prior to departure.
To make your own way to your hotel from the airport, it is recommended to use taxis booked from an official taxi booking desk at the airport, or alternatively you can use ride share apps such as Uber. Both Kansai (KIX) and Osaka Itami (ITM) airports also have reliable train and Limousine Bus services into central Osaka.
If you’re having any problems finding the hotel, please ring the hotel directly or you can phone our customer support team for on-tour assistance.
Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal
Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice.
Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.
When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider.
Welcome Meeting Instructions
You are welcome to arrive at any time on your first day and the day is at your leisure, as there are no scheduled activities. On checking in you will receive a letter with meeting instructions for the following morning. If you do not receive these details, please ask hotel reception.
Your welcome meeting takes place in the hotel lobby the following morning, before you depart Osaka for Takamatsu.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it is essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative so they can take immediate action to address the problem and minimise any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
If your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction, please request that the matter be escalated to their direct manager for further assistance.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this information on arrival during your welcome meeting.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14–30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.
If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am–12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments exploring the area, or speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost payable directly.
Departure Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.
As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
To make your way to the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber. If you’re having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.
Tour Suitability
Cherry Blossom Season
Cherry blossom season (typically late March to mid-April) is one of the most beautiful times to visit Japan and South Korea, with blooms across parks, temples and riversides. It is also the busiest travel period of the year, so expect larger crowds at popular sights, longer waits, heavier traffic and high demand for hotels and trains. Bloom timing varies year to year with the weather, so depending on your departure some locations may not be at full bloom.
Medication
Both Japan and South Korea apply strict customs rules to the importation of some relatively common medications, including opioids, psychotropics, tranquilisers and certain antihistamines, and to medical equipment such as syringes. If you have any doubts, please check the official guidance for each country before you travel.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:
https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while traveling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
Child Policy
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.
Pace
This tour category is Steady
Our Steady tours offer a good mix of guided sightseeing and personal free time. With a combination of 2-3 night stays and occasional 1 night stops in key locations, this pace allows for deeper exploration while minimising long travel days.
Activity and Mobility
This tour is a 3 out of 5 - Balanced
Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.
A mix of flat city walking, heritage sites with stairs and slopes, and some uneven ground, with most travel by private coach plus one bullet train leg in Japan and a ferry crossing to Beppu.
Typical walking: around 2 to 4 km on sightseeing days, at a relaxed pace with regular stops. Longer travel days involve less walking.
Terrain and key walks:
Mobility and accessibility:
Hotels, transport and climate:
As a general requirement across all of our tours, 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 tour.
Group Size
Minimum: 18 passengers, Maximum: 24 passengers
Escorted Style
This tour is fully escorted by dedicated tour leaders who accompany you throughout. You will be met by a new tour leader in each country, and any internal flight between Japan and South Korea will be unescorted. Your tour leaders coordinate with each other to ensure a smooth transition between the two legs.
Tour Type
Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodation after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.
This package combines two of our small group tours, one in Japan and one in South Korea, into a single journey. Certain components may operate separately across the two legs.
Exclusions
Getting Around
While touring Japan you will travel by dedicated private coach and by train, including the iconic Shinkansen bullet train. The journey from Shikoku to Kyushu includes a ferry crossing to Beppu. On the rail leg into Kyoto your main luggage is forwarded ahead so you can travel light on the train. In South Korea you will travel by dedicated private coach throughout.
Expect some long travel days on the coach, with comfort stops along the way where you can stretch your legs, use the bathroom and buy refreshments. Lunch stops are generally taken at highway service areas, which in both countries are known for good food.
Between the two legs you will travel from Japan to South Korea.
Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.
This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.
Accommodation Details
In both Japan and South Korea, the hotels commonly used for group touring are known as business hotels. The rooms are typically small, averaging 15 to 20 sqm, and are clean, well maintained and equipped with a private bathroom with a toilet, sink and shower. Some rooms have a shower over a small bath.
These hotels generally provide essentials such as soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors and towels, and most rooms have a television, air conditioner, hairdryer, refrigerator and a water boiler with green tea. Not all hotels offer every amenity, so we recommend travelling with anything you consider essential. Many hotels have vending machines and some have coin-operated laundry, but this is not guaranteed at every property.
Breakfast is generally buffet style with a mix of local and Western options. As you will be travelling in a foreign country, please approach dining with an open mind, as Western-style options may not always be available. If you have specific dietary requirements, please speak with your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader.
This tour includes a feature stay at an onsen hotel near Mount Fuji, in the Lake Kawaguchiko area, where dinner is included.
Twin rooms are usually slightly larger than double rooms in both countries, so if you would like a little more space we suggest requesting a twin room, subject to availability. We strongly recommend travelling with one piece of luggage per person due to room sizes, and you will be responsible for handling your own luggage at all times.
Packing Essentials
What you need to pack will vary with the season you travel in. Pack as lightly as possible, ensuring you can carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances and up and down stairs.
A lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal. Keep your main luggage to around 15 kg and no more than 20 kg. You will also need a day pack for water, a camera, a jacket and your essentials while touring. Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are essential.
In both Japan and South Korea you will manage your own luggage for the most part. Train stations are complex and often involve stair climbing, and lifts are not always available, so please ensure you can lift and carry your bag without difficulty.
Pack layers for the cooler alpine sections of Japan around Takayama, Shirakawa-go and Mount Fuji, and for cool mornings and evenings in both countries outside summer.
Climate
Currency and ATMs
Japan uses the Yen (JPY) and South Korea uses the Won (KRW). In both countries most chains, hotels and department stores accept cards, though cash is still widely used.
In Japan, convenience stores are the easiest place to withdraw cash, as almost every store has an ATM that accepts foreign cards. There are over 20,000 7-Eleven stores nationwide, alongside Lawson and Family Mart.
In South Korea, ATMs that accept foreign cards are found in convenience stores, subway stations and banks. Look for machines displaying the Global ATM logo or the Plus or Cirrus symbols.
It is worth carrying some cash for smaller payments in both countries.
Food and Allergies
While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you’ll enjoy iconic sightseeing as well as the vast array of culinary offerings in Japan and South Korea. Breakfast is included daily and four dinners are included across the tour. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included, which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local guide will also be able to suggest restaurants to try during your tour. For those with a particular food allergy, your tour leader will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.
This itinerary travels through some of the great food regions of both countries, from Osaka’s street food and Takamatsu’s udon to Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, Nagasaki champon and the markets of Tokyo, and Korean staples such as kimchi, barbecue and fresh seafood in Busan and Seoul.
The Japanese daily diet contains gluten (for example in soy sauce) and seafood (dashi, or fish stock, is the basis of most dishes, even vegetable ones). The Korean diet features seafood, meat, fermented foods such as kimchi, and seasonings that often contain soy or wheat. We highly recommend that vegetarians, vegans and coeliacs research the options available to them before departure. Some included meals are set in advance and cannot be altered for different diets.
Local Customs
It is always a good idea to learn something about local customs before you travel, and your leader will be on hand to guide you through cultural differences during your tour.
In Japan, this itinerary visits several onsen (hot spring) towns, including Beppu and Dogo, as well as an onsen hotel stay. Decorative tattoos are uncommon in Japanese culture and some bathing facilities restrict entry for those with visible tattoos, so please check the rules and wear modest clothing.
In South Korea, respect for elders and social hierarchy is important, and it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone. Avoid placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this resembles a funeral ritual.
Dress Code
While Japan and South Korea are known for eclectic fashion in some cities, overall both are quite conservative countries. On this tour you will visit temples, shrines, working monasteries, castles, gardens and recreated villages. When visiting places of religious significance in particular, please be respectful to staff and other visitors by wearing modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Responsible Dining
We are big supporters of the protection of endangered species around the world. Although a global ban on commercial whaling came into effect in 1986, approximately 1,000 whales are still killed every year. We do not visit places that serve whale meat on any of our tours, nor will your leader guide you to where it is offered.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally not expected. Attempting to tip can sometimes cause confusion, so it is fine not to.
In South Korea, gratuities are not included in your tour price and tipping is at your discretion. As a guide, around US$8 to US$10 per person, per day (or the equivalent in local currency) is a welcome gesture of appreciation.
Peak Travel Times
Japan: peak periods are cherry blossom season and spring (April to May, including the Golden Week national holidays from late April to early May) and the autumn colours (September to October). Expect large crowds at major sights and on public transport, and high demand for trains.
South Korea: peak periods are cherry blossom season (late March to early April), the summer holidays (July to August), Chuseok, the autumn harvest festival (late September or early October, when many locals travel and some businesses close), and the autumn foliage season (October to November).
Travelling during these times is rewarding but busier, so plan ahead, expect larger crowds and allow some flexibility in your schedule.
Safety and Security
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip.
Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own if you wish. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.
Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Apps to Download
Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, where the lens function is especially useful for reading product labels, signs and menus, and Google Maps with offline maps downloaded for easy navigation without relying on wifi. For taxis, GO Taxi is the most widely used app in Japan and Kakao T is the standard in South Korea. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour.
Itinerary Changes
Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience.
This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.
Health, Wellness & Fitness Requirements
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully to assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. If we find that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.
Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.
Open communication helps us ensure your trip is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible.
Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping trips, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs.
Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your trip.
Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list.
Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here are some helpful links to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.
We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming trip!
Travelling in a Group
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please ensure that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.
Community Guidelines
Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.
Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.
If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.
Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs Guide
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire trip, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
Coach Transportation
The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.
While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries, we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.
For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.
Staying Connected
If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM may be possible as a final option.
We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential trip information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.
Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.
This is a Land Only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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