Day 1: Depart Tokyo

● Get ready to pack your bags on your exciting trip to Japan.
- Cities: Tokyo

From $899 per adult (land only, flights not included)
From $1,486 per adult (including flights)

● Get ready to pack your bags on your exciting trip to Japan.

● Welcome to Tokyo, the vibrant capital of Japan, where cutting-edge technology and ancient traditions merge seamlessly.
● Upon arrival, arrange your own transfer to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the city’s vibrant culture and historic landmarks as you begin your Japanese adventure.
Did you know? Tokyo was originally called Edo and became the imperial capital of Japan in 1868 when Emperor Meiji moved the seat of government from Kyoto and renamed it Tokyo, meaning "Eastern Capital."

● Spend the day at leisure exploring Tokyo on your own.
● Or book a 1-day pass and head to either Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea for a magical day of rides, entertainment, and themed attractions.
Did you know? Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney park built outside the United States, opening in 1983.

● Spend the day at your own pace, uncovering the hidden gems and world-class shopping that make Tokyo a global icon.
● For a deeper dive, opt-in for our Tokyo Highlights in a Day excursion, a guided exploration of the city's most significant landmarks and panoramic vistas.
Did you know? There are more Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo than in any other city in the world. From high-end sushi to humble ramen shops, the city is a true pilgrimage site for food lovers.

● Spend the day crafting your own Tokyo adventure—whether that’s hunting for the best ramen in town or exploring the city’s many world-class museums.
● Alternatively, escape the city for a day with a Mt. Fuji & Hakone optional excursion. Experience breathtaking views from Mt. Fuji's 5th Station, glide over volcanic valleys on the Hakone Ropeway, and enjoy a serene cruise across the waters of Lake Ashi.
Did you know? Mt. Fuji is not just a mountain, but an active volcano made of three separate volcanoes layered on top of each other! It is also considered a "Holy Mountain" and has been a site of spiritual pilgrimage for centuries.

● Make your own way to the station to board the world-famous Shinkansen bullet train.
● Upon arriving in Kyoto, head to your hotel for check-in on your own. Take the remainder of the day to unwind or begin your exploration of this city of a thousand temples.
Did you know? Kyoto served as the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years (from 794 to 1868). Because of its immense cultural importance, it was one of the few major cities spared from bombing during WWII, allowing its thousands of original temples and shrines to remain perfectly preserved.

● Today is yours to shape. Whether you're hunting for traditional crafts or exploring the vibrant Nishiki Market, Kyoto offers endless inspiration.
● Join the optional Kyoto Heritage tour to see the Golden Pavilion and walk the sacred trails of Fushimi Inari, the shrine dedicated to the god of rice and prosperity.
Did you know? Many of the wooden structures in Kyoto, including the famous Kiyomizu-dera stage, were built without using a single nail. Instead, they rely on complex joinery techniques that have allowed them to withstand earthquakes for centuries.

● Today is free for you to enjoy Kyoto as you wish. Whether you're hunting for traditional crafts or simply relaxing in a neighborhood cafe, the day is yours.
● For a curated experience, join the Kyoto Experience: Gion District tour to explore historic townhouses, and/or participate in The Art of Matcha to learn the secrets of Japan’s most famous tea ritual.
Did you know? In the Gion district, you might see Geiko (Kyoto's term for Geisha) wearing wooden sandals called Okobo. These sandals are nearly 10cm (4 inches) tall and are designed to keep their expensive silk kimonos from touching the ground!

● Make your own way to the station to board the world-famous Shinkansen bullet train.
● After checking into your hotel on your own, take the rest of the day to relax. When you’re ready, head toward the Dotonbori district to experience the sensory-overload of giant mechanical signs and endless food stalls.
Did you know? Osaka has a local motto: "Kuidaore", which literally means "to eat yourself into bankruptcy." It reflects the city's obsession with great food—from Michelin-starred sushi to humble takoyaki (octopus balls).

● Enjoy a free day to uncover Osaka’s hidden gems, from the historic ramparts of Osaka Castle to the futuristic heights of the Umeda Sky Building.
● Looking for a mix of history and nature? Choose an optional Nara & Uji Day Trip. Visit the majestic Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, feed the friendly bowing deer of Nara Park, and savor the world’s finest matcha in the historic tea-growing town of Uji.
Did you know? The town of Uji is so famous for its tea that it produced the first-ever batch of matcha used in the formal Japanese tea ceremony. Even today, the region’s climate and misty river fog are considered the "secret ingredients" for growing Japan’s highest-quality tea leaves.

● Spend the day at leisure exploring Osaka on your own.
● Or book a 1-day pass and head to Universal Studios Japan with entry to Super Nintendo World for an action-packed day of rides and immersive attractions.
Did you know? Super Nintendo World lets visitors step inside the world of Mario, complete with interactive games, themed rides, and real-life versions of iconic elements like question blocks.

● Today, you will make your way to the airport on your own for your flight to Seoul, South Korea.
● Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel by yourself and spend the rest of the day getting settled and exploring the surrounding area on your own.
TTG Tip: Don't miss the street food in areas like Myeongdong, Hongdae, and the Gwangjang Market. Try tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (syrup-filled pancakes), and gimbap (Korean sushi rolls).

● Enjoy your free day exploring Seoul, or you can opt for our Seoul sightseeing tour to discover the beauty of this city!
Did you know? Underneath the ultra-modern metropolis of Seoul lies the world’s largest underground shopping mall, the Starfield COEX Mall. Right in the center of it is the breathtaking Byeolmadang (Starfield) Library, which houses over 50,000 books displayed on towering, 13-meter-tall (43 feet) open bookshelves that stretch all the way to the glass ceiling!

● Spend the day on your own exploring Seoul, discovering its dynamic neighborhoods, historic palaces, and vibrant food scene at your own pace.
● Or join an optional DMZ Full-Day Tour from Seoul to gain insight into Korea’s history while visiting one of the world’s most heavily guarded borders.
Did you know? The DMZ is one of the most well-preserved unintended nature reserves in the world, as human activity has been restricted there for over 70 years.

● Today marks the conclusion of your South Korea journey! Please make your own way to the airport for your return flight home.
● You can also opt for our private airport drop off service for a smooth transfer.
Currency
South Korea: South Korean Won (KRW)
Japan: Japanese Yen (JPY)
Electricity
Japan uses 100V at 50/60Hz with plug types A and B, and South Korea uses 220V at 60Hz with plug types C and F. Travelers should bring the appropriate plug adapters, and those coming from regions with 110–120V systems (like North America) should be aware of Japan’s lower 100V standard.
EtiquetteIn Korea, greetings typically involve a slight bow, especially when meeting someone older or in a position of authority. Addressing people using their titles and last names, or with honorifics like "nim" (similar to "Mr." or "Mrs." in respect) is polite. When dining, wait for the eldest or most senior person to start eating before beginning your meal, and use chopsticks correctly. In Japan, respecting cultural customs like bowing, shoe removal, and dining etiquette is crucial, as politeness and courtesy are highly valued.
AccessibilitySome tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For more information, please contact our customer support team.
* This fast-paced itinerary is designed to showcase the very best of South Korea and Japan, featuring a rich variety of sights and experiences. Be prepared for early mornings and full days of discovery.
Language
South Korea: Korean is the official language. English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural regions.
Japan: Japanese is the official language.
HealthConsult a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations and health precautions.
Travel Restrictions: Goods & ItemsLearn more about customs rules and travel regulations when traveling to South Korea and Japan. Travelers can find updated information on entry restrictions, prohibited items, and duty-free allowances by visiting the official South Korea Customs website and the official Japan Customs website.
South Korea Weather
Spring: 10–20°C (50–68°F).
Summer: 20–30°C (68–86°F).
Fall: 10–20°C (50–68°F).
Winter: -5–5°C (23–41°F).
Japan Weather
Spring: 10–20°C (50–68°F).
Summer: 25–35°C (77–95°F).
Fall: 15–25°C (59–77°F).
Winter: 0–10°C (32–50°F).
South Korea Visa Requirements (Updated 2025):
Canada passport holders can enter South Korea visa-free for stays of up to 6 months.
United States, Australia, and Schengen Area passport holders can enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days.
Mexico passport holders can visit for up to 90 days but must obtain a K-ETA prior to travel.
Passport Requirements:
● Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.
● Must have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
K-ETA Information:
● Canada, United States, Australia, and Schengen Area nationals are temporarily exempt from K-ETA until December 31, 2025.
● Mexican nationals must apply for K-ETA before travel; validity is generally 3 years with multiple entries allowed.
● From January 1, 2026, K-ETA will become mandatory for currently exempt countries.
● K-ETA can be applied for online and costs around 10,000 KRW (≈ USD 7–10).
Important Notes:
● Even if exempt, travelers without K-ETA must complete a paper arrival card or e-Arrival Card.
● Immigration officers may request proof of onward or return travel.
● K-ETA processing usually takes 1–3 days, but it’s best to apply at least a week before travel.
● Other Passport Holders: Travelers from other countries should check with the South Korea consulate website for specific visa requirements.
Japan Visa Requirements:
U.S., Canada, Australia, Mexico, and Schengen Area passport holders do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism purposes.
A valid passport for the duration of your stay is required, and it must have at least one blank page for entry and exit stamps.
We recommend checking the official Japanese embassy or consulate website for any additional requirements or updates before traveling.
Important Notes:
● Passport holders from other countries should check the official website for specific visa requirements.
All travel service bookings require a $800 per person deposit, except in specific cases. Additional deposit amounts are based on requirements by the vendor and the specific itinerary and may vary for each itinerary. This deposit is fully refundable before the balance due date for Voyager, Adventurer, and Elite members at the time of booking, whereas Pathfinder and Insider members will incur a cancelation fee equal to the initial deposit amount.
All balances are due 219 days before the start of your trip.
If your invoice shows an outstanding balance after the Balance Due date, please contact us through our online chat support to discuss the next steps regarding your travel services. The deposit will be non-refundable if a cancelation request is submitted after the final payment due date.
Instant Purchase Airfare: Full airfare payment is due at the time of booking.
Value Airfare: A deposit of US$500 per person is required for airfare bookings. Voyager, Adventurer, and Elite members at the time of booking qualify for a full refund of this deposit if canceled before the balance due date, Pathfinder and Insider members will incur a cancelation fee equal to the deposit amount. The deposit amount for other aspects of the itinerary may vary depending on the supplier’s terms and conditions. Final payment is due by the specified balance due date.
To check the latest visa and travel requirements, please click here.
Value airfare:
TripToGo's vendors collaborate with selected airline partners to provide a flight itinerary that aligns with your trip's arrival and return dates, with flight times determined by the vendors. When booking with value airfare (mixed cabins), the higher class will be guaranteed for long-haul segments lasting more than 7 hours. For value airfare, tickets will be issued after the final payment is made. You will receive your ticket confirmation 30 to 45 days prior to the departure date of your trip.
Airfare with instant purchase:
TripToGo offers a selection of airlines and airfares for your convenience. For instant purchase airfare, full airfare payment is due at the time of booking. Your ticket confirmation will be sent within 24 to 72 business hours after it has been issued.