General
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DAY 1:- Depart for Seoul
Depart from London Heathrow Airport on your overnight flight to Seoul in South Korea.
Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey.
DAY 2:- Arrive Seoul
Welcome to South Korea. Upon arrival in Incheon Airport Seoul, clear immigration formalities, collect your luggage and follow sign for Exit.
Watch out for our English speaking guide who will be holding a placard ‘Welcome Cobra Holidays’ on it. He will greet you and transfer you to our hotel.
The rest of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the new time zone.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Seoul
DAY 03:– Seoul – City tour
After breakfast, we set off on an exciting city tour of Seoul to discover the must-see sights and hidden gems of the capital.
Starting at Changdeokgung Palace, built by the kings of Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, explore the pavilions and rooms of this imperial residence before touring its Secret Garden, where the pond, greenery and pavilions combine to create a tranquil setting.
Witness the changing of the palace guards then continue onward to Insadong Antique Street and browse through the wares on display in elegant, wooden shopfronts.
Travel to the Kimchi Museum and learn more about how this local fermented cabbage dish grew to its current popularity then stop in at the Buddhist Temple of Jogyesa which is considered the “head temple” of Buddhist temples in Korea. From here, we walk the streets of Insa-Dong, often considered the “Mary’s Alley of Seoul” or antique streets. The traditional buildings and wide array of traditional souvenirs are absolutely mesmerising.
Next, we drive pass the Presidential Blue House, home to the current President of Korea. Please note that no photography is allowed. Next, we visit the Presidential’s Museum, set up in 2010 to coincide with APEC meeting held in Seoul the same year. The museum encompasses the past, present and the future of Seoul as well as the entire Korea.
Continue onward to the Bukchon Hanok Village, teeming with charming, traditional ‘Hanoks’ or wooden houses before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Seoul
DAY 04:– Seoul – Demilitarized Zone
Following breakfast, embark on a tour of South Korea’s Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the no man’s land that forms the highly secure frontier between North and South Korea. Visit Dorasan train station, which connects north and south, and the Dorasan Observatory which overlooks the DMZ. Explore the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, a secret passageway built by North Koreans trying to tunnel into the south, and view the heavily guarded Bridge of Freedom which links the two nations.
After lunch, return to Seoul and browse through the stalls of Gwangjang Food Market. Travel to the
- Seoul Tower a 236-metre high radio and observation tower. As the second highest point in Seoul, which rises above the city skyline and offers incredible panoramic views over the city.
Later return to your hotel for dinner.
Optional Tour: Excursion to see a performance of Nanta. Experience the drama and comedy of South Korea’s longest running theatrical performance and marvel at the energetic culinary skills of the must-see Nanta show in the Myeongdong Theatre in Seoul
Cost: £XX per person
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Seoul
DAY 05:– Seoul – Andong – Gyeongju
This morning after breakfast, it’s time to explore the country, and the first stop is the historic village of Andong. Situated on the glistening Nakdong River, your visit to Andong Hahoe Village will leave you feeling like you’ve travelled back in time; with its open-air heritage museums and UNESCO protected traditional buildings, not to mention the stunning natural surroundings.
Next, head to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Shilla Dynasty a coastal city bursting with authentic sights, historic architecture and known as the ‘museum without walls’.
Divided into 3 main halls & an outdoor garden exhibit area, the museum showcases mainly ancient Korean Archaeology found in the area. The artifacts range from prehistoric times to the Three Kingdom Period, as well as items buried with the Royalties in the Tombs of Cheongmacheon area.
Visit Anapji Pond where you can truly experience the splendor of Korean style. The pond is surrounded by a number of historic temples and lit-up with pretty lights in the evening. Tranquil, beautiful and the perfect place for a magical moonlit stroll.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Gyeongju
DAY 06:– Gyeongju – Busan
Today after breakfast, we start the day by exploring UNESCO preserved site of Bulguksa Temple, on the slopes of Mount Toham, a treasure of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. This impressive structure tells the tales of days gone by where you can wander around the stone pagodas and discover the brilliant bronze Buddha statues.
Continue to Seokguram Grotto, to feel the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient hermitage.
Explore the fascinating Daereungwon Tomb , a traditional underground tomb of a mysterious unknown king before transferring to Busan, South Korea’s huge port city.
Stop to take in the impressive view of Ibagu Gill and Gamcheon Culture Village.
Transfer to the hotel for check –in.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Busan
DAY 07:– Busan – City tour
After breakfast proceed to visit the incredible city of Busan to include visiting the amazing coastal temple of Haedong Yonggungsa, where breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and dream-like architecture combine.
Next, visit the so-called ‘Machu Picchu of Busan’ the Gamcheon Culture Village shows you a more colourful side to the city.
Complete your tour by getting stuck into the local way of life at Gukje and Jagalchi Markets.
Then head down to the sandy beach or join the locals at the night market where you can try some of the weird and wonderful Korean delicacies.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Busan
DAY 08:– Busan – Tokyo
This morning after breakfast, proceed to Buson Airport to board your flight to Tokyo in Japan.
Welcome to Japan. Upon arrival in Tokyo, Japan’s the bustling capital of “The Land of the Rising Sun”, clear immigration, collect your luggage and follow sign for Exit. Watch out for our English speaking guide who will be holding a placard ‘Welcome Cobra Holidays’ on it. He will greet you and transfer you to our hotel.
The rest of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to the new time zone.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Tokyo
DAY 09:– Tokyo – City Tour
Today after breakfast, we proceed for sightseeing of Tokyo visiting a number of the main highlights of this magnificent City. The tour includes a visit to the Tokyo Tower where you can enjoy panoramic views across the city from the observation tower. We proceed to the peaceful picturesque setting of the Meiji Shrine, set in thick woodland and considered to be one of the finest examples of Shinto Architecture.
Next we drive by the ‘Akasaka Guest House’ for a photo opportunity. The Guest House is a magnificent ‘Western Style Palace’ built in the Baroque Architectural style. We then drive alongside the imposing National Diet Building, which is home to the Japanese House of Parliament.
Our tour continues across Tokyo to the Imperial Palace East Gardens. Enjoy a pleasant walk in the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, which is filled with scenic and historic beauty. (Alternatively for tours on Monday & Friday & when the garden is closed, we will visit the Imperial Palace plaza and famous Double Bridge instead). Our tour will continue with a drive and stroll along Ginza high street, the famous shopping area of Tokyo. The tour disbands in Ginza, giving you a great opportunity for shopping.
Later we board our Sumida River Cruise boat and visit the Asakusa Kannon Temple & Nakamise shopping street.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Tokyo
DAY 10:–Tokyo / Kamakura / Tokyo.
After breakfast, proceed for full day tour to Kamakura.
En-route we visit the busiest Zebra crossing in Shibuya (Tokyo).
The phenomenon gave rise to its nickname “scramble,” as pedestrians cross from all directions. Shibuya Crossing walks the line between manic chaos and perfect synchronization. It is located in front of the Shibuya Station Hachikō exit and stops vehicles in all directions to allow pedestrians to inundate the entire intersection. The statue of Hachikō, a dog, between the station and the intersection, is a common meeting place and almost always crowded.
Get a taste for the beautiful landscapes and serene religious monuments outside Tokyo as you visit the city of Kamakura and Enoshima on this guided day trip. Visit Kotoku-in Temple featuring the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kamakura Daibutsu) is a bronze statue of Amida Buddha, which stands on the grounds of Kotokuin Temple. With a height of 11.4 meters, it has long been the second tallest bronze Buddha in Japan
Enjoy green tea ceremony at Jomyo-ji Temple overlooking a rock garden.
You’ll learn about Japan’s long history before returning to Tokyo.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Tokyo
DAY 11:– Tokyo – Mt. Fuji – Hakone
We board our deluxe coach and drive to the 5th station on Mount Fuji. Along the way you will enjoy the scenery of rural Japan, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and mountainous peaks. From our vantage point on the 5th station on MT Fuji, we will enjoy spectacular views (weather permitting).
Afternoon – we proceed to Hakone for a cruise on Lake Ashi, which is set in serene natural beauty. Weather permitting, spectacular views of Mount Fuji can be seen silhouetted in the lake. Following the cruise we take the Komagatake cable car which provides the opportunity to see the magnificent volcanic Hakone mountain range below.
We will then travel to the Owakudani Boiling Valley where you will see ancient volcanic craters with sulfurous fumes and clouds of steam spiraling from crevasses across the mountain side giving a truly mystical image. Later we visit the recently restored Hakone Sekisho, which was an important check point established by the Tokugawa shogun.
Check in hotel and experience hot springs indoor baths for ultimate relaxation. Please bring suitable swim wear.
In the evening dinner at an Indian Restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Hakone
Note:
- To make your train journey more comfortable we have arranged to transfer your large luggage (1 piece per person) from Tokyo directly to Osaka.
- Please pack an overnight bag hand carrier for 2 nights to take with you on the Bullet Train to Hakone & Hiroshima, whilst your main luggage is transferred to Osaka
DAY 12:– Hakone – Ordawara – Nagoya – Toyota cars museum
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to Odawara Station to board the Bullet Train Shinkansen for Hiroshima via Nagoya.
On arrival at Nagoya station, we proceed to the city of Toyota, less than one hour east of central Nagoya to visit Toyota cars Kaikan Museum, where Toyota displays its new models and technologies to the public and periodically holds robot shows.
Later check-in to your hotel.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Nagoya
DAY 13:– Nagoya – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Hiroshima
After breakfast we transfer to Hakone Station to depart for Hiroshima via Ngoya by JR Limited Express Train and JR Bullet Train.
Upon arrival we proceed to visit the Peace Memorial Park to see the Flame of Peace, continually burning to symbolise the hope for worldwide peace, and surrounding area, including the A-bomb Dome and Museum.
In the afternoon we transfer to Miyajimaguchi, where we board a ferry to Miyajima Island otherwise known as Itsukushima or Divine Island. Visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known worldwide for its floating Red Torii Gate rising majestically out of the sea. The stunning Shinto shrine and Torii gate are unique as they are constructed over the sea with each building in the complex connected by a series of walkways.
In the evening dinner at an Indian Restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Hiroshima
DAY 14:– Hiroshima – Shinkansen Bullet train – Osaka – Nara – Osaka
Today after breakfast, we meet our English speaking guide, board our coach and transfer to Hiroshima station to board the Bullet train Shinkansen to Shin Osaka. Upon arrival at Shin Osaka station we board our coach and proceed for Nara.
On arrival In Nara we proceed for sightseeing tour which includes visiting home of the impressive Todaiji temple Daibutsu (Great Buddha) bronze statue in the world’s largest wooden building, rising over 50 feet high.
Next we visit the famous and beautiful Kasuga Taisha Shinto Shrine which features hanging 3,000 bronze and stone lanterns.
Continue to Nara Park to see the over 1,000 tame deer roaming freely in the peaceful park. Encounter wild deer up close while walking through Nara Park, a rarity in Japan and worldwide.
Enjoy shopping for lunch and shopping. Finally enjoy shopping at Nara Nagomikan the largest souvenir shop in Nara.
Later check in to your hotel in Osaka for overnight.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Osaka
DAY 15:– Osaka – Kyoto – Osaka
Today after breakfast, we proceed for full day sightseeing tour of Kyoto city.
We visit the Bamboo Forest, or Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or Sagano Bamboo Forest, a natural forest of bamboo in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan.
We visit to the celebrated gold-gilded Kinkakuji Temple, known as the “Golden Pavilion’ surrounded by trees and nestled on a reflective pond.
Then visit to Nijo Castle, former residence of the Tokugawa Shogun built in 1603. Nijo Castle is noted for its Ornate interior and ‘nightingale floor’ designed to sing when stepped upon to warn of Ninja assassins. End the day with a walk in Gion, Kyoto’s most famous Geisha district; visit the shops, restaurants and tea houses where Geisha entertain.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Osaka
DAY 16:– Osaka – City Tour
After breakfast, we board our coach and proceed for sightseeing tour of Osaka city, begins with a visit to the dramatic Osaka Castle (from outside) built as a display of power in the 16th century, strategically looming over the surrounding park and moat.
We visit the Umeda sky building (twin tower), to enjoy panoramic views of Osaka at the Floating Garden Observatory at the top of the Umeda Sky Building, which is also popular among international travellers for its unique architecture.
Then we board the Osaka Aqua Liner (60 minutes cruise), and enjoy seeing the seasonal scenery with a cruise along the Ogawa River aboard the Aqua Liner water bus. See a view of the famous places and historic spots of Osaka from the river.
Continue to the Kuromon Market, an Osaka landmark, with vendors selling fresh food and fast-food Japanese-style. Stop for lunch, or just try the tasty snacks.
Then, free time to wander along the Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori shopping streets with an array of fabulous selection of fashionable boutiques.
In the evening transfer for dinner at an Indian restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Overnight: Osaka
DAY 17:– Osaka – London
After breakfast free time at leisure, later we say Sa-yo-na-ra and depart for Osaka Kansai International Airport to board your flight for London.
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 18:– Arrival London
Upon arrival at London Heathrow Airport terminal , follow signs for arrival/baggage claim, clear immigration, collect baggage and follow sign for EXIT.
Note:
- Return flight – If your flight departs in the morning, you will arrive in U.K. on the same day.
- Return flight – If your flight departs in the afternoon / evening, you will arrive in U.K. on the next day.
** Your tour ends, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful holiday. **
