12 day itinerary for Japan, Korea

Itinerary

A 12-day adventure through Japan and Korea sounds fantastic! Let’s create an itinerary that balances stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and budget-friendly options. We’ll start in Japan and then hop over to Korea. Ready? Let’s go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo, Japan

• Morning: Arrive in Tokyo. Check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse in areas like Asakusa or Shinjuku.
• Afternoon: Explore Asakusa and visit Senso-ji Temple. Stroll through Nakamise Street for some affordable snacks and souvenirs.
• Evening: Head to Ueno Park for a leisurely walk. If you’re up for it, grab dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) for some delicious and budget-friendly eats.

## Day 2: Tokyo - Nature and City Views

• Morning: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning Toshogu Shrine and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.
• Afternoon: Explore the surrounding national park, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and enjoy a casual dinner in the Harajuku area. Try some crepes or street food!

## Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone

• Morning: Travel to Hakone (about 1.5 hours). Check into a ryokan (traditional inn) for a night, which can be budget-friendly if you book in advance.
• Afternoon: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and take a stroll around the beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Relax in an onsen (hot spring) at your ryokan. Enjoy a simple dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 4: Hakone to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the scenic Hakone Ropeway for views of Mount Fuji, then head to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into a budget guesthouse. Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
• Evening: Explore the Gion district, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha. Grab dinner at a local ramen shop.

## Day 5: Kyoto - Temples and Nature

• Morning: Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take a walk along the river. Don’t miss the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge!
• Afternoon: Explore Tenryu-ji Temple and its beautiful gardens. You can also hike up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park for some fun views and monkey sightings.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal at a budget-friendly restaurant.

## Day 6: Kyoto to Nara and Osaka

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Nara Park and see the friendly deer, then explore Todai-ji Temple.
• Afternoon: Head to Osaka (about 45 minutes). Check into a budget hotel or hostel.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for street food! Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki for a delicious and affordable dinner.

## Day 7: Osaka to Busan, Korea

• Morning: Fly from Osaka to Busan (about 1.5 hours). Check into a budget-friendly guesthouse.
• Afternoon: Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and artistic vibe.
• Evening: Stroll along Haeundae Beach and enjoy a seaside dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

## Day 8: Busan - Scenic Views

• Morning: Take a trip to Taejongdae Resort Park for stunning coastal views and hiking trails.
• Afternoon: Visit the picturesque Oryukdo Skywalk for breathtaking views of the ocean.
• Evening: Head back to the city and enjoy a casual dinner at Jagalchi Fish Market.

## Day 9: Busan to Gyeongju

• Morning: Travel to Gyeongju (about 1 hour). Check into a budget guesthouse.
• Afternoon: Explore Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at a local restaurant.

## Day 10: Gyeongju to Seoul

• Morning: Visit the ancient tombs at Daereungwon and the beautiful Anapji Pond.
• Afternoon: Head to Seoul (about 4 hours). Check into a budget-friendly hostel in areas like Hongdae or Myeongdong.
• Evening: Explore Myeongdong for shopping and street food. Try some tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes)!

## Day 11: Seoul - Culture and Nature

• Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and catch the changing of the guard ceremony. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful gardens!
• Afternoon: Hike up to Namsan Tower for panoramic views of the city. You can walk through Namsan Park to get there.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Korean BBQ dinner in the Hongdae area.

## Day 12: Departure from Seoul

• Morning: Last-minute shopping in Insadong for souvenirs and traditional crafts.
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit Bukchon Hanok Village for a glimpse of traditional Korean houses.
• Evening: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Budget Travel:

• Use public transportation (trains and buses) for cost-effective travel.
• Look for local eateries and street food for affordable meals.
• Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for travel within Japan and a T-money card for Korea.

And there you have it! A delightful 12-day itinerary filled with scenic views, cultural experiences, and budget-friendly options. Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️