Itinerary

A 20-day adventure in Seoul and Japan sounds like a dream come true! Let’s break it down into a fun and exciting itinerary that balances culture, food, shopping, and relaxation. I’ll assume you want to spend about 10 days in Seoul and 10 days in Japan, but feel free to adjust as you see fit!

## Days 1-10: Seoul, South Korea

## Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

• Arrive at Incheon International Airport.
• Check into your hotel in Myeongdong.
• Stroll around Myeongdong for street food (try tteokbokki and hotteok).
• Visit N Seoul Tower for a panoramic view of the city at sunset.

## Day 2: Historical Seoul

• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and catch the changing of the guard ceremony.
• Explore Bukchon Hanok Village for traditional Korean houses.
• Lunch at a local restaurant (try bibimbap).
• Visit Insadong for traditional crafts and tea houses.

## Day 3: Modern Seoul

• Head to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) for some modern architecture.
• Shop at Dongdaemun Market.
• Visit the Cheonggyecheon Stream for a relaxing walk.
• Dinner in Hongdae, known for its vibrant nightlife.

## Day 4: Cultural Immersion

• Take a cooking class to learn how to make kimchi and other dishes.
• Visit the National Museum of Korea.
• Explore the trendy area of Gangnam and visit the COEX Mall.
• Enjoy a K-Pop concert or a live performance in the evening.

## Day 5: Day Trip to DMZ

• Take a guided tour to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to learn about the Korean War.
• Return to Seoul and relax at a jjimjilbang (Korean spa).

## Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

• Hike up Bukhansan National Park for stunning views.
• Visit the Seoul Forest for a leisurely afternoon.
• Dinner in the trendy area of Itaewon.

## Day 7: Shopping and Entertainment

• Spend the day shopping in Gangnam and Apgujeong.
• Visit the Starfield Library in COEX.
• Catch a show at the Nanta Theatre or a K-Pop concert.

## Day 8: Art and Culture

• Visit the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art.
• Explore the streets of Itaewon for international cuisine.
• Visit the War Memorial of Korea.

## Day 9: Local Experiences

• Join a Hanbok experience and take photos in traditional attire.
• Visit the Seoul Arts Center for exhibitions or performances.
• Enjoy a traditional Korean BBQ dinner.

## Day 10: Last Day in Seoul

• Visit Lotte World Tower for shopping and views.
• Explore the local markets for souvenirs.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

## Days 11-20: Japan

## Day 11: Arrival in Tokyo

• Fly from Seoul to Tokyo.
• Check into your hotel in Shinjuku.
• Explore the vibrant streets of Shinjuku and have dinner at an izakaya.

## Day 12: Tokyo Highlights

• Visit the Meiji Shrine in the morning.
• Explore Harajuku for quirky shops and street food.
• Head to Shibuya to see the famous crossing and Hachiko statue.
• Dinner in Shibuya.

## Day 13: Cultural Day

• Visit Asakusa and the Senso-ji Temple.
• Explore Nakamise Street for snacks and souvenirs.
• Take a river cruise on the Sumida River.
• Dinner in Akihabara, the otaku culture hub.

## Day 14: Day Trip to Nikko

• Take a day trip to Nikko to see the beautiful shrines and nature.
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Return to Tokyo in the evening.

## Day 15: Kyoto Bound

• Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto.
• Check into your hotel and explore Gion, the geisha district.
• Dinner at a traditional kaiseki restaurant.

## Day 16: Kyoto Temples

• Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in the morning.
• Explore Ryoan-ji and its famous rock garden.
• Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Iwatayama Monkey Park.
• Dinner in Pontocho Alley.

## Day 17: Nara Day Trip

• Take a day trip to Nara to visit Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park.
• Feed the friendly deer in the park.
• Return to Kyoto for the night.

## Day 18: Osaka Adventure

• Head to Osaka and visit Osaka Castle.
• Explore Dotonbori for street food (try takoyaki and okonomiyaki).
• Visit Universal Studios Japan if you’re a theme park fan.

## Day 19: Hiroshima and Miyajima

• Take a day trip to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park.
• Ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate.
• Return to Osaka for the night.

## Day 20: Departure

• Last-minute shopping in Osaka or Kyoto.
• Fly back home from Kansai International Airport or return to Tokyo for your flight.

Tips:

• Make sure to get a T-money card in Seoul and a Suica or Pasmo card in Japan for easy transportation.
• Try to learn a few basic phrases in Korean and Japanese; locals appreciate the effort!
• Don’t forget to indulge in local delicacies and street food!

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your trip! Let me know if you want to tweak anything or need more details on specific places! Safe travels! 🌏✈️