Itinerary

A 25-day adventure through South Korea and Japan sounds like a dream! Let’s create a relaxed itinerary that allows you to soak in the culture, nature, and vibrant city life without the rush. Here’s a day-by-day plan for your journey:

## Days 1-7: South Korea

## Day 1: Arrival in Seoul

• Arrive in Seoul and check into your hotel.
• Take a leisurely stroll around the vibrant Myeongdong shopping district.
• Enjoy some street food for dinner—try tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes).

## Day 2: Explore Seoul

• Morning: Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and catch the changing of the guard ceremony.
• Afternoon: Walk through Bukchon Hanok Village, admiring traditional Korean houses.
• Evening: Head to Insadong for tea and traditional snacks.

## Day 3: Nature Day

• Take a day trip to Bukhansan National Park for a gentle hike. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views.
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic spots.
• Return to Seoul and relax at a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) in the evening.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nami Island

• Take a train to Gapyeong and visit Nami Island, famous for its tree-lined paths.
• Rent a bike or stroll around the island, enjoying the serene atmosphere.
• Return to Seoul and have dinner in the Hongdae area, known for its youthful vibe.

## Day 5: Busan

• Take a KTX train to Busan (about 2.5 hours).
• Check into your hotel and head to Haeundae Beach for a relaxing afternoon.
• Enjoy fresh seafood at the local market for dinner.

## Day 6: Explore Busan

• Morning: Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and art installations.
• Afternoon: Relax at Gwangalli Beach and enjoy the view of the Gwangan Bridge.
• Evening: Try the famous Busan-style sashimi at a local restaurant.

## Day 7: Jeju Island

• Fly to Jeju Island in the morning.
• Spend the day exploring Hallasan National Park. Opt for a gentle hike or just enjoy the scenery.
• In the evening, try Jeju black pork for dinner.

## Days 8-14: South Korea to Japan

## Day 8: Jeju Island

• Visit Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) for stunning views.
• Spend the afternoon at a beach or visit the Jeju Folk Village.
• Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 9: Return to Seoul

• Fly back to Seoul and spend the day at leisure.
• Explore the trendy area of Gangnam, maybe do some shopping or enjoy a café.
• Dinner at a Korean BBQ restaurant.

## Day 10: Fly to Tokyo

• Fly to Tokyo in the morning.
• Check into your hotel and explore the Shibuya area, including the famous Shibuya Crossing.
• Dinner at an izakaya (Japanese pub).

## Day 11: Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the serene Meiji Shrine.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Harajuku and enjoy the quirky shops and street food.
• Evening: Relax in Yoyogi Park or visit the bustling streets of Shinjuku.

## Day 12: Day Trip to Nikko

• Take a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Explore the beautiful shrines and natural scenery.
• Return to Tokyo for a quiet evening.

## Day 13: Kyoto

• Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
• Check into your hotel and visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
• Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner.

## Day 14: Kyoto

• Morning: Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take a walk along the river.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic Gion district, maybe catch a glimpse of a geisha.
• Evening: Relax at a local tea house.

## Days 15-21: Japan

## Day 15: Nara Day Trip

• Take a day trip to Nara, visiting Nara Park and the Great Buddha.
• Enjoy the friendly deer and the beautiful gardens.
• Return to Kyoto for dinner.

## Day 16: Osaka

• Travel to Osaka (about 15 minutes by train).
• Spend the day exploring Dotonbori, trying street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
• Visit Osaka Castle in the evening for a lovely view.

## Day 17: Hiroshima

• Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours).
• Visit the Peace Memorial Park and enjoy the riverside.
• Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 18: Miyajima Island

• Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate.
• Spend the day hiking or exploring the island’s temples.
• Return to Hiroshima for the night.

## Day 19: Back to Tokyo

• Return to Tokyo via Shinkansen.
• Spend the afternoon shopping in Ginza or exploring the quirky Akihabara district.
• Dinner at a sushi restaurant.

## Day 20: Yokohama Day Trip

• Take a short train ride to Yokohama.
• Visit the waterfront area and the Cup Noodles Museum.
• Enjoy the beautiful views from the Landmark Tower.

## Day 21: Relax in Tokyo

• Spend your last full day in Tokyo at leisure.
• Explore any neighborhoods you missed or revisit your favorites.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.

## Days 22-25: Final Days

## Day 22: Travel to Fukuoka

• Fly or take a train to Fukuoka.
• Explore the city, visiting Ohori Park and the Fukuoka Tower.
• Try Hakata ramen for dinner.

## Day 23: Dazaifu Day Trip

• Take a day trip to Dazaifu to visit the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens.
• Return to Fukuoka for the night.

## Day 24: Relax and Reflect

• Spend your last day in Fukuoka at leisure.
• Visit local markets or enjoy a spa day.
• Have a nice farewell dinner.

## Day 25: Departure

• Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping.
• Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A relaxed yet fulfilling itinerary that allows you to experience the best of South Korea and Japan. Enjoy your travels! 🌏✈️