Flavours of the Rising Sun

📍 Distance and journey time (approximation): Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Central Osaka: 1 h

Upon arrival at Kansai International Airport, our representative will be waiting to assist with train transportation into the city. After reaching the hotel and checking in, the remainder of the day is free at leisure. 

Overnight in Osaka

Inclusions:

Time: 10:30-14:00

Meet a local food guide in front of the McDonald’s in front of Temma Station and head out for a delightful stroll through Japan's longest shopping arcade.

Tenjinbashi Shotengai stretches 2.5 km and is packed full of interesting shops and eateries. Begin with a visit to the local wholesale market, where small shops sell fruit, vegetables, fish, and other specialties. Of note here is the Korean food – which may come as a surprise on a Japanese food tour – that plays an important role in Osaka’s modern culinary culture.

Continue walking on the main shopping street and sample a variety of snacks along the way. Seasonal fruit, Korean sushi, takoyaki octopus dumplings, sweet mocha cakes, steaming taiyaki pancakes stuffed with beans or custard, tofu pudding, curry bread; there are all possibilities depending on the preferences of the guests.

Stop for a sit-down lunch at a local restaurant. The location will change based on guest preferences and availability, but will usually be a choice of sukiyaki, shabu shabu, ramen, tonkatsu, or grilled fish. These are not fancy, high-end meals, but a hearty homestyle lunch that locals love!

Finish the tour with a coffee or green tea latte at a local roaster near Osaka Tenmangu Shrine, one of the city’s most important Shinto locations. Part ways with the guide and return to the hotel or continue to explore the city independently.

Overnight in Osaka

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Time: 18:30 – 21:30
 Board the bullet train from Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima Station. After checking in the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure until the scheduled evening tour.
 Today is at leisure until the scheduled evening tour.
 Tonight’s tour begins at 18:30. Meet the guide and stroll the shotengai shopping street where locals do their everyday shopping. Stop into a market and examine fresh ingredients, picking up some knowledge about the basics of Japanese cooking.
 Proceed to the first restaurant: a tachinomi, or standing bar where dining is mixed with socializing with locals. The guide will assist with ordering multiple small dishes of local versions of favourites. Drinks are included as well, giving guests a chance to try a few varieties of local sake.
 Continue the evening with strolls between dishes at three lively restaurants, where you can expect a few surprises to be served. Everyone knows that Hiroshima is famous for okonomiyaki savoury pancakes – which will certainly appear on tonight’s menu – but expect to go even deeper into local cuisine on this tour!
 Finish with an eye-opening walk through Hiroshima’s main entertainment district and see the wild side of the city. The guide knows all the ins and outs of how residents here like to unwind after work, and can share information that isn’t found in the guidebooks.
 Part ways with the guide and continue exploring the nightlife independently or return to the hotel.

Overnight in Hiroshima
 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

Self-guided. 

Optional Tour: FD EXO Classics Hiroshima and Miyajima City Tour
The day starts with a train ride to Miyajimaguchi Port to get on board the ferry to Miyajima, a small sacred island located in the Seto Inland Sea. Aside from the local residents, there is also quite a population of deer residing on the island due to the influence of Buddhism. Explore the island and sample some local delicacies like oysters, saltwater eel, and maple leaf-shaped cakes.
 Start with Itsukushima Shrine, declared as one of Japan’s three most beautiful views. The shrine is designed in a pier-like structure and dates back to the 6th century. Its huge vermillion o-torii gate seems to be floating in the water during high tide.
 Walk towards the mountain to visit Daisho-in, the most visited Buddhist temple on the island. Along the stairs is a row of spinning sutras that lead up to the main hall. It is believed that anyone who spins these sutras will be blessed.
 Early in the afternoon head back to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. The heartrending A-Bomb Dome and the Children’s Peace Monument can be found nearby, and are a must-see during any visit to Hiroshima. (L)
 Time: 09:00 - 17:00

Overnight in Hiroshima
 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Self-guided.

Board the bullet train from Hiroshima Station to Hakata Station. After checking in the hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city. 

Overnight in Fukuoka

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Time: 15.20 – 18.50

Today’s tour starts at 15:30. Meet a foodie guide for a journey through the streets of Fukuoka to learn about the food culture in one of the best Japanese cities for cuisine. The first stop will be the fish market to see how local people choose the freshest ingredients to put on the table. Here, sample a variety of dried and deep fried food.

Move on to the basement floor of a department store, known as “depachika”, where delicatessens, confectioners, and other food counters are located, before experiencing a stand-up eating shop. Learn about this interesting way of enjoying food, popular especially among busy salarymen with no time to sit down for a meal.

The final stop will be at the famous yatai street food stalls, part of the culture of Fukuoka, where it’s easy to strike up conversations with other customers. There are nearly 100 yatai in Fukuoka and they open in the early evening, offering both traditional Japanese dishes such as tempura and oden, as well as local Fukuoka cuisine.

Part ways with the guide and continue exploring the Fukuoka nightlife independently.

Overnight in Fukuoka

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

Self-guided

The morning is at leisure until the scheduled departure by plane or ferry. 

Welcome to Busan, South Korea’s vibrant coastal city famed for its stunning seaside views and bustling urban charm. Upon arrival at the airport or ferry terminal, a driver will provide a warm welcome and transfer to the hotel.
The remainder of the day at leisure.

Standard hotel check-in time is 15:00, with an additional surcharge for early check-in.

Overnight in Busan

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Time: 10:00 – 19:00

After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide in the hotel lobby at 10:00 AM. 

Begin the day with a visit to the Arte Museum Busan. This contemporary art museum showcases a diverse range of exhibitions and installations, offering insight into the vibrant art scene of Busan.

Next, head to Yeongdo Haenyeo Village, where freshly prepared sea urchin, sea cucumber, and conch await. This is a great opportunity to taste fresh seafood and learn about the unique culture of the female divers known as “Haenyeo”.

Experience the process of tasting seafood caught by these skilled divers in the village.

For lunch, indulge in Mulhaeo, also known as water heo or water sashimi, a traditional Korean seafood dish popular in coastal cities like Busan. This refreshing dish consists of various fresh, raw fish and seafood served in a spicy, tangy broth, providing a true taste of the sea.

After lunch, visit Huinnyeoul Culture Village, known for its charming coastal views and artistic atmosphere. Stroll through the picturesque streets, taking in the blend of art and culture in this vibrant community.

Next, explore Jagalchi Market and the nearby BIFF Square. At Jagalchi Market, experience Busan's bustling seafood scene and sample local snacks while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Korea's largest seafood market. BIFF Square, known for its film festival, is also a great spot for shopping and enjoying street food.

Then, head to Gamcheon Culture Village, famous for its colourful houses and vibrant street art.

Take a leisurely walk through the village, appreciating the murals, art installations, and charming alleyways that make this area a unique destination.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner of gukbap, a hearty soup with rice that is a Busan specialty, often enjoyed with a variety of side dishes.

After a day filled with exploration and culinary delights, transfer back to the hotel for the evening.

Note:
- Yeongdo Haenyeo Village closed every Monday

- Jagalchi Market is closed every 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesday of the month. 

Overnight in Busan

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

Time: 09:00 – 13:00

After breakfast, check out and meet your guide at 09:00 AM. 

Begin the day with a two-hour cooking class led by a culinary expert. Start with a brief introduction to the rich history and unique flavours of Korean cuisine, exploring the key ingredients, techniques, and traditions that define Korean food. Select two dishes to prepare, such as bibimbap or nakji bokkeum, and learn the step-by-step process, from ingredient preparation to cooking and plating. Relish the dishes created, complemented by traditional Korean liquor options like makgeolli or soju.

After the cooking class, transfer to Busan Station for the KTX journey to Seoul.

The KTX high-speed rail provides a fast and comfortable way to travel between Busan and Seoul, offering both convenience and efficiency.

Upon arrival at Seoul Station, a private car will be waiting for your transfer to your hotel (without a guide).

The remainder of the day is free to relax and unwind.

Optional Activity: Seoul’s Bright City Lights:

Discover the vibrant energy of Seoul’s Hongdae District with a private guide. This is a lively evening tour that immerses you in one of the city’s trendiest neighbourhoods. As the sun sets, Hongdae transforms into a hub of quirky culture, bustling streets, and creative expression. Begin the adventure with a stroll through colourful alleyways filled with unique shops and street performers, before stopping for a fun and memorable moment at a photobooth, where one can capture the spirit of the evening with quirky hats, glasses and other Korean accessories.

Whether a shopping enthusiast or a fan of arcade games, there’s something for everyone, enjoy the eclectic mix of shops selling everything from vintage clothing to K-pop merchandise. The neighbourhood’s energetic vibe is contagious, offering a perfect backdrop for spontaneous fun. This is also a great place to shop for K-Beauty products like face masks and creams. 

Stop by a popular bar, where it’s possible to sip on a cold beer and soak in the electric atmosphere. With a refreshing drink in hand, and with some delicious Korean fried chicken to accompany it, soak in the lively social scene that makes Hongdae so iconic. 

Dive deeper into the heart of Hongdae’s entertainment by visiting a local karaoke bar, where you can belt out your favourite tunes in classic Korean noraebang style. 

Time: 18:00 -23:00

Overnight in Seoul

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Time: 09:00 – 19:00

Breakfast at the hotel. Meet your private guide at 09:00 to start a beautiful cultural day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Today's tour will be by private, air-conditioned vehicle with a private driver.

Originally built in 1395 and expanded in 1867, Gyeonbokgung Palace became the largest and arguably the most beautiful of Seoul’s five palaces, featuring a total of 330 buildings.

If time allows, witness the ceremonial changing of the guard, which takes place at 10:00 at Gwanghwamun Gate.

While at the palace, there is an option to visit The National Folk Museum. Located next to the palace grounds, the museum contains interesting exhibits about the history of Korean people and their culture. 

For lunch, enjoy a famous Korean healthy dish, Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang), at one of the renowned restaurants in the area. Savour the rich, nourishing flavours of the soup, known for its health benefits and taste.

Then, head over to take a walk to Insadong, where traditional tea houses, art galleries, antique shops, craft stores, and eateries serving traditional Korean dishes abound. The area is also known for its charming alleys and historic buildings.

Following this, stroll to Jogyesa Temple, the centre of Korean Buddhism and a symbol of tranquility. Known for its majestic ancient trees and vibrant lotus lanterns during Buddha’s birthday, this temple offers a peaceful space for reflection and insight into Korea's spiritual heritage.

From there, take a short drive to Bukchon Hanok Village. This village dates back to the Joseon period and features traditional Korean houses, called hanok, many of which are still inhabited today. Spend time exploring the area, getting a closer look at the unusual architecture and learning about traditional village life.

End the day by heading to Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most famous traditional markets. This market is a food lover’s dream, offering an array of traditional Korean street foods. Some popular dishes include bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls). The market is also known for its noodles, including mayak gimbap (addictive rice rolls) and yukhoe bibimbap (beef tartare bibimbap). 

Transfer back to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Seoul

Note:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays.

- Bukchon Hanok village is closed every sunday.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Time: 09:30 – 19:00

After breakfast at the hotel, meet the guide and transfer to Deoksugung Palace, one of Seoul's most well-preserved royal residences. Today’s tour will use public transportation.

Explore the charming palace grounds, renowned for their elegant fusion of traditional Korean and Western architectural styles.

Next, head to the nearby National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, where modern Korean art and global trends are showcased in a dynamic and engaging setting. Take time to immerse in thought-provoking exhibitions that highlight the country's evolving artistic landscape.

Continue to the historical Songnyemun Gate, one of the Eight Old Gates of Seoul ancient city. This iconic structure, originally built in the 14th century, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history as a former gate of the Joseon dynasty's capital.

Next, visit Namdaemun Market, one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in Korea. Stroll through the bustling market, where you can find everything from fresh produce and traditional goods to clothing and street food. 

With a full stomach, continue towards Namsan Cable Car.

Upon reaching the summit of Namsan Park, pause to take in the surroundings before taking an elevator to the observation deck of N-Seoul Tower.  Located 480 metres above sea level, the platform unveils  panoramic vistas of the city below. After soaking in the sites, take the elevator back down and take the cable car down to Myeongdong, discovering new perspectives of the landscape.

Conclude the day in Myeongdong, a bustling shopping district famed for its vibrant evening street food market. As night falls, the area transforms into a haven for food lovers, with stalls offering everything from spicy tteokbokki and crispy hotteok pancakes to succulent grilled skewers and cheesy egg bread. The district's array of trendy cafes and restaurants also adds to the culinary appeal, making it a hotspot for both local delicacies and international flavours.

Overnight in Seoul

Note:
Deoksugung Palace is closed on Mondays.
National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is closed on Mondays.
 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Pick up time: 4.5 hours ahead of flight departure

Today, your driver (no guide service) will pick you up and transfer you to the airport for your onward flight.

Normal hotel check-out time is 11:00; A surcharge will apply for late check-out.

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast