Japan and Korea Culture Connection Tour 2026
Your Japan & Korea Heritage Escape Awaits
Discover the unforgettable charm of East Asia with a tailored journey through seasonal beauty, historical sites, and incredible locally-sourced cuisine. From the golden gingko avenues of Tokyo and coastal hot springs of Atami to the majestic palaces and cozy wellness retreats of South Korea, this dual-destination tour gives you the chance to compare first-hand the traditions of both Japan and Korea. Come experience how these two exceptional destinations share common cultural threads while remaining distinctly unique.
Trip Highlights
Two Worlds, One Spectacular Journey
- Scenic coastal hot springs, volcanic peaks, and royal winter palaces
- Traditional performances, tea therapy, and a relaxing thermal spa indulgence
- Japanese sweets making, Edo Kiriko glass cutting, Hanbok styling & culinary experiences
- Late-season maple strolls, artisan villages, and dazzling winter light displays
- Inspirational modern spaces, cultural arcade shopping, and more!
What is Edo Kiriko (Tokyo Glass Art)?
Imagine holding a delicate glass that catches the light like a brilliant diamond, reflecting centuries of Tokyo’s artistic soul. You’ll experience this beloved local tradition firsthand, with a friendly teacher at your side guiding you through the intricate carving techniques.
Edo Kiriko (江戸切子) is a traditional Japanese glass-cutting art—a unique cultural masterpiece where precision, light, and geometry come together. This centuries-old craft typically features clear or vibrant colored glass, meticulously hand-carved with traditional geometric patterns, each designed with symbolic motifs like hemp leaves or chrysanthemums to promote good fortune, longevity, and timeless beauty.
What is Bojagi (Korean Wrapping Art)?
Imagine transforming a simple piece of colorful fabric into a stunning, structured artwork, infusing every fold and knot with wishes of good fortune. Bojagi is Korea’s answer to mindful, sustainable elegance. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through the wrapping and knotting techniques so you can fully relax and enjoy.
Bojagi (보자기) is a traditional Korean wrapping cloth and textile art—a unique cultural medium where utility, aesthetics, and deep affection come together. These versatile fabrics typically feature patchworks of fine silk, ramie, or hemp, intricately stitched together in vibrant geometric compositions, each designed with natural materials and traditional colors to promote harmony, sustainability, and the safe keeping of blessings.
🌿 View Your Daily Tour Schedule 🌿
Note: hotels are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances
Day 0 – December 02 (Wednesday)
Honolulu Departure
Your journey to Japan begins at Honolulu Airport. Relax before your flight with Japan Airlines (JL), known for their outstanding in-flight service.
Day 1 – December 03 (Thursday)
Arrival in Japan
Arrive in Haneda in the evening and meet your guide. After transferring to your hotel and checking in, enjoy a bento dinner to unwind and prepare for the days ahead.
- Hotel: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
- Meals Included: Dinner, plus two meals onboard your international flight
Day 2 – December 04 (Friday)
Tokyo Traditions
Start your day at Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, where you can step back in time and experience historic Tokyo through beautifully preserved buildings. Next, enjoy a hands-on Japanese sweets wagashi-making experience and savor the delicate, artisanal flavors.
- Hotel: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3 – December 05 (Saturday)
Tokyo Hands-On Activities
Enjoy an Edo Kiriko glass-cutting experience in the morning, followed by an afternoon of shopping at your leisure. Conclude your day with a visit to Meiji Jingu Gaien, where you can stroll along the famous Ginkgo Avenue and admire its breathtaking golden autumn foliage.
- Hotel: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4 – December 06 (Sunday)
Atami Scenic Escape
Discover the charm of Atami, a scenic coastal hot spring resort town that has attracted visitors for hundreds of years. Enjoy a traditional “Hana no Mai” geisha performance, then stroll through the beautiful Atami Plum Garden. Don’t miss the impressive fireworks show over the ocean tonight.
- Hotel: Resortpia Atami ♨️
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5 – December 07 (Monday)
Exploring Atami
Ascend Mount Omuro via ropeway for panoramic views of the town. You can even see Mt. Fuji on clear days! Continue to Atami Castle for sweeping coastal scenery before strolling and shopping through the lively Atami Station Arcade.
- Hotel: Resortpia Atami ♨️
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 6 – December 08 (Tuesday)
Heading to South Korea
After your relaxing stay at Atami Onsen, head to Haneda Airport. Fly to Korea via JAL and arrive at Gimpo Airport in the evening. Depart for central Seoul and enjoy your first meal in Korea.
- Hotel: Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong
- Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 – December 09 (Wednesday)
Royal Traditions in Seoul
Begin at Gyeongbokgung Palace where you’ll get to try wearing colorful hanbok attire, then stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, home to hundreds of historical houses. Try your hand at making yugwa, a Korean traditional snack, as well as a memorable Bojagi wrapping experience.
- Hotel: Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong
- Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8 – December 10 (Thursday)
Exploring Yongin
Sit back and relax with a tea therapy experience this morning, then depart for Yongin to explore beautiful Daejanguem Park, a famous outdoor historical drama filming site. End the day with a relaxing, warm jjimjilbang spa experience.
- Hotel: Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 9 – December 11 (Friday)
Exploring Gapyeong
Depart for Gapyeong, a peaceful area known for its beautiful, tranquil natural surroundings. Visit a sheep farm, enjoy a gochujang-making cuisine experience, and take in the beautiful night illumination.
- Hotel: Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10 – December 12 (Saturday)
Free Day in Seoul
Explore Seoul at your own pace! Dine, shop, or just relax. Need other ideas? Ask us for suggestions or optional day tours. Plus, the Seoul Lantern Festival takes place tonight, so check it out!
- Hotel: Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong
- Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 11 – December 13 (Sunday)
Home to Hawaii
Enjoy free time in the morning, then meet up and visit Inspire Entertainment Complex, a shopping mall combined with digital art installations. Move to Incheon Airport and fly nonstop back to Hawaii with Air Premia. Welcome home!
- Hotel: —
- Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner, plus one meal served onboard your flight
Pricing
Full Package: $6,190
Land Package: $4,990.00**
Single Supplement: $1,600.00
**international airfare not included
**customer must provide flight details to travel consultant for confirmation
Early-booking Special: Save $100 when you’re one of the first 10 people to sign up!
Experience the best of both worlds with a seamless journey through Japan and South Korea
With a carefully curated multi-country itinerary, you’ll enjoy deeper cultural contrasts, a richer tapestry of traditions, and space to truly breathe in each unique destination—whether admiring the brilliant neon lights of Tokyo or reflecting quietly in a historic palace garden in Seoul.
Included in Your Experience
- Accommodation: Premium hotel stays, including a relaxing hot spring resort (onsen) in Atami and a centrally-located, modern city hotel in Seoul.
- Meals: Daily meals as outlined in the itinerary, including hands-on authentic Japanese and Korean culinary experiences.
- English-Speaking Guide: Fully guided by local experts in both Japan and Korea to ensure a rich, hassle-free cultural experience.
- Transportation: All ground transportation as listed, including the flight from Haneda (Tokyo) to Gimpo (Seoul).
- Entrance Fees: All admission fees included for all listed sights (palaces, museums, castles, and scenic parks).
- Cultural & Wellness Experiences: All hands-on activities included (Wagashi making, Edo Kiriko glass cutting, Hanbok styling, Yugwa & Bojagi crafting, Tea Therapy, and a traditional Jjimjilbang experience).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the group size for this tour?
- We keep our groups comfortably sized—with a maximum of 30 guests—to ensure a smooth travel experience, deeper connections among travelers, and plenty of personal space at every destination.
2. When is the tour scheduled?
- This tour departs on December 02, 2026 (Wednesday) from Honolulu Airport (Day 0). You will arrive in Japan the following evening on December 03 to begin your dual-destination journey through Japan and South Korea, returning home on December 13, 2026.
3. Is this tour physically demanding?
- The tour is designed to be balanced and accessible. While we visit scenic spots like Mount Omuro and historic palaces, the pace is relaxed with plenty of rest built in. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for our strolls through artisan villages and gardens.
4. What kind of wellness and cultural experiences are included?
- You will experience traditional Japanese hot springs (onsen) in Atami and a relaxing Korean spa (jjimjilbang) in Seoul, alongside a soothing tea therapy session. Hands-on cultural workshops include wagashi making, Edo Kiriko glass cutting, traditional hanbok styling, and authentic bojagi and yugwa crafting.
5. Do I need travel insurance?
- Travel insurance is not mandatory, but we highly recommend it for your peace of mind. Coverage for medical needs, trip delays, or cancellations can help you travel with confidence. We’re happy to suggest trusted providers if needed.
6. Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
- Absolutely! Many of our guests travel solo. Our group setting is warm, welcoming, and designed to help you easily connect with fellow travelers while exploring Japan and Korea together.
7. I have dietary restrictions—can they be accommodated?
- Yes, absolutely. Please let us know well in advance. We will work closely with our handpicked restaurants in both Japan and Korea to ensure your dietary needs are met as best as possible.
8. How do I book or learn more?
- 📩 Send us a message through [this link]
- 📞 Give us a call at 808-922-2211
- 🏢 Visit us at our Ala Moana location
Japan and Korea Culture Connection Tour 2026
