South Korea and Japan

Discover Seoul, where soaring skyscrapers and K-pop culture blend with historic palaces and temples. Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a restored canal dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, then explore Insadong Cultural Street, lined with shops for hanbok, teas, and folk crafts. Hike the Naksan City Fortress Trail for sweeping views of the capital’s skyline and history, and visit HiKR Ground, an immersive hub for Korean Wave culture.

This hands-on craft centre offers a variety of South Korean workshops, from needlework and accessory making to hanji paper crafting and more.

Learn the secrets of Korean cuisine with a professional chef. In this hands-on class, prepare traditional dishes such as bibimbap or tteokbokki, discover the importance of fresh local ingredients, and gain insight into the food culture that has made Korean cooking famous worldwide.

Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is a vibrant seaside destination framed by mountains and blessed with a mild climate. Known for its mix of culture, tradition, and a laid-back beach atmosphere, it appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of art, history, and shopping alike. Be sure to sample the city’s famously fresh seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market, where the catch comes straight from the sea.

Dongbaekseom Island, or Island of Camellias, sits at the edge of Busan’s famous Haeundae Beach. Stroll past the monument to scholar Choi Chi-won, the mermaid statue of Princess Hwagok, and the modern Nurimaru APEC House. From winter to spring, camellias bloom across the island, which also offers sweeping views of Busan’s shoreline.

As South Korea’s bustling port city, Busan is famous for its beaches, mountains, and temples. On your guided sightseeing tour, stroll through Yongdusan Park before ascending Busan Tower for panoramic views of the city. Sample the freshest seafood at Jagalchi Fish Market, browse the bustling stalls of Kukje Market, and experience the lively energy of BIFF Square, the heart of Busan’s film and cultural scene.

Available on weekends only.

Karaoke, which originated in Japan, remains one of Tokyo’s favourite pastimes. Step into a lively venue, grab a mic, pick your favourite song, and sing your heart out alongside friends.

Tokyo is a city of contrasts, where neon lights mix with tranquil temples and cutting-edge technology blends with age-old traditions. With your local guide, start at Senso-ji Temple, where incense smoke is believed to heal. Continue to the Meiji Shrine, honoring Emperor Meiji and his empress, then explore the vibrant Harajuku District, famed for bold fashion and youth culture.

Explore Odaiba, Tokyo’s futuristic man-made island with sweeping views of the city skyline. Step into TeamLab Planets, an immersive museum where barefoot visitors move through vast interactive artworks and gardens that transform with light, motion, and human presence. Shop and dine at DiverCity Shopping Centre, home to entertainment and retail, and don’t miss the towering life-size Gundam statue just outside.

Visit Tokyo’s Akihabara district, the epicentre of electronic goods and otaku culture. Explore countless shops filled with anime, manga, and video games, making it a paradise for fans and tech lovers alike.

Jump on the fastest train in the world and zip to Kyoto aboard the Shinkansen “bullet” train. First inaugurated in 1964, it has been continually improved and now travels up to 200 miles per hour. Using advanced aviation technology to reduce wind resistance and noise, the train offers a safe, comfortable, and incredibly fast ride.

Discover Nara, where history and tradition come to life. At Todai-ji Temple, marvel at the 50-foot bronze Buddha, dedicated in AD 752, and learn the story of its symbolic “eye-opening.” Continue to Kasuga Grand Shrine, famed for its thousand bronze lanterns. Conclude with a stroll through Nara Deer Park, home to wild deer once regarded as messengers of the gods and still protected as a national treasure.

One of Japan’s best-preserved imperial cities, Kyoto, is home to more than 2,000 temples and shrines. Visit Kinkaku-ji, the famed Golden Pavilion, whose top floors gleam with gold leaf above a reflective pond. Continue to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of bright red torii gates wind up the hillside. Conclude at Sanjusangendo Temple, with its hall of 1,000 life-size guardian statues.

Embark on an excursion to the scenic Arashiyama district, nestled on the outskirts of Kyoto. Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks sway gently overhead, creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere. Continue to Arashiyama Monkey Park, where you’ll hike to a hilltop with panoramic views and observe wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. This outing blends natural beauty, wildlife, and peaceful exploration for an unforgettable experience.