Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Immerse your students in the rich cultures, languages, and traditions of South Korea and Japan. Your class will experience authentic Korean culture as they walk along Cheonggyecheon, learn how to make bibimbap and tteokbokki, and explore the bustling port city of Busan. Your students will also explore Japanese history as they visit the Meiji Shrine and Todai-ji Temple, explore beautiful Nara, and take the stage at a local karaoke venue.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to South Korea (Seoul)
Day 2
Arrive in Seoul
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 3
Seoul guided sightseeing tour
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.
Bukchon Traditional Crafts Centre workshop
This hands-on craft centre offers a variety of South Korean workshops, from needlework and accessory making to hanji paper crafting and more.
Korean bibimbap and tteokbokki cooking class
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.
Day 4
Travel to Busan via KTX (Korean Express Train)
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.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple visit
Dongbaekseom Island excursion
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.
Day 5
Busan guided sightseeing tour
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.
Oryukdo sunrise park
Drone show at Gwangalli Beach
Available on weekends only.
Day 6
Fly to Tokyo
Karaoke experience and dinner
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.
Day 7
Tokyo guided sightseeing tour
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.
Day 8
Odaiba Island excursion
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.
Akihabara Electric Town visit
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.
Day 9
Travel to Kyoto via Shinkansen bullet train
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.
Nara excursion
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.
Day 10
Kyoto guided sightseeing tour
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.
Arashiyama excursion
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.
Day 11
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 2 Days in Hiroshima
Travel by bullet train to Hiroshima, a city rebuilt from the devastation of the atomic bomb, to tour the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Peace Memorial Museum, then stroll the tranquil Shukkei-en Garden. The next day, ferry to Miyajima to see Itsukushima Shrine’s “floating” torii, visit the Senjokaku Pagoda, and shop along Omotesando Street before heading home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Professional development credits (CEUs) for educators
Scenes from South Korea and Japan
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.
