Seoul to Osaka: Beaches & Big Cities
Seoul to Osaka: Beaches & Big Cities
$4899
Seoul to Osaka: Beaches & Big Cities
20 Days Starting in Seoul, South Korea and ending in Osaka, Japan
Visiting: Seoul, HiKR Ground, Seoul, Ikseon-Dong Alley, Seoul, Gwangjang Market, Seoul, Jeonju-si, Gyeonggijeon Shrine, Jeonju-si, Jeondong Catholic Church, Jeonju-si, Busan, Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan, Tongyeong, Hallyeohaesang National Park, Jeju-si, Dongmun Market, Jeju-si, Seongeup Folk Village, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Bunker de Lumieres, Geumneung Beach, Hyeopjae Beach, Tokyo, Yoyogi Park, Asakusa Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing, Takayama, Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Peace Park, Hiroshima, Shukkei-en, Hiroshima, Hiroshima Castle, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Mt Misen, Osaka, Osaka Castle Park, Shinsaibashi, Dotombori Bridge
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26105
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 18
Age range:
18-39
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey from Seoul to Osaka, exploring the vibrant cultures of South Korea and Japan. This adventure tour offers a perfect blend of ultramodern cities and traditional experiences. Begin in Seoul, where you can immerse yourself in K-Pop culture and explore bustling markets. Travel to Jeonju for a unique stay in a Hanok Village, then head to Busan to discover the colorful Gamcheon Village. Fly to Jeju Island for stunning hikes and cultural insights, including the famous Haenyeo women divers. In Japan, experience the dynamic energy of Tokyo, the serene beauty of Kyoto's temples, and the historical significance of Hiroshima. Conclude your journey in Osaka, indulging in its renowned culinary delights and vibrant nightlife. With a mix of guided tours and free time, this tour promises an enriching exploration of two fascinating countries.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation: Dream Guest House
Accommodation Name: Dream Guest House
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive at any time and welcome to South Korea's largest metropolis. There are no activities planned until the evening welcome meeting, so spend the day exploring on your own time. In the evening, meet your group and your CEO at the welcome meeting. After, head out for an orientation walk and welcome dinner to get to know your group and the city of Seoul. After filling up on some delicious Korean food, opt to join your CEO & new friends out on the town for your First Night Out. Maybe grab a beer or choose to test your singing voice at karaoke.ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Day 2: Seoul
Location: HiKR Ground, Seoul, Ikseon-Dong Alley, Seoul, Gwangjang Market, Seoul
Accommodation: Dream Guest House
Accommodation Name: Dream Guest House
Start your day channeling your inner K Pop star at HiKR Ground. Then head to what may be the cutest street in all of Seoul, Ikseon-Dong Alley. After some shopping, instagrammable moments, and free time for lunch, explore the Gwangjang market and try some iconic Korean snacks. Then enjoy a free evening in the city.ACTIVITY: Explore the 5 story, immersive experience dedicated to all things Korea. Think K-Pop, K-Drama and the most popular parts of Korean culture. Witness incredible art, listen to your favorite K-Pop band, and learn about Korean pop-culture.ACTIVITY: Stroll through the narrow alleys of Ikseon-dong where traditional hanok houses, modern cafes and hip restaurants coexist. Relax in quaint cafes or shop in local craft stores while admiring the beautiful hanok architecture. Hop in and out of local boutiques and galleries, stopping at the perfect photo stops at every turn.FREE TIME: Enjoy free time in Seoul. Check out N Seoul Tower, Gangnam neighborhood or Han River Park.ACTIVITY: Gwangjang Market is one of the oldest and largest traditional markets in South Korea, with more than 5,000 shops. Famous for its fabric, local treasures, and noted to be one of the best places to go for authentic Korean street food in Seoul, you don't want to miss Gwangjang Market.
Day 3: Seoul
Location: Seoul
Accommodation: Dream Guest House
Accommodation Name: Dream Guest House
Seoul is yours to explore today. With endless options, there's no bad way to enjoy this city. Opt to visit the DMZ, take a K Pop dance class, go on a Seoul City Tour or try your hand at some Korean delicacies at a cooking class.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY The day is yours to enjoy Seoul as you wish.
Day 4: Seoul/Jeonju-si
Location: Seoul, Jeonju-si, Gyeonggijeon Shrine, Jeonju-si, Jeondong Catholic Church, Jeonju-si
Accommodation: Jeonju Goeul Hanok Accommodation
Accommodation Name: Jeonju Goeul Hanok Accommodation
In the morning, take the train to Jeonju, maybe the prettiest city in South Korea. After checking into your Hanok stay, take a CEO led tour of the town. Afterwards, take some time to explore the city on your own. Opt to wander through Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market, try your hand at Korean traditional handicraft at the Hanok Village Craft Museum or head to a local shop to try on a traditional Hanbok. This evening enjoy the comforts of traditional Korea and Korean culture at your hanok stay.
ACTIVITY: Join your CEO on a walk through some of Jeonju's special attractions, like the Gyeonggijeon Shrine, Jeondong Catholic Church, Korean Liquor museum and Jeonju handicraft exhibition hall. Stroll through the beautiful hanok streets and admire the traditional architecture.
FREE TIME: Enjoy free time in Jeonju Hanok Village.
ACTIVITY: Staying in a traditional hanok gives an amazing insight to Korean history and culture. With natural material and historic architecture, it will feel like you've been transported in time.
Day 5: Jeonju-si/Busan
Location: Busan, Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan
Accommodation Name: EZ Stay Guest House
Today, travel by bus to Nampodong, the centre of the coastal city of Busan. After dropping your luggage off at the hostel, we'll head to the colorful mountainside village of Gamcheon. This unique artistic village is full of colorful houses, murals and galleries. It's the perfect place for photos, art and culture lovers. Spend the evening exploring Busan as you'd like.ACTIVITY: Explore the pastel-coloured village of Gamcheon, nestled in the side of a mountain, with uniquely painted houses, murals, cafes, and shops.FREE TIME: Enjoy free time in Nampodong, downtown Busan.TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Day 6: Busan
Location: Tongyeong, Hallyeohaesang National Park, Busan
Accommodation Name: EZ Stay Guest House
Jump in a bus with your group for a day trip to Tongyeong. In this beautiful seaside town, we'll ride the cable car for an incredible view and explore the seafood market for some tasty Korean snacks. Enjoy your Foodie Moment and try things like sea squirts and oysters, Tongyeong specialties. This evening, take some free time back in Busan before flying to the beach tomorrow.ACTIVITY: Enjoy fresh seafood and savor them in the market's various restaurants. Tongyeong is most famous for its Sea Squirts and Oysters so make sure you try. In your free time, you can sit at a restaurant, try different delicacies or join a cooking class.ACTIVITY: The Tongyeong Cable Car offers stunning views of Hallyeohaesang National Park. Enjoy the panoramic scenery of the open sea and islands as you ride the cable car. The cable car ride also provides access to observation decks and walking trails, so visitors can explore the picturesque landscapes of the region.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 7: Busan/Jeju-si
Location: Busan, Jeju-si, Dongmun Market, Jeju-si
Accommodation: Visitor Guest House Jeju
Accommodation Name: Visitor Guest House Jeju
After a free morning in Busan, fly to the subtropical island of Jeju. We'll spend the next three nights in downtown Jeju City. Settle in, then join your CEO at Dongmun Market, followed by a free night out on the town. You can opt to visit Dongmun Market at night, too, and witness the vibrant food stalls under the stars. Try some delicious black pork and wash it down with Jeju's famous orange juice. Five stars if you can find the dancing lobster stall!
ACTIVITY: Visit this famous traditional market where you can try local specialties and fresh seafood - an excellent place to experience the flavors and culture of Jeju. Taste Jeju’s unique delicacies such as black pork and hallabong (tangerines) while enjoying the vibrant market atmosphere. Make sure you don't miss the famous Red Lobster Fire Dance Show while exploring the market.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 8: Jeju-si
Location: Seongeup Folk Village, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Jeju-si
Accommodation: Visitor Guest House Jeju
Accommodation Name: Visitor Guest House Jeju
Spend today getting a special inside look at the cultural side of Jeju. Start today with a tour of Seongeup Folk Village and learn about life of the people of old Jeju. Then we'll hike up the volcanic pathways to the top of Seongsan Sunrise Peak, an easy but rewarding hike. In the afternoon, we'll have the chance to witness the incredible haenyeo, women divers of Jeju. Watch these women, some even their 80's, dive to collect seafood and hold their breath for minutes at a time. Tonight, hit the town with your CEO and group for a Big Night Out! Enjoy a beer on us! Karaoke, anyone?
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a guided tour of the traditional Jeju culture through this living museum. Here you can see traditional homes, harubang (stone statutes), lava walls and the way the people of Old Jeju lived.
ACTIVITY: Take a short hike to see one of the most beautiful views in all of Jeju Island. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Seongsan Ilchilbong was formed around 5000 years ago by an underwater volcanic eruption that created this unforgettable scenery. This beginner hike has a well maintained trail and is suitable for all fitness levels.
ACTIVITY: White sand and turquoise water. What better way to spend an afternoon? Choose to relax on the beach or take a short hike on the Olle Trail.
ACTIVITY: Watch the amazing Haenyeo Performance and learn about the lives and traditions of Jeju's female divers. Watch as the haenyeo harvest seafood from the sea in live shows. Witness their incredible breath-holding techniques as they surface with abalone, conch, sea cucumbers and more. Afterwards, have a chance to interact with these amazing women, seeing their catch and maybe even purchasing their fresh seafood.
ACTIVITY: Head out with your group for a night out in downtown Jeju. Follow your CEO to the best spot and enjoy a drink on us to reminisce about all the life-changing adventures you've just shared with newfound friends (and add tonight to the list)! Hit some karaoke and sing your heart out!
Day 9: Jeju-si
Location: Jeju-si, Bunker de Lumieres, Geumneung Beach, Hyeopjae Beach
Accommodation: Visitor Guest House Jeju
Accommodation Name: Visitor Guest House Jeju
On this last day in paradise, explore the island how you wish. Opt to visit the galleries of Bunker de Lumieres, race carts at 9.81 Park or relax on one of the many beaches. Our favorites are Geumneung Beach and Hyeopjae Beach. You can also opt to hike a portion of the Olle trail. Ask your CEO about getting to and from some of the best sections of this amazing trek.
ACTIVITY: FULL DAY There's plenty to see and do in Jeju, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax on the beach or try optional activities like visiting the Bunker De Lumieres, a Jeju City Tour, or hiking along the coast. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Day 10: Jeju-si/Tokyo
Location: Jeju-si, Tokyo
Accommodation: Imano Tokyo Ginza Hostel
Accommodation Name: Imano Tokyo Hostel
Say your final goodbyes to Jeju and South Korea before your flight to Tokyo. Spend the day exploring Tokyo on your own terms before meeting your group in the evening for a welcome meeting. Then, after the meeting, head out for a night of fun, drinks, and dancing for your first night out in Japan. Pick the best looking spot and cheers to new adventures and friends!ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 11: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo, Yoyogi Park, Asakusa Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing
Accommodation: Imano Tokyo Ginza Hostel
Accommodation Name: Imano Tokyo Hostel
Get your bearings with an orientation walk before enjoying free time to explore buzzing Tokyo. Opt to check out Yoyogi Park, Asakusa shrine, quirky Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing, or explore the city's massive selection of shops and cafés.
Additional Information: Please note that the new JR Pass validation policy asks travellers to come to the office counter to activate their JR Pass.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY Get out explore this vibrant city – there is so much to see and do!
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Day 12: Tokyo/Takayama
Location: Tokyo, Takayama
Accommodation: Oyado Iguchi
Accommodation Name: Oyado Iguchi
Board a bullet train to picturesque Takayama, surrounded by the Japanese Alps. Take in the quaint streets of old town—lined with craft shops and sake breweries (mid-day sake bombs anyone?)—on a CEO-led orientation walk. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the area. In the evening, kick back and relax in a traditional inn complete with tatami floors, Japanese futons, and an onsen hot spring. Delight in a restorative soak in the healing waters.
TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
ACTIVITY: Hit the streets with your CEO and discover some of Takayama's highlights. Snap photos of a traditional Shinto shrine and wander the quaint lanes of this historic merchant city, passing homes dating back to the ancient Edo period.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Use free time to enjoy the area, sample sake or visit a nearby hot spring for a soak.
Day 13: Takayama/Kyoto
Location: Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari, Kyoto
Accommodation: Piece Hostel Sanjo
Accommodation Name: Tune Stay Kyoto
Catch a train to Japan's imperial capital, Kyoto, and spend the rest of the day discovering this historic city. Then tonight, grab a drink on our tab during your Big Night Out. After a beer, you can opt to release your inner rock star during a karaoke session. Or visit one of Kyoto's many famous izakayas! Kanpai!
TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY Opt to check out Kiyomizu-dera Temple, walk under Fushimi Inari's many torii gates, take part in a traditional costume photoshoot, or experience a tea ceremony. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
ACTIVITY: Join your CEO and group for a night out on the town. After a drink on us, choose to sing your hear out at karaoke or hit one of Kyoto's many amazing bars.
Day 14: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari, Kyoto
Accommodation: Piece Hostel Sanjo
Accommodation Name: Tune Stay Kyoto
Kyoto is yours to explore today and the options are endless, so grab a buddy and get out there! Visit some of Kyoto's beautiful temples, participate in a tea ceremony, or take a calligraphy class (so you can make that postcard home look extra fancy).
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Opt to check out Kiyomizu-dera Temple, walk under Fushimi Inari's many torii gates, take part in a traditional costume photoshoot, or experience a tea ceremony. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Day 15: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation: Piece Hostel Sanjo
Accommodation Name: Tune Stay Kyoto
Arrive at any time and welcome to Japan's imperial city and spiritual heart.
For your first night out, immerse yourself in the evening serenity of Kyoto with your fellow travellers and CEO.
We highly recommend booking pre-accommodation to fully experience this metropolis.
ACTIVITY: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 16: Kyoto/Hiroshima
Location: Kyoto, Hiroshima, Peace Park, Hiroshima, Shukkei-en, Hiroshima, Hiroshima Castle, Hiroshima
Accommodation: Hiroshima Wabisabi Hostel
Accommodation Name: We Base Hiroshima
Board a bullet train and travel to Hiroshima, known for its tragic history, powerful survival, and so much more. Opt to visit the Peace Park and Museum, Shukkei-en traditional Japanese garden, or Hiroshima Castle.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY Get out and explore this historic city.
TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Day 17: Hiroshima
Location: Miyajima, Mt Misen
Accommodation: Hiroshima Wabisabi Hostel
Accommodation Name: We Base Hiroshima
Take a ferry to the sacred island of Miyajima to see the famous floating torii gate and meet the friendly local deer. Opt to go for an easy hike around Mt Misen, and be sure to sample some oysters – a regional specialty.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
ACTIVITY: Take a trip to Miyajima Island, famed as one of Japan's most scenic spots, with a free afternoon to explore. See the famous floating Torii Gate, set out in the bay, which glows extraordinarily at sunset. The island is dotted with shrines and temples, populated by deer, and traversed with hiking trails for those who want to get some exercise. There are also lanes full of souvenirs and tasty treats. Visit Miyajima at your own pace, and have the option to hike up to the peak of the island, Mt Misen, to see spectacular views of the surrounding islands.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Spend free time however you choose. Opt to hike, try the region's famed oysters, or check out the local temples.
Day 18: Hiroshima/Osaka
Location: Osaka, Osaka Castle Park, Shinsaibashi, Dotombori Bridge
Accommodation: Imano Osaka Shinsaibashi Hostel
Accommodation Name: Imano Osaka Shinsaibashi Hostel
Catch a train to Osaka, one of Japan's culinary capitals with lots of neon lights and an outstanding nightlife. With free time, spend the afternoon exploring this diverse city with heaps to offer, including Osaka Castle Park, Shinsaibashi shopping street, and the Dotombori Bridge. Be sure to try takoyaki, the city's famous octopus snack, or share a group meal of kushikatsu.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Get to know this vibrant city and be sure to sample some local eats like takoyaki or yakitori.
TRANSPORT: Get to your next destination faster than the speed of light (ok maybe not that fast) aboard a high-speed train.
Day 19: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation: Imano Osaka Shinsaibashi Hostel
Accommodation Name: Imano Osaka Shinsaibashi Hostel
Get to know this captivating city with a day to freely explore. Check out the ramen museum or browse Umeda's many shops. Get ready to experience Osaka's buzzing nightlife on a final night out with your new friends. Grab a drink on our tab and reminisce the night away!
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Continue exploring this vibrant city and be sure to experience the energy after dark on a final night out with the group.
ACTIVITY: Immerse yourself in the nightlife of Osaka. Follow your CEO to the best spot and enjoy a drink on us to reminisce about all the life-changing adventures you've just shared with newfound friends (and add tonight to the list)!
Day 20: Osaka
Location: Osaka
Today is departure day, but do not fret! There is no such thing as goodbye, only until next time. Share some last laughs and exchange social medias with your fellow travellers before departing at any time.
We highly recommend booking post-accommodation to fully experience this vibrant city.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hostels (17 nts, multi-share, shared facilities), traditional inn (2 nt, multi share room and shared facilities) -
Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group for an introduction to the tour.
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First Night Out Moment
Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination.
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Local Living Moment
Experience a traditional stay in a Hanok Village in Jeonju.
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Foodie Moment
Explore Tongyeong Seafood Market and enjoy fresh seafood.
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Big Night Out Moment
Experience the nightlife in Jeju, Kyoto, and Osaka.
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Discover Moment
Enjoy free time in Jeju Island and Kyoto.
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Delicious KFC dinner
Enjoy a Korean Fried Chicken dinner.
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Visit HiKR Ground
Explore the 5-story immersive experience dedicated to all things Korea.
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Walk through Ikseon-Dong Alley and Gwangjang market
Stroll through the narrow alleys of Ikseon-dong and explore Gwangjang Market.
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Visit to Gamcheon village
Explore the pastel-coloured village of Gamcheon.
What's Not Included
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Meals
Only 1 dinner is included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documents are not included.
Accommodation
Stay in hostels with multi-share and shared facilities for 17 nights, and enjoy a traditional inn experience for 2 nights with multi-share rooms and shared facilities.
Transport
Train, plane, private vehicle, walking.
Meals Included
1 dinner
Group Size
Max 18, Avg 15
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Mode of Transport
Travel by train, plane, private vehicle, and on foot, ensuring a seamless journey between destinations and activities.
Local Dress
In Asia the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of Asian summers. In predominately Buddhist countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tanktops when visiting temples or other holy sites.
Important Notes
1. Combo Trip
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
2. Rail Pass
This tour doesn’t include a Japan rail pass. You may notice members of your group booked on a combo tour will have a valid rail pass for a portion of your time together and that it grants them unlimited access to some forms of transport.
3. Multi-share Accommodation
18-to-Thirtysomethings accommodation in Japan is multi-share. For more information, see About Accommodation.
4. Tattoos
Tattoos are not common or widely accepted in Japan. There is no cause for concern, but do your best to cover your tattoos when possible and note that you may not be permitted to enter public spas or onsens (hot springs).
5. Luggage size restriction – Effective from May 2020 onwards
All G Adventures tours in Japan use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size. Your luggage must be less than 160cm in total. This is roughly the size that most airline companies consider as "carry-on baggage" and allow in overhead storage compartments.
We strongly recommend bringing a day pack or backpack to use during the day, in addition to your carry-on sized luggage. Please see “What to take” under Tour details for more information.
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
About Accommodation
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
Japan is one of the most populous countries in the world and space is at a premium. Therefore, hotel and hostel rooms are small. Additionally, some Japanese hotels do not have designating non-smoking rooms. Therefore, we ask hotels to deodorize rooms before check-in.
Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing a room. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Where we use multi-share hostels and gender-separated dorms, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see our Japan tours in our Classic Travel Style.
What to Take
It’s essential to pack as lightly as possible for rail travel in Japan. All G Adventures tours use the world-famous Shinkansen bullet trains, which have a restriction on maximum luggage size.
Any luggage brought on board must be less than 160cm in total (calculated as the sum of the height + width + depth of your luggage). This is roughly the size that most airline companies consider as "carry-on baggage" and allow in overhead storage compartments. We strongly recommend bringing a day pack or backpack to use during the day (for daily essentials like water, cameras, passport, etc.).
Please note that travellers who bring luggage that exceeds this restriction will be directly penalized by the Central Japan Railway Company. Any luggage between 160–250cm will require a fee of 1,000 JPY per luggage, for each leg of your train journey, and is strictly subject to availability. Any luggage over 251cm in total is prohibited on the Shinkansen trains.
If you absolutely must bring more than what fits into a single carry-on bag plus day pack, you may bring a second carry-on bag which also must be less than 160cm in total. Please note, however, that as with all G Adventures tours, you must be able to carry your luggage unassisted.
You will also be walking with your luggage in busy public train stations to catch connecting trains, so it is highly recommended that you travel light, have easy to handle luggage, and are capable of walking up and down the stairs with your luggage without any assistance. A large bag will be an inconvenience to you and slow you down!
We recommend keeping the weight of your bags between 10-15kg (22-30 lbs). Large suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures trips. We suggest travellers bring a rucksack or rolling bag of small to medium size. You will also need a day-pack to carry daily essentials like water, cameras, passport, etc.
Luggage Transfer - Japan’s "takuhaibin" service is a convenient and reliable way to transfer luggage from one location to another throughout the country. Pick-up/drop-off/delivery dates and times can be easily scheduled (usually overnight) and costs are moderate. Service can be arranged at most hotels and airports. Using takuhaibin to send your luggage between hotels, or from hotel to airport, is a great way to travel light and avoid hauling large bags on crowded trains or up and down stairs – just be sure to pack an overnight bag with everything you’ll need until you’re reunited with your luggage the following day.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
During the tour, you will stay in hostels with multi-share and shared facilities for 17 nights, and enjoy a traditional inn experience for 2 nights with multi-share rooms and shared facilities.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes travel by train, plane, private vehicle, and on foot, ensuring a seamless journey between destinations and activities.
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Are there any special cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional stay in a Hanok Village in Korea, a visit to Seongeup Folk Village in Jeju, and the opportunity to watch the Haenyeo women divers in Jeju.
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What activities are included in Jeju Island?
In Jeju Island, you will have a guided tour of Seongeup Folk Village, a short hike to Seongsan Sunrise Peak, and the chance to watch the Haenyeo women divers. You can also relax on Hamdeok Beach and explore Dongmun Market.
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Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there is free time allocated in several locations including Seoul, Jeju Island, Kyoto, and Osaka, allowing you to explore these cities at your own pace.
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What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 18, with an average of 15 participants.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Only one dinner is included in the tour package. Other meals are not included, allowing you to explore local dining options.
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What should I know about the luggage restrictions on this tour?
Luggage must be less than 160cm in total size due to restrictions on the Shinkansen bullet trains. It's recommended to bring a day pack or backpack for daily essentials.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Dec 03, 2026 - Dec 22, 2026Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.