Epic East Asia Tours – 26 Days

General Information

Tour Highlights

• Experience of Shinkansen as well as high-speed train trips in Japan & China
• Discover the World Heritage Sites such as Fuji Mountain and the Great Wall
• A visit to the famous drama’s shooting places
• Encounter the culture differences within three countries

Tour Detailed

Duration: 17 Days/ 16 Nights
Start/ End: Tokyo/ Shanghai
Tour Route: Tokyo – Hakone – Seoul – Beijing – Xi’an – Guilin – Shanghai
Tour Type: Tailor-made tour
Tour Customizable: Definitely! Tell us your interest
Vehicle: private air-conditioned vehicle and licensed driver
Guide Service: private English-speaking guide
Tour Departure: No fixed departure. Anytime you wish!

Brief Itinerary

Japan
Day 01: Tokyo Arrival
Day 02: Discover Tokyo
Day 03: Tokyo – Hakone
Day 04: Kyoto
Day 05: Arashiyama
Day 06: Free day in Kyoto
Day 07: Fly to Seoul

Korea
Day 08: Seoul – Gongju – Daejeon
Day 09: Daejeon – Jeonju – Jinan – Gwangju
Day 10: Gwangju - Boseong - Suncheon - Yeosu
Day 11:Yeosu - Jinju - Busan
Day 12: Busan - Ulsan - Gyeongju
Day 13:Gyeongju - Andong - Wonju - Pyeongchang
Day 14: Pyeongchang - Gangneung - Mt.Seorak - Seoul
Day 15: Free Day in Seoul
Day 16: Seoul – Beijing

China
Day 17: Discover Beijing – 1st Day
Day 18: Discover Beijing – 2nd Day
Day 19: Beijing – Xi’an
Day 20: Discover Xi’an
Day 21: Xi’an Guilin
Day 22: Discover Guilin
Day 23: Guilin – Yangshuo – Guilin
Day 24: Guilin – Shanghai
Day 25: Discover Shanghai
Day 26: Shanghai Departure

Full Itinerary

Day 01: Tokyo Arrival

Upon arrival, our representative will be waiting to meet you at the airport and escort you to the hotel. Once you’ve settled into the hotel, relax at leisure.
Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 02: Discover Tokyo

This morning we take a sightseeing tour in Tokyo. We head to the Ueno Park which I the best palace to get into the cherry blossom (Sakura) among the locals. Stroll around the Ueno Park and come to Ueno Toshogu Shrine and Hanazono Inari Shrine. We then visit Ameyoko Old Market, a 164.227 square feet open-air market. It is the most vibrant destination with a huge array of cosmetics, toys, jewelry, clothes, and food. Lunch at the local restaurant.

In the afternoon, we visit the Meiji Jingu, a large Shinto shrine in Tokyo constructed in 1920 to worship Emperor Meiji (1852 – 1912) who had a great contribution to lead Japan to become a modern state. Meiji Jingu is set amidst green background as the shrine is surrounded by the huge Yoyogi Park. After that, we head to the Observatory on the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to indulge in the 360 – degree Tokyo’s breathtaking view consisting of Tokyo Tower and Fuji Mountain.
Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 03: Tokyo – Hakone

Today, we take the Express train (1.5 hours) to Hakone. As we arrive at Hakone Yumoto station, take Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani Station and head to Owakudani Valley. We will have an opportunity to taste the special black onsen egg there. Our journey continues as we take the Hakone Ropeway to Togendai Station (16 minutes). En route, the beautiful Lake Ashi will come into our sights and then, we board the Lake Ashi cruise to marvel at the majestic vista of Fuji Mountain, Gulf of Sagami & Lake Ashi from the observatory deck.
Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 04: Kyoto

After breakfast, take a bullet train ride to a beautiful old capital of Kyoto. Your guide will meet you when you arrive. Firstly a little orientation, then your private guide will take you to Kyoto's attractions which millions of people from all over the world come to see. Among them are the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Nijojo Castle and Kiyomizu Temple.
The guide will take you to a favorite local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, you are free to walk the streets leading up to the Kiyomizu Temple that is packed with delightful little cafes and shops selling tasteful Kyoto memorabilia. Also, they offer amazing Japanese pottery and silk goods.

Day 05: Arashiyama

This morning, you will be provided with detailed maps and instructions and head off on a self-guided excursion to Arashiyama & Sagano. This area abounds in natural beauty complimented by pristine rivers and mountains. Arashiyama & Sagano are also the famous origins of many of the Japanese romantic legends. Why don't you enjoy a typical Kyoto lunch en route?

Day 06: Free day in Kyoto

Today, you can discover Kyoto your way. Do not forget to check out some of the wonderful places to eat while in Kyoto. Also, we can arrange for you to attend a Japanese tea ceremony.

Day 07: Fly to Seoul

After breakfast, our representative will meet you and escort you to the airport for a flight to Seoul. Upon arrival, our Seoul’s representative will be waiting to warmly greet and escort you to the hotel.
Overnight in Seoul.

Day 08: Seoul – Gongju – Daejeon

Today, you will be picked up from your accommodation in Seoul and escorted to Gongju, the old-aged capital of the Baekje Kingdom. Traverse back in time as you head to the Magoksa Temple, where you will experience tea ceremony with a Buddhist monk, the tomb of King Muryeong, and the Gongsanseong Fortress. For lunch, enjoy a set menu with seasoned vegetables. After your tour, leave for Daejeon, one of the 5 major cities in Korea, and check-in to your accommodation after a traditional Korean duck dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Daejeon.

Day 09: Daejeon – Jeonju – Jinan – Gwangju

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before leaving for Jeonju, home of Korean Culture and tradition, where you will visit a Jeonju Hanok (Korean Traditional House) Village. Here you will enjoy bibimbap, a local favorite, for lunch. Next, we traverse to Jinan and head to Tapsa Temple at Mt. Maisan. After taking in the stunning views, leave for Gwangju, where you will get checked into your accommodation and get into dinner. Overnight in Gwangju.

Day 10: Gwangju - Boseong - Suncheon - Yeosu

Today, you’ll head out for a beautiful day of sightseeing, with visits to a Green Tea Plantation in Boseong, a local village in Naganeupseong, the reed marshes of Suncheonman Bay, and then, the Yongsan Observatory as well as Eco-Museum in Suncheon. En route, we’ll stop for a Korean-style set menu lunch in a local restaurant. After an action-packed day, we’ll transfer to Yeosu for a western-style dinner (pizza or pasta) and overnight.

Day 11: Yeosu - Jinju - Busan

This morning take a ferry to enjoy the beautiful scenery around Odongdo Island in Yeosu. Next, drive to Jinju and head to Jinjuseong Fortress, historically linked to the Japanese invasion in 1592. After a little history lesson, we transfer to Busan which is the largest port city in Korea. Embark on a Korean lunch of Bulgogi stew and Bibimbap in a local restaurant. Visit Dongbaekseom Island near Haeundae Beach for a bit of nature and lovely views before heading to Centum City Shopping Mall, which has the largest department store in the world. Enjoy a traditional Korean BBQ dinner, where you can cook your own meat in the middle of the table! Overnight in Busan.

Day 12: Busan - Ulsan - Gyeongju

This morning, we’ll visit Ulsan to head to Ulgi Park, a lovely seaside park along Korea’s eastern coast. Next, we’ll head to Gyeongju and visit Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju National Museum, Tumuli Park and Cheomseongdae Observatory. Get into a Korean lunch at a local restaurant en route. This evening, check into your accommodation in Gyeongju and enjoy a delicious buffet dinner. Overnight in Gyeongju.

Day 13: Gyeongju - Andong - Wonju - Pyeongchang

After breakfast, we leave for Andong and visit the charming Hahoe Village upon arrival. After lunch of braised chicken, vegetables, and roasted fish at a local restaurant, transfer to Wonju. Here we’ll head to the Hanji Theme Park where you will learn to make Hanji (traditional Korean paper). Next transfer to Pyeongchang, where you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner of samgyeopsal with squid. Overnight in Pyeongchang.

Day 14: Pyeongchang - Gangneung - Mt.Seorak - Seoul

Today, we leave for Gangneung, where we’ll head to the renowned Jumunjin Fish Market. Next drive to Yangyang for a short hike at Jujeongol of Mt. Seoraksan to embark on the stunning nature. After a Korean lunch at a local restaurant, return to Seoul around 18:00. We wish you safe travels for your journey onward.

Day 15: Free Day in Seoul

Today, relax at leisure. You can do what you want in Soul. If you need some help, feel free to contact your guide.

Day 16: Seoul – Beijing

After breakfast, take a drive to the airport for a flight to Beijing – the capital city of China. Upon arrival, our representative will be waiting to meet you and escort you to the hotel.
The rest of the day relax at leisure.
Overnight in Beijing.

Day 17: Discover Beijing – 1st Day

Today, our journey will be exciting as we’ll explore the famous world’s wonders. Our first stop will be the Temple of Heaven, the currently largest structure for sacrificing to heaven and also a place where the emperors prayed for an abundant year. Once visiting the site, ready to be astonished by the exquisite old-aged Chinese architectures as well as peaceful scenery when the local seniors doing exercises in the morning. It is also an opportunity to witness Tai Chi, Chinese Kungfu, square dancing, and so on.
We then head to a less commercial Hutong offering the authentic Beijing Hutong ambiance which will help you get an insight into the locals’ lives. Lunch at a local restaurant and have a break.

In the afternoon, we move to Tiananmen Square which is the largest city center square in the world and also the locality of numerous major historical and political events. Enjoy a short walk and we reach Forbidden City, the currently largest and most complete old-aged wooden building structure in the world. A 2-hour trip allows you a chance to discover the impressive palace halls and beautiful gardens in the Forbidden City.
Later, we drive back to the hotel. En route, stop at Pearl store. Feel free to consult with your guide about the evening in Beijing.
Overnight in Beijing.

Day 18: Discover Beijing – 2nd Day (B – L)

The second day in Beijing will be so much more exciting. Today, we will visit one of the famous attractions in Beijing – Mutianyu Great Wall by taking a 2-hour drive from the downtown of Beijing.
Lunch at a restaurant at the foot of Mutianyu and then, drive back to downtown Beijing. En route, we will stop at a tea store. As you reach Beijing, stop at the Birds Nest & Water Cube which are the two famous sites constructed for Beijing Olympic in 2008.
Head back to the hotel and relax at leisure. If you want to experience local specialty tonight, just ask your guide for some suggestions. A good suggestion for you would be Peking Roast Duck Restaurant.

Day 19: Beijing – Xi’an (B – L)

Today, check out and we will visit the last spots in Beijing – the Summer Palace, the currently largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China. Once there, you will see the Longevity Hill and Kunming Lake which are regarded as the representative of the Summer Palace. We take a boat along the lake and enjoy the splendid royal garden view. We walk along the Long Corridor – known as the longest corridor in the world, to witness the extremely rich and paintings on the beams of the corridor.
Lunch at a local restaurant on the way to Beijing West Railway Station taking a high-speed train to Xi’an. Our representative at the Xi’an train station will be waiting to greet you and escort you to the hotel.
The rest of the day will be yours.
Overnight in Xi’an.

Day 20: Discover Xi’an (B – L)

Today, we joyfully spend our full day to discover the cultural and historical city in China – Xian City Wall. Once there, you can opt to take a bicycle ride on the walled city (optional). Tai Chi Chuan course will be arranged for you. Tai Chi was originated from the roots of classical Chinese culture from the Book of Changes, Taoism & Buddhism.
We then head to the Terracotta Warriors. On reaching the destination, we will stop at a pottery workshop where we have an opportunity to learn how to make a pottery figure. Lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, we will go to the world’s wonder – Terracotta Warriors. This site is known as the most important archaeological site in the world with horses, troops and carriages in battle formation.
Overnight in Xi’an.

Day 21: Xi’an – Guilin (B – L)

Morning at leisure. We check out at noon and drive to lunch.
In the afternoon, we head to Small Wild Goose Pagoda, the well-preserved Tang Dynasty Buddha Temple. It is renowned as the Tang Dynasty elaborate and priceless Buddhist architectural heritage. While getting into the trip, we have an opportunity t admire the traditional shadow play and visit Jianfu Temples and Xi’an Museum.
We then take a flight to Guilin. Upon arrival, our representative will meet you and escort you to the hotel.
The rest of the day will be yours, free to explore Guilin.

Day 22: Discover Guilin (B – L)

Today, we take a pretty 2-hour drive to Longji Rice Terraces – Scenic Area (Dragon’s Back) from downtown Guilin. These impressive terraces take place into the hillsides and seem to the great steps cutting into the slopes. Lunch at a local restaurant in Ping’an Zhuang Village where you will taste the local food cooked in bamboos like rice and chicken.
In the afternoon, we discover the ethnic villages where the Zhuang & Yao people have been lived for generations in wooden houses. Bump into the locals and you will get an insight into the daily life of them. We drive back to Guilin for the rest of the day relaxing at leisure.
An optional activity that is recommended would be a Four Lakes Night Cruise in Guilin.

Day 23: Guilin – Yangshuo – Guilin (B – L)

After breakfast, you’ll be escorted to the Zhujiang Pier for a cruise along Li River (4 hours). En route, we will indulge ourselves in the fairy-tale vista while cruising down the meandering river to reach Yangshuo. We then walk along the famous West Street and get into a leisure time before heading to overnight in Guilin.
If you want to stay in Yangshuo longer for the night show or evening entertainment, don’t be hesitant to ask your guide. We highly recommend the Show of Impression Liusanjie.
Overnight in Guilin.

Day 24: Guilin – Shanghai (B – L)

After breakfast, we come to the Elephant Trunk Hill (1 hour) – the symbol of Guilin. Then, head to the Reed Flute Cave (1 hour) which is a showcase of distinctly-colored stalagmites and stalactites. Lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch, you’ll be escorted to the airport for a flight to Shanghai.
Overnight in Shanghai.

Day 25: Discover Shanghai (B – L)

The last day of our Epic East Asia Tour. Enjoy a day excursion exploring Shanghai – the most modern and largest city in the mainland of China. Our journey will begin with a walk into Nong Tang – the alleys in Shikumen where you can find Shanghai’s unique architectural features. We also head to the Yuyuan Garden – the Chinese classic garden in city downtown. After that, we go to Yuyuan Bazaar (Chenghuangmiao Old Street).
Lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we visit Shanghai Silk Museum before heading to the foot of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower to pay a visit to the Shanghai City History Museum (the Former Shanghai Wax Museum) where we get an insight into the history and development of Shanghai. We take an elevator up to the second ball of the TV tower where you will get a bird-eye vista of Shanghai. We continue a day excursion through Lujiazui – known as the finance and trade zone in Pudong of Shanghai offering a view of the modern skyline of Shanghai.
We then back to the Bund and marvel at the gorgeous buildings lining the Huangpu River. Once we reach the Bund, ready to witness the landmark of Shanghai.
Head back to the hotel and the rest of the day will be yours.
Overnight in Shanghai.

Day 26: Shanghai Departure (B)

Time to say goodbye. Enjoy breakfast and relax at leisure. You’ll be picked up and escorted to the airport for a flight. The trip ends. Hope you had a memorable trip. If you are going to enjoy other Asia tour packages, do not forget us.