In 6 days, we saw a mix of urban city, traditional palaces and Hanok villages, cathedral and temples, a lively
night market, some shopping, a National Park, and the coastal city of Busan. We ate very well enjoying typical Korean dishes for lunch, like samgyetang, bibimbap, bulgogi, ssam, and one pasta & pizza lunch for variety. Our guide Helena was fluent in English and Spanish so we could understand all the interesting information easily. Helena took good care of us, and though it was not included, she made extra effort to help our group find a clinic for Covid-19 PCR test after arrival in Korea. Her fun personality made us very comfortable too. And there was no pressure to shop at special stores with a ”discount” for tour groups. Our hotel in Seoul was the Marriott Times Square which was excellent. The Ramada hotel in Busan was less impressive but alright for a one night stay. I did not enjoy Daegu City and its oriental medicine museum which was too specific for my interest. However we had the chance to try on Korean hanbok dress for free in the museum. Overall, it was a quick trip that was a very good introduction to South Korea.
For those seeking a shorter Asian getaway, "From Seoul to Hiroshima" presents an 8-day city sightseeing tour from Seoul to Hiroshima, with stops including Busan. Perfectly tailored for seniors, this trip provides all the essentials—accommodation, transport, and meals—so you can focus on the highlights. The notable advantage is its efficient itinerary, offering an immersive experience of both South Korea and Japan within a compact, easy-to-navigate package.
The "Classical Korea and Japan End Tokyo" tour is a 14-day city sightseeing journey from Seoul to Tokyo that’s perfect for those seeking an easy-paced, immersive adventure. Seniors will enjoy visits to Matsuyama, Mount Koya, Jeonju, and six other destinations, with all accommodations, transport, and meals provided. The tour’s unique selling point is its cross-cultural blend, offering travelers the chance to experience both Korean and Japanese traditions in one seamless trip.
The trip was absolutely fantastic. Well organized, tours were uniquely interesting. Although all the tour guides were excellent, special mention must be made of Ken Estevez who went over an above his call of duty to assist us with various aspects of the tour. His knowledge of Japan, its culture and religious belief systems is highly commendable. Ken was able to answer questions and give a clear narrative of important information not only verbally but through well thought out appropriate media presentations. He truly is an asset to the company.
Take in the best of South Korea and Japan on the "From Seoul to Kyoto" tour, a 12-day city sightseeing adventure ideal for travelers who value ease and comfort. Journey from Seoul to Kyoto, with all accommodations, transport, and meals arranged, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. The unique feature of this tour package is its seamless cross-border itinerary, offering a deep dive into both nations’ cultures while maintaining a relaxed pace suited for seniors.
I took this tour with my 26-year-old daughter as a belated graduation gift and it turned out to be one of the best things we've done together. We both love Asian food, history, and culture, but neither of us wanted to deal with figuring out trains or language barriers. This tour was the perfect solution.
Seoul was great. The subway system is clean and easy, and we loved how our guide gave us the confidence to use it ourselves. Seeing Deoksugung Palace and the tsunami-shaped City Hall was such a unique contrast. My daughter is into history, so the War Memorial really moved her. I was more fascinated by the traditional hanok homes in Jeonju.
Busan was cool and coastal. That view of the ocean behind the shrine was unforgettable. The ferry to Japan was surprisingly relaxing. We played cards, had snacks, and watched the sea.
Japan felt more spiritual to me. Miyajima and the Itsukushima Shrine were beautiful, and Hiroshima gave us a lot to think about. The hot springs at Dogo Onsen were so soothing after long days of walking. And I have to say that the bullet train ride to Tokyo? My daughter was giddy like a kid in Disneyland!
We both agreed that the night at Mount Koya’s monastery was something we’ll remember forever. Quiet, peaceful, and a total change of pace.
If you're thinking about bonding time with a loved one, this tour gives you experiences you’ll talk about for years.
Your journey begins in Seoul, wherein you will visit Deoksugung Palace, sitting along the western-styled buildings showcasing a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Explore Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village; and Gyeongbokgung Palace, a 1395 palace located in the heart of Seoul. The journey continues to Jeonju through Suwon, wherein you will visit the intriguing Samsung Innovation Museum. Walk around the fascinating Old Town of Jeonju with tiny houses, and the next day leave for Busan. On the way to Busan, visit Haeinsa temple, which is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in South Korea. In Busan, visit a 14th-century Buddhist temple- Haedong Yonggung Temple, and take a walk in Yongdusan Park. Your tour in South Korea ends here as you leave for Shimonoseki in Japan with an overnight ferry. On reaching Shimonoseki, you depart for Iwakuni and visit its unique Kintai-Kyo Bridge, later continuing your journey to Hiroshima. In Hiroshima, tour the Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum, telling stories of the horrifying nuclear attack. The next day, you will travel to Matsuyama on Shikoku Island and take a cable car ride up to a 400-year-old Matsuyama castle. Continue your journey to Kobe, and on the way, experience walking on the glass floor of the Great Naruto Bridge. The following day brings you the most memorable experience of this trip. You leave for Osaka, followed by reaching Mount Koya, wherein you will spend a night in the monastery experiencing a Zen meditation session and experiencing the monk way of life for a night. Finally, travel to Kyoto and go on a city tour to visit the Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari, the Imperial Palace, and the Kinkakuji temple before one of our best Japan tours comes to an end.
The "Unforgettable Korea and Japan" tour package invites senior travelers to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and vibrant cities of East Asia over 15 leisurely days. Beginning in Seoul and concluding in Hiroshima, this guided group trip includes everything from ancient palaces and bustling markets to tranquil gardens and poignant historical sites. With comfortable hotel accommodations and organized transport, each day is filled with memorable sightseeing and cultural encounters. The tour’s standout feature is its harmony of depth and ease, ensuring mature travelers experience the best of both countries without haste or hassle.
Explore the wonders of Korea and Japan—including the iconic Mount Fuji—on "The Beauty of Korea and Japan with Fuji," a 15-day journey designed with seniors in mind. From the vibrant streets of Seoul to the reflective peace of Hiroshima, each stop offers comfortable hotel stays, guided sightseeing, and seamless transport. The highlight of this tour is its inclusion of Mount Fuji, offering travelers a rare chance to witness Japan’s most famous natural landmark alongside a wealth of cultural treasures—all at an easy, enjoyable pace.
From the vibrant streets of Seoul to the timeless allure of Tokyo, the "South Korea and Feudal Japan" trip offers seniors an easy-paced, 16-day exploration of East Asia’s cultural treasures. Guided and group-based, this tour connects the modern wonders and ancient traditions of South Korea and Japan, featuring hotel accommodations, transportation, meals, and more. Gentle activities make this itinerary ideal for those seeking comfort and accessibility. The highlight of this tour package is its seamless blend of two distinct cultures, allowing participants to experience both the dynamic energy of cities and the tranquility of historic shrines. For travelers fascinated by Asia’s diverse heritage, this journey invites you to discover the stories, flavors, and artistry that define these remarkable nations.
I really liked this trip, though I wish we stayed in Busan for at least another night. Both the Contiki and Korean guides were great, there were a few add-ons in each city to choose from and I definitely feel like I learned more about Korea than if I'd gone to the country without doing a Contiki tour. Thank you Joey and Lina!