Exploring famous places in Japan and Korea ! A grand 8-day, 7-night East Asian Adventure

Exploring famous places in Japan and Korea ! A grand 8-day, 7-night East Asian Adventure-1

Kyushu (Fukuoka Prefecture) and South Korea are close to each other, only about an hour apart by plane, so we recommend visiting both places on the same trip. Here, we will feature a standard itinerary that takes you around Fukuoka, Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo in Japan, and Seoul and Busan in South Korea. Embark on a seven-night, eight-day trip to fully experience the attractions of Japan and South Korea.


  • Days required
    Seven nights, eight days
  • Transport Options
    Train, flight, walking

START

[Day 1] South Korea: Incheon Airport

Seoul's gateway in the sky
[Day 1] South Korea: Incheon Airport

Incheon Airport is one of Asia's largest hub airports used by tourists from around the world. There are two terminals, separated depending on the airline used. The airport railroad express, A'REX (direct train), is a convenient way of getting to Seoul Station.


Approximately 45 - 65 minutes by airport railroad express, A'REX, to Seoul Station

[Day 1] Seoul Station

A massive terminal with a striking contemporary exterior
[Day 1] Seoul Station

As the central station that connects the whole of South Korea, Seoul Station is busy and bustling with many people. In addition to LOTTE Mart, a large-scale supermarket linked directly to the station, there is an extensive lineup of shops selling gifts and souvenirs. It is also a popular shopping area.


    Approximately 15 minutes by subway to Gyeongbokgung Station

    [Day 1] Gyeongbokgung Palace

    One of the South Korea's most iconic ancient palaces
    [Day 1] Gyeongbokgung Palace

    The largest of the five royal palaces in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace impresses visitors with its exceptional architectural beauty. It is a renowned sightseeing spot that welcomes any tourists throughout the year. The Palace Royal Guard Changing Ceremony is a must-see, offering a real sense of the atmosphere and worldview of the time! Admission to the palace is free for visitors wearing traditional Korean clothing called "hanbok," so we recommend renting the clothes for your palace tour.


    Approximately 30 minutes by subway to Samseong Station, linked directly underground

    [Day 1] Starfield Library

    Photogenic giant bookshelves
    [Day 1] Starfield Library

    Located in the heart of STARFIELD COEXMALL, a large shopping center in Gangnam district, this library is known for its sophisticated design and as a great spot for photography. Bookshelves extending 13 meters from floor to ceiling, lined neatly with about 70,000 volumes, make for a truly impressive space. A wide variety of books are available in this library, so you can enjoy a relaxing time while immersing yourself in Korean culture. 


    Approximately 30 minutes by subway to Myeong-dong Station

    [Day 1] Myeong-dong

    Enjoy shopping and dining at Seoul's largest downtown area
    [Day 1] Myeong-dong

    If you are traveling to South Korea, Myeong-dong is one of the must-see areas. It is lined with shops offering Korean cosmetic products and the latest fashion, as well as trendy cafes, making it an exciting place to just walk around. When evening comes around, the main street fills up with Myeong-dong's famous street stalls.  Other than classic items such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and oden (a Japanese stew comprising many different ingredients simmered in a soy sauce-based broth), there is also a varied range of new items available, so you can enjoy snacking while walking.


    Approximately 15 minutes on foot to the cable car station

    [Day 1] N Seoul Tower

    A symbolic tower renowned as a spiritual spot for love
    [Day 1] N Seoul Tower

    The tower, perched on top of Namsan Mountain, is an iconic spot in Seoul known for its spectacular views. The Observatory has a floor-to-ceiling glass façade offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city. When the sun sets, the glimmering night views spread out before your eyes. The sight of "love locks", often featured in Korean dramas, adorning the trees and fences around the tower is a must see ! Why not buy a colorful lock and make a wish for love ?


    Approximately 3 hours from Seoul Station to Busan Station on the KTX

    [Day 2] Busan Station

    Start your tour in Busan, South Korea's second largest city
    [Day 2] Busan Station

    The most convenient way to travel from Seoul Station to Busan Station is by KTX (Korea High-Speed Trains), which runs frequently. The journey takes approximately three hours. Enjoy a comfortable train ride while admiring the beautiful scenery from the train windows.


      Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Busan Station

      [Day 2] GAMCHEON Culture Village

      An art village known as South Korea's Machu Picchu
      写真提供:釜山観光ポータルビジット釜山

      GAMCHEON Culture Village, built as a place for refugees from the Korean War to live in, is the spot that best shows Busan's true character. Colorful houses line the slopes of the mountain like a scene straight out of a picture book. The village also houses many vibrant murals and unique artworks. At the sculptures of the prince and fox from “The Little Prince,” the classic by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, you'll often find people waiting in line to take photos.


      Approximately 10 minutes by bus from Toseong Station

      [Day 2] Jagalchi Market

      A seafood market that symbolizes the port town of Busan
      写真提供:釜山観光ポータルビジット釜山

      South Korea's largest seafood market, offering fresh fish and other seafood, is marked by a building with a seagull motif. The market consists of two areas: a lively outdoor market and a clean and well-maintained indoor market.
      After choosing your favorite fish from the sales area on the first floor of the indoor market, have them cleaned on the spot and take them to the cafeteria. Try the sashimi dipped in vinegared gochujang (Korean red chili paste) and wrapped in sangchu (Korean lettuce salad). You can also try it with spicy seafood soup, which is a typical Korean way of eating fish.


      Approximately 15 minutes by subway or 10 minutes on foot from Jagalchi Station to Seomyeon Station

      [Day 2] Jeonpo Café Street

      Filled with colorful and unique stores in the back alleys
      写真提供:釜山観光ポータルビジット釜山

      Jeonpo-dong is located near Seomyeon, a bustling downtown area of Busan. In the past, this area was known as a town of craftsmen and lined with stores selling tools and hardware.
      Today, distinctive cafes and trendy restaurants are opening up in this traditional town in quick succession, breathing new life into the area. There are numerous stores that are a joy just to look at, with their colorful exteriors, lovely interiors, and mood lighting.


      Approximately 27 minutes by subway and 10 minutes on foot from Jeonpo Station to Haeundae Station

      [Day 2] Haeundae

      A resort area with beautiful white sandy beaches
      写真提供:釜山観光ポータルビジット釜山

      The area has a modern and sophisticated atmosphere. Restaurants, hotels, duty-free stores, and an aquarium are scattered throughout the area.
      If you visit in the summer, head to the beach first. You will find so many parasols there, they virtually cover the entire beach.
      At Haeundae Blueline Park, visitors can take a ride on the Beach Train that runs along the coast, or on the Instagram-worthy Sky Capsule and feel the sea breezes! If you have time to spare, take a stroll along the promenade developed along the railroad tracks.


      Approximately 1 hour by subway from Haeundae Station

      [Day 3] Gimhae International Airport

      Your trip to Korea ends here! It’s time to head to Japan
      [Day 3] Gimhae International Airport

      The Busan-Gimhae Light Rail Transit, which runs on an elevated track, is a convenient way to get to the airport from Busan City.
      The flight to Fukuoka Airport in northern Kyushu takes only one hour. The views from the plane’s windows give you a real sense that you will soon be arriving in Japan.


      Approximately 1 hour by plane

      [Day 3] Japan: Fukuoka Airport

      An urban airport that offers convenient access
      [Day 3] Japan: Fukuoka Airport

      Kyushu's largest gateway in the sky. It is close to the city center and offers excellent access to downtown areas such as Hakata and Tenjin. A free shuttle bus runs from the international terminal to the domestic terminal where the subway station is located.


      Telephone Number 092-621-6059(福岡空港案内所(国内線))

      Approximately 5 minutes to Hakata Station by Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line

      [Day 3] Tonkotsu ramen

      This is the first thing you will want to eat when you arrive in Fukuoka!
      [Day 3] Tonkotsu ramen

      Fukuoka's representative gourmet cuisine is tonkotsu ramen (noodles cooked in pork bone broth), characterized by its pork bone soup and thin noodles. There are various ways to enjoy it, such as tweaking the flavor by adding red ginger, sesame, or other seasonings, or by having kaedama (a second helping of noodles). The flavor of the noodles and soup varies from restaurant to restaurant, so find your favorite flavor!


      Telephone Number 092-645-0019(福岡県観光連盟)

      Approximately 13 minutes and 20 minutes on foot to Nishijin Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line

      [Day 3] Fukuoka Tower

      A landmark in the sky overlooking the sea and the cityscape
      タワー全景

      At 234 m tall, it is the tallest seaside tower in Japan. It is characterized by the design of its triangular pillar, which uses around 8,000 pieces of half-mirrored glass panels. From the observation deck, positioned 123 m above the ground with a glass facade all around it, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Fukuoka's cityscape and Hakata Bay.


      Telephone Number 092-823-0234(福岡タワー(株))
      Open 9:30am - 10pm (9pm from October to March)
      Closed Two days in June (Undetermined)

      Approximately 20 minutes on foot and 3 minutes on the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line to Nishijin Station

      Approximately 8 minutes on foot from Ohorikoen Station

      [Day 3] Fukuoka Castle Ruins

      The stone walls tell the story of a great castle of yore
      [Day 3] Fukuoka Castle Ruins

      It was built over a period of seven years from 1601. At the time, it used to be a magnificent castle with large, medium, and small Tenshudai (the main keep) and 47 turrets. The castle ruins are impressive and well worth a look. These include parts of the castle that are still standing, such as Tenshudai, which serves as an observation platform, the Tamon-yagura Turret, the Kinen-yagura Turret, the Shimonohashi-gomon Gate, and the (Den) Shiomi-yagura Turret. The stone walls and layout have remained almost exactly as they were in those days.


      • Telephone Number 092-711-4666(福岡市経済観光文化局 文化財活用部 文化財活用課)
        Open Minamimaru Tamon Yagura (turret) front garden 9:00am-5:00pm
      • See Details
      Telephone Number 092-711-4666(福岡市経済観光文化局 文化財活用部 文化財活用課)
      Open Minamimaru Tamon Yagura (turret) front garden 9:00am-5:00pm

      Approximately 3 minutes from Ohori Park Station to Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line

      [Day 3] Hakata/Tenjin area (Yatai, accommodations)

      Savor authentic flavors, from classics to creative dishes, at the yatai
      [Day 3] Hakata/Tenjin area (Yatai, accommodations)

      At night, yatai stalls line the riverside in the Tenjin and Nakasu areas. In addition to the standard tonkotsu ramen (noodles cooked in pork bone broth), you can also enjoy a wide range of cuisine such as motsunabe (hot pot of beef or pork offal and vegetables), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), gyoza, oden, French food and Italian food.
      Its appeal also lies in the warm atmosphere that is unique to yatai stalls, which attract both locals and tourists alike.


      Address Fukuoka City
      Telephone Number 092-751-3490(福岡市移動飲食業組合)

      Approximately 50 minutes from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station by limited express train, 10 minutes from Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station by taxi

      [Day 4] Yanagawa Tachibana-Tei Ohana

      A stately and historical former residence of feudal lords
      画像提供:御花

      This ryotei ryokan (Japanese-style restaurant and inn) is the former residence of the Tachibana family, which ruled over the Yanagawa domain during the Edo period (1603 - 1868). Today, it remains under the care of the family's descendants. It is known as the only Government-Designated Place of Scenic Beauty in Japan that offers overnight accommodations. The extensive grounds, covering about 7,000 tsubo (about 23,000 square meters), are home to the beautiful Shoto-en Japanese Garden that offers distinctive views every season. The building houses a cultural property area and historical archives featuring historical materials from the Tachibana family, and can be toured in a single day.  


      • Address 1, Shingai-cho, Yanagawa, Fukuoka
        Telephone Number 0120-336-092
        Open Garden tour = 10:00-16:00
        Store = 10:00-16:00
        Museum = 10:00-16:00
        Lunch = 11:30-15:00 (last admission at 14:00)
        Closed Please see the announcements on the website.
      • See Details
      Address 1, Shingai-cho, Yanagawa, Fukuoka
      Telephone Number 0120-336-092
      Open Garden tour = 10:00-16:00
      Store = 10:00-16:00
      Museum = 10:00-16:00
      Lunch = 11:30-15:00 (last admission at 14:00)
      Closed Please see the announcements on the website.

      Approximately 10 minutes by taxi

      [Day 4] Yanagawa Kawakudari (Yanagawa Canal Boat Tour)

      A leisurely and charming boat ride
      [Day 4] Yanagawa Kawakudari (Yanagawa Canal Boat Tour)

      The famous kawakudari (river cruise) takes you through the canals that crisscross Yanagawa City, in small boats called donko-bune. The boatman, who steers the boat skillfully with a long pole, guides passengers through the history and scenery of Yanagawa. Make your way slowly across the water while admiring the swaying willow trees and the seasonal flowers. Revel in the charming atmosphere of this water town.


      • Address 35 Okibata-cho, Yanagawa, Fukuoka, Japan Yanagawa City Tourist Association
        Telephone Number 0944-73-2145(柳川市観光協会)
        Open Around 9:00 - evening (depending on each shipping company)
        Closed without a holiday
      • See Details
      Address 35 Okibata-cho, Yanagawa, Fukuoka, Japan Yanagawa City Tourist Association
      Telephone Number 0944-73-2145(柳川市観光協会)
      Open Around 9:00 - evening (depending on each shipping company)
      Closed without a holiday

      Approximately 40 minutes from Yanagawa Station on the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line, 5 minutes on foot from Dazaifu Station

      [Day 4] Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

      The architectural style from the Momoyama period that shines through the ages
      写真:太宰府市

      This is a shrine dedicated to the god of learning, Sugawara no Michizane. As the sohongu (head shrine) of all Tenmangu shrines in Japan, it is visited by many worshippers from Japan and overseas.
      The gohonden (main shrine), which is painted vermillion, was rebuilt in 1591 and features gorgeous decorations in the style of the Momoyama period (1573-1615). Built with traditional wooden architectural techniques, this has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
      *The gohonden is currently undergoing renovation work until around 2026.


      • Address 4-7-1 Zaifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Office
        Telephone Number 092-922-8225(問い合わせ対応時間/9:00~17:00)
        Open Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Opening times.
        6:30am-7:00pm (varies according to season and facility)

        New Year opening and closing times (31 Dec - 4 Jan)
        The gates open at 6:30 on 31 December and 24 hours on the three New Year's days.
        The gates close on the evening of 4 January, depending on the number of worshippers.
        Prayers are accepted from around 8:45am until around 5:00pm.

        Treasure House and Suga Lord History Museum
        9:00am-4:30pm (admission until 4:00pm).
        Closed Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
        None

        The Treasure House
        Mondays (open if Monday is a public holiday)

        Suga-ko History Museum
        Tue, Wed
      • See Details
      Address 4-7-1 Zaifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Office
      Telephone Number 092-922-8225(問い合わせ対応時間/9:00~17:00)
      Open Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine Opening times.
      6:30am-7:00pm (varies according to season and facility)

      New Year opening and closing times (31 Dec - 4 Jan)
      The gates open at 6:30 on 31 December and 24 hours on the three New Year's days.
      The gates close on the evening of 4 January, depending on the number of worshippers.
      Prayers are accepted from around 8:45am until around 5:00pm.

      Treasure House and Suga Lord History Museum
      9:00am-4:30pm (admission until 4:00pm).
      Closed Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine.
      None

      The Treasure House
      Mondays (open if Monday is a public holiday)

      Suga-ko History Museum
      Tue, Wed

      Walking

      [Day 4] A stroll along the Dazaifu sando (approach)

      A walk along a charming and picturesque sando
      [Day 4] A stroll along the Dazaifu sando (approach)

      The stone-paved sando (approach) to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is lined with shops that incorporate traditional wooden architecture and modern design.
      The famous umegae mochi (mochi filled with red bean paste and baked to a golden brown) are perfect for eating on the go. Stop by the stylish cafes and gift shops and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sando.


      Address Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, 4-7-1 Zaifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka

      Approximately 15 minutes on foot

      [Day 4] Kyushu National Museum

      The architecture is a must-see! A museum with a distinct sense of beauty in its curves
      [Day 4] Kyushu National Museum

      Opened in 2005 as Japan's fourth national museum, it holds exhibitions on the theme of the history of cultural exchange between Japan and Asia.
      The building is characterized by its double-skin glass facade and curved roof. It is a contemporary design that blends in with the surrounding nature.


      • Address 4-7-2 Ishizaka, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka
        Telephone Number 050-5542-8600(ハローダイヤル)
        Open 9:30am-5pm (admission until 4:30pm)
        *Fridays and Saturdays during the special exhibition period: 9:30am - 8pm (admission until 7:30pm)
        Closed Every Monday (The following day in the event of a National Holiday)
      • See Details
      Address 4-7-2 Ishizaka, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka
      Telephone Number 050-5542-8600(ハローダイヤル)
      Open 9:30am-5pm (admission until 4:30pm)
      *Fridays and Saturdays during the special exhibition period: 9:30am - 8pm (admission until 7:30pm)
      Closed Every Monday (The following day in the event of a National Holiday)

      Approximately 25 minutes from Dazaifu Station to Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station on the Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line

      [Day 4] Hakata/Tenjin area (dinner, accommodations)

      Last night in Fukuoka! Don't miss the exquisite gourmet food
      [Day 4] Hakata/Tenjin area (dinner, accommodations)

      Enjoy authentic mizutaki (a chicken and vegetable hot pot) and motsunabe (hot pot of beef or pork offal and vegetables) to your heart’s content! Mizutaki is characterized by its milky white broth, brimming over with the delicious flavors of chicken and rich in collagen. Savor it along with vegetables and tender chicken meat to warm your heart and body. The tender motsunabe and fresh goma saba (mackerel seasoned with soy sauce-based sesame sauce) are another attractive option.  If you stay over in Fukuoka City, you can enjoy its gourmet delights until the late hours of the night.


        Approximately 6 minutes from Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line

        [Day 5] Shopping at Hakata Station

        Selecting gifts to wrap up your Fukuoka trip!
        [Day 5] Shopping at Hakata Station

        JR Hakata City, the largest station building in Japan, is home to an exciting variety of stores selling gourmet food and gifts. Wrap up your Fukuoka trip by shopping and enjoying gourmet food at Miyagemon Ichiba and MING near the ticket gates, or at Amu Hakata directly connected to the station.


        • Address Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City
          Telephone Number 092-431-8484(アミュプラザ博多 インフォメーション)
          Open 11:00-21:00 (Restaurant 11:00-25:00 etc.)
        • See Details
        Address Hakataekichuogai, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City
        Telephone Number 092-431-8484(アミュプラザ博多 インフォメーション)
        Open 11:00-21:00 (Restaurant 11:00-25:00 etc.)

        Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to JR Shin-Osaka Station by Shinkansen

        [Day 5] Sightseeing in Osaka

        Bringing smiles to visitors' faces! Unique entertainment and food culture
        [Day 5] Sightseeing in Osaka

        Osaka is Japan’s second largest city after Tokyo. It is full of attractions such as Kaiyukan, one of the world's largest aquariums, as well as theme parks, Dotonbori and other downtown areas that exude an atmosphere characteristic of Osaka, and the historic Osaka Castle. Osaka is also renowned as the city of “kuidaore” (eat till you drop) with an extensive array of delicious foods! Enjoy takoyaki (balls of batter filled with octopus chunks), kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered meat), and other well-known specialties to your heart’s content.


          Approximately 30 minutes to JR Kyoto Station by limited express train

          [Day 6] Sightseeing in Kyoto

          A healing city where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and experience the spirit of Japanese culture
          [Day 6] Sightseeing in Kyoto

          Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, has a history of more than 1,200 years. There are many shrines, temples, and other historical heritage sites, and its elegant cityscape attracts many people from Japan and abroad. Beautiful scenery greets visitors throughout the year--cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in the fall, and snowy landscapes in winter. We also recommend experiencing Japanese culture, such as a maiko (apprentice geisha) experience or strolling around in a kimono.


            Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to JR Tokyo Station by Shinkansen

            [Day 7] Sightseeing in Tokyo (Asakusa & Sumida River area)

            A vibrant town with a blend of nostalgia and newness
            [Day 7] Sightseeing in Tokyo (Asakusa & Sumida River area)

            Sightseeing in Tokyo starts in the Asakusa area, which is full of a nostalgic downtown atmosphere. Senso-ji Temple, famous for its Kaminari-mon Gate, and Nakamise-dori, one of the oldest shopping streets in Japan, are among some of the historic spots in the area. The TOKYO SKYTREE, a 634-meter-high tower overlooking Tokyo’s cityscape, is another highlight of the area. Visitors can also stroll along the river while admiring the downtown scenery, or enjoy a cruise on the water bus.


              [Day 8] Sightseeing in Tokyo (Odaiba & Ginza area)

              A wide variety of spots for children and adults
              [Day 8] Sightseeing in Tokyo (Odaiba & Ginza area)

              Odaiba, where the TV station and Marine Park are located,  has several large-scale complexes with entertainment, shopping, and dining facilities, offering a full day of fun! You can also enjoy the beautiful waterfront scenery, including the beautiful night view of central Tokyo and the illuminated Rainbow Bridge.
              In Ginza, lined with the flagship stores of luxury brands and department stores, you can experience traditional Japanese performing arts such as kabuki, in addition to shopping and dining.


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