PERFECT FOR:
- Families, couples & travelers of all ages
- History & Architecture Buffs
- Food Lovers
- First time travelers of Asia
A Private Tour of East Asia’s Ancient Capitals – Seoul, Beijing & Kyoto
10 Days / 9 Nights – Tour Code (JCK) – Daily departure
Embark on a captivating 10–day journey through the imperial capitals of Korea, China and Japan — where fascinating history, timeless culture, and stunning architecture converge. This meticulously curated itinerary takes you through the heart of civilizations of the East, unveiling the legacies of Korea’s Joseon kings, China’s vast dynasties spanning 3,700 years, and Japan’s revered shoguns dating back to the Edo Period.
Begin in Seoul, where the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village transport you to the era of the Joseon Dynasty. Stroll through the vibrant districts of Insadong and Ikseondong to catch a glimpse of modern-day Korean life. Sample delicious local fares at one of the city’s many food markets. Relish the opportunity to step foot in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that has separated the two Koreas for over 50 years.
Next up, Beijing – China’s present and ancient capital where relics of its storied past are scattered throughout the city. Embark on a time journey at the legendary Forbidden City to catch a glimpse of life as an Emperor. Stroll the grounds of the world’s largest city square at Tiananmen Square. Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of the stunning Temple of Heaven, formerly privy only to the Great Emperor himself. Last but certainly not least, climb the magnificent Great Wall of China that has served as the symbol of China for over 2000 years.
Your journey continues in Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital of ornate temples & palaces and endearing traditions. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beloved cities in the world, Kyoto is home to over 2,000 temples and shrines, quaint alleyways and wooden shophouses where Samurais and Geishas once roamed, and a vibrant food scene that appeals to every palate. Here, we’ll discover the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji, the awe-inspiring Fushimi Inari shrine famed for its 10,000 Torii gates spanning 4 kilometers, and Kiyomizu Temple, one of the most celebrated temples in all of Japan.
From ancient traditions to stunning palaces. Millennia-old fortifications to modern-day demilitarized zones. Vibrant neighborhoods to mouth-watering food markets. This incredible 10 day tour has it all. Your most unforgettable journey awaits!
TOUR INCLUDES:
- Economy Class Air between Seoul / Beijing / Osaka
- 9 nights Deluxe Hotel Accommodations per itinerary
- Hotel Breakfasts Daily
- Other meals as specified per itinerary
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure (by private car in Beijing & Seoul, shared shuttle van in Kyoto)
- Private sightseeing per itinerary (except DMZ tour)
SEOUL (3 nights)
- 3 nights at Hotel Lotte Seoul | Westin Josun
- Full day Walking Tour of Seoul
- DMZ Excursion with Gondola Ride & 3rd Tunnel Visit (join tour)
BEIJING (3 nights)
- 3 nights at The Regent Beijing | New World Beijing
- Full day city tour of The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven (or Summer Palace)
- Tour of the Great Wall at Mutianyu with cable car ride
- Peking Duck Specialty Dinner
KYOTO (3 nights)
- 2 nights at Dhawa Yura Hotel in Kyoto
- Full day Tour of Fushimi Inari, Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Shrine & Gion District
- Half day excursion to the Ancient Capital of Nara
Day 1 Arrive Seoul
Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private car (driver only) for your next 3 nights’ accommodations.
Day 2 Seoul (Palaces, Neighborhoods & Food Markets)
Today, enjoy a full day private walking tour visiting the capitals’ revered landmarks and local hangouts. Visits today include Gwangwamun Plaza, Gyeongbok Palace, Bukchon Hanok, Insadong shopping street, Namdaemun Market and Myeongdong shopping street. (B)
Day 3 Seoul (DMZ Excursions)
Today, embark on a rare opportunity to visit the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates the two Koreas. In place for over 50 years, the DMZ serves as a buffer zone between South and North Korea to prevent direct military collisions. Given its strict access to civilians, the DMZ is also globally recognized for its ecological value as resources in the area have been left untouched since its inception. Here, we travel inside the 3rd Tunnel, said to be built by North Korea to invade the south in case of hostility after the armistice that has the capacity to move 10,000 soldiers in an hour. Take a cable car ride over the mine field that separates to two Koreas, as well as Dora Observatory that offers a view of DMZ’s terrain as well a glimpse into North Korea from a distance. Return to the city in the afternoon and enjoy balance of the day at leisure to eat, shop and explore the city on your own. (B)
****Note: Tour operates on JOIN (non-private) basis by motorcoach
Day 4 Seoul / Beijing
Transfer for your flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for your next three nights’ accommodations. (B)
Day 5 Beijing (Forbidden City & Tempe of Heaven)
Today, enjoy a full day tour of Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. This evening, enjoy one of Beijing’s specialties – The Peking Duck at one of the city’s famed restaurants. (B,L,D)
Day 6 Beijing (The Great Wall of China)
Today you will visit the spectacular Mutianyu section of the Great Wall with a cable car ride. After lunch at a local restaurant, return to Beijing City and take a stroll along the city’s Old Quarters (Hutongs) with residences and shophouses that date back 700 years. (B,L)
Day 7 Beijing / Kyoto
Transfer for your flight to Osaka. Upon arrival, transfer to to your hotel in Kyoto by SHARED minibus for your next 3 nights’ accommodations. Enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure to explore the vibrant neighborhoods around your hotel. (B)
Day 8 Kyoto (Temples & Shrines)
Today, enjoy a full day walking tour of the Ancient capital’s highlights starting with Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion). Originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun that later became a Buddhist Temple after his death at his request. Next, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates straddling a network of trails behind its main buildings leading into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari.
This afternoon, visit Kiyomizu Temple, one of the most celebrated temples of Japan founded in 780 in the wooded hills east of Kyoto. This UNESCO world heritage site is best known for its wooden stage that juts out from its main hall boasting panoramic views of Kyoto City. Enjoy a stroll through the two famous shopping streets – Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka, for cherry blossoms viewing at Yasaka Shrine. If there’s still time, take a short walk through Gion District returing to your hotel. (B)
Day 9 Kyoto (Nara Ancient Capital)
This morning, hop on an express train for a visit to Nara, Japan’s first Capital from 710-784 A.D., yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Todaiji Temple, famed for being the world’s largest wooden building and houses one of the country’s largest Buddha statues. It is adjacent to Nara Park, where over 1,000 free-roaming deer abound. Last stop is Kasuga Taisha, one of the most celebrated shrines in all of Japan. Return to Kyoto in the afternoon and enjoy the balance the day at leisure to eat, shop and explore beautiful Kyoto on your own. (B)
Day 10 Depart Kyoto
Transfer to the airport by SHARED minibus for your departure flight onward. (B)
| 2025 Price Chart (Prices valid through December 31, 2025) | ||
Departs Daily | Twin Sharing | Single Supplement |
| January – February | 7,475 | 2,085 |
| March – April | 7,695 | 2,325 |
| May | 7.595 | 2,225 |
| June – August | 7,575 | 2,175 |
| September | 7,595 | 2,225 |
| October – November | 7,695 | 2,325 |
| December | 7,475 | 2,085 |
| Tour requires minimum of 2 passengers to operate | ||
- Prices are per person, based on double occupancy
- Price includes all entrance fees, hotel taxes & service charges.
- Price excludes transpacific airfares, personal expenses, beverages, gratuities to guides and drivers
- Blackout dates and/or holiday surcharges at hotels apply for stays during Cherry Blossoms season (~ Mar. 20 – Apr. 10), Japan Golden Week (Apr. 29-May 6), China Golden Week (May 1-5, Oct. 1-10). Please contact us for details.
- A visa is required for China (this program qualifies for transit visa for North American nationals). NOT included in package.
- All flights, hotels and land services are subject to availability at time of reservation
Korea, China & Japan Gallery
HIGHLIGHTS
- Seoul’s Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace
- DMZ Tour with 3rd Tunnel & Gondola Ride
- Beijing’s Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven & Great Wall
- Kyoto’s Fushi Inari & Golden Pavilion
- Nara’s Todaiji Temple
Price Starting From:
$7,475
RELATED TOURS
ACCOMMODATIONS
Kyoto – Dhawa Yura Hotel
Beijing – The Regent Hotel
WHAT PRIVATE TOUR MEANS
