Volcanoes & Sacred Mountains of Japan and Korea (2026)

Day 1: Tokyo

Welcome to Japan! After completing customs procedures, you’ll be transferred to your hotel by shared shuttle bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. In the afternoon, you’ll receive details about the start of your tour.

Day 2: Tokyo

In the morning, we’ll take a long guided tour—about five hours—through this simply stunning city! Its vibrant energy and cutting-edge neighborhoods coexist with areas full of peace and tranquility.We’ll make a short stop at Zojoji Temple to capture the most beautiful view of the Tokyo Tower. You’ll notice hundreds upon hundreds of Jizo statues, stone-carved deities considered guardians of children, adorned with knitted hats, bibs, and pinwheels.Next, we’ll head to the famous Shibuya Crossing, said to be the busiest intersection in the world. Then we’ll visit Meiji Shrine, dedicated to the spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife.We’ll continue our tour by bus along the elegant Omotesando Avenue, explore the most scenic part of the Imperial Palace and its gardens, and stop to visit the famous Nijubashi Bridge.We’ll drive through AKIHABARA, the “Electric City,” known as the center of Japanese manga and anime culture. Then we’ll head to Tokyo Skytree (admission included), Japan’s tallest structure, where we’ll enjoy an unmatched panoramic view of the city.We’ll end our visit in ASAKUSA, where we’ll explore Sensoji Temple and the famous Nakamise Street. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel.6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet our guide in the hotel lobby and take the subway (tickets included) to the Shinjuku area. From there, we’ll enjoy a walk through this lively district before heading to a local restaurant for dinner (included). We’ll return to the hotel by subway, accompanied by our guide.Note: The order of the visits may vary depending on the admission time for Tokyo Skytree. In case of bad weather or other exceptional circumstances, access to Tokyo Skytree may be limited. In that case, an alternative visit to another iconic city viewpoint will be offered.

Day 3: Tokyo - Mount Fuji - Kawaguchiko

We travel toward the beautiful Mount Fuji area, enjoying the scenic landscapes along our route. Our first stop is Arakurayama Sengen Park, famous for its beautiful pagodas and for offering some of the most iconic and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.We then continue to KAWAGUCHIKO, an idyllic town of charming houses, flowers, and mountains beside a stunning lake. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine, a magical place surrounded by tall trees — traditionally the starting point of the pilgrimage up Mount Fuji. We’ll take a moment to give thanks at the shrine for the opportunity to visit such a spiritually rich and enchanting site.Afterward, we’ll enjoy a pleasant boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko, then begin our ascent toward Mount Fuji via the road that leads to the “Fifth Station.” Driving through spectacular forests and landscapes, we’ll reach an altitude of 2,305 meters (7,562 feet).Note: In winter, the route to the Fifth Station is often closed due to snow or weather conditions; during those times, we’ll go as far as we’re permitted.We’ll return to Kawaguchiko and stay overnight at a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), where you can relax and enjoy the Onsen (public hot spring bath). Dinner included.Note: In the planned Ryokan, some rooms are Japanese-style with tatami mats, while others are Western-style. Occasionally, accommodation may be provided in a Western-style hotel instead.

Day 4: Kawaguchiko - Iyashi No Sato Nenba - Toyota - Kyoto

In the morning, we’ll follow a scenic road that winds around picturesque lakes to visit Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a small village that was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966 and later restored as an open-air museum. Its traditional houses have been converted into arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past.Next, we’ll visit the breathtaking Shiraito Falls, one of Japan’s most stunning natural attractions, with cascading water that spans a height of 20 meters.From there, we’ll continue to Nagoya, where we’ll visit the Toyota Museum (admission included), a must-see destination for car enthusiasts and those curious about automotive innovation.Finally, we’ll proceed to Kyoto for our overnight stay.

Day 5: Kyoto

We’ll spend the entire day exploring Kyoto, Japan’s capital from 794 to 1868 and home to the Imperial Court. Remarkably, Kyoto was the only major Japanese city spared from bombing during World War II, allowing it to retain its rich artistic heritage. Notably, the Kyoto Protocol, aimed at limiting greenhouse gas emissions, was signed here in 1997.We’ll include a visit to Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Our tour will begin in Arashiyama, where we’ll admire the Togetsukyo Bridge, or “Bridge over the Moon.” This spot offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape.We’ll then visit the Tenryuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s “five great Zen temples” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a serene walk through its mystical bamboo forest.Next, we’ll explore the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine; the Imperial Palace; and the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the “Golden Pavilion,” surrounded by its spectacular gardens. (The order of the visits may vary.)After the tour, you can enjoy some time to stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s vibrant traditional district, known for its lively atmosphere and geishas.

Day 6: Kyoto - Fukuoka

Transfer to the train station to board the high-speed train, scheduled to depart around 9:30 a.m. In less than three hours, we’ll cover more than 600 kilometers (373 miles) as we travel toward the island of KYUSHU. Connected to Japan’s main island by bridges, Kyushu is the third-largest island in Japan. Known for its mild climate, volcanic landscapes, and hot springs, it offers a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation.We’ll arrive around midday in FUKUOKA, the largest city on Kyushu. Upon arrival, we’ll visit Canal City Hakata, a vast shopping and entertainment complex built around an artificial canal that creates an urban oasis, complete with fountain shows every 30 minutes. You’ll have time to stroll around and enjoy lunch.Afterward, we’ll visit Tocho-ji Temple, founded in 806, notable for its five-story pagoda, large Buddha statue, and the Senju Kannon, the thousand-armed female deity of mercy. You’ll have free time afterward to continue exploring at your own pace.Note: The train journey is unescorted. Your guide will provide your train tickets in advance, and another guide will be waiting to meet you upon your arrival in Fukuoka, where your Kyushu tour will begin.

Day 7: Fukuoka - DAZAIFU TENMANGU - NAGASAKI

We’ll depart for DAZAIFU TENMANGU, located near FUKUOKA. This is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning and scholarship. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and ponds, it is especially famous for its more than 6,000 plum trees, which bloom spectacularly in late winter.We’ll then continue to NAGASAKI, a city that, like Hiroshima, was devastated by an atomic bomb during World War II. Upon arrival, we’ll stop at Chukagai, Japan’s most famous Chinatown, known for its lively pedestrian street lined with food stalls and restaurants. You’ll have free time for lunch.After lunch, we’ll visit the Atomic Bomb Museum (admission included), followed by the Peace Park, where we’ll admire the powerful sculptures donated by various countries as symbols of hope and peace.In the afternoon, we’ll visit Ōura Church, Japan’s oldest Christian church, dedicated to the 26 Martyrs of Nagasaki. This church beautifully combines Gothic architecture with local elements and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018 as part of the “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region.”Finally, we’ll explore the Dejima area, a reconstructed historical district that was once an artificial island where Dutch merchants lived — for centuries, it served as Japan’s only point of contact with the outside world. (Admission included.)

Day 8: NAGASAKI - UNZEN JIGOKU - KUMAMOTO

We are now in volcanic lands. We’ll depart from Nagasaki toward the SHIMABARA Peninsula, known for its volcanic origins and dominated by Mount Unzen.Our first stop will be UNZEN JIGOKU, a geothermal field filled with steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and a strong sulfur scent. We’ll take a walk “among the hells,” as this area is popularly called — a site that was, in the 17th century, the scene of Christian persecution.Next, we’ll continue to Shimabara, where we’ll take a ferry crossing of approximately 45 minutes.Upon arrival in KUMAMOTO, you’ll have time to stroll and have lunch in the lively shopping district around the castle. Afterwards, we’ll visit Kumamoto Castle (admission included), considered one of the three great castles of Japan, famous for its black towers and solid stone walls — some still being restored following the 2016 earthquake.We’ll also visit Suizenji Jojuen Garden (admission included), a beautifully landscaped garden that features miniature representations of mountains and lakes. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore this modern city at your own pace.

Day 9: KUMAMOTO - ASO VULCANO - YUFUIN - BEPPU

We’ll set out to explore one of Japan’s most active and spectacular volcanoes — MOUNT ASO, famous for its immense caldera, one of the largest in the world at 25 km (15.5 miles) in diameter. Inside the caldera are several volcanic peaks, the most active being Mount Nakadake, where you can enjoy breathtaking landscapes and see the steaming sulfur lake within the crater.Note: At times, due to volcanic activity and safety concerns, access to Mount Nakadake may be restricted.We’ll then have free time in the area where the Aso Volcano Museum is located (optional visit; admission not included). You’ll also find walking trails, restaurants, and souvenir shops nearby.We’ll continue our journey to YUFUIN, a charming onsen village nestled in a peaceful valley surrounded by rice fields. We’ll take some time to relax, enjoy a coffee, and stroll through the town.Our next stop is BEPPU, a city famous for its remarkable geothermal activity, with more than 3,000 hot springs. We’ll visit the famous “Hells of Beppu,” including Umi Jigoku (the “Sea Hell”) — known for its striking cobalt-blue water and beautiful gardens — and Kamado Jigoku, a favorite among families for its colorful ponds of varying temperatures decorated with demonic figures.After the visit, we’ll transfer to the hotel. Free time to relax and enjoy the evening.

Day 10: BEPPU - USA JINGU - Fukuoka - Busan

We will depart for USA JINGU, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines and the main one dedicated to the god Hachiman, the country’s protector deity. It serves as the head shrine for more than 40,000 Hachiman shrines throughout Japan. Founded in the 8th century, it blends traditional architecture with expansive gardens surrounded by nature. We’ll stroll across its iconic red bridge and visit the main pavilions in a photogenic, deeply spiritual setting.We’ll then continue on to FUKUOKA, arriving around lunchtime. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport to take a flight to KOREA.Arrival in BUSAN, Korea’s second-largest city — a modern, dynamic metropolis. Transfer to the hotel and free time to relax or explore at your own pace.

Day 11: Busan

In the morning, we will depart from BUSAN to visit Haedong Yonggung, a 14th-century Buddhist temple located by the sea. We return to Busan and visit the United Nations Memorial Cemetery (entrance included), where people from many different countries are laid to rest. We will then head to the country’s largest fish market, located next to the port of Nampo. Lunch is included.We walk toward Yongdusan park, home to its impressive 120-meter pagoda. Afterwards, we depart for Songdo Beach, which features the country’s first maritime cable car (entrance included, subject to weather conditions), offering stunning views of the bay. We continue to one of Busan’s most picturesque neighborhoods, the Gamcheon Cultural Village, filled with brightly colored buildings, labyrinth-like alleyways, art galleries, pottery workshops, and charming cafés. Return to Busan. Overnight stay.

Day 12: Busan - Seokguram - Bulguksa - Gyeongju - Daegu

We’ll depart for the Seokguram Buddhist Grotto (entrance included), an 8th-century site nestled on the slopes of the Tohamsan. Afterward, we’ll visit the Bulguksa Temple (entrance included), considered one of the most beautiful temples in the country. Next, we’ll arrive in GYEONGJU, the Korean capital that endured the longest in the nation’s history, with a reign of 992 years under 56 kings. You’ll have the chance to photograph the stunning wooden Woljeonggyo Bridge along the banks of the Namcheon River. Lunch will be included. We’ll then head to Tumuli Park, home to the burial mounds of kings from the ancient Silla Kingdom, which are over 1,500 years old. We’ll visit one of their tombs (entrance included) before walking to the Cheomsongdae Astronomical Observatory, the oldest in East Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our journey will continue with our arrival in Daegu, the fourth most populous city in Korea. Before heading to the hotel, we’ll see Dongsan Cheongna Hill, a historic area once home to Christian missionaries, and the commercial street of Dongseong-ro, the city’s liveliest street, with its trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants and the Yangnyeongsi Museum of Traditional Medicine (entrance included), famous for its history of medicinal herbs in Eastern medicine. Overnight stay in DAEGU.

Day 13: Daegu - Andong - Hahoe - Seoul

Departure northward and arrival in Andong, where we will visit the traditional village of Hahoe Village (admission included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the outskirts of the city. Free time to stroll through the streets of this rural village that seems frozen in time. We will also visit the outstanding World Mask Museum, which displays masks used for dances, medical practices, religious ceremonies, and theatrical performances. Lunch included at a local restaurant.We then depart to visit Byeongsan Seowon, a Confucian academy founded in the 16th century, set in an idyllic landscape beside a peaceful river. Arrival in Seoul in the mid-afternoon.

Day 14: Seoul

Visit to the Aegibong Observatory in GIMPO, very close to the border with NORTH KOREA, from where it is possible to clearly see North Korean territory. Transfer to the Paju Demilitarized Zone (DMZ Imjingang), where lunch is included. We will see the National Memorial and Mangbaedan Altar, the Imjingak Pavilion Temple, a symbol of peace, and take a cable car ride (included) to observe from above the areas near the Military Demarcation Line. Finally, we will stop at the Freedom Bridge, a symbol of hope and reunion.Important Note: Please remember to bring your passport; it is mandatory. The DMZ is a military area and may be closed without prior notice. If this occurs, an alternative tour will be provided.Later, with our guide, we will go to the square where City Hall is located to see this building from the outside, notable for its wave-like (tsunami-shaped) design. Across from City Hall is Deoksugung Palace, which, when illuminated at night, allows us to appreciate the blend of tradition and modernity in this country. We will then walk to the Myeongdong district, the largest commercial and entertainment area in Korea; its name means “bright tunnel.”Dinner is included at a local restaurant. Return by Seoul’s modern subway system (ticket included). Overnight stay.

Day 15: Seoul

Today we include an extensive visit of approximately five hours in SEOUL. We will visit Changdeokgung Palace (entrance included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a complex of palaces set within a large park. Afterwards, we will stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional historic neighborhood of small, well-preserved houses.We will then visit the War Memorial of Korea (entrance included), an impressive war museum that explains the conflicts experienced by Korea throughout its history, especially the Korean War, in which soldiers from many countries participated under the United Nations.Lunch is included at a local restaurant. We then continue to the Gangnam District, one of the city’s most vibrant areas, home to numerous shopping malls and entertainment venues.To conclude the day, we will stop at Lotte World Tower, an impressive 550-meter-tall building, where you will have free time to go up to the observation deck (admission not included) or to stroll through its park or luxury shopping centers.Return to the hotel and free time.

Day 16: Seoul

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.