Explore Japan & Korea: 26-Day Tour from Istanbul

The Journey to the Far East Begins Meet your guide at Istanbul Airport International Terminal at 23:30. Please note: The flight departs after midnight (02:35). Flight: THY TK 198 | Istanbul (IST) to Tokyo Haneda (HND) | 02:35 - 19:45 | Direct, approximately 11h 10m [Entry to Japan - visa-free, passport stamp is sufficient] Arrive at Tokyo Haneda Airport at 19:45 local time. After passport and baggage procedures, transfer to Tokyo city center by private bus. Check in at the hotel and enjoy a short free time. There is no dinner service at the hotel today; the guide can take interested guests for a brief introductory walk around the area. Accommodation: Hotel Wing International Shinjuku 3 or similar

Japan's First Samurai Capital + Great Buddha After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Kamakura. Enjoy a pleasant one-hour drive from Tokyo to this historic coastal town, known as Japan's first samurai capital. Kamakura Program: Kotoku-in Temple / Great Buddha Statue (Daibutsu) - An outdoor display of a massive bronze Buddha statue, one of Japan's most iconic symbols. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine - A sacred site reached by passing through pine forests, reflecting both Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Lunch at a Local Restaurant Komachi Dori Shopping Street - A place to find traditional souvenirs, handmade products, and local delicacies. In the evening, we will return to Tokyo. Accommodation: Hotel Wing International Shinjuku 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast, lunch included

After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple - Located in the Asakusa district, this is Tokyo's oldest temple (7th century). Nakamise Street - A traditional street market, perfect for a shopping break. Shibuya Crossing - Tokyo's busiest intersection, known as the world's most crowded pedestrian crossing. Meiji Shrine - A Shinto shrine nestled in a vast forest right in the heart of Tokyo. Harajuku District - The center of Japanese youth culture and fashion. Shinjuku Skyscraper District - Explore the impressive skyline. Enjoy a photo stop around Tokyo Tower and take in the panoramic views. Return to the hotel in the evening. Accommodation: Hotel Wing International Shinjuku 3 or similar. Meals: Breakfast included.

UNESCO Toshogu + Kegon Waterfall After breakfast, we will depart for Nikko, one of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage cities (approximately 2.5 hours). Nikko Program: Toshogu Shrine - UNESCO site, the mausoleum of the Tokugawa shoguns, a masterpiece of gold-laden wooden architecture Kegon Waterfall - one of Japan's three great waterfalls, standing at 97 meters high Photo break around Lake Chuzenji - capturing some of the most beautiful views of Nikko At the end of the day, we will return to Tokyo. Accommodation: Hotel Wing International Shinjuku 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Japan's Sacred Mountain + Owakudani Valley After breakfast, we will head to the Mount Fuji and surrounding lakes area. If the weather is clear, you will have the opportunity to view the summit of Mount Fuji from the lakeside. Hakone Program: Hakone Cable Car - ascent to the mountain station Owakudani Valley - active sulfur vapors, volcanic landscape Lake Ashinoko Boat Cruise - crater lake reflecting Fuji In the afternoon, settle into Hakone. Accommodation: Yumoto Fujiya Hotel 3 or similar (Hakone) Meals: Breakfast included

Entrance to the Japanese Alps + Matsumoto Castle After breakfast, we will set off towards the Japanese Alps. This will be approximately a 4-hour journey by road. Matsumoto Program: Matsumoto Castle - One of the oldest and best-preserved castles in the country. Also known as "Crow Castle" (due to its black color), this structure is one of Japan's national treasures. Enjoy a walk through traditional streets and have free time in local shops. Accommodation: Hotel Iidaya 3 or similar (Matsumoto) Meals: Breakfast included

Kenroku-en + Samurai District After breakfast, we will depart for Kanazawa (approximately 3 hours). Kanazawa Program: Kenroku-en Garden - One of Japan's three great gardens; a classic Japanese garden famous for its seasonal changes. Nagamachi Samurai District - A stroll among traditional houses from the Edo period. Local handicrafts and gold leaf products - Kanazawa is the capital of gold leaf in Japan. Accommodation: Hotel Resol Trinity 3 or similar (Kanazawa) Meals: Breakfast included

UNESCO Village + "Little Kyoto" After breakfast, we will head to the enchanting village of Shirakawago, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shirakawago: Gassho-zukuri style houses - traditional homes with triangular roofs that look like hands in prayer A world-famous village for winter photography (inspiration for Studio Ghibli) Takayama Program: "Little Kyoto" - narrow streets, wooden houses, historic market area Edo period atmosphere Accommodation: Best Western Hotel Takayama 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Sake Producers + Transition to the Cultural Capital After breakfast, enjoy a short walk through the streets of Takayama. Explore the old town center with its Edo period buildings, sake producers, and antique shops. Next, embark on a scenic 4-hour journey by road to Kyoto, Japan's cultural capital. In the evening, check into your hotel. Accommodation: The B Kyoto Sanjo 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Golden Temple + Fushimi Inari + Gion Geisha After breakfast, we will embark on a full-day tour to explore Kyoto's unique cultural heritage: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) - A UNESCO World Heritage site, this dazzling temple is covered in gold leaf. Fushimi Inari Shrine - A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its thousands of red torii gates; it is Japan's most photogenic shrine. Lunch Gion Geisha District - A traditional street in Kyoto, known for its geisha culture. Traditional Tea Ceremony (optional for those interested) Accommodation: The B Kyoto Sanjo 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast and lunch included

The World's Largest Bronze Buddha Statue + Deer After breakfast, we will head to Nara, Japan's first capital. Todai-ji Temple - A UNESCO World Heritage site that houses the 15-meter tall bronze Buddha statue (Daibutsu). Nara Park - Home to the adorable free-roaming Nara deer (trained and can be fed). Enjoy photo stops in this unique city where nature and history meet. Return to Kyoto and have some free time. Accommodation: The B Kyoto Sanjo 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Osaka Castle + Dotonbori Neon City After breakfast, enjoy a journey of approximately 1 hour to Osaka. Osaka Castle - one of Japan's most famous castles, a symbol of the samurai era. Dotonbori - the city's most vibrant and entertaining area, known for its neon lights, animated signs, and delicious food stops, representing modern Japan. Accompanied by a guide, learn about local delicacies (takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu). Accommodation: Hotel MyStays Shinsaibashi 3 or similar (Osaka) Meals: Breakfast included

UNESCO White Heron Castle After breakfast, we will depart in the morning for Himeji Castle (approximately 1 hour). Himeji Castle - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Japan's most magnificent castles; known as "White Heron" due to its white color and architectural beauty. Next, we will travel to Hiroshima (approximately 3.5 hours). Check-in at the hotel. In the evening, those who wish can take a walk in the city center. Accommodation: APA Hotel Hiroshima Peace Park 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

After breakfast, enjoy a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, one of Japan's most sacred islands. Visit Itsukushima Shrine - a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its iconic large red torii gate rising from the waters, making it the most photographed spot in Japan. Spend free time exploring the island. Experience a tasting of traditional mochi sweets. In the afternoon, return to Hiroshima. Accommodation: APA Hotel Hiroshima Peace Park 3 or similar. Meals: Breakfast included.

Peace Memorial + Atomic Bomb Museum + Transfer to Kyushu Island After breakfast, explore the significant sites of Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Park Atomic Bomb Museum - Powerfully showcases the impact of World War II on Japan In the afternoon, depart from the hotel for a transfer to Kyushu Island with an approximate 4.5-hour drive. Arrive in Nagasaki and check in to your hotel. Accommodation: Hotel New Nagasaki 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Glover Garden + Dejima + Holland Hill After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Nagasaki: Glover Garden - A place where we can see the European influence in the city; 19th-century Western-style houses and a stunning harbor view. Dejima Island - A symbol of Nagasaki Harbor; an artificial island where Dutch traders lived (the only foreign gateway to Japan during the Edo period). Holland Hill - Walking and panoramic views. Evening free time. Accommodation: Hotel New Nagasaki 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

From Kyushu to Hokkaido - The Northern Island After breakfast, depart from Nagasaki. Enjoy a scenic bus ride of approximately 2 hours to Fukuoka (Hakata). Domestic Flight: Japan Airlines | Fukuoka (FUK) to Sapporo / Chitose (CTS) | 14:25 - 16:40 | Approximately 2h 15m Arrive in Sapporo, the northern capital known for its snow-covered peaks. Transfer to the hotel by private vehicle. In the evening, guests who wish can take a short walk in the Susukino area. Accommodation: Hotel Resol Trinity Sapporo 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Odori Park + Former Hokkaido Government Office + Susukino After breakfast, embark on a discovery of Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido: Odori Park - one of the largest open spaces in the city; the stage of the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival Former Hokkaido Government Office - a striking historical building (red brick) Susukino District - vibrant nightlife, restaurants, izakaya (traditional Japanese bars) Accommodation: Hotel Resol Trinity Sapporo 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Return to Honshu After breakfast, transfer to the airport. Domestic Flight: Japan Airlines | Sapporo / Chitose (CTS) to Tokyo Haneda (HND) | 19:15 - 21:00 Transfer to the hotel. Enjoy the remaining hours of the day with free time in Tokyo - perfect for shopping and exploring restaurants. Accommodation: APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Transition from Japan to Korea After breakfast, transfer to Narita Airport. International Flight: Korean Air | Tokyo Narita (NRT) to Busan (PUS) | 12:45 - 15:20 [Entry into South Korea - with K-ETA pre-approval, passport stamp] Transfer to the hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Accommodation: Toyoko Inn Busan Station 2-3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Korea Memorial Cemetery + Haedong Yonggungsa + Jagalchi + Haeundae After breakfast, enjoy a city tour of Busan: Korea Memorial Cemetery (UN Memorial Cemetery) - also known as the Korean War Museum; a site dedicated to the memory of the fallen soldiers of the Turkish Brigade. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple - famous for its unique structure built by the sea; considered the most beautiful seaside temple in Korea. Jagalchi Fish Market - the largest and most vibrant seafood market in South Korea. Haeundae Beach - one of Korea's most popular beaches. Return to the hotel in the evening and enjoy free time. Accommodation: Toyoko Inn Busan Station 2-3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Silla Kingdom + UNESCO Bulguksa After breakfast, embark on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Gyeongju, Korea's cultural treasure. Visit Bulguksa Temple - a UNESCO World Heritage site; the most magnificent Buddhist temple of the Silla Kingdom. Explore the ruins of the Silla Kingdom and the burial mounds - the heart of ancient Korean history. In the afternoon, depart for Seoul (approximately 4 hours). Arrive in the late afternoon and check in at the hotel. Accommodation: Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong 3 or similar (Seoul) Meals: Breakfast included

Gyeongbokgung Palace + Insadong + Hanok Village + Myeongdong After breakfast, we will embark on a full-day city tour to explore the cultural and historical riches of Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace - Korea's largest palace complex; an opportunity to watch the traditional changing of the guard ceremony Insadong Street - famous for its traditional handicrafts and souvenir shops Ikseon-dong Hanok Village - a district featuring traditional Korean houses known as Hanok Myeongdong - Seoul's shopping paradise, a hub for K-Beauty and fashion Accommodation: Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

North-South Korea Border + 3rd Tunnel + Dora Observatory After breakfast, embark on a tour of the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone). This area separates the Korean Peninsula, which was divided after the Korean War. DMZ Program: 3rd Tunnel - A secret invasion tunnel discovered by North Korea in 1978; 73 m deep. Dora Observatory - The closest observation point to the North Korean border; a location where the North Korean villages can be seen through binoculars. Dorasan Station - A train station built with hopes of reunification, which is not yet operational. In the afternoon, return to Seoul. Enjoy free time for personal activities and shopping. The guide will narrate the history of the Turkish Military: the battles of Kuru-ni fought by the Turkish Brigade against the People's Liberation Army of China, which remain in present-day North Korea. Accommodation: Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included.

Individual Exploration Day After breakfast, enjoy a full day of free time in Seoul. Suggested Individual Activities: Bukchon Hanok Village - Rent a Hanbok for a photo shoot Namsan (N Seoul) Tower - Panoramic city views Jjimjilbang - Traditional Korean bath experience Gangnam District - Modern cafes, luxury boutiques, K-Pop culture Explore local markets (Gwangjang Market, Namdaemun) Your guide can organize optional extra activities upon request Accommodation: Nine Tree Hotel Myeongdong 3 or similar Meals: Breakfast included

Return to the Homeland Check out from the hotel at 06:30 in the morning. Transfer to Incheon Airport. Flight: THY TK 091 | Seoul Incheon (ICN) to Istanbul (IST) | 10:45 - 16:55 | Direct flight, approximately 12h 10m Arrival in Istanbul at 16:55. After passport procedures, luggage delivery marks the END OF TOUR. Our 26-day MEGA Asia adventure across 2 countries concludes here. Thank you for choosing us for this unique journey through the Far East, from the bustling Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo to the thousand-year-old temples in Kyoto, from Hiroshima's message of peace to the torii rising from the water in Miyajima, from the snowy northern atmosphere of Sapporo to the Holland Hill in Nagasaki, from the Korean War Memorial in Busan to the DMZ border observation in Seoul, and to Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju. We look forward to seeing you at another Ejder Tourism organization.