14-Day Japan & Korea Tour from Istanbul

Our grand Asia adventure begins at 12:00 at Istanbul Airport (IST) International Terminal, where we will meet with representatives from Ejder Tourism. After completing our passport and luggage procedures, we will board Turkish Airlines flight TK 50, a comfortable aircraft, departing at 15:50 towards the heart of Japan, Tokyo. We will spend the night on this intercontinental flight, which will last approximately 12 hours. Flight: Istanbul (IST) - Tokyo (NRT) | 15:50 - 09:05+1 Overnight: Onboard.

We arrive at Tokyo Narita Airport at 09:05 local time. After customs and passport procedures, we enter the largest metropolis of the Far East with our private bus waiting for us. On our Tokyo city tour, our first stop will be the Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Japan's first emperor, famous for its peaceful gardens. Next, we ascend the iconic Tokyo Tower to enjoy a panoramic view of this vast city. Along the way, we will have a panoramic view of the National Diet Building. We conclude the day with free time on Ginza Street, one of the world's most luxurious shopping and cultural centers. After the tour, we check into our hotel. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel etc. (3*). Included Services: Airport transfer and panoramic city tour.

A Classic Japan Experience in the Heart of Nature After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we embark on a full-day tour to explore Mount Fuji, Japan's sacred symbol and highest peak. As we travel by private bus towards the breathtaking Hakone region, our guide will provide us with in-depth information about Japanese culture and the history of the area. Mount Fuji 5th Station: Weather permitting, we will ascend to the 5th station at an altitude of 2,305 meters. Here, we will have the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views above the clouds. Traditional Lunch: During our tour, we will have lunch at a local restaurant featuring a special menu of traditional Japanese cuisine. Lake Ashi Boat Tour: In the afternoon, we will head to the enchanting lakeside, which is under UNESCO protection. Our boat tour on the lake will be one of the most unforgettable experiences of the tour, as we witness the unique reflection of Mount Fuji on the water. At the end of our enjoyable exploration, we will return to Tokyo in the evening. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel or similar. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.

In the City of Samurai and the Footsteps of the Great Buddha After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we embark on a full-day tour of Kamakura to explore Japan's cultural heritage more closely. Located about an hour south of Tokyo, this coastal city is one of Japan's ancient capitals, renowned for its historic temples and tranquil atmosphere. Kotoku-in Temple and Daibutsu: Our first stop will be to visit the massive bronze Buddha statue, "Daibutsu," which dates back to the 13th century and is one of Japan's most iconic symbols. Hokoku-ji Temple and Bamboo Garden: Next, we will proceed to Hokoku-ji Temple, one of the significant centers of Zen Buddhism. Here, we will take a mystical walk through the temple's famous bamboo garden and enjoy peaceful moments accompanied by traditional Japanese tea. Cultural Discovery: Throughout the tour, our guide will provide in-depth insights into the region's samurai era history and Japanese culture. After our excursion, we will return to our hotel in Tokyo in the evening. DINNER will be at a local restaurant. Accommodation: Shinjuku Washington Hotel or similar. Meals: Breakfast-DINNER

In Pursuit of Speed, Technology, and Peace After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we will transfer to Tokyo Station for one of the most exciting experiences of our trip to Japan. At 08:30, we will board the Shinkansen (Bullet Train), one of the safest and fastest train systems in the world, and set off towards Hiroshima. We will cover approximately 800 kilometers in comfort as we make our way to the city. Upon our arrival, we will begin exploring the city center of Hiroshima, a place that has witnessed events that changed the course of history: Peace Memorial Park and Museum: We will visit this expansive park, which has become a symbol of peace, carrying the memories of World War II. Atomic Bomb Dome: We will see this iconic structure, which survived the blast and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. City Center Exploration: In the vibrant streets of modern Hiroshima, we will witness the city's rebirth and have some free time to try local delicacies, including the famous Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki. After the tour, we will check into our hotel and relax. Accommodation: Hiroshima Meals: Breakfast

Port City, Modern Architecture, and Gourmet Experiences After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we set off eastward to Kobe, the capital of Hyogo Prefecture, either by train or our private vehicle. Nestled between mountains and the sea, this elegant city is one of Japan's first ports open to the outside world. Kobe Port Area (Meriken Park): We take a pleasant stroll along the waterfront, where the iconic red Kobe Port Tower and the massive maritime museum buildings are located. We visit the preserved earthquake ruins site in memory of the 1995 earthquake and listen to the story of the city's rebirth. Kitano-cho (Foreign Settlement Area): We wander through the historic streets lined with 19th-century Western-style houses (Ijinkan) at the foot of Mount Rokko. This is one of the rare places in Japan where you can feel like you are in Europe. Nankinmachi (Chinatown): In this vibrant area, one of Japan's three major Chinatowns, we enjoy local snacks and the lively atmosphere. After the tour, we check into our hotel in Kobe. DINNER Accommodation: Kobe Meals: Breakfast + DINNER

Japan's Culinary Capital and Lively Streets After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we embark on a short journey to Osaka. Upon arrival, we begin our panoramic city tour, where we will explore both the historical and modern facets of the city: Osaka Castle: We visit this historic castle, one of Japan's most famous structures, known for its magnificent walls and wide moats. We take a photo break in the castle gardens while learning about its significance in Japanese history. Umeda Sky Building: From the observation deck (Floating Garden) of this futuristic landmark, we enjoy a bird's eye view of Osaka. Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi: We conclude our tour in the heart of Osaka, the Dotonbori area. Here, we provide free time to explore the vibrant streets lined with giant neon signs (the famous Glico Man), restaurants along the canal, and shopping avenues. This is known as "Japan's kitchen"; you are in the perfect place to try Takoyaki or Okonomiyaki. After our exploration, we check into our hotel in Osaka. Accommodation: Osaka Meals: Breakfast

A Day in the Depths of History: Sacred Deer and Grand Temple After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we set off towards Nara, considered the cradle of Japanese culture and art. After approximately 1 hour of travel, we will spend our entire day in this city, which feels like an open-air museum. Nara Deer Park: In this expansive park located in the city center, we are greeted by thousands of deer that roam freely, regarded as messengers of the gods in Shinto belief. You can feed the deer by hand and capture unforgettable photos with these friendly creatures. Todai-ji Temple: We visit this magnificent temple, one of the largest wooden structures in the world. It's hard not to be mesmerized by the 15-meter tall Great Buddha statue (Daibutsu), which is the largest bronze Buddha in Japan, located inside the temple. Kasuga Taisha Shrine: We immerse ourselves in Nara's spiritual atmosphere by visiting this mystical shrine, famous for its thousands of stone and bronze lanterns lining the path. Naramachi: We stroll through the narrow streets of the old merchant district, where we see traditional Japanese houses (Machiya) and enjoy free time in the craft shops.

A Thousand-Year Tradition: Temples, Gardens, and Geishas After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we will head to Kyoto, where Japanese culture is preserved in its purest form. This city, home to countless UNESCO World Heritage sites, invites us on a captivating full-day exploration. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Our first stop is this magnificent Zen temple, covered in gold leaf on its upper two floors, which captivates with its reflection on the pond. Kiyomizu-dera Temple: We will visit this historic temple, built on massive wooden pillars without a single nail, perched on a hill overlooking the city. From the temple's balcony, we will enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto. Fushimi Inari Shrine: We will walk through the endless tunnels formed by thousands of orange "Torii" gates, experiencing one of Japan's most iconic photo spots. Gion District: At the end of our tour, we will stroll through the famous Geisha district, where traditional wooden buildings house centuries-old tea houses. If we are lucky, we may catch a glimpse of a "Maiko" (Geisha apprentice) on her way to an event. After a delightful day, we will return to Osaka in the evening for our overnight stay.

From the Land of the Rising Sun to the Land of Morning Calm After enjoying breakfast at our hotel early in the morning, we will transfer to Osaka Kansai Airport. At 09:30, we will take off on our flight to the energetic capital of South Korea, Seoul. After approximately a 2-hour flight, we will arrive in Seoul, complete our customs procedures, and head to the city center with our private vehicle waiting for us. In the afternoon, we will begin our half-day city tour to experience the spirit of Seoul: Insadong Street: We will have free time in this vibrant street, known as the center of art and culture in Seoul, filled with traditional tea houses and antique shops. Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower): We will conclude the day by ascending this iconic peak, where we can enjoy panoramic views of the city. After dinner, we will check into our hotel for the night. Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham Seoul or similar. Meals: Breakfast.

The Cold Face of History: The Line Between Two Worlds After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we will head to the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone), one of the most tense and intriguing points in modern history. This buffer zone that separates North and South Korea presents both a sorrowful story of separation and a hope for peace. Imjingak Park: We will see the Freedom Bridge and old locomotives bearing the scars of war at the closest civilian point to the border. 3. Infiltration Tunnel: We will descend into the massive tunnel secretly dug 73 meters underground by North Korea, intended for infiltration into the South. Dora Observatory: Here, we have the chance to watch the villages of North Korea, the flag tower, and its mysterious life through telescopes. Dorasan Station: We will visit the modern station famous for its sign, "Not the first station to go to the North, but the last station coming from the South," which is hoped to one day connect the North and South. In the afternoon, we return to the center of Seoul. Gyeongbokgung Palace: We will visit this historical complex, the most magnificent of the five grand palaces built by the Joseon Dynasty.

Write Your Own Story in Seoul After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, our free day begins, allowing you to explore this vast and multi-layered city at your leisure. You can go shopping, trace the footsteps of modern architecture, or visit the locations where Korean dramas were filmed. Here are some options to make the most of your day: Gangnam & COEX Mall: You can head to the heart of modern Seoul, Gangnam, take photos in the famous Starfield Library inside the massive COEX Mall, and have fun in front of the Gangnam Style statue. Myeongdong Shopping District: Spend time in Seoul's liveliest spot for cosmetics, fashion stores, and the famous Korean street food. Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Explore this futuristic building designed by Zaha Hadid and embark on a journey into the world of design. Itaewon: An ideal area to see the cosmopolitan face of the city and try flavors from world cuisines. Han River Park: Walk along the river like a local or join a short boat tour to view the city from the water. In the evening, you can crown your last night in Seoul with a famous Korean Barbecue experience at a local restaurant. Accommodation: Ramada by Wyndham Seoul or similar.

Last Day in Seoul and Night Flight After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we will check out of our rooms and leave our luggage with the hotel. Since our flight is late at night, we have a full day of free time to enjoy Seoul. Full Day of Free Time: You can do your last-minute shopping, explore the famous cosmetic shops in Myeongdong, or spend time in the Gangnam area. Farewell Dinner: In the evening, we will meet with our group for our last dinner in Seoul (Korean barbecue is recommended). Airport Transfer: Around 19:30, we will head to Incheon Airport. Completing ticket and passport procedures. Flight (TK 91): At 00:10, we will depart for Istanbul on Turkish Airlines' comfortable aircraft. Overnight on the plane.

Return from Mystical Asia After a comfortable journey above the clouds, we arrive in our country at the break of dawn, local time. Arrival: Landing at Istanbul Airport at 05:50. Farewell: After passport and baggage procedures, the end of this 14-day adventure through Japan and South Korea. Until we meet again on another route!