ISTANBUL – TOKYO
At Istanbul Airport, arriving 3 hours before your flight (as of 22:50 the evening before departure), after check-in, baggage drop, and passport control, we fly to Tokyo on Turkish Airlines’ direct scheduled flight TK300 at 01:50. Upon arrival at Tokyo Narita International Airport at 19:10 local time, we transfer to our hotel in the Tokyo area by the vehicle waiting for us at the airport. After arriving at the hotel, room check-in and free time to rest are provided.
TOKYO – MOUNT FUJI & HAKONE – TOKYO/GOTEMBA OUTLET – (Tokyo Neon Lights Night Tour)
After breakfast, we depart to organize our Mount Fuji and Hakone Tour program. Fuji, one of Japan’s most important natural symbols and the highest mountain in Japan at approximately 3,776 meters, is regarded as sacred in the country’s culture and as one of the strongest symbols of Japanese aesthetic understanding. If weather conditions are suitable, we will take photo breaks where we can see Mount Fuji panoramically from different points. On our tour, we first reach the Chureito Pagoda area, one of Mount Fuji’s most iconic viewpoints. With its five-story pagoda structure and the view of Mount Fuji rising in the background, we will have the opportunity to photograph one of Japan’s most famous images. Next, we arrive at the shore of Lake Kawaguchi in the Fuji Five Lakes region. At this point, where the most impressive panoramic views of Mount Fuji can be seen, we take a short walk and a photo break. We then continue to the Oshino Hakkai area, which preserves the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese village. In this region, known for its clear ponds fed by the melting snow waters of Mount Fuji and its traditional wooden houses, we take a short walk. We then leave the Mount Fuji area and arrive in the Hakone region. We will take a short photo break and explore the area around Lake Ashi, the crater lake famous for its Mount Fuji views. After our tour in the Mount Fuji and Hakone region, we depart to organize our Tokyo/Gotemba Outlet visit. At one of Tokyo’s outlet shopping centers, you will have free time where you can shop at advantageous prices in stores of international and Japanese brands and enjoy time in modern cafés and restaurants. Afterward, we return to our hotel and provide free time to rest. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra Tokyo Neon Lights Night Tour (55 Euro). On this tour, we will take an evening walk among neon signs and skyscrapers in Tokyo’s most vibrant and illuminated district. After seeing the lit streets of the Kabukicho area, we will make a short exploration in Omoide Yokocho, known for its traditional narrow street layout. After experiencing Tokyo’s night atmosphere, which is completely different from the daytime, with guide commentary, we return to our hotel and offer free time to rest.
TOKYO – (Tokyo Icons Tour) – (Sumo Wrestling Show) – (Ninja Kabuki Show Tour)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time, guests who wish may join the extra Tokyo Icons Tour (125 Euro). First, we take a short photo break in front of the Hachiko Statue, the Akita dog that became a symbol of unconditional love, patience in waiting under all circumstances, devotion, and loyalty for the Japanese people. Then we see the Shibuya Crossing, known as one of the world’s busiest pedestrian crossings, and receive information about the area. Walking along Shibuya Center Gai, we observe Tokyo’s modern and dynamic atmosphere. Afterwards, we move to the Harajuku district and visit Meiji Shrine, notable for its natural area in the city center. After the shrine visit, where we learn about traditional Shinto architecture and the spacious courtyard area and take a photo break, we will take a short walk on Takeshita Street and observe Japanese youth culture, daily life, and colorful shop windows. In the continuation of our program, we move to the Shinjuku district, known for its skyscrapers and where you can experience some of the best restaurants for Japanese cuisine. We see the panoramic city view and get to know Tokyo’s modern face up close. Continuing our tour, we reach Asakusa, which reflects Tokyo’s traditional side. We begin our walk in this area, known for its historical texture stretching from the Edo period to the present day. First, we see the Kaminarimon Gate, the symbol of Senso-ji Temple. After a short photo break, we continue along Nakamise Street. After the free time offered on this street, where traditional souvenirs and local handicrafts are displayed, we will reach the temple courtyard and see the main worship hall and its surroundings. Continuing our tour, we will arrive in Ginza, the district that stands out for Tokyo’s luxury shopping and architectural order. Ginza is one of Tokyo’s most orderly planned and prestigious shopping areas. It is notable for its wide boulevards, modern architecture, and window displays. The area takes its name “Ginza” because it was the site of the silver mint during the Edo period. After free time in Ginza, we complete our full-day tour and provide free time. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra Sumo Wrestling Show (85 Euro). On this program, we will attend a special performance where we get to know the culture of traditional Japanese wrestling sumo up close. Sumo has been part of Japanese culture for centuries and draws attention with its rituals and rules. In this special show held outside the professional tournament period, we will learn about the history and rules of sumo, watch the athletes’ ceremonies, and have the chance to observe exhibition matches. During this approximately 60-minute cultural performance, we will learn about the meaning of the wrestling arena called the dohyo, the athletes’ preparation rituals, and the rules of the matches. Or, during this free time, guests who wish may join the extra Ninja Kabuki Show Tour (75 Euro). In the Ninja Kabuki Show, we organize a wordless live entertainment program expressing Japanese "Ninja", "Hanakai" and "Wadaiko" traditions using Kabuki production techniques. At the end of the program, we return to our hotel and provide free time to rest.
TOKYO – (Tokyo Phenomena Tour) – (Japanese Dance Cabaret Theater Asakusa-Kaguwa Tour)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time, guests who wish may join the extra Tokyo Phenomena Tour (115 Euro). On our tour, we first proceed to the Kamakura region in southern Tokyo. Kamakura, which was the political center of Japan in the 12th century, is considered one of the country’s most important cultural regions with its temples, seaside atmosphere, and historical structures. We first arrive at Kotoku-in Temple, one of Kamakura’s most iconic structures. Here we see the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) statue, built in the 13th century and one of Japan’s most famous statues. This giant bronze statue is approximately 13 meters high and is considered one of Kamakura’s most important symbols. After free time for a short area walk and photos, we proceed toward the city center and arrive at Komachi Street, one of the city’s lively shopping streets. We take a short walk in this area, surrounded by traditional shops, souvenir stores, and small stalls selling local products. We then see Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine, one of Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrines, panoramically. After our Kamakura visit, we reach our next stop, Enoshima Island. Located on Sagami Bay, this small island is one of the region’s most popular destinations with its coastal views and walking routes. First, we will see the Enoshima Sea Candle Observation Tower, one of the island’s symbols, and then we will reach the Ryuren Love Bell point, often visited by couples and visitors. After a short photo break, we continue along the coastline and see the Chigogafuchi Rocks, known for their impressive view of ocean waves crashing against the rocks. After our Enoshima visit, we return to our hotel in the Tokyo area and provide free time to rest. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra Japanese Dance Cabaret Theater Asakusa-Kaguwa Tour (75 Euro). We organize our Japanese Dance Cabaret Theater Asakusa-Kaguwa program. Experience Japanese dance in Asakusa Tokyo. You can take your place in an elegant venue and have the opportunity to watch graceful dancers in carefully prepared kimonos. At the end of the program, we return to our hotel and provide free time to rest.
TOKYO – OSAKA – (Osaka Phenomena and Dotonbori Tour)
After an early breakfast and hotel check-out, we leave our hotel and depart for Osaka by the high-speed train Shinkansen, which has become a symbol of Japanese engineering. This comfortable train journey, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h, will be not only transportation but also a special start where we experience Japan’s modern face. After approximately 2.5 hours of travel, we arrive in Osaka and transfer to our hotel in the Osaka area. Room check-in and free time. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra Osaka Phenomena and Dotonbori Tour (55 Euro). On our tour, first is Osaka Castle, one of the city’s most important symbols. Built in the 16th century, the castle played an important role in Japan’s unification process. After visiting Osaka Castle, where we will see the gardens and exterior panoramically, we move to the Shinsaibashi district, one of the city’s liveliest shopping arteries. In this area with a covered bazaar atmosphere, we walk and observe the city’s daily life. Continuing our tour, we see Dotonbori, Osaka’s entertainment district famous for its neon lights and colorful signs. Dotonbori, Osaka’s most famous and lively area, has been known as the city’s center of entertainment, shopping, and commerce since the 17th century. Its canal-side promenade, giant three-dimensional restaurant signs, and illuminated facades present Osaka’s most iconic views. We complete our city tour with a walking tour around Dotonbori Canal, where we feel the city’s energy most intensely, with its crowded streets at all hours and attractive photo spots. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel in the Osaka area.
OSAKA – (North/South Kyoto Tour with Autumn Foliage Wonders)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time, guests who wish may join the extra North/South Kyoto Tour with Autumn Foliage Wonders (175 Euro). On our tour, we first head to Kyoto, Japan’s first capital and still regarded today as the “cultural capital,” which for centuries housed the imperial palace and became the country’s cultural, religious, and artistic center. There are more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and over 400 Shinto shrines throughout the city. Kyoto has preserved much of its historical texture because it is one of the few Japanese cities not bombed during World War II. With traditional wooden houses, Zen gardens, stone lanterns, and temple complexes, Kyoto offers an atmosphere different from modern Japan. On our tour, where we will have the opportunity to observe Japan’s aesthetic understanding of simplicity, balance, and harmony with nature firsthand, our first stop will be Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic symbols, with its walking path made up of thousands of red Torii gates. After walking in this unique atmosphere, our next stop will be Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple), considered one of Kyoto’s most elegant structures with its gold-leaf-covered exterior and mesmerizing reflection on the pond. Reflecting Zen aesthetics with its gardens and impressive architecture, this magnificent temple is one of the most important symbols of Japanese culture. Continuing our tour, we head to Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most natural and peaceful areas. During our walk among the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forests created by hundreds of bamboo trees stretching to the sky, we will feel the soothing atmosphere of Japanese nature up close. Then, we will walk along the Katsura River, which offers different beauties in every season, and see the historic Togetsukyo (Moon-Crossing Bridge), one of Kyoto’s symbols, located over the river. With its nature-filled atmosphere, traditional Japanese landscapes, and unique photo spots, Arashiyama will allow you to create unforgettable memories as one of Kyoto’s most visited areas. This special tour, where we will experience Japan’s ancient capital heritage, Buddhist and Shinto belief systems, traditional architectural understanding, and a lifestyle shaped in harmony with nature throughout the day, will offer an unforgettable experience for guests who want to discover Kyoto’s history and spirit. After the free time provided, we complete our tour and return to our hotel in the Osaka area.
OSAKA – (Authentic Japan Masterpieces and Kimono Tea Ceremony Tour)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time, guests who wish may join the extra Authentic Japan Masterpieces and Kimono Tea Ceremony Tour (195 Euro). On our tour, we first depart for Nara, one of Japan’s first capitals. After about an hour’s journey, we arrive at an atmosphere intertwined with nature and history. We walk in the park area famous for hundreds of free-roaming deer. These deer, considered sacred in Japanese culture, have become the symbol of the region. We visit Todai-ji Temple, located in the park and one of the largest wooden structures in the world. The giant Great Buddha statue inside the temple is one of the most impressive examples of Japanese Buddhist architecture. After the free time provided, we will visit Gion, the traditional entertainment and geiko (geisha) district of the city, famous for its streets where you will feel as if you are in a traditional Japanese film. Notable for its narrow streets, wooden-front houses, and historic tea houses, Gion is one of the rare areas that carries the Edo period atmosphere into the present day. Here, we will also see the Pontocho and Hanamikoji streets, considered the center of geisha culture, as part of our program. In addition, you can experience traditional flavors of Japanese cuisine around the Kamo River, one of the city’s symbols; and on Kawaramachi Street, you can shop for products unique to Japanese culture. During the free time we offer in Gion, we hold our kimono tea ceremony program, an important part of the region’s unique and world-famous geiko culture. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel in the Osaka area.
OSAKA – SEOUL – (Myeongdong Night Markets Tour with Dinner)
After breakfast and hotel check-out, we head to Osaka Airport for our flight to Seoul. Upon arrival at the airport, after completing baggage drop, check-in, and passport control, we fly to Seoul on a scheduled flight operated by a local airline. Upon arrival in Seoul, we organize our city tour. Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is one of East Asia’s oldest cities with a history of approximately 2,000 years. Declared the capital during the Joseon Dynasty, the city is notable today for its traditional palaces, modern skyscrapers, and technology-oriented lifestyle. In our city tour of Seoul, divided by the Han River, the main sights seen panoramically will be Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in 1395 and the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty and one of the most important symbols of Korean history, Gwanghwamun Square and King Sejong Monument, creator of the Korean alphabet, Insadong where we can visit traditional handicraft shops and cultural stores, and Cheonggyecheon in the city center, an harmonious blend of nature and urban planning. After free time provided at the end of the city tour, transfer to our hotel in the Seoul area and free time to rest. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra Myeongdong Night Markets Tour with Dinner (50 Euro). On our tour, during our evening visit to Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s liveliest and most popular shopping districts, we discover South Korea’s colorful nightlife and famous street foods. At the bright streets, cosmetics stores, and fashion boutiques, as well as the Myeongdong Night Market, famous for its delicious Korean street foods, we will enjoy pleasant time, have dinner included in our program, and then enjoy shopping and free time. This tour, where you can closely experience Korean culture and local life, offers an unforgettable experience for guests who want to feel the unique atmosphere of Seoul nights. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel.
SEUL – (Namsan Seoul Tower, Han River Boat Tour & Glittering Gangnam Nights Tour with Dinner)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time, guests who wish may join the extra Namsan Seoul Tower, Han River Boat Tour & Glittering Gangnam Nights Tour with Dinner (125 Euro), where we can see Seoul from above and photograph its impressive views. In our tour, where we discover Seoul’s modern and dazzling face, we first start at Namsan Seoul Tower, where we can see Seoul from above and photograph its impressive view, and then we organize our boat tour on the Han River. The boat trip, where we will have the opportunity to watch the city’s night silhouette from the water, will be one of the most impressive moments of the tour with bridges, skyscrapers, and the illuminated city view. Then we move to the Gangnam district, representing Seoul’s modern and dynamic face. This district, which gained worldwide fame with “Gangnam Style,” symbolizes South Korea’s economic power with its wide streets, dazzling storefronts, and contemporary city texture. Here, we see the Gangnam Style figure, identified with PSY’s world-famous “Gangnam Style” song and one of the district’s most popular photo spots. Afterwards, we move to the Starfield Library located in the heart of COEX Shopping Mall. More than just a library, this iconic venue bringing Korea’s modern and impressive culture together with books offers a short walk and photo break. In the last part of our tour, we arrive at Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s liveliest shopping and street atmosphere districts. Here we go to our local restaurant for Dakgalbi (Korean chicken), one of the special flavors of traditional Korean cuisine. After a walk through the lively streets illuminated by neon lights, we provide free time. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel.
SEUL – OUTLET – (Discovery of Traditional Seoul & Street Foods Tour)
After breakfast, we depart to organize our outlet tour. At one of Seoul’s most popular outlet shopping centers, you will have free time where you can shop at advantageous prices in stores of world-famous and leading Korean brands and enjoy time in modern cafés and restaurants. During the free time provided in Seoul, guests who wish may join the extra Discovery of Traditional Seoul & Street Foods Tour (75 Euro). Our first stop on the tour will be Bukchon Hanok Village, which brings traditional Korean architecture into the present day. We walk through narrow streets lined with wooden houses hundreds of years old, take an area tour in this special district bearing traces of the Joseon period, and take a photo break. This neighborhood, which opens to the past in the middle of modern Seoul, is one of the city’s most characteristic points. Our next stop, where we will closely experience the city’s local life and street culture, will be Gwangjang Market. In the lively atmosphere of Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul’s oldest and most authentic markets where we can see the street foods of traditional Korean cuisine, we will get to know local market culture, observe daily life in its simplest and most natural form, mingle with the locals, and enjoy free time for beautiful photos. Then, we see Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate), one of the historical city gates from the Joseon period, which has survived to the present day. This structure, an important part of Seoul’s old city wall system, presents the past and present in the same frame. After a short free time for photography, in the final part of our tour we see Dongdaemun Design Plaza, designed by Zaha Hadid, panoramically. With its futuristic architecture, this structure represents Seoul’s contemporary and innovative face. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel and provide free time to rest.
SEUL
After breakfast and hotel check-out, we provide a full day of free time. At the time specified by our guide, we depart for Seoul Incheon Airport for our return flight to Istanbul.
SEUL – ISTANBUL
Upon arrival at the airport, after completing baggage drop, check-in, and passport control, we fly to Istanbul at 00:10 on Turkish Airlines’ scheduled flight TK91. Arrival at Istanbul Airport at 05:55 local time and end of the tour.