MEGA JAPAN & SOUTH KOREA TOUR WITH TURKISH AIRLINES FOR 10 NIGHTS — Special Koyo Season and November Midterm Break... With options including Kimono Tea Ceremony, Japanese Dance Cabaret Theater, Sumo Wrestling, and Ninja Kabuki Show…

İSTANBUL – SEOUL
After arriving at Istanbul Airport 3 hours before your flight (as of 23:00 the evening before the flight), we fly to Seoul at 02:20 on Turkish Airlines’ direct scheduled flight TK90 after check-in, baggage drop-off, and passport control. Following our arrival at Seoul Incheon Airport at 18:20 local time, we transfer with our vehicle waiting at the airport to our hotel in the Seoul area. Upon arrival at the hotel, we provide free time to check into our rooms and rest.
SEOUL – (Namsan Seoul Tower, Han River Boat Tour & Glittering Gangnam Evenings with Dinner Tour)
After breakfast, we depart to organize our city tour. South Korea’s capital, Seoul, with its approximately 2,000-year history, is one of East Asia’s most established cities. Declared the capital during the Joseon Dynasty, the city today stands out with its traditional palaces, modern skyscrapers, and technology-oriented lifestyle. On our city tour in Seoul, which is divided by the Han River, the main sights to be seen panoramically are 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 the King Sejong Monument, the creator of the Korean alphabet; Insadong, where we can visit traditional handicraft shops and cultural stores; and Cheonggyecheon, a harmonious blend of nature and urban planning in the city center. After the city tour, we offer free time. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra tour program of Namsan Seoul Tower, Han River Boat Tour & Glittering Gangnam Evenings with Dinner Tour (125 Euros), where we can see Seoul from above and photograph its impressive view. On this tour, we first start from Namsan Seoul Tower, where we can see Seoul from above and take photos of its impressive panorama, and then we set off on our boat tour on the Han River. This boat ride, where we will have the opportunity to watch the city’s night skyline from the water, will be one of the most impressive moments of the tour with its bridges, skyscrapers, and illuminated city views. Afterwards, we move to the Gangnam district, which represents Seoul’s modern and dynamic face. This area, which gained worldwide fame with “Gangnam Style,” symbolizes South Korea’s economic power with its wide streets, brightly lit storefronts, and contemporary urban fabric. Here, we see the Gangnam Style figure, identified with PSY’s globally famous “Gangnam Style” song and one of the district’s most popular photo spots. Then we proceed to the Starfield Library located in the heart of COEX Shopping Mall. Beyond being just a library, we enjoy a short walk and photo break in this iconic venue that brings Korea’s modern and impressive culture together with books. In the final section of our tour, we arrive at Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most vibrant 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 the walk we will take through the lively streets illuminated by neon lights, we offer free time. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel.
SEOUL – OUTLET – (Discovering Traditional Seoul & Street Foods Tour)
After breakfast, we depart to organize our outlet tour. At one of Seoul’s most popular outlet shopping centers, we complete our tour after the free time offered, where you can shop at advantageous prices in stores of world-famous brands and leading Korean brands, and enjoy time in modern cafés and restaurants. During the free time offered in Seoul, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Discovering Traditional Seoul & Street Foods Tour (75 Euros). Our first stop on the tour will be Bukchon Hanok Village, which brings traditional Korean architecture to the present day. We walk along narrow streets lined with centuries-old wooden houses and take a sightseeing tour of this special area bearing traces of the Joseon period, with a photo break. This neighborhood, which opens a window to the past in the middle of modern Seoul, is one of the city’s most characteristic spots. Our next stop on the tour, 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 the local market culture, observe daily life in its simplest and most natural form, mingle with the locals, and have free time for beautiful photos. Next, we see Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun Gate), one of the historical city gates that has survived from the Joseon period to the present day. This structure, an important part of Seoul’s old city wall system, presents the past and the present in the same frame. After a short free time for photography, we panoramically see Dongdaemun Design Plaza, designed by Zaha Hadid, in the final section of our tour. This structure, notable for its futuristic architecture, represents Seoul’s contemporary and innovative face. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel and have free time to rest.
SEOUL – OSAKA – (Osaka Highlights and Dotonbori Tour)
After breakfast and hotel check-out, we depart for Seoul Airport for our flight to Osaka. After arriving at the airport, following baggage drop-off, check-in, and passport control, we fly to Osaka on a scheduled flight operated by the local airline. Upon arrival in Osaka, transfer to our hotel in the Osaka area and free time to rest. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Osaka Highlights and Dotonbori Tour (55 Euros). Our first stop on the tour will be 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, which we will see panoramically from its garden and exterior, we move to Shinsaibashi, one of the city’s busiest shopping avenues. We walk through this area, which has the atmosphere of a covered bazaar, and observe the city’s daily life. In the continuation of our tour, we see Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous entertainment district known for its neon lights and colorful signs. Dotonbori, the most famous and lively area of Osaka, has been known as the city’s entertainment, shopping, and trade center since the 17th century. The canal-side walkway, giant 3D restaurant signs, and illuminated facades offer Osaka’s most iconic views. We complete our city tour with a walking tour around Dotonbori Canal, where we will feel the city’s energy most intensely, with its crowded streets at all hours and attractive spots for photography lovers. At the end of the tour, we return to our hotel in the Osaka area.
OSAKA – (North/South Kyoto Tour with the Natural Wonders of the Koyo Season)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time offered, guests who wish may join the extra tour program North/South Kyoto Tour with the Natural Wonders of the Koyo Season (175 Euros). Our first stop on the tour is Kyoto, Japan’s first capital and today also regarded as the “cultural capital,” which for centuries hosted 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 largely preserved its historical texture thanks to being one of the rare 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 this tour, where we will have the opportunity to observe firsthand the Japanese understanding of aesthetics based on simplicity, balance, and harmony with nature, our first visit will be Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Japan’s most iconic symbols, with its walkway formed by thousands of red Torii gates. After the walk we will make in this unique atmosphere, our next visit will be Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple), considered one of Kyoto’s most elegant structures with its gold-leaf-covered exterior and mesmerizing reflection over the pond. Reflecting Zen aesthetics with its gardens and impressive architecture, this magnificent temple is one of the most important symbols of Japanese culture. In the continuation of our tour, we depart for Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most natural and peaceful areas. On the walk we will take among the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forests formed by hundreds of bamboo trees reaching into the sky, we will closely feel the serene atmosphere of Japanese nature. Then we will walk along the Katsura River, which offers different beauties in all four seasons, and see the historic Togetsukyo (Moon Crossing Bridge), one of Kyoto’s symbols, located over the river. With its nature-integrated atmosphere, traditional Japanese scenery, and unique photo spots, Arashiyama will allow you to collect 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 the culture of life shaped in harmony with nature throughout the day, will offer an unforgettable experience for our guests who wish to discover Kyoto’s history and spirit. After the free time offered, we complete our tour and return to our hotel in the Osaka area.
OSAKA – (Masterpieces of Authentic Japan with Nara and Kimono Tea Ceremony Tour)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time offered, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Masterpieces of Authentic Japan with Nara and Kimono Tea Ceremony Tour (195 Euros). Our first stop on the tour is Nara, one of Japan’s first capitals. After about a 1-hour journey, we arrive at an atmosphere intertwined with nature and history. We walk in the park area famous for its 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 world’s largest wooden structures. The giant Great Buddha statue inside the temple is one of the most impressive examples of Japanese Buddhist architecture. After the free time to be offered, 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-fronted houses, and historic tea houses, Gion is one of the rare areas that brings the Edo period atmosphere to the present day. Here, we will also see Pontocho and Hanamikoji streets, considered the center of geisha culture, as part of our tour program. In addition, around Kamo River, one of the city’s symbols, you can experience the traditional flavors of Japanese cuisine; on Kawaramachi Street, you can shop for products unique to Japanese culture. During the free time we will provide in Gion, we carry out our tea ceremony program with kimono outfits, 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 – TOKYO – (Tokyo Neon Lights Night Tour)
After an early breakfast and hotel check-out, we leave our hotel and set out for Tokyo by high-speed train Shinkansen, which has become a symbol of Japanese engineering. This comfortable train journey, which can reach 300 km/h, will be not just transportation but a special start where we experience Japan’s modern face. After approximately 2.5 hours of travel, we arrive in Tokyo and head to our hotel in the Tokyo area. Room check-in and free time. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Tokyo Neon Lights Night Tour (55 Euros). On our tour, we will take an evening walk among neon signs and skyscrapers in Tokyo’s most vibrant and illuminated area. We will see the lit streets of the Kabukicho district and then do a short exploration in Omoide Yokocho, known for its traditional narrow street layout. After our tour, where we will experience Tokyo’s night atmosphere, completely different from the daytime, accompanied by our guide’s narration, 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 offered, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Tokyo Icons Tour (125 Euros). First, we make a short photo stop in front of the Hachiko Statue, the Akita breed dog that became a symbol of unconditional love, patience in waiting under any circumstances, devotion, and loyalty for the Japanese people and gained fame. Then we see Shibuya Crossing, known as one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, 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, which stands out with its natural area located in the city center. After the shrine visit, where we will receive information about the traditional Shinto architecture and large 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 storefronts. In the continuation of our program, we move to the Shinjuku district, known for its skyscrapers and where you can experience the finest restaurants of Japanese cuisine. We see the panoramic city view and get to know Tokyo’s modern face up close. In the continuation of our tour, we arrive in Asakusa, which reflects Tokyo’s traditional face. We begin our walk in this area, known for its historical texture extending from the Edo period to the present. First, we see Kaminarimon Gate, the symbol of Senso-ji Temple. After a short photo break, we will proceed along Nakamise Street. After the free time offered on this street, where traditional souvenir items and local handicrafts are displayed, we will reach the temple courtyard and see the main worship hall and its surroundings. In the continuation of our tour, we will arrive in Ginza, the district that stands out with its luxury shopping and architectural order. Ginza is one of Tokyo’s most orderly planned and most prestigious shopping districts. It is notable for its wide boulevards, modern architecture, and storefront arrangement. The district got its name “Ginza” because it was the location of the silver mint during the Edo period. After the free time offered in Ginza, we complete our full-day tour and offer free time. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Sumo Wrestling Show (85 Euros). In this program, we will join a special performance program where we will closely learn about the traditional Japanese wrestling culture of sumo. Sumo has been part of Japanese culture for centuries and stands out with its rituals and rules. In this special performance program 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 watch the exhibition matches. During this cultural performance lasting approximately 60 minutes, we will learn about the meaning of the wrestling area 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 tour program Ninja Kabuki Show Tour (75 Euros). In the Ninja Kabuki Show, we organize our 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 offer free time to rest.
TOKYO – (Tokyo Phenomena Tour) – (Japanese Dance Cabaret Theater Asakusa-Kaguwa Tour)
After breakfast, during the full day of free time offered, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Tokyo Phenomena Tour (115 Euros). On our tour, we first proceed to the Kamakura region in the south of Tokyo. Kamakura, which was Japan’s political center in the 12th century, is considered one of the country’s most important cultural regions with its temples, coastal atmosphere, and historical structures. First, we 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. Made of bronze, this giant statue is approximately 13 meters high and is considered one of Kamakura’s most important symbols. After free time for a short sightseeing tour 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. Next, we panoramically see Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine, one of Kamakura’s most important Shinto shrines. After our Kamakura visit, we arrive at our next destination, Enoshima Island. This small island located in Sagami Bay 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, frequently 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 excursion, we return to our hotel in the Tokyo area and offer free time to rest. During this free time, guests who wish may join the extra tour program Japanese Dance Cabaret Theater Asakusa-Kaguwa Tour (75 Euros). We organize our Japanese Dance Cabaret Theater Asakusa-Kaguwa program. Experience Japanese dance in Asakusa, Tokyo. Take your seat in the elegant venue and you may have the opportunity to watch graceful dancers in carefully prepared kimonos. At the end of the program, we return to our hotel and offer free time to rest.
TOKYO – MOUNT FUJI & HAKONE – TOKYO/GOTEMBA OUTLET
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 considered sacred in the country’s culture and one of the strongest symbols of Japanese aesthetics. If weather conditions are suitable, we will make photo stops where we can view Mount Fuji panoramically from different points. On our tour, we first arrive at the Chureito Pagoda area, one of Mount Fuji’s most iconic viewpoints. With the five-story pagoda structure and the Mount Fuji view rising in the background, we will have the opportunity to photograph one of Japan’s most famous images. Then 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 photo break. Next, we move to the Oshino Hakkai area, which preserves the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese village. We take a short walk in this area, known for its clear ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s melting snowwaters and traditional wooden houses. In the continuation of our program, we leave the Mount Fuji surroundings and arrive in the Hakone region. We will make a short photo break and sightseeing tour around Lake Ashi, the crater lake famous for its views of Mount Fuji. After our tour in the Mount Fuji and Hakone regions, we depart to organize our Tokyo/Gotemba Outlet excursion. After the free time where you can shop at advantageous prices in one of Tokyo’s outlet shopping centers, with stores of international and Japanese brands, and enjoy time in modern cafés and restaurants, we return to our hotel and offer free time to rest.
TOKYO – ISTANBUL
After breakfast and hotel check-out, we head to Tokyo Narita Airport for our return flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival at the airport, after baggage drop-off, check-in, and passport control, we fly to Istanbul at 10:10 on Turkish Airlines scheduled flight TK51. Arrival at Istanbul Airport at 18:00 local time and the end of our tour.