Japan and South Korea – On the trail of the samurai and hanbok | March 27, 2026-April 8, 2026

Japan and South Korea – On the trail of the samurai and hanbok | March 27, 2026-April 8, 2026

Suitable for:

Period: 27.03.2026-8.04.2026

10 nights | 13 days

Group of 12 people | Places left 10

Tokyo | Hakone | Kyoto | Nara | Osaka | Seoul | Busan 

Experience an unforgettable trip to Japan and South Korea - where tradition meets the future!

We start in the dynamic city Tokio, a megalopolis of neon lights, ultramodern culture and hidden temples that tell stories of the past. From there we head to Hakonewhere we will enjoy the tranquility of nature, the hot mineral springs and the magical view of Mount Fuji.

Next is Kyoto - Japan's spiritual capital, home to millennia-old temples, maroon alleys and majestic geishas. In Nara We will experience the country's first capital and meet friendly deer among ancient Buddhist shrines.

Osaka will welcome us with lively streets, unique food and nightlife full of energy. Then we cross the sea and find ourselves in the heart of South Korea - Seoulwhere ancient palaces merge with technological wonder and modern rhythm.

To finish - the sea charm of Pusanwith its sandy beaches, fish markets and temples nestled on the cliffs above the ocean.

Are you ready for an exciting journey through two cultures, seven cities and countless memories?

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7,700 лв. без ДДС

Важно: Застраховките се продават само в пакет с пътуванията и не могат да бъдат закупени отделно.

Трайна загуба на трудоспособност в резултат на Злополука – 10 000 лв

Смърт в резултат на Злополука – 10 000 лв

Загуба, кражба или повреда на багаж – 500 лв

Лична отговорност към трети лица – телесни наранявания или имуществени щети – 10 000 лв

Защита на дома при пътуване в Република България – 2 000 лв

Разходи за медицински разноски в резултат на Злополука (вкл. разходи за медицинско транспортиране) – 2 000 лв

 

Ако искате да се възползвате от тази възможност, нашите партньори от Кредипорт, ще се свържат с Вас!

Day 1 27.03.2026 Sofia - Tokyo

Group meeting on 27.03.2026 at Sofia Airport. Flight to Tokyo, Japan. 

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Narita International Airport, we will be met by our local tour guide at the gate for transfer to the hotel and time to relax after the long drive.

Hotel: 4* Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-Gai     

After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our cherry blossom viewing tour. We will continue on to Meiji Shrine. It is a wonderful example of Japanese architecture, located in a quiet and picturesque area. Passing by the Akasaka Guest House and the National Diet Building, we will visit the East Garden of the Imperial Palace and enjoy a pleasant walk through the garden, which is a place of historical interest and picturesque beauty. Then we head to the famous Ginza shopping district, where we will enjoy a typical Japanese lunch. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

 

After a delicious lunch, we will continue to Tokyo Tower and climb up to the Main Observatory, where we can enjoy the panoramic view of Tokyo from the main observation deck. Then we will go to Ueno Park, famous for being the best place for locals to enjoy the cherry blossoms. After that, we will enjoy a boat ride on the Sumida River from Hinode Pier to Asakusa to see the harmonious blend of old and new Tokyo. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

 

Our tour for the day will end with our return to the hotel and free time for evening walks or relaxing at the hotel.  

Hotel: 4*  Mitsui Garden Hotel Shiodome Italia-Gai – Токио

Food: Breakfast and Lunch
 

Activities: Meiji Shrine, the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, Ginza district, Tokyo Tower, Ueno Park. 

After breakfast, we leave the hotel and set off on a picturesque journey that will take us about two hours to one of Japan's most iconic natural wonders—Mount Fuji. We arrive at the fifth station—a place that seems to be between heaven and earth. Here we will have the opportunity to enjoy a stunning panoramic view above the clouds – a view that takes your breath away and remains forever in your memory. We will spend about half an hour in this magical place, immersing ourselves in the silence and grandeur of the sacred mountain.

After this inspiring moment, we will head to a cozy local restaurant, where we will enjoy lunch with traditional Japanese flavors. Later, we will enjoy a relaxing cruise on the calm waters of Lake Kawaguchi, offering unique views of Mount Fuji reflected in the crystal clear water.

Our afternoon ends with a trip to the resort area of Hakone, where we will check into our hotel. In the evening, a true Japanese experience awaits you – the opportunity to immerse yourself in the healing waters of a hot spring and enjoy a rich buffet dinner served in traditional Japanese style.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner
 

Activities: Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi Cruise, Hot Springs.

Train No.: KODAMA735 (11:00–13:00)

After enjoying a delicious breakfast and the soothing waters of the hot spring, we will depart from the hotel in the late afternoon. We will head to the train station, where we will board the famous Shinkansen high-speed train—a true Japanese experience—bound for Kyoto.

Upon arrival in the city, we will be greeted by a private transfer that will take us to a local restaurant for lunch and then to our hotel for check-in. The afternoon is free, so we can take a leisurely stroll and soak up the unique atmosphere of Kyoto—a city where tradition and modernity live in perfect harmony.

 

Hotel: 4* Henn na Hotel Premier 

Food: Breakfast and Lunch
 

Activities: Hot spring, Train travel 

After breakfast at the hotel, our exciting journey through the cultural heart of Japan – Kyoto – begins. The day starts with a walk through the famous Arashiyama bamboo forest – a magical place where tall bamboo stalks tower above the silence and create a feeling of calm and harmony. The paths that wind between them offer an unforgettable experience amid natural beauty and tranquility.

Next, we head to one of Japan's most iconic landmarks—the Golden Pavilion, or Kinkaku-ji Temple. Covered in real gold leaf, the temple rises gracefully above its reflection in the crystal lake, creating a picture that seems to have come out of a Japanese engraving – breathtaking, dazzling, and perfectly quiet.

In the afternoon, we will enjoy lunch at a traditional local restaurant, and then we will drive about 40 minutes to the ancient city of Nara. There we will visit the magnificent Todai-ji Temple, a world-renowned architectural masterpiece that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wooden building in the world. Inside is the largest bronze statue of Buddha in Japan, majestic and inspiring.

Right in front of the temple lies Deer Park, a magical place where hundreds of free-roaming deer wander among visitors. These friendly animals, considered sacred, often approach and even bow to you in anticipation of a treat – a unique and touching moment that will remain in your heart.

After a walk among the deer and a busy day full of impressions, we return to Kyoto for the night and a well-deserved rest.

Hotel: 4*  Henn na Hotel Premier

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner
 

Activities: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Todaiji Temple, Nara Deer Park.

Flight No.: MM711 (7:55 p.m.–9:55 p.m.)

On this day, we will enjoy the "Cultural Experiences" tour – an exciting immersion into the spirit of traditional Japan. We will dress in elegant kimonos and enjoy a ceremony with classic matcha green tea in an authentic Japanese-style house located in the ancient and charming Gion district.

Afterwards, we will head to a sophisticated local restaurant where we will enjoy a kaiseki-style lunch – a multi-course culinary experience with meticulously arranged seasonal dishes, presented as true works of art.

After lunch, we will be transferred to Kansai Airport in Osaka for our flight to Seoul. We say goodbye to Japan and excitedly begin the next part of our journey – discovering South Korea. Upon arrival, we will be transferred to the hotel, and the rest of the day is free for relaxation or first impressions of Seoul.

Food: Breakfast and Lunch

Hotel: 4* Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok

Activities: Wearing a traditional kimono
 

After breakfast at the hotel, our first day begins, dedicated to the exciting exploration of Seoul – a dynamic capital where the past and present intertwine in an impressive way.

Our journey begins with a visit to Gyeongbok Palace, the largest and most impressive of the five royal palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. Located at the foot of Bugaksan Mountain, it is a true symbol of royal power and Korean architecture. Within the palace grounds, we will also visit the National Folk Museum, whose building is inspired by traditional Korean architecture and offers a fascinating insight into the daily life and culture of Korea through the centuries.

We continue past the Blue Presidential House (Cheong Wa Dae) – the official residence of the South Korean president, known for its iconic blue tile roof structure, a symbol of peace and stability.

We will then find ourselves in Gwanghwamun Square, where we will see the monumental statues of two of Korea's most revered historical figures—King Sejong the Great, creator of the Korean alphabet Hangul, and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a national hero known for his naval victories.

This is followed by a delicious lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant, where we will sample authentic local cuisine.

In the afternoon, we will stroll through the picturesque village of Bukchon Hanok, home to hundreds of well-preserved traditional houses called hanoks, which take us back in time and reveal the authentic spirit of old Korea.

Next, we will visit the colorful Insadong Street, the heart of traditional arts and crafts. Here you will find galleries, antique shops, tea houses, and cafes offering a true cultural experience.

The day ends with a walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream, a renovated historic waterway that runs through the center of Seoul and carries with it over 600 years of history.

After the tour, we return to the hotel, where you will have free time to rest and go for a walk until the end of the day.

Хотел: 4* Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok

Food: Breakfast and Lunch 

Activities: Gyeongbok Palace, National Folk Museum, Cheng Wa Dae, statue of King Sejong the Great, Kukjeon Hanok Village.

Влак: KTX085 (09:30 – 12:15)

The day begins with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a transfer to the train station for a trip on the KTX high-speed train. For about two and a half hours, we will enjoy a comfortable and picturesque journey to the coastal city of Busan.

Upon arrival, we head to one of the most colorful and artistic places in the city—the Gamcheon Culture Village, picturesquely located on the slopes of a hill. Here you will find colorful streets decorated with murals, sculptures, and hundreds of details that have turned the area into an open-air gallery. During the flowering season, cherry trees add to the magic with their pink embrace.

Then we will take the cable car above Songdo Beach, which takes us above the blue waves and reveals stunning views of the Busan coastline, dotted with cherry blossoms and cityscapes.

At the end of the day, we will visit the famous Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest in Korea, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, browse the stalls with fresh seafood, and even pick up something delicious to try.

After the tour, we will head to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for rest or independent walks in Busan.

Food: Breakfast and Lunch

Hotel: 4* Ramada Encore Busan Station

Activities: Gamcheon Culture Village, Cable Car, Jagalchi Fish Market.

Train: KTX022 (6:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.)

After breakfast at the hotel, we start our day with a visit to the picturesque seaside temple of Yeonggungsa, built on a rocky shore with a magnificent view of the open ocean—one of the few shrines in Korea located by the sea. The place exudes a sense of tranquility and spirituality, with the backdrop of crashing waves and blossoming cherry trees.

Next up is an exciting experience with Sky Capsule—a small panoramic train that runs along the coast and reveals breathtaking views of the horizon, the sparkling sea, and the cherry-blossom-framed coastline. It's the perfect opportunity for photos and romance in the air.

We continue to the famous Haeundae Beach, where we will stroll along the sunny coastal promenade and enjoy a moment of relaxation in a cozy café overlooking the sea. Nearby is the bustling Haeundae Market, which we will visit—a great place to buy local delicacies and souvenirs.

After lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant, we finish our tour with a visit to the iconic APEC house, Nurimaru, built specifically for the 2005 summit. Located on a small cape, surrounded by forest and cherry blossoms, the building impresses with its modern architecture and panoramic sea views – the perfect end to our trip to Busan.

At the end of the day, we head to the train station to take the KTX train back to Seoul, where we will stay again at the Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok hotel for the night.

Food: Breakfast and Lunch

Hotel: 4* Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok 

Activities: Yonggunsa Temple, SKY Capsule trip, Haeundae Market, train to Seoul

After breakfast, we will immerse ourselves in one of the most significant chapters of contemporary history with a visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) – one of the most heavily guarded and symbolic places in the world.

In the morning, we will be picked up from the hotel and head to key sites related to the division of the Korean Peninsula. We will visit the Freedom Bridge and Imjingak Park, where we will learn about the deep historical and emotional significance of these places, which tell the stories of separated families and unfulfilled hopes.

Next, we will explore the Third Tunnel, dug by North Korea for a potential invasion, as well as the DMZ exhibition, where we will gain a deeper understanding of the conflict, the consequences of division, and the ongoing tension between the two Koreas.

The highlight of the tour will be the Odusan Observatory, which offers an extremely rare and exciting view of North Korea – a moment that is difficult to forget.

Afterwards, we will return to downtown Seoul for lunch, and the afternoon is free for independent walks, rest, or additional discoveries in the city.

Хотел: 4*Mercure Ambassador Seoul Magok

Food: Breakfast and Lunch

Activities: Korean Demilitarized Zone, Freedom Bridge, Imjingak Park, Odusan Observatory.

Our exciting spring journey through Japan and Korea is coming to an end. Today, you will have free time in Seoul to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms once again and say goodbye to this charming city in your own way.

In the afternoon, a transfer will be arranged to Incheon Airport for our flight back to Sofia.

Food: Breakfast

The group lands at Sofia Airport and the adventure is over, but the memories remain!

Prices include:

An internal flight Osaka to Seoul with airport taxes and fuel surcharge based on economy class. The allowable baggage size limit is 20x40x55 cm. Please note that taxes and fuel surcharges are subject to change at any time. All airline tickets are electronic, and you only need to present your passports during airport check-in. Baggage allowance is 20 kg per person for passengers holding economy class tickets.

Transfer: We have arranged private transfers, between airports, hotels and all attractions. All private transfers will be charged extra or at your own expense.

The hotel accommodation is based on two adults sharing a standard room with two single beds or one double bed. Please note that the choice of specific accommodation type is subject to availability and subject to confirmation. Check-in time at hotels is around 14:00 and check-out time is 12:00 noon. Early check-in and late check-out are subject to room availability and may incur an additional charge.

Food: Breakfast is served at the hotel. Most hotels serve a breakfast buffet with mixed Japanese/South Korean and Western food.
Some hotels may only provide a local breakfast. Lunch is served in local restaurants with traditional cuisine, where a menu can be negotiated. A non-alcoholic drink is included as a compliment with lunch. For any special meal request, such as Indian food, vegetarian food, Hala food or Western food, or any special requirements related to dining in Japan and South Korea , please inform us in advance. We will try our best to arrange it based on your request, additional charges may apply.

Guide service: For the peace of mind of all Mysties, we have taken care to provide a Bulgarian guide, Yoan as well as local English-speaking guides at each destination who will be with you everywhere.

Sightseeing and entrance fees: Includes entrance fees for the places indicated in the program.

Mysty Travel reserves the right to change the sequence of organised activities and sightseeing visits depending on local circumstances. Final arrangements will be determined by local guides depending on the feasibility of the activities.

Mysty Travel will adhere to the original itinerary as closely as possible. There will be no refunds for unused tours and services.

Flight tickets Sofia-Tokyo and Seoul-Sofia. Please be sure to check the policies of the various airlines carefully. 

Total ticket prices range around 1200 $/човек, and we offer assistance with their purchase for an additional fee of BGN 10 per person.  

Extra baggage fees, anything outside these parameters is considered extra baggage: adults and children are entitled to free checked baggage in economy class 20 kg, business class 30 kg and first class 40 kg. The baggage size limit is 40x60x100cm. За ръчен Baggage: each Economy Class passenger is entitled to one 5 kg item; First Class passengers are entitled to 2 separate 5 kg items each. The baggage size limit is 20x40x55 cm. 

Tips for local guides, escorts, drivers, greeters, etc. Bakshishis are not compulsory, but are now widely accepted in many countries and are given as a sign of a job well done and in recognition of good service. 

Personal expences, such as extra baggage fees, Sim Cards, meals beyond what is stated, extra activities, dinner, etc., are at your own expense. 

K‑ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization): must be applied for online (valid for 2 years), with a small fee (~8 USD).

Insurance against travel accidents abroad. We recommend that all travellers take out comprehensive travel accident insurance before leaving Bulgaria. You can take out this insurance with our partners at CrediPort.

  1. Climatic conditions: Typical spring weather is expected so be prepared with light but not summer clothes and a raincoat just in case.

  2.  Comfortable shoes for walks.

  3. Passport: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip.

With these preparatory steps you will enjoy every experience, whatever the weather!

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