East Asia Explorer

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Tour Details

Enjoy modern cities and ancient splendor as you embark on this 17 day journey through East Asia. You’ll explore the wonders of Japan, South Korea, China, and Taiwan, and tour the some of the most renowned sites in the world. Explore Mt. Fuji, discover the Forbidden City, and even explore the Demilitarized Zone! Explore the landmark cities in Japan, China, and Korea. You are sure to experience the different cultures and foods these places boast in addition to visiting cultural sights at each which showcase the interconnected history of these three countries. From the Meiji Shrine in Japan, to the Forbidden Palace in China, to Changdeok Palace in Korea, and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Tai Pei discover the hidden treasures that these places offer in addition to the beautiful naturescapes and vibrant atmospheres you pass through. Cruises, delicious cuisine, and fantastic fun await you!You’ll be going home with more than souvenirs, you’ll have memories of an experience you can’t get anywhere else in the world.

Your customizable journey includes:

3 Days in Tokyo

3 Days in Kyoto

3 Days in Seoul

3 Days in Beijing

2 Days in Shanghai

3 Days in Taipei

Weather, Seasons and Climate

Japan
The country experiences temperate weather, and all four seasons distinctly. Temperatures drop significantly as you head farther north. From December to February is dry and cool, and March to May is a bit warmer, with little rain.

China
Although the climate varies from region to region, the summers here are typically hot and dry, and winters can get extremely cold. September and October are the best times to travel, as the weather is typically the mildest.

South Korea
South Korea has a temperate climate with four very distinct seasons. Winters are usually long, cold and dry. Summers are very short, hot, and humid. Spring and autumn are pleasant, but short. Visiting in August or September is advised!

Taiwan
Taiwan experiences warm winters and hot, wet summers, with plenty of typhoons and thunderstorms. Visiting in the fall is advised.

Day 1 :Tokyo (Airport transfer, meet and greet)

Welcome to Japan! Your private guide will assist you in getting your luggage, before introducing you to your driver.

Day 2 :Tokyo (Full Day Tour)

Today, you’ll tour the Meiji Shrine, walk down Omotesandso shopping street, stroll through Asakusa (the last remnant of ancient Tokyo), and even explore Sensoji and Nakamise! Your day will end in Hamarikyu garden, with a stop at a Japanese tea house for some sweet treats!

Day 3 :Tokyo (Full Day Tour)

Journey to Hakone today- the entryway to My. Fuji and its national park. Explore the park with your knowledgeable travel guide, ride one of the world’s longest cable cars at Mt. Owakudani, and even enjoy a hard boiled egg straight from the town’s sulfurous hot springs! You’ll also have the opportunity to travel across one of the park’s largest lakes via a replica pirate ship!

Day 4 :Tokyo - Kyoto (2.5 hour train transfer, Half Day Tour)

You’ll be transferred via train for the short, 2.5 hour journey to Kyoto. The city contains 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and today you’ll be able to tour two of them- the Kinkakuji Temple, and the Nijo Castle. You’ll finish up your day with a visit to the renowned Nishiki Market- affectionately known as Kyoto’s Kitchen.

Day 5 :Kyoto (Full Day Tour)

Travel to the small town of Nara today via taxi and local train. After the 45 minute trip, you’ll visit the world’s largest wooden building and Japan’s largest Buddha at Todaiji temple. Next, you’ll tour the town’s most celebrated shrine in Kasuga Taisha. Later, you’ll visit Nara Park, a local sake brewery, and Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Day 6 :Kyoto - Seoul (Private Transfer, airport meet and greet)

Transfer from Kyoto to Osaka for a flight to Seoul. Though the flight fare is not included, you’ll receive the same excellent service when you touch down in the city. Your guide will escort you to your private driver.

Day 7 :Seoul (Full Day Tour)

Enjoy a full day tour of this mysterious city today. You’ll view Changdeok Palace, the Bukchon Hanok Village, Insa-dong Street, and Jongmyo, a shrine dedicated to memorial services for deceased royal figures of the Korean Joseon Dynasty.

Day 8 :Seoul (Shared Tour)

Travel by shared coach to the Demilitarized Zone and the “third tunnel.” Brush up on Asian military history as your guide educates you on the tunnel’s use and the importance of the DMZ. Because of the military presence, a dress code is enforced here

Day 9 :Seoul - Beijing (Private Transfer, airport meet and greet)

Fly back to Beijing today on a flight of your choosing (airfare is not included). On arrival, your driver will escort you to your lodgings, before taking you back out in the evening for a deluxe Peking Duck dinner at the famed Da Dong restaurant. Later, visit the Liyuan Theater Peking Opera!

Day 10 :Beijing (Full Day Tour)

Today, you’ll embark on a full day private tour of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Built in 1417, the Square is one of the oldest surviving remnants of the Ming Dynasty, and actually operated as the “front door” to the Forbidden City!

Day 11 :Beijing (Full-Day Tour)

Today, your private guide will escort you to the Great Wall at Mutianyu- prominent piece of scenery located some 45 minutes northeast of the city. This military construction is approximately eight meters high, and five meters thick!

Day 12 :Beijing - Shanghai (5.5 hour train transfer)

Today you’ll transfer from Beijing to Shanghai via high speed Bullet Train. The ride will take about 5.5 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll be treated to a spectacular acrobatic show by some of the most highly trained acrobats in the world. You’ll also enjoy a magnificent dinner!

Day 13 :Shanghai

Enjoy a private tour of the Oriental Pearl Tower, Yu Gardens, Jade Buddha Temple, and the Huangpu River via private cruise today. The tower is China’s tallest TV and radio tower, and the shrine happens to be one of the most famous sites in the entire city! Additionally, the Gardens are the largest in the region.

Day 14 :Shanghai - Taipei (Flight transfer)

Your driver will transfer you to the airport via private vehicle, where you’ll board a flight to Taipei. Airfare is not included. On arrival, your guide will assist you in meeting up with your driver.

Day 15 :Taipei (Half day tour)

Enjoy a half day tour of the Taipei area today. You’ll begin with a visit to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, before visiting nearby Martyr’s Shrine, the Taipei National Palace Museum, and a local handicrafts store to browse traditional, handmade goods. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a tour of Lunghshan Temple, before dinner at IS Tea House!

Day 16 :Taipei (Half Day Tour)

Explore the beautiful northern coast of Taiwan today- first with a visit to the harbor city of Keelung, then a stroll through Yehliu Park- renowned for its picturesque views.

Day 17 :Taipei (airport transfer home)

Your time here has come to an end, but your memories will last forever! You’ll be transferred to the airport today for your flight home.

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Tokyo
Tokyo Disneyland, Odaiba, Tokyo Skytree

Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Shimogamo Shrine

Seoul
N Seoul Tower, Myeong-dong, Lotte World

Beijing
Jingshan Park, Beihai Park, Old Summer Palace

Shanghai
Shanghai Museum, People’s Square, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Taipei
Yangmingshan, Taipei 101, National Palace Museum

Tokyo:Eat

Shima

Chef Manabu Oshima is known for his wonderful and exotic steak creations, and uses only the freshest ingredients. Served with a fresh seafood appetizer, we guarantee you’ll be stuffed when you leave. Oh, by the way- you’ll be dining in his basement!

Fukamachi

Frequently touted as one of the best tempura spots in the city, this old-school restaurant offers seafood and vegetables fried in the most delectable batter imaginable. Open for lunch and dinner, the small space fills up quickly- so be sure to get there early!

Sushi Tokami

Craving sushi? Look no further than Hiroyuki Sato’s Michelin starred restaurant. Awarded that Michelin star within just months of its opening, the restaurant offers fresh, mouthwatering sushi prepared by the head chef himself.

Tokyo:Stay

Intercontinental The Strings Tokyo - 5 Star- A luxury hotel near the iconic

Shinagawa Station, this beautifully ornate spot is located right in the center of the city, and offers convenient access to the Tsukiji Fish Market and swanky Ginza district.

Park Hotel Tokyo - 4 Star

A luxury business hotel centrally located in Shiodome, ths modern spot provides high-quality service and an elegant ambiance befitting the aesthetic influences of the region.

Red Planet Tokyo Asakusa - 3 Star

The top-rated 3-star hotel in the area, this 134-room property is located in the heart of the city, and offers access to many local hotspots. A quality option that won’t break the bank!

Kyoto:Eat

Sou

A gourmet experience awaits you here. The owner and head chef of this swanky eatery specializes in Wagyu A5 beef- the highest quality cut there is. The wine selection is also tremendous.

Chihana

Founded in 1946, this restaurant is touted as a must-visit for Japanese foodies. With an abundance of ever-changing dishes, all served on an unfinished wood table, it definitely is a spot worth checking out!

Kyoto:Stay

The Westin Miyako Kyoto - 5 Star

The Westin is known as one of the Western world’s premier hotels, and the chain certainly doesn’t disappoint here, either.

Kyoto Hotel Okura - 4 Star

This hotel’s location, service, and room rates make it an attractive option for guests who want luxury without breaking the bank. Breakfast is included with your room rate!

Royal Park Hotel The Kyoto - 3 Star

- Just a 5-minute walk from the subway, this modern and swanky hotel is right in the heart of the city. Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine from the spot’s in-house restaurant!

Seoul:Eat

Tavolo 24

This all-you-can-eat spot has a classy, chic feel, with excellent service and even better food. Get here early… it fills up quick!

JW’s Grill

A swanky restaurant inside the Marriott that offers contemporary South Korean dishes in a fine-dining atmosphere.

Seoul:Stay

Sheraton Seoul - 5 Star

Minimalist rooms and suites, with a buffet-style restaurant and a spa, all in a modern, contemporary aesthetic. Located close to the subway station, guests can take advantage of the easy transportation should they wish to go far. Or, guests can enjoy the close proximity the Sheraton Seoul Duke City Hotel is to a variety of restaurants, shopping, business, and cultural attractions.

Ramada Seoul Dongdaemun - 4 Star

Simple, elegant rooms in a modern hotel with free Wi-Fi, an in-house restaurant, and a convenient shuttle. In the hotel, guests can find a restaurant to dine at for dinner in addition to a buffet breakfast. All of their rooms are beautifully furnished which comes with a flat screen TV, hairdryer, and cribs at request. Additionally, the Ramada Seoul Dongdaemun is nicely located close to subway stations in addition to the business district and shopping district perfect for tourists and travelers.

Ibis Styles - 3 Star

This hotel offers relaxed lodging, complimentary breakfast, a bar, fitness center, and a sauna. With 317 roons, you are sure to find one that is suitable for your needs. Located on the south bank of Han river, the Ibis Styles is located in the bustling business district of Gangnam which is ideal for traveling and nightlife.

Beijing:Eat

Beijing Da Dong

Known for miles around for its exquisite Peking Duck, this local hangout offers a unique ambiance and wonderful prices.

Mr. Shi’s Dumpling

The name says it all. Excellently priced dumplings are the name of the game at this local restaurant. Customers rave about the bevy of filling choices!

Beijing:Stay

Pullman Beijing South - 5 Star

This elegant hotel offers plush, comfortable rooms and suites, an indoor pool and gym, and upscale international dining, everything a guest could want at a hotel. This five star hotel is actually the first international five star hotel located in the Bei Jing Economic Technological Development Area. Located close to landmarks and attractions in the city and hiking trails of Nan Haizi park, the Pullman is perfect for tourists. All of the rooms and suites come fully equipped with wireless internet, coffee and tea making facilities, and direct dial telephones. Inside the hotel, guests can dine at the D’Ming restaurant which serves delicious Cantonese and Huaiyang cuisine.

Park Plaza - 4 Star

Located in the heart of Beijing, guests can enjoy the convenience of their location as they are walking distance away from the iconic Tiananmen Square and the Wangfujing shopping street for shopping in addition to many restaurants, commercial businesses, and other entertainment. All of the rooms offer air conditioning, minibar, wifi, and more. Additionally, all rooms feature a truly stunning cityscape and skyline that is a wonder to wake up to. The hotel also offers a fitness center for guests to use in addition to a in house spa and bar.

Beijing Double Happiness Hotel - 3 Star

This rustic, 250-year-old hotel features warm rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a beautiful courtyard. If you are looking for a true traditional experience of ancient Chinese life, this is as close as you are going to get. Living in a courtyard house, you can witness the daily life of Chinese people as you live in the heart of the city. Each of the rooms are traditionally decorated from their bedding to furniture and walkways. They offer amenities such as family rooms, breakfast in the room, and a share lounge area. If you are looking for some fresh air, they also have a terrace you can visit. Beijing Double Happiness Hotel is centrally located so it is close to many attractions like the Blue Zoo Beijing, National Art Museum of China, and more, perfect for exploring the city.

Shanghai:Eat

M on the Bund

This restaurant is known for its stellar location, low prices, and delicious, authentic Chinese food. Locals call it a classic.

Jia Jia Tang Bao

Critics rave that this restaurant offers some of the best soup dumplings in the country. Locals say the ambiance and service is second to none. What’s not to love?

Shanghai:Stay

Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai - 5 Star

A modern, refined hotel offering with two restaurants, a salsa bar, and a spa with an indoor pool is the simple way to describe this amazing hotel. The Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai is located in the financial district which offers guests a stunning skyline from each of the range of luxury rooms and suites. The Grand Kempinski also offers an onsite health club for all your relaxation and wellness needs which includes a spa, swimming pool, and gym. Guests also have the option to dine at each of the four gourmet restaurants and three bars located in the hotel.

Sofitel Shanghai Hyland - 4 Star

The Sofitel Shanghai Hyland offers a stunning cross between Chinese culture and touches with French hospitality. Located in the heart of the city, the hotel is easily located as it resides of a famous pedestrian shopping street. The Bun and People’s Square is close by which the guests can enjoy in addition to the landmark attractions of the Grand Theatre and Shanghai Museum. Plush rooms and suites come standard in this swanky hotel. Enjoy the two restaurants, a bar, a spa, and a gym located in the Sofitel Shanghai Hyland.

Charms Hotel Shanghai - 3 Star

The Charms Hotel, aptly named, is a charming hotel located in downtown Shanghai. Close to attractions like Bund and People’s Square, the Charms Hotel is also only a 10 minute drive away from the main railway station and 20 minutes away from the Hongqiao Airport. They offer 300 guest rooms each contemporarily decorated with TVs and high speed internet. This hotel offers simple rooms with a gym, a billiards hall, a karaoke bar, and the restaurants and bars in the hotel.

Taipei:Eat

ayur Indian Kitchen

Authentic South Asian food, with plenty of curry, wonderful service, and great lunch specials.

YEN Taipei

A sleek, modern twist on traditional Asian food. Customers save about the dim sum lunch and the Peking duck!

Taipei:Stay

The Okura Prestige Taipei - 5 Stars

Located in the commercial district, the Okura prestige Taipei is located in the heart of Taiwan’s capital city. Easily recognizable by its elegant architecture, you can find the hotel among the international boutiques and exclusive restaurants of Taipei’s financial area. The Hotel offers a fitness center, pool, saunas, sun deck, massage facilities, Bakery, and concierge service to ensure a great stay.

Four Points by Sheraton Taipei - 4 Star

Well-lit, clean rooms with great views, a swanky restaurant, and a casual bar make this hotel a great choice. The Four Points by Sheraton Linkou is the first international hotel in the New Taipei City. With a leaf inspired high rise design, this hotel is incredibly modern and offers a stunning array of facilities for guest use like a 24 hour fitness center, swimming pool, and sauna. All of the rooms come with in room safes, mini fridges, TVs, and complimentary WiFi.

CU Hotel Taipei - 3 Star

Dorms and private rooms are standard here, and a fitness center and complimentary breakfast make this an excellent fit for the busy traveler. Located near Taipei circle and the bustling night market, the atmosphere of the hotel is exciting which carries over to the architecture of the building being a mixture of Taiwanese culture. The 87 guest rooms in the hotel are stylish and clean designed to be the most accommodating.

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Tokyo

Tokyo Robot Restaurant Cabaret Show

Enjoy a spectacle of robotic monsters and high energy music at this authentic Japanese cabaret show. The intense dancing and powerful music will last for a full 90 minutes.

Kyoto

Half Day Small-Group Kyoto Cultural Tour

Explore Zen gardens and ancient shrines on this 3.5 hour walking tour of historic Kyoto. The intimate tour is limited to ust 12 participants, and all entrance fees and snacks are covered.

Kyoto Rickshaw Tour

Board a traditional rickshaw and journey through the streets of the city for an up-close and personal experience of the unique culture here.

Kyoto Cooking Class, Sake Tasting and Nishiki Food Market Walking Tour

Journey through Kyoto’s finest dining destinations, including the Nishiki Food Market and the renowned Sake brewery. Then, shop for the freshest ingredients before cooking your own meal under the tutelage of a private chef! A food lover’s paradise!

Seoul

5-Day South Korean Cities Tour from Seoul Including Gongju, Busan, and Yeosu

Discover 5 distinctly different cities on this excursion through South Korea. Explore Busan, Gongju, Suncheon, Yeosu, and Wonju.

Shanghai

Shanghai Bus Tour

Explore all the city’s landmarks from your convenient perch atop a hop on, hop off sightseeing bus. Discover three distinctly different routes through the city, and keep your camera handy!

All-inclusive Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Highlights

Stroll the city’s old picturesque lanes, and wander downstream in a local canal to view sites you can’t see any other way. Enjoy an authentic Chinese lunch in the Shanghai water town as well!

Taipei

Pingxi and Jiufen Day Trip From Taipei with Sky Lantern Experience

Travel to Jinguashi, Jiufen, and Pingxi- old world destinations perfect for romantic evenings. Make sky lanterns before releasing them in a traditional ritual.

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We can customize this private tour just for you. Any element can be tailored in terms of activities, length, hotels and destinations.

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A bespoke trip planned with utmost detail. From the planning stage to end of trip, my travel planner ,Smith, was professional, prompt and endlessly patient.Many thoughtful and generous gestures to make up for unforeseen hiccups.And an upgrade to a suite meant I had the most memorable birthday in Tokyo.

Sarry Eli Jemienz

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