Korea & Japan Encompassed - 16 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of the "Korea & Japan Encompassed" tour?

  The tour highlights include an overnight stay at a traditional temple in Korea, experiencing Japanese hospitality at a traditional ryokan inn, exploring the vibrant attractions, cuisine, and culture of both Tokyo and Seoul, reflecting on history and hope for peace at Hiroshima Peace Park, and walking through the iconic red torii gates of the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine.

• What types of accommodation are included in this tour?

  The tour includes stays in hotels (13 nights), a mountain monastery (1 night, shared facilities), and a traditional temple (1 night). You will experience traditional Ondol rooms with heated floors in Korea and a Japanese ryokan or minshuku, which may feature tatami floors and shared bathing facilities. Please note, hotel rooms in Japan can be small, and some properties may not have elevators. Non-smoking rooms are not always designated in Japanese hotels.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 12.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  This tour includes 10 breakfasts and 3 dinners. Lunches are not included.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour, and are there any luggage restrictions?

  We utilize various modes of transportation including planes, Shinkansen (bullet trains), trams, ferries, public buses, and walking. You should be able to carry your own luggage as you will often transfer between modes of transport and walk through busy stations. Luggage on Shinkansen bullet trains must be less than 160cm in total (sum of height + width + depth). Japan’s Takuhaibin service is available for overnight luggage transfers between some locations, for which you will need a separate overnight bag.

• What is the physical activity level of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. You should be prepared to spend the majority of the day on your feet, with tours in Japan averaging about 15,000 steps a day. You must be fit enough to carry your own luggage unassisted through busy train stations and streets, including up and down stairs.

• What are the age requirements for joining this trip?

  Travelers must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. Minors aged 12 and above may join the tour if accompanied by a guardian who is 21 years or older.

• How are solo travelers accommodated on this tour, and is there a single supplement?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. The temple stay on Night 3 is an exception, offering multi-share rooms divided by male and female.

• What are the local dress expectations, especially when visiting religious sites?

  In Asia, the dress standard is generally more conservative. We recommend packing loose, lightweight, long clothing. When visiting Buddhist temples or other holy sites, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What should I know about currency, ATMs, and credit card usage in South Korea and Japan?

  Currency exchange rates fluctuate, so consult www.xe.com for daily rates. ATMs are available in most places and typically accept Visa, Mastercard, and Debit Cards; however, it's advisable to bring USD cash for exchanges. In Japan, ATMs at Post Offices and 7-Eleven convenience stores are reliable. Credit cards are not widely accepted for purchases outside of some restaurants and department stores.

• What is the tipping etiquette in South Korea and Japan, and for the tour leader?

  Tipping for general services (e.g., in restaurants, taxis) is not customary in South Korea or Japan and may cause confusion. However, tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is standard in the travel industry to acknowledge excellent service. A guideline of $5-$7 USD per person, per day, is suggested, but the final amount is entirely your personal preference.

• What health information and precautions should I consider before travelling?

  You should consult with your travel doctor well before departure to discuss any required inoculations and up-to-date medical travel information. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and a full supply of any personal prescription medications in their original packaging, along with your doctor's prescription, and ensure your medication is legal in Japan. Be aware that medical facilities may be remote in some areas, and our leaders are prohibited from administering any drugs.

• Who will be leading the group, and what is their role?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will manage logistics, provide information on places you visit, suggest activities and local eateries, and introduce you to local contacts. Local guides are also utilized at specific sites to provide more in-depth knowledge and enhance your experience.

• Are there any specific safety guidelines regarding illegal drugs or engaging with sex workers?

  Illegal drugs are strictly not tolerated on any trips, as they contravene local laws and put the group at risk. Engaging with paid sex workers is also against our philosophy of respect. The CEO has the right to expel any group member found with drugs or utilizing paid sex worker services.

• What are the general safety and security recommendations for the tour?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables like passports, tickets, and cash. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes for secure storage. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. While cities are generally safe during the day, we advise staying in small groups and taking taxis for night excursions. Use your own good judgment when selecting optional activities during free time.

• How are tattoos viewed in Japan, and could they affect my experience?

  Tattoos are not common or widely accepted in Japan. While there's no cause for major concern, it's advisable to cover them when possible. Be aware that individuals with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public spas or onsens (hot springs).

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Some hotels may offer laundry facilities, but these can be very expensive. Your tour leader can point out self-service coin laundries in larger cities. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for hand-washing if needed.

• How much spending money should I budget for this trip?

  Spending money requirements vary by individual habits for drinks, shopping, and optional activities. We recommend having access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What are some of the optional activities available in Seoul, Busan, Miyajima, Kyoto, and Tokyo?

  Optional activities include: In Seoul - Gwangjang Market visit, N Seoul Tower Observatory, Kimchi & Hanbok Experience; In Busan - Night Yacht Ride, Busan Tower Observatory, Jjimjilbang spa, Karaoke; In Miyajima - hiking Mt. Misen; In Kyoto - Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji; In Tokyo - Ginza shopping, Imperial Palace East Gardens walk, Ueno Park visit, Meiji Shrine, Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa.