Seoul to Osaka: Beaches & Big Cities - 20 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is included on this tour?

  Hostels (17 nights, multi-share, shared facilities) and a traditional Hanok inn (2 nights, multi-share room and shared facilities). Please be aware that hostel rooms in Japan are small due to space limitations, and properties with two stories may not have elevators. Gender-separated dorms mean specific rooming requests cannot be taken for multi-share accommodations.

• Are international flights included?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

• Are local flights included?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• What are the health considerations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required; it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizer/antibacterial wipes, and a full supply of any personal medications in their original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Be aware that medical facilities might be remote, and our CEOs (tour leaders) are prohibited from administering any type of drug. Please assess your ability to cope with the physical demands of the tour.

• Can I subscribe to the tour operator's email newsletter?

  Yes, you can subscribe to our adventure travel e-newsletter for travel news, trip information, interesting stories, and contests at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/. You can also sign up for Planeterra's monthly news.

• What are the emergency contact procedures?

  Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the local representative or local office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area, please take a taxi to your start point hotel. Specific emergency numbers for Korea and Japan, as well as global sales team numbers, are provided.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  Please make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (e.g., a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

• Who will be leading the tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The CEO provides information on the places you are traveling through, offers suggestions for things to do and see, recommends local eating venues, and introduces you to local friends. Local guides are also used where specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places visited.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 15.

• Is there a single supplement for solo travelers?

  We believe solo travelers should not have to pay more to travel, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• What is the recommended dress code to respect local customs?

  In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative. When packing, choose loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate. In predominantly Buddhist countries, we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops when visiting temples or other holy sites.

• How many meals are included in the tour?

  One dinner is included.

• What should I know about currency and money exchange?

  Currency exchange rates in Asia fluctuate, so refer to www.xe.com for daily rates. ATMs are available in most places and typically accept Visa, Mastercard, and Debit Cards, but not all machines may work, so it's best to also bring USD cash. In Japan, Post Office and 7-11 ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, and Debit Cards. Credit cards are not widely accepted for purchases except in some restaurants and department stores.

• Is tipping customary in South Korea and Japan?

  Tipping for service is not practiced in South Korea and Japan and will simply cause confusion. However, tipping your CEO is highly appreciated if you feel they did an outstanding job; a guideline of $5-7 USD per person, per day is suggested, but the amount is entirely a personal preference.

• How much spending money should I budget for?

  Spending money requirements will vary for every traveler based on their habits for drinks, shopping, and souvenirs. Please consider your own spending patterns when planning your budget.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the tour?

  The tour uses a combination of train, plane, private vehicle, and walking.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include exploring both the ultramodern and traditional sides of Japan and Korea, experiencing a traditional Hanok Village stay in Korea, exploring Jeju Island, experiencing Tokyo's vibrant nightlife, visiting Kyoto's iconic temples and geishas, and seeing the floating torii gate of Miyajima.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. They support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment, and protect the environment.

• Are there any specific rules I should be aware of?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly prohibited. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member found violating these rules.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety?

  The safety and well-being of all our travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your trip.

• What are the visa and entry requirements?

  All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). It is your responsibility to contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements or consult your travel agent. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can also be found on our Important Pre-Departure Information page.

• Are laundry facilities available on the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some hotels but can be expensive. Your leader can show you self-service coin laundries in larger cities. We suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for handwashing when needed.

• What happens if there are problems with arrival or transfers?

  If you have a pre-booked arrival transfer and are not met within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend taking a taxi to your starting hotel and applying to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost. Refer to the emergency contact details if you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled. For South Korea arrival transfers, pick-up schedule changes between 23:00-07:00 within 24 hours of arrival cannot be accepted, in which case you should take a taxi.

• What are the safety and security guidelines for the trip?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leaving valuable jewelry at home, and utilizing hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for your luggage is also recommended. Your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel parts of the itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. During free time, exercise good judgment, and when wandering in major cities at night, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities should only be participated in when accompanied by a guide.

• What optional activities are available?

  Optional activities include: Seoul (Gangnam District, N Seoul Tower, K-Pop Dance Class, City Tour, DMZ Visit), Jeonju-si (Hanbok Wearing, Hanok Village Craft Museum), Busan (Haeundae Beach, Jjimjilbang, Skyline Luge, Taejongdae Zip Line), Jeju-si (Yongduam Rock, Yongyeon Cloud Bridge, Bunker des Lumières, Oreum Hiking, Olle Trail), Tokyo (Akihabara, Harajuku, Meiji Shrine, Ueno Park, Sensō-ji Temple), Takayama (Sake Street, Biking, Hida no Sato Folk Village), Kyoto (Zen Gardens of Ryōan-ji, Gion Walk, Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle and Gardens, Day Trip to Nara, Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion), Hiroshima (Peace Park and Peace Memorial), Miyajima (Mt. Misen), and Osaka (Instant Ramen Museum, Osaka Castle Park).

• What countries will I visit on this tour?

  You will explore both Japan and South Korea on this trip.

• What is the age range and travel style for this tour?

  This tour is specifically designed for 18-to-Thirtysomethings. The minimum age is 18 and the maximum age is 39.

• What type of accommodation can I expect?

  Accommodation will be varied, primarily multi-share hostels with shared facilities (17 nights) and a traditional Hanok inn stay (2 nights, multi-share room and shared facilities). Please note that hotel and hostel rooms in Japan are typically small, and properties with two stories may not have elevators. Rooming requests for gender-separated dorms cannot be taken.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, all local flights necessary for the itinerary are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted.

• How large will the group be?

  The maximum group size is 18 travelers, with an average of 15.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers do not pay more. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are paired with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will provide information, offer suggestions, recommend local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. Local guides are also utilized where specific knowledge enhances the experience.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  One dinner is included in this trip.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3. It's recommended to assess your ability to cope with the demands of the tour and travel style.

• Are there any specific cultural considerations regarding tattoos or local dress?

  Tattoos are not common or widely accepted in Japan, so it's advisable to cover them when possible, as you may not be permitted to enter public spas or onsens. In Asia, the dress standard is more conservative; loose, lightweight, long clothing is recommended. When visiting temples or other holy sites in predominantly Buddhist countries, please dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops.

• What are the luggage restrictions for rail travel in Japan?

  For travel on Japan's Shinkansen bullet trains, luggage must be less than 160cm in total (calculated as the sum of height + width + depth). Luggage between 160-250cm will incur a fee and is subject to availability. Luggage over 251cm in total is prohibited. It is highly recommended to travel light with easy-to-handle luggage as you will be walking with it unassisted in busy public train stations.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. We also strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used for unforeseen circumstances outside of our control.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money?

  ATMs are available in most places and typically accept Visa, Mastercard, and Debit Cards, but a variety of payment options, including USD cash for exchange, is recommended. Credit cards are not widely accepted for purchases outside of some restaurants and department stores. In Japan, Post Office and 7-Eleven convenience stores have reliable ATMs.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities offered by some hotels can be very expensive. Your CEO can show you self-service coin laundries in larger cities. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested for personal laundry.

• What happens if my arrival transfer doesn't meet me at the airport?

  If your pre-booked arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area, you should take a taxi to your starting hotel. You can then apply to your travel agent upon your return for a refund of the transfer cost.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include exploring the ultramodern and traditional sides of Japan and Korea, experiencing a traditional Hanok Village stay in Korea, exploring Jeju Island, experiencing Tokyo's vibrant nightlife, visiting Kyoto's iconic temples, and seeing the floating torii gate of Miyajima.

• What are the main modes of transportation during the tour?

  The tour utilizes various modes of transportation, including train, plane, private vehicle, and walking.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs or the sex trade on this trip?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also contrary to our travel philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers.