19-DAY EAST ASIA TRIO: CHINA, KOREA AND JAPAN
19-DAY EAST ASIA TRIO: CHINA, KOREA AND JAPAN
19-DAY EAST ASIA TRIO: CHINA, KOREA AND JAPAN
Trip Introduction
This 19-day journey presents a well-balanced introduction to East Asia’s three great cultures - China, Korea, and Japan - moving seamlessly from ancient heritage to modern life.
Beginning in China, the itinerary explores imperial history in Beijing, the archaeological legacy of Xi’an, and the local traditions of Chengdu, offering insight into the country’s cultural depth and regional diversity. In Korea, time in Seoul highlights the dynamic blend of royal heritage and contemporary urban culture.
The journey concludes in Japan, from the energy of Osaka and the classical sites of Nara and Kyoto, to the landscapes of Hakone and the vibrant contrasts of Tokyo. Carefully paced and thoughtfully connected, this itinerary is designed for first-time visitors seeking a clear, culturally rich understanding of East Asia.
Beginning in China, the itinerary explores imperial history in Beijing, the archaeological legacy of Xi’an, and the local traditions of Chengdu, offering insight into the country’s cultural depth and regional diversity. In Korea, time in Seoul highlights the dynamic blend of royal heritage and contemporary urban culture.
The journey concludes in Japan, from the energy of Osaka and the classical sites of Nara and Kyoto, to the landscapes of Hakone and the vibrant contrasts of Tokyo. Carefully paced and thoughtfully connected, this itinerary is designed for first-time visitors seeking a clear, culturally rich understanding of East Asia.
Trip code: CBT251901
Itinerary
🥢 Meal Codes: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Day 1: beijing arrival (D)
Meet upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy a three-night stay in Beijing.Welcome dinner: Peking Duck
Day 2: Beijing city tour (B)
Enjoy a full-day Beijing city tour, starting with a visit to the historic Temple of Heaven, once frequented by Ming and Qing emperors for annual prayers. Explore the Grand Forbidden City, built by Emperor Yongle in the 15th century, and marvel at its vastness and historical significance. Then, discover Tiananmen Square, the world's largest city square, home to iconic landmarks such as Tiananmen Tower and the Great Hall of the People. Finally, stroll around Lake Houhai and its charming Hutong alleys.
Highlights: Temple of Heaven, The Grand Forbidden City, Tiananmen square, Lake Houhai and Hutong alleys
Highlights: Temple of Heaven, The Grand Forbidden City, Tiananmen square, Lake Houhai and Hutong alleys
Day 3: Summer palace & the great wall (B)
Begin your morning with a visit to the Summer Palace, an imperial park steeped in history and set against the scenic Kunming Lake. Later, explore the majestic Mutianyu Great Wall, known for its unique, indestructible structure winding through lofty mountains. After your climb, enjoy a thrilling slide or cable car ride down the hill.
Highlights: Summer Palace, The Great Wall
Highlights: Summer Palace, The Great Wall
Day 4: high-speed train to xian (B)
Take the morning high-speed train to Xian departing at 09:10 and arriving at 13:30. Upon arrival, meet and greet before exploring the Muslim Quarter, the largest neighborhood in the old city known for its maze of narrow alleys and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through its streets, discovering hidden gems and important cultural sites. Afterward, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy a two-night stay in Xian.
Highlights: Muslim Quarter
Highlights: Muslim Quarter
Day 5: xian tour (B)
In the morning, explore the Ancient City Wall, the most intact ancient Chinese wall, and a landmark of Xian. Encircling and protecting the ancient part of the city, this six-hundred-year-old structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a bicycle ride along the wall for a unique perspective.
And then visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of Xi'an city built in AD 652. Standing at 212 feet (64.5 m) tall, it was constructed to house Buddhist scriptures collected by Xuan Zang after his epic journey to India and back.
Next, drive approximately 40 km (1 hour) to the Terra Cotta Warriors Museum, the highlight of today's tour. Discover Emperor Qin Shihuang's vast funeral site, where the life-like terra-cotta army was unearthed in 1974. Though not the emperor's actual tomb, this discovery remains a remarkable testament to ancient China's history and was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
Highlights: Ancient City Wall, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Terra Cotta Warriors Museum
Highlights: Ancient City Wall, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Terra Cotta Warriors Museum
Day 6: High-speed train to chengdu (B)
Transfer to Xian Bei Railway Station and take a high-speed train to Chengdu (G2851 09:56-13:44 or similar).
Upon arrival in Chengdu at 13:44, meet and greet before transferring to your hotel. Check-in and enjoy a two-night stay in Chengdu.Overnight in Chengdu.
Highlights: High-speed train
Highlights: High-speed train
Day 7: chengdu panda tour (B,L)
In the morning, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to observe giant pandas in their natural-style habitat and learn about conservation efforts.Continue with a city tour, exploring local life and culture.
Lunch: you will taste the famous Chengdu street food.Overnight in Chengdu.
Highlights: Giant Panda, Chengdu street food tasting
Day 8: to Seoul (B)
Transfer to Chengdu airport for your flight to Seoul (CA401 08:20-12:55, or similar). Upon arrival in Seoul at 12:55, meet and greet before transferring to your hotel. Check-in and enjoy a three-night stay in Seoul.
Explore Seongsu-dong, a former industrial area transformed into a creative and artistic district, and conclude the day at Namsan Park, offering panoramic views of Seoul.Overnight in Seoul.
Highlights: Seongsu-dong artistic district, Namsan Park with a panoramic view of Seoul
Highlights: Seongsu-dong artistic district, Namsan Park with a panoramic view of Seoul
Day 9: Seoul city tour (B, L)
Depart from the hotel and visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Pass by the Blue House, the former presidential residence of South Korea.Continue to Bukchon Hanok Village, home to hundreds of traditional Korean houses, followed by a walk through Insadong, well known for its antique shops and cultural atmosphere.
Korean Cooking Workshop: Kimchi, Bibimbap & Side DishesDiscover the flavors of Korea through a hands-on cooking class. Learn to make classic kimchi, colorful bibimbap, and a variety of authentic Korean side dishes. Perfect for beginners and food lovers who want to explore Korean cuisine in a fun and interactive way.
Visit the impressive Starfield Library, a modern architectural landmark. Continue to Sinsa-dong, famous for fashion boutiques and cafés.Proceed to Sinchon and Hongdae, lively areas known for youth culture, shopping streets, and entertainment.
Overnight in Seoul.
Highlights: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Korean Cooking Workshop, Starfield Library, Sinchon and Hongdae.
Highlights: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Korean Cooking Workshop, Starfield Library, Sinchon and Hongdae.
Day 10: Paju DMZ Excursion (B)
Transfer to Paju.DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) Subject to DMZ – 3rd Tunnel Ticketing or Change to DMZ Gondola) – Closed on Monday Myeongdong Street and Namdaemun Market Overnight in Seoul.
Highlights: DMZ, Myeongdong Street and Namdaemun Market
Highlights: DMZ, Myeongdong Street and Namdaemun Market
Day 11: To busan, busan city tour (B)
Private transfer to Busan, South Korea’s major coastal city.
Upon arrival, take the Songdo Cable Car for scenic coastal views.Visit Gamcheon Culture Village, a colorful hillside community known for its artistic charm.
In the evening, explore Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, famous for local street food and night market atmosphere.Overnight in Busan.
Highlights: Busan scenic coastal views, colorful hillside at Gamcheon Culture Village, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market
Highlights: Busan scenic coastal views, colorful hillside at Gamcheon Culture Village, Bupyeong Kkangtong Market
Day 12: fly to osaka, continue to nara (B)
Private transfer to Busan Airport for your flight to Osaka (TW319 09:20–10:55, or similar). Upon arrival, meet and greet and have a private transfer to Nara.Visit Nara Park, home to freely roaming deer, and explore Todai-ji Temple, housing the Great Buddha, one of Japan’s most iconic cultural landmarks.Later, transfer to your hotel in Nara for check-in and enjoy a one-night stay.Overnight in Nara.
Highlights: Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple
Day 13: to kyoto, uji visit (B)
Private transfer to Uji, a historic town renowned for its tea culture.
Visit Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featured on the Japanese ¥10 coin, and enjoy a walk along the Uji River.Continue to Kyoto and explore Gion District, known for its traditional streets and geisha culture.Transfer to the hotel for check-in.Overnight in Kyoto.
Highlights: Byodo-in Temple, Uji River, Gion District in Kyoto
Highlights: Byodo-in Temple, Uji River, Gion District in Kyoto
Day 14: kyoto city tour (B)
Depart from the hotel and visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto’s most iconic Zen temples. Continue to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.Later, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering panoramic views over Kyoto, and stroll through the historic streets of Higashiyama District.Overnight in Kyoto.
Highlights: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Higashiyama District
Highlights: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Higashiyama District
Day 15: to hakone (B)
Private transfer or take a Shinkansen train to Hakone, famous for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. Upon arrival, visit Hakone Open-Air Museum, featuring modern sculptures set in a scenic outdoor setting.Relax and unwind in a traditional onsen (hot spring bath) at your hotel or local ryokan, enjoying the therapeutic waters and mountain views.Overnight in Hakone.
Highlights: Hakone onsen
day 16: to tokyo (b)
Travel by Shinkansen or private coach to Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Spend the afternoon at leisure, or optionally explore Shibuya Crossing and the surrounding shopping district.Overnight in Tokyo.
Highlights: Shinkansen
day 17: tokyo city tour (b, D)
Start with a visit to Meiji Shrine, a peaceful Shinto shrine surrounded by forest. Continue to Harajuku to experience youth culture and fashion boutiques.Proceed to Omotesando Avenue, known for its modern architecture and upscale shopping.
End the day in Shinjuku, exploring its skyscrapers, shopping, and entertainment districts.
Enjoy an authentic sumo experience in Tokyo with reserved seats and a traditional bento meal included. Watch professional wrestlers compete in the ring while learning about the history and rituals of Japan’s national sport. This experience offers a rare chance to witness the power, ceremony, and culture of sumo up close.Overnight in Tokyo.
Highlights: Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Omotesando Avenue, Shinjuku District, Sumo experience
day 18: tokyo city tour (b)
Visit Asakusa District and Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, then stroll along Nakamise Shopping Street for local snacks and souvenirs.Continue to Tokyo Skytree (optional) for panoramic city views.
In the afternoon, explore Odaiba, a modern entertainment and shopping district, or enjoy free time for last-minute shopping in Ginza.
Enjoy a relaxing Tokyo Bay cruise with stunning views of the city skyline, Rainbow Bridge, and waterfront landmarks. This scenic experience offers a peaceful escape from the city while showcasing Tokyo’s modern beauty from the water.Overnight in Tokyo.
Highlights: Asakusa District, Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Odaiba or Ginza District, Tokyo Bay cruise
Highlights: Asakusa District, Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Odaiba or Ginza District, Tokyo Bay cruise
day 19: tokyo departure (b)
Check-out.Transfer to Tokyo Airport for your flight back home. Trip ends.
tour details
tour Duration
19 Days / 18 Nights
Size of group
Daily departure, min. 2 (guaranteed)
accommodation
- 18 nights including daily hotel breakfast.
- Choose your preferred class: Comfort, Deluxe, or Boutique
- Featured Meals: 1 Welcome Dinner featuring Peking Duck in Beijing; Street food lunch in Chengdu; Korean Kimchi, Bibimbap lunch in Seoul; Traditional bento meal dinner in Tokyo.
- Happy to arrange more culinary experiences upon request.
Internal transport
- High-Speed Train (Standard seat): Beijing → Xi'an, Xi'an → Chengdu,
- High-Speed Train Shinkansen (Standard seat): Osaka to Nara → Kyoto, Hakone → Tokyo
- International Flight (Economy Class): Chengdu → Seoul, Busan → Osaka
- Transfers: All airport and train station to hotel round-trip transfers by private vehicle.
sightseeing & Experiences
- All mentioned tours, excursions and river cruise
- Includes: All first-entry admission tickets to sights
- Slide or cable car down the hill at the Great Wall Beijing
- Bike ride at the Ancient City Wall in Xian
- Korean Cooking Workshop: Kimchi, Bibimbap & Side Dishes in Seoul
- Authentic sumo experience in Tokyo
- Tokyo Bay cruise
- Guide Service: Professional local English-speaking guide service in each city.
- Spanish, Italian, and German-speaking guides available upon request (may require an additional fee).
TRAVEL MOMENTS
General Information
Visa & Entry
Entry requirements vary for China, South Korea, and Japan; travelers are responsible for meeting visa and passport regulations for all destinations.
Travel Pace:
A thoughtfully paced 19-day itinerary using high-speed rail, regional flights, and centrally located hotels for comfortable long-haul travel.
Travel Style
A culturally focused journey designed for first-time visitors, with guided sightseeing and moderate daily walking.
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