Osaka, Japan - Seoul, South Korea 30 days trip

A bustling urban center, Osaka blends Japanese innovation with ancient traditions, and offers superb culinary experiences.

Mostly destroyed during WWII, Osaka features a distinctly cosmopolitan vibe, with fine dining, skyscrapers, and 3 million inhabitants.

Similar to the Universal Studios theme parks in the United States, the rides in this exciting park are based on TV and films.

Visit at night for the full experience, this bustling street is known for excellent shopping, fine dining, theater, and more.

Visit Japan's tallest skyscraper for amazing views from its observation deck. The building also features a museum, restaurants, and shops.

The capital of Imperial Japan for a whole millennium, the charming Kyoto is full of museums, cultural monuments, castles, and parks.

A district renowned for its pleasant nature, featuring a bamboo grove, diverse flora, architectural curios, and quaint villages.

Ride up 112m on this 17 minute long Ferris wheel ride, which offers spectacular views of Osaka Bay and the surrounding area.

Most of the buildings of Japan's first Buddhist temple were destroyed over the years, but meticulously rebuilt.

One of the world's largest aquariums, this amazing complex focuses on Pacific marine life including over 580 aquatic species.

Enjoy 360 degree views of the city, all the way out to Awaji Island from this impressive 170m high observation deck.

A culturally significant city, Nara is full of Japanese heritage, historic landmarks, as well as a wealth of shrines and temples.

A 7C Buddhist temple with several remarkable architectural elements, including the Main Hall, the covered staircase, and the gate.

A sprawling public park, home to several of Osaka's most important buildings, including City Hall, museums, a library, and more.

One of Japan's most iconic landmarks, this famous castle's grounds span over 15 acres, encompassing 13 important structures.

An impressive spa complex that draws water from natural geothermal springs, featuring pools, Jacuzzis, and more.

Home to the Mint Museum where visitors can learn about Japanese currency, the Mint also boasts over 300 stunning cherry blossom trees.

Saturated with folklore and history, the mount is the home to a famed Buddhist temple, as well as great hiking trails and lush nature.

Home to the amazing Koya-san monastic complex (where visitors can spend the night), this tableland is surrounded by stunning forests and peaks.

Stroll through this bustling historic shopping district, make sure to check out the variety of shops and excellent restaurants.

Predating Buddhism in Japan, this famous 3C shrine is one of the world's only examples of Sumiyoshi-zukuri shrine architecture.

Home to one of the world's finest collections of ceramics from Korea, Japan, and China, this museum boasts 15 National Treasure pieces.

A national park most popular during the cherry blossom season, but also featuring shores, mountains, forests, and native flora.

A small city with a rich maritime history, Kobe boasts a cosmopolitan charm, cultural landmarks, and several museums.

A chain of waterfalls linked to local legends, followed by a lovely hiking trail and surrounded with beautiful natural scenery.

There is tons to see on this picturesque island, including pristine beaches, ancient burial mounds, hot springs, and an amusement park.

Visit Japan's renowned Shinto shrine complex, walking through torii gates, taking in unique cultural elements, and enjoying the calm.

While a blooming wonder April to September, the rest of the year sees the gardens covered in a multitude of colorful LED lights.

Brimming with undeniable energy, Japan's capital and largest city is a vast metropolis full of museums, parks, and cultural monuments.

Vibrant colors, tastes, smells, and sounds awaits you as you venture into the heart of Tokyo, where streets buzz with energy.

With interesting architecture and and abundance of bars, this Shinjuku district has become Tokyo's flourishing nightlife hub.

Honoring Emperor Meiji, this Shinto shrine is nestled within a tranquil forest, offering walking paths and amulets stalls.

Tokyo's red-light district may never hosted a Kabuki theater, but it now offers bars, shops, clubs, restaurants, and movie theaters.

With rides and attractions for all ages, both adults and children will love Japan's exciting Disney theme park.

Respectfully called Fuji-san by the locals, this volcano is a symbol of Japan and can often be viewed from miles away.

Dating to the 17C, this ornate shrine boasts gold-leaf doors and pillars, fine sculptures and artwork, and ancient relics.

Leading into Ueno Park, this district is home to some of Tokyo's most iconic cultural landmarks including museums, temples, and more.

Tokyo's oldest temple dates to the 17C and is a favorite of foreign and local travelers, boasting gardens, eateries, and charm stalls.

One of the world's most upscale shopping districts, Ginza features many boutiques, department stores, cafes, and chic restaurants.

Providing easy access to the national park surrounding Mt. Fuji, this charming town also offers museums and traditional hot springs.

Based on the series Doraemon by Fujiko F. Fujio, this fun museum is great for children as well as adults familiar with the series.

A museum tracing the history of Tokyo throughout the Edo Period, featuring a replica of an iconic bridge, city models, and more.

Perhaps Tokyo's best site to see the blooming of cherry blossoms, this great park offers walking trails and a lovely boat pier.

Dedicated to Studio Ghibli, whose Japanese animation has become renowned, this excellent museum offers many fun interactive exhibits.

Offering a superb experience of the traditional Japanese hot spring bath, this theme park is perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Enjoy some of Japan's most breathtaking scenery at this park, mostly made up of forest-covered mountains and home to ancient shrines.

Though the largest city in Japan, Yokohama retains a laid back atmosphere, boasting jazz clubs, fine restaurants, and more.

Dating to the 17C, this garden incorporates motifs of Chinese landscaping, featuring ponds, falls, bridges, and walking paths.

Japan's oldest national museum is the country's largest art museum and exhibits artwork and archaeology from all over Asia.

Travel into the past in this district, untouched by modern times - remaining frozen in time - for a glimpse of old-time Tokyo.

Fanning out from the world's busiest railway station, this district is famed for its shopping, eateries, and diverse entertainment.

Home to the iconic Mt. Fuji, this national park is uniquely dispersed among several natural attractions, lakes, hot springs, and islands.

While playing a military role throughout its history, the isle is now a marine park, offering camping, fishing, and diving opportunities.

Full of shrines and home to Shinto festivals, this popular district boasts historic buildings, shops, stalls, and geisha houses.

Get up early and visit the world's largest fish market, where fishermen go to sell their catch, varying from shell-fish to whale.

A lovely park with a long history, featuring a pond, elements of traditional Japanese gardening, and a tranquil atmosphere.

A pristine garden situated along the Tokyo Bay, featuring a tea-house, pond, a plum tree grove, and many walking paths.

The marvelous lake offers plenty of activities for lovers of native, from paragliding, to boating, to fishing, and camping on its banks.

Featuring historic buildings from the Edo Period, this open-air museum offers demonstrations and workshops of traditional crafts.

The palace of the Emperor of Japan features a parkland strewn with cultural monuments, museums, architectural curios, and more.

Encompassing a variety of styles, visitors enjoy strolling through various types of gardens ranging from Japanese to English and more.

Get to know Japan's historic warriors, their elaborate armors, and their skillfully-made weapons through exhibits dating to the 14C.

With temporary and permanent exhibits of Japanese prints and Asian ceramics, this museum is perfect for art lovers.

The birthplace of the beckoning cat figure, famed throughout Japan as a good-luck charm, this temple is an idyllic spot.

Only an hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is saturated with history, boasting many fine temples and shrines, as well a lovely popular beach.

A must-see for architecture enthusiasts, this iconic delicate looking building features an exhibition space, restaurants, and shops.

Boasting a collection of "Lifestyle Art," visitors enjoy admiring the artwork and if they're lucky can even see a Japanese tea ceremony.

Home to the graves of the 47 Ronin, iconic figures from Japan's fascinating history, this temple is a serene pilgrimage site.

Located in the Yasukuni Shrine, this controversial war museum features exhibits dedicated to several of Japan's historic wars.

With nearly a 100m drop against lush dramatic scenery, these waterfalls are recognized as one of Japan's most striking.

Situated at the foot of Mt. Fuji, this beautiful and unique forest is darkened by its popularity among those who come to commit suicide.

A museum of contemporary art, housing temporary and limited solo exhibitions by Asian and international artists.

With a focus on contemporary art from the last 50 years, this excellent museum also features temporary exhibits from other eras.

Pay a visit to Tokyo's fashion center with a stroll down this busy street, lined with boutiques, clothing shops, and more.

A popular district in Tokyo, famed for its colorful shops and cafes, catering to the culture surrounding Japanese manga and anime.

A favored waterfall resembling a dragon head, offering fantastic views in autumn when the surrounding trees change color.

This 20m deep cavern was carved by the expulsions of the nearby Mt. Fuji, and now features ice sections throughout the year.

Home to Japan's most impressive collection of modern art, this excellent museum also features an exhibit dedicated to Japanese film.

The former house, studio, and gardens of the famed Japanese sculptor Asakura Fumio now exhibit his superb bronze statues.

An exhibition hall displaying Panasonic's latest technological developments, featuring an interactive science museum.

Made up of three impressive skyscrapers, entry to TMG no. 1 is free and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Tough not a major tourist destination, this thriving city features ancient sites, lush parks, and modern Japanese architecture.

Boasting prominent elements of traditional Japanese style, this 19C garden is best visited during Japan's plum-blooming season.

With a Japanese and East Asian focus, this museum exhibits sculpture, textile, calligraphy, lacquerware, ceramics, and paintings.

The oldest zoological establishment in Japan dates to the 19C, boasting a wealth of animals, playgrounds, and a theme park nearby.

A development project merging leisure, living, and work into one district, featuring offices, apartments, theaters, cafes, and more.

A symbol of Tokyo's revival, this skyscraper stands at over 2,000 feet tall offers visitors the best views of the surrounding city.

Visit this lovely waterfall and walk along its base to see bright green wasabi plants, which only grow under special conditions.

Walk the trail along this short and picturesque gorge, and try to count the stone statues of local deities lining the path.

Retaining ancient Japanese architecture, as well as traditional samurai and geisha districts, Kanazawa also boast a great art museum.

Stroll through this delightful historic center, lined with traditional wooden houses, rich in historic charm.

One of Japan's best gardens is famed for its beauty. It features a tea house, a temple, Japan's oldest fountain, and more.

A museum of contemporary art housed in an impressive circular complex, known for its experimental and interactive installations.

This 16C temple is famed for its many hidden staircases, secret chambers, and escape tunnels, and is often nicknamed the Ninja Temple.

Travel back in time to this preserved village known for it gassho-zukuri farmhouses, some dating back over 250 years.

Located at the heart of the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a beautiful small town, home to elegant 17C architecture, galleries, and historic temples.

A 17C garden maintained by four consecutive generations of the same family, featuring waterfalls, various flowers, and a tea house.

A fine example of traditional Japanese dwelling, this villa features several remarkable architectural elements.

Displaying nearly 20 types of traditional Japanese crafts, this museum exhibits textile, woodwork, pottery, paintings, and more.

This rugged national park is known for its valleys, gorges, and impressive Alps, some of whose peaks reach over 3,000 meters.

Nestled among mountains, this valley offers an array of beautiful hiking trails. Be advised that the area is closed in the winter.

Relatively undiscovered, this unassuming coastal city boasts great beaches, distinctive cuisine, natural hot springs, and much more.

Get a taste for the city’s past and present by exploring the center by bike, and enjoy views of the beautiful castle.

A reconstructed castle exhibiting samurai weapons and armor, it also boasts incredible views over the town and sea from its tower.

Go back 30,000 years at this museum and learn about the prefecture’s history and culture through various exhibitions.

Learn about the history of Wakayama in this museum, where you will find excavated items, documents, and other artifacts.

The capital of Imperial Japan for a whole millennium, the charming Kyoto is full of museums, cultural monuments, castles, and parks.

A culturally significant city, Nara is full of Japanese heritage, historic landmarks, as well as a wealth of shrines and temples.

A 7C Buddhist temple with several remarkable architectural elements, including the Main Hall, the covered staircase, and the gate.

There is tons to see on this picturesque island, including pristine beaches, ancient burial mounds, hot springs, and an amusement park.

With fine gardens, a historic castle, and easy access to islands in the Inland Sea, this city can be a nice stopover for a few days.

One of Japan's three most significant gardens features tranquil paths, teahouses, ponds, hills, and lush natural scenery.

Walk around the bustling streets, visiting local shops, cafes, and shrines, and get a feel for the local culture.

Japan's first museum of Western art boasts a large collection of European artwork, and features a gallery of Japanese and Asian art.

Featuring several interesting architectural elements, this Shinto shrine is full of fine ornaments, historic relics, and legends.

Climb up the 1368 steps to this famous temple, stopping in shrines and pagodas on your way up.

An isle on the Inland Sea, known for its beaches, cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring, and hilltop caves with great views.

Dating to the 16C, this reconstructed castle is famed for its black exterior adorned with golden roof tiles.

Located in the Inland Sea, this small island is known for its lush nature and a picturesque lighthouse which features a small museum.

With breathtaking landscape full of mountains, gorges, winding rivers, and more, this valley is a heaven for nature lovers.

Enjoy a variety of activities at these unique sand dunes, such as camel or horse rides, paragliding, and sand-boarding.

Although the island is best known as home to a large population of wild rabbits, it also features several historic landmarks.

This easygoing city offers its visitors cultural and historic monuments, as well as easy access to some beautiful natural gems.

Scenically edged by two rivers, this 17C castle is well preserved, boasting a tower, a tearoom, traditional interior, and gardens.

Visit the Sunday street market, or one of the shrines dotting the center, and be sure to sample the famous local tuna dish.

Tracing its origins to the end of the 17C, this popular market is brimming with exotic locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Housing a small museum honoring a famed Japanese botanist, these gardens offer a great array of various exotic blooms and plants.

With breathtaking landscape full of mountains, gorges, winding rivers, and more, this valley is a heaven for nature lovers.

Climb up the 1368 steps to this famous temple, stopping in shrines and pagodas on your way up.

Though you can't swim here, the beach offers a lush scenery, a nearby aquarium and a museum, as well as many walking trails.

Although the island is best known as home to a large population of wild rabbits, it also features several historic landmarks.

An isle on the Inland Sea, known for its beaches, cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring, and hilltop caves with great views.

Located in the Inland Sea, this small island is known for its lush nature and a picturesque lighthouse which features a small museum.

With the largest population on the Kyushu Island, this port city offers cultural attractions, museums, fine cuisine, and more.

An interactive museum home to over 2,000 items of modern art by contemporary Asian artists, reflective of local culture and history.

Explore the shops, museums, and landmarks of this center, getting to know the local culture, and sample the traditional Hakata ramen.

Spend a day on fine white sand in the warm Japanese sun, swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the relaxing atmosphere.

A large family-friendly park, featuring an aquapark, a zoo, playgrounds, walking paths, bicycle rentals, flower gardens, and more.

While the island itself offers wonderful views of Fukuoka and other isles, this park is best known for its wealth of colorful blooms.

A popular garden famous for its tunnels of colorful wisteria trees that create a magical canopy of falling flowers.

Japan's only seaside skyscraper boasts a lounge cafe and three observatory decks, all offering spectacular views of the city.

Take a relaxing stroll through this scenic park home to walking trails, lovely ponds, and great picnics spots.

Located within three adjacent traditional buildings, the museum documents life and handcrafts of the 19C-20C period.

Dating to the 8C, this Shinto shrine is home to annual festivals and events, as well as several notable decorative items.

Have a picnic overlooking the sea surrounded by cherry blossoms in this quiet garden, also featuring maple trees and water lilies.

The perfect destination for a day trip, this onsen town features museums, boutiques, and scenic views by the calm Lake Kinrinko.

Learn about the Yayoi period in this large archaeological site, featuring excavated tombs, dwellings, and store houses.

Boasting rich history and a coastal charm, this port city has been revived after WWII with its many shrines, gardens, and museums.

This vibrant city is known for its thriving music scene and has a unique Western atmosphere due to US influence.

Take the time to relax and absorb the island atmosphere by strolling through the tree-lined streets in the center of the city.

Perfect for active nature lovers, this large park boasts multiple sports fields, swimming pools, a beach, and much more.

Children will enjoy seeing a variety of animals, playing on a selection of rides, and visiting the petting zoo.

This small zoo has over 200 species, including a selection of animals that children can pet, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and horses.

One of the world's largest aquariums is home to sharks, manta rays, dolphins, whales, a variety of fish, and even coral.

Discover the underwater observatory or sail out to sea with a glass bottom boat to see a variety of tropical fish and marine life.

Experience the lush nature of the subtropical forest of Okinawa and ride carts pulled by water buffalo while surrounded by unique plants.

Your gateway to Okinawa, this historic city with a modern atmosphere offers many shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Admire beautiful hydrangea flowers in this quiet out-of-the-way garden, where you can also see a variety of other exotic plants.

Known for its beach resorts, this city has something for everyone, including a beautiful castle park and a variety of theme parks.

The main city Jeju Island, this bustling city offers visitors access to some of the island's most exciting and beautiful treasures.

Explore the streets of this coastal city, getting to know the local atmosphere and mingling with fellow visitors.

Spend the day relaxing on the sandy shores or bathing in the clear shallow waters at one of Jeju City's loveliest beaches.

Shop with the locals at this traditional Korean market, where shoppers can buy a variety of inexpensive local goods.

Trace the history of Jeju Island from prehistoric times with geological and marine artifacts, through traditional garb, up to today.

Explore the hiking trails covering South Korea's tallest mountain, visit the crater lake, and enjoy everything this park can offer.

Resembling a fortress from afar, this ancient volcanic relic boasts lush flora and a verdant crater perfect for hiking.

Enveloped in myth and legend, visitors to this rock enjoy watching fishermen catch their wares, and beautiful views of the sea.

If you're visiting Jeju, be sure to stop by Udo as well and explore its lush landscapes, quaint local charms, and great food.

With hunting grounds, shooting ranges, ATVs, and more, this exciting sports complex is open to visitors all year round.

This great park is full of fun activities for all ages, including a theme park, superb botanic gardens, caves, and a folk village.

Visit one of the world's best lava tunnels, home to Korea's largest bat colony, many stalactites and stalagmites, and cave corals.

South Korea's bustling capital boasts a distinctly modern atmosphere, as well as incredible cuisine, nightlife, museums, and rich history.

Get to know South Korea's capital, exploring its busy center, sampling local food, enjoying the nightlife, and more.

Exploring the history of Korea's warfare, this impressive museum houses over 13,000 items of weaponry, fine art, armory, and more.

Established in the 8C, this temple retains several halls from its original structure and offers visitors a Temple Stay experience.

Reaching a height of 260m, this mountain is a lush public park, offering marvelous views of Seoul and the surrounding area.

One of South Korea's most impressive national parks, Bukhansan features granite mountains, lush forests, and mountain-top temples.

Visit South Korea's largest amusement park, featuring roller-coasters, restaurants, a waterpark, a zoo, and a myriad of fun activities.

The best preserved of the remaining Joseon palaces, this 15C complex was a popular retreat for royals thanks to its lovely scenery.

A pedestrian friendly space in the middle of the city, this iconic plaza is lined with historic buildings, palaces, temples, and gardens.

Immerse yourself in Korean culture and history at this massive museum, home to artwork, historic artifacts, treasures, and more.

Set on the summit of Mount Namsan, this communication tower offers superb views of the area, nice eateries, and several observatories.

Designed to show the world the beauty of Korean gardens, the park has a section dedicated to South Korea's desire to reunite with the north.

A tiny island boasting lush natural landscape and a vibrant arts scene full of galleries, as well as amusement and water parks.

Lined with traditional merchant houses, this busy district combines old and new, with a modern mall, antique shops, and art galleries.

A slice of serenity in the middle of the city, take a tour or explore alone as you wander along the banks of this historic stream.

Occupied by the royal family until the 20C, this remarkable palace complex features beautiful buildings, gardens, and an art museum.

This reconstructed castle complex sits on the site of a 14C Joseon palace and features museums, gardens, temples, and more.

A popular attraction for mountain climbers, this vast park is famous for it s lush plant-life as well as its 2,000 year old temple.

Overlooking the Han River, this temple complex is home to several National Treasures, cultural relics, and centuries-old trees.

Still in use since the 14C, this beautifully preserved shrine is dedicated to the royals of the Korean Joseon Dynasty.

The world's largest underground mall boasts a cinema, an aquarium, myriad of shops and eateries, as well as exhibition and convention halls.

This extensive museum exhibits the reign of the Hoseon Dynasty from the 14C-20C through art, artifacts, and more.

Explore this historic neighborhood, home to traditional wooden houses from the Joseon Dynasty which now serve as varous cultural houses.

Relax on the shore, swim in the water, or even look for crabs and other sea-life at this lovely South Korean beach.

Popular with locals and visitors, Minsok village presents traditional culture through workshops, reenactments, costumes, and other fun activities.