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Extensions: South Korea

Got an extra few days to tack on another country to your Asian adventure?  Take a 3-night extension trip to experience South Korea!  This country's uniqueness lies in its dynamic fusion of tradition and innovation, vibrant pop culture (think K-Pop!), delectable cuisine like kimchi and bulgogi, stunning natural landscapes, and a strong sense of community and hospitality.  

We've crafted a self-guided extension that can be added on to your Japan adventure that will enable you to experience the unique beauty of another east-Asian country.  Explore the big city of Seoul including gorgeous accommodation right in the middle of the city, as well as a Korean BBQ experience, a guided city tour, and a trip to the DMZ. 

Itinerary

Day 1

Check out of our hotel in Osaka on the final day of your Japan group trip and jump on the short (and included) flight to Seoul.  You'll land in Seoul (the 4th largest metropolitan area in the world and the capital city of South Korea) where you'll be picked up from the airport and taken to your city-center hotel and home for the next 3 nights.  You'll be joined by any group members from your Japan group trip who have also chosen to add this extension. 

After settling in, you'll head to dinner for a real Korean BBQ experience.  A Korean BBQ is a popular method of grilling marinated meats on a gas or charcoal grill that's built right into your table.  Generally the meats are accompanied by kimchi, veggies, rice, and/or pajeori.  You'll take your time as you add your meats to the grill and remove and enjoy once they're ready.  Expect the experience to take up a good chunk of your evening, after which you can continue exploring and, if you'd like, visit the gay district of Itaewon (sometimes referred to as Homo Hill!).

Day 2

On your first full day in Seoul, you'll be picked up at your hotel by a local Korean guide who will take you out to show you their city!  It's an incredibly modern place with a long impressive history and you'll take it all in as you visit the must-see Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jogyesa Temple, the modern shopping district of Myeongdong and the N Seoul Tower.

Your walking tour will cover the highlights and will take up the first half of your day, then you'll have the afternoon to explore on your own, whether that means visiting more temples or one of their impressive museums, shopping in Myeongdong, strolling through the trendy streets of Insadong, or indulging in street food at Gwangjang Market.  The location of your accommodation, and the modern transit system, makes it easy to explore the best parts of the city.

Day 3

Wake up this morning with a fabulous breakfast at your hotel before heading out to visit the demilitarized zone (DMZ) that separates the modern, democratic South Korea from its famously secretive and controversial neighbor to the north - North Korea.  It's a stark reminder of Korea's divided past and present. Witness the tension between North and South Korea at the heavily fortified border. Explore iconic landmarks like the Joint Security Area, where soldiers from both sides stand face to face (if possible, the JSA can close from time to time). Hear stories of the Korean War and the ongoing efforts for peace. Gain insight into the complexities of the region and the hopes for reunification.  Note that this tour does not actually enter North Korea but gets close to the border while remaining in a safe area.

In the afternoon, you'll return to your accommodation in central Seoul for the final night of your adventure.  We'd suggest trying bi-bim-bap for dinner tonight if you haven't already, or maybe another Korean BBQ if you haven't had enough yet!

Day 4

And that's a wrap!  We hope you've enjoyed your trip extension trip through South Korea.  You'll want to ensure you book your departing flight on this final day of your trip from Seoul (airport code ICN).  If you'd like to pre-arrange an airport transfer from your hotel, that can be done using this link.  Until next time!

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • 3 nights at the Lotte City Hotel Myeongdong (or similar)
  • One-way economy-class flight from Osaka to Seoul 
  • Korean BBQ dinner (not including drinks)
  • Full breakfast each morning
  • Half-day guided tour of Seoul (groups of 4 or more are private, while 3 or fewer are shared)
  • Guided tour to demilitarized zone (DMZ) on South Korean side of the border
  • All taxes

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?

  • Detours trip leader
  • Entry fees into museums/attractions not mentioned above
  • Lunches/Dinners not mentioned above
  • Optional gratuities to drivers and local guides
  • Optional additional activities and transportation

PRICE

$1570 USD per person, double occupancy

$1960 USD per person, single occupancy

This South Korea trip extension experience can be added to your trip by request - just let us know and we'll be happy to set it up for you!