Japan and South Korea
17 Nights Featuring Seoul, Jeju Island, Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Mt. Fuji and Tokyo
September 20, 2025
An immersive experience awaits you on this Journey to South Korea and Japan, where tradition and innovation take center stage. Meet your guide and fellow travelers in Seoul at a welcome dinner of mouthwatering Korean barbeque. Over the next few days, we will explore South Korea’s grand palaces and ancient temples, stopping along the way to peruse local markets and admire panoramic skyline views. You will then embark the Celebrity Millennium for an unforgettable cruise to South Korea’s Jeju Island and Japan’s cultural capitals. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of historic Kyoto and the volcanic landscapes of Nagasaki and Kagoshima. Learn about Japan’s profound history in Hiroshima and sample culinary delights in Kochi and Kyoto before setting your sights on the towering Mt. Fuji. Then, arrive to bustling Tokyo, where a new set of exciting experiences await you! Stroll through Tokyo’s famous gardens and temples, learn culinary secrets from a sushi chef and try your hand at Taiko drumming during a demonstration. This captivating Journey will immerse you in the vibrant tapestry of these two nations, offering a profound appreciation for their timeless charm and dynamic evolution.
Veranda from $8,349 per person
Journey Highlights
Memorable Experiences, Scenic Views, and Exciting Moments
At a Glance
Savor the Flavors of Korean Barbeque
Experience a traditional Korean barbecue for your welcome dinner, where the group will enjoy an array of perfectly grilled marinated meats, crisp vegetables, and vibrant, mouth-watering flavors right at your table.
Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace
Discover the majestic beauty of Gyeongbokgung Palace, a historical gem in Seoul, where the grandeur of Korea's Joseon Dynasty comes to life amid stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
Sail the Sumida River
Set sail on a serene afternoon cruise along Tokyo's Sumida River, where you'll enjoy breathtaking cityscape views, iconic landmarks, and a tranquil escape from the bustling streets.
Learn Culinary Secrets from a Japanese Chef
Immerse yourself in the art of Japanese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class, where you'll learn to create traditional dishes like sushi, all while experiencing the rich cultural heritage and flavors of Japan.
Day 1 – Arrive Seoul
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel for check-in. This evening, join your fellow travelers and start your Journey with a welcome dinner of traditional Korean barbeque.
Note: if you wish to arrive early and enjoy an extra day to relax and get over jet lag, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the one-night optional hotel extension in Seoul.
Day 2 – Seoul
After breakfast, embark on a comprehensive full-day tour of Seoul and discover the city’s fascinating highlights. We will start the day with a visit to the Bongeunsa Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple that holds great cultural and historical significance. A tranquil respite amidst the bustling city, Bongeunsa Temple is a harmonious blend of spirituality, culture and architectural beauty. Then, we will visit Seoul Sky, an observatory where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape, iconic landmarks and the enchanting Han River below.
Our day continues with an Herbal Medicine Footbath Experience at the K-Medi Center, an oriental medicine complex. Feel the healing of your body and mind by dipping your feet in warm water with seasonal medicinal herbs. After delighting in a local lunch, we will finish our day by witnessing the dynamic energy of the Gwangjiang Market, a bustling and historic marketplace offering a vibrant sensory experience. From textiles and traditional crafts to mouthwatering street food, we will explore the lively alleys and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Seoul. Return to the hotel for an evening at your leisure.
Day 3 – Seoul
Today we will continue our exploration of Seoul and its cultural heritage at the Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you will be transported back in time as you marvel at the grand architecture, serene gardens and intricate details that define this iconic palace. Next, we will visit the National Folk Museum for a deeper dive into Korea’s rich history and folklore. The Museum exhibits showcase traditional artifacts, costumes and customs from the past.
After lunch, we will continue to the charming Bukchon Hanok Village, where you’ll enjoy a pedicab ride through its narrow alleys and pass by beautifully preserved traditional houses. Conclude your day with a hands-on activity at Insadong Street, where you’ll create a traditional souvenir under the guidance of skilled artisans. This day tour promises a delightful blend of history, culture and creativity, leaving you with cherished memories of Seoul. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 4 – Seoul Embarkation
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the port, where you will board the Celebrity Millennium for a 12-night cruise.
Day 5-15 – Cruising onboard the Celebrity Millennium
Ports of call include Jeju Island, South Korea; and Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Hiroshima, Kochi, Kyoto and Mt. Fuji, Japan.
Day 16 – Tokyo Disembarkation
Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Celebrity Millennium and set off on your tour of Tokyo. Begin the day with a visit to Asakusa Sensoji Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. Travel back in time as you enter through the iconic gate at the entrance, stroll through the sacred grounds, explore the enormous temple and marvel at the intricately carved five-story pagoda. Then, head to a special venue to learn about Taiko, a traditional Japanese drum which has been used in festivals for over 2,000 years. You will learn how to play Taiko from a professional performer while learning about its origin and influence on Japanese culture.
After lunch at a local restaurant, board a river boat and enjoy an afternoon cruise along the Sumida river, providing you with a new perspective from which to appreciate the ancient and modern aspects of the city. We will then take a stroll in the peaceful setting of a traditional Japanese garden. In the evening, visit the Roppongi Hills Observatory to take in a breathtaking view of the city skyline. Then, finish the night with a special dinner with savory Japanese food.
Day 17 – Tokyo
This morning we will start our tour at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, Japan’s most famous Shinto shrine. Nestled within a lush forest in the middle of the city, this peaceful oasis will make you forget that you’re in bustling Tokyo. Back in the city, we will witness Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing and explore the upscale Aoyama district. Our next stop is a renowned culinary studio, where you’ll try your hand at making traditional Japanese sushi. After this fun, interactive experience, sit down to a delicious lunch of your own creations. We will then visit Ginza, Tokyo’s upscale shopping and entertainment district, before returning to the hotel to enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Day 18 – Tokyo
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.
Celebrity Millennium
Step aboard one of the first cruise ships in the world to receive a Four-Star Rating by Forbes Travel Guide!
Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba Hotel
The Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba also has a beautiful view of the Tokyo Bay and Rainbow Bridge. It’s only a few miles from the center of Tokyo and the Imperial Palace
Lotte Hotel Seoul
Korea’s premier luxury business hotel boasts 1,015 rooms and is located in Sogong-dong, Seoul.
Please note this list is preliminary and subject to change. Although we contract for hotels a year or more in advance, unforeseen circumstances do occasionally require a change of hotel. Should it be necessary to change a hotel, one of equal quality or value will be substituted and you will receive confirmed hotel information with your final itinerary.
Special Offer
Limited Time Bonus $200 Gift Card
Journey on Celebrity Cruises with up to $1,100 Onboard Credit OR FREE Tips Exclusively from Us. Valid for select departures. Drinks & Wi-Fi are All Included.
This Journey
3-night pre-cruise land program in South Korea
2-night post-cruise land program in Japan
9 guided tours
11 meals on tour (5 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 2 dinners) and all meals onboard
12-night sailing aboard the Celebrity Millennium
Always Included
International airfare, including transfers and baggage handling
English-speaking Local Guide during land program on most departures
Guaranteed early hotel check-in on arrival day (pre-cruise tours only)
Centrally located four- and five-star hotels
Inclusive pricing: includes airfare, land program, cruise, transfers, and all taxes and fees
Exclusive amenities onboard your cruise (see special offers)
10% off shore excursions
Journey Through Tradition
Explore the enchanting traditions of Japan and South Korea! From the tranquil beauty of tea ceremonies to the dynamic energy of Taiko drumming, you’ll experience the essence of these remarkable cultures firsthand.
Extend Your Journey
More time to relax, explore and make the most of your trip.
Hotel Extension
Want an extra day to adjust to the new time zone? With this optional extension you will arrive to Seoul a day early and have one extra day to relax at the hotel before the tour starts. Note: tours are not included. Price of $195 per person, based on double occupancy, includes 1-night hotel accommodations in Seoul with daily breakfast and private transfer from airport to hotel.
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More Information
What to Know Before You Go
The land portion of the trip should be considered active and includes a considerable amount of walking.
Enrichment Journeys will do everything in our power to ensure comfort through our third-party providers, including air-conditioned buses and comfortable accommodations where applicable. However, some areas cannot be accessed by coach, so our drivers will get you as close to sites as is legally allowed. Sensible, rubber-soled walking shoes are strongly recommended. Historical sites often do not have elevators, escalators, or ramps due to the age of the building/structure. Steps can be steep and uneven. Based on crowds and traffic, order of visits may be changed. You may have to walk a moderate distance to transfer to coach stations and airport terminals. Time spent on the road and traveling can be long, so you will need to be prepared for stretches of down time in between destinations.
Wheelchair access at many sites is limited. A fold-up wheelchair may be able to be stored on the bus but requires prior arrangements. Guests must be able to transfer from their chair to the transportation. Guides/drivers are not allowed to lift or push wheelchairs, so guests requiring physical assistance must travel with a companion who can assist. Motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this group program.
Included airfare is from select airports only. To inquire about a different airport, please contact your Personal Vacation Manager.
Enrichment Journeys is committed to providing remarkable experiences at extraordinary value. As a result, airlines and routes are selected to maximize that value and may involve multiple stops and extended layovers versus non-stop or direct flights. Passengers wishing to utilize specific carriers, direct/non-stop flights, Business Class upgrades, or to extend their time in any of our beginning or ending destination cities may do so by contacting Enrichment Journeys and inquiring about the Custom Airfare Program. There is a $100 per person charge for this service, however this charge will be applied toward any flights or upgrades you choose to purchase. The $100 charge must be paid prior to receiving a custom air quote.
To travel internationally, you must have a passport in good condition, and it must be valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip. Visa requirements change frequently and for various reasons. As a result, our Personal Vacation Managers are not always able to provide visa information. The best way to obtain up-to-date information regarding visa requirements is to visit the official US government website for Americans traveling abroad, Travel.State.Gov (Canadian citizens should visit https://travel.gc.ca/, for all other countries please visit your government website or local embassy), which details specific information on the countries you would like to visit, including visa requirements. You may also use a third-party visa service, such as Expedited Travel. These services require an additional service fee but make the process of applying for a visa much simpler.
To extend a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your Journey, please speak to a Personal Vacation Manager for assistance in making those arrangements.
If you are interested in customizing your Journey, pairing it with a different cruise, or arranging a private tour for your party, you may be interested in our Private Journeys program. You can learn more about this program here, or speak to a Personal Vacation Manager for more information.
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