14 Days Japan & South Korea Itinerary
Embark on a 14-day journey through Japan and South Korea, experiencing the best of both worlds. Explore iconic landmarks, indulge in delectable cuisine, and immerse yourself in the unique cultures of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Seoul, and Busan.
Duration
14 days
Budget
$2800
Best Time
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or Autumn (September-November) for vibrant foliage
Activities
86
Daily Avg
USD200/day
Cities
Tokyo (3d), Kyoto (3d), Osaka (2d), Kyoto (1d), Osaka (1d), Busan (2d), Seoul (2d)
Pace
Fast
This itinerary combines the futuristic modernity and ancient traditions of Japan with the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of South Korea. It offers a diverse experience, from serene temples and bustling cityscapes to stunning natural landscapes and unforgettable culinary adventures.
Your itinerary covers 5 of 12 must-have experiences
Cultural Immersion
Day 3: Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
Culinary Adventure
Day 10: Korean BBQ Dinner in Seoul
Urban Exploration
Day 13: Bukchon Hanok Village Exploration
Historical Sites
Day 4: Fushimi Inari Shrine visit
Nature Escape
Day 5: Philosopher's Path walk
Pop Culture
Day 12: Gamcheon Culture Village
Art & Museums
e.g., Visit the Tokyo National Museum, Explore the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art
Spas & Relaxation
e.g., Experience an Onsen, Visit a Korean Jjimjilbang
Shopping
Day 2: Shopping in Shibuya
Temples & Shrines
Day 3: Senso-ji Temple
Nightlife
e.g., Explore Shinjuku's Golden Gai, Visit Itaewon
Local Market
Day 12: Jagalchi Fish Market
Japanese and Korean cuisine offer incredibly diverse and flavorful experiences. From meticulously crafted sushi to spicy and savory stews, each dish tells a story of tradition and innovation. Be prepared to explore a wide range of tastes and textures, and don't be afraid to try new things!
Must-Try Dishes
Fresh, vinegared rice combined with various ingredients like seafood, vegetables, and eggs. The quality of the fish and the chef's skill are paramount.
📍 Sushi restaurants, fish markets (Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo), department store food halls
A noodle soup dish with wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth, often flavored with soy sauce or miso, and topped with sliced pork (chashu), dried seaweed (nori), and green onions.
📍 Ramen shops (Ramen Alley in Sapporo), train station restaurants
A mixed rice dish with seasoned vegetables, meat (usually beef), a fried egg, and gochujang (chili pepper paste). A flavorful and satisfying meal.
📍 Korean restaurants, street food stalls, department store food courts
Kimchi stew, a spicy and savory stew made with kimchi, pork or tofu, and other vegetables. A staple in Korean cuisine, especially during colder months.
📍 Korean restaurants, home-style eateries
Food Neighborhoods
Famous for street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
Seafood paradise with fresh sushi, sashimi, and other seafood dishes.
Street food haven with a wide variety of snacks and treats.
Trendy area with diverse restaurants and cafes catering to a younger crowd.
Vegetarian options are generally more limited in traditional Japanese and Korean cuisine, but are becoming more readily available. Look for dishes like vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and bibimbap (request without meat). Vegan options are scarcer; careful planning is needed. Halal food is not widely available; research specific restaurants in larger cities. Be aware of common allergens like soy sauce, shellfish, and sesame oil.
In Japan, it's polite to say "Itadakimasu" before eating and "Gochisousama deshita" after. Slurping noodles is acceptable and even encouraged. Don't stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl, as this resembles a funeral ritual. In Korea, elders are served first. Wait for the eldest to begin eating before you do. Don't lift your bowl off the table while eating. Avoid talking loudly or blowing your nose at the table.
Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing)
March-MayPopular time to visit Japan; expect crowds and higher prices.
Gion Matsuri
JulyOne of Japan's most famous festivals, held in Kyoto.
Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving)
September/OctoberMajor holiday in South Korea; many businesses close.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶N/AFREE
02:00 PM - Arrival at Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND)
Arrive at the airport, go through immigration and customs.
- 🚶Narita Express or Limousine Bus$30
03:00 PM - Airport Transfer to Shinjuku
Take the Narita Express (NRT) or Limousine Bus (NRT/HND) to Shinjuku Station.
- 🚶Walk from Shinjuku Station.FREE
05:00 PM - Check into Hotel
Check into your hotel in Shinjuku and leave your luggage.
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- 🚶10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station.$5
06:00 PM - Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Explore the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, featuring different garden styles.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Shinjuku Gyoen.$20
08:00 PM - Dinner in Shinjuku
Enjoy dinner in Shinjuku. Explore the many ramen shops or try other Japanese cuisine.
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- 🚶10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station.FREE
09:30 PM - Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks
Visit the free observation decks in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic city views.
Book on Klook
Shinjuku
Excellent transport links, vibrant nightlife, and diverse dining options.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms or Autumn (September-November) for vibrant foliage.
Expect comfortable temperatures with occasional rainfall. Layering clothing is recommended. The air is generally clear and fresh.
Spring and Autumn offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, making them ideal travel seasons. Crowds are moderate.
Golden Week (late April-early May) in Japan and Chuseok (mid-September/October) in South Korea can cause travel disruptions and higher prices.
Getting Around
World-class public transport with punctual trains and buses
Suica / Pasmo / ICOCA
Get a Japan Rail Pass for multi-city travel. Trains stop around midnight.
Travel
USD 300 - 500 (includes flights and Shinkansen/KTX)Accommodation
USD 50 - 100 per nightFood
USD 40 - 60 per dayActivities
USD 300 - 500Utilize local transportation such as subways and buses instead of taxis. Consider overnight buses for long distances.
Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels. Look for deals and discounts online.
Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls for affordable and authentic meals. Take advantage of free activities and attractions like parks and temples.
- Purchase a Japan Rail Pass if traveling extensively by Shinkansen.
- Consider a T-money card in South Korea for easy transport.
- Learn basic Japanese and Korean phrases for better communication.
- Download translation apps for seamless navigation.
- Respect local customs and etiquette.
- Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
- Stay connected with a pocket wifi or local SIM card.
- 1Comfortable walking shoes
- 2Universal adapter
- 3Portable charger
- 4Light layers
- 5Rain gear
Flights and Accommodation
Book at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during cherry blossom/fall foliage seasons or major holidays.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Check your specific nationality's requirements for both Japan and South Korea well in advance. Some require K-ETA or pre-registration.
Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass)
If planning extensive rail travel in Japan, purchase before arrival for significant savings. Activate upon entry.
Pre-order SIM Card / Pocket WiFi
Arrange online for airport pick-up or delivery to ensure immediate connectivity upon arrival.
Popular Attractions / Tours
Book high-demand attractions like Ghibli Museum (Japan), DMZ Tours (Korea), or specific cultural experiences months ahead as tickets sell out quickly.
High-speed rail tickets (Shinkansen, KTX)
Book tickets for popular routes and peak travel times (e.g., holidays) a few weeks in advance, especially for reserved seats.
Travel Insurance
Always purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Mobal website (delivered to your hotel or home)
📍 Incheon Airport or Gimpo Airport
📍 Japan Wireless website (delivered to your hotel or airport)
Free WiFi is becoming increasingly available in major cities, especially in hotels, cafes (Starbucks, etc.), and some public areas. However, the speed and reliability can vary. Pocket WiFi or a SIM card is generally recommended for consistent connectivity.
Useful Apps
Consider purchasing a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Check the roaming charges with your current mobile provider, but often local SIM/eSIM is much more cost effective. For Japan, a Japan Rail Pass may be worth it if you plan on traveling extensively by train.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
100V
50/60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
Not expected — tipping can be considered rude
Not expected
Not expected; leave a tip in an envelope if desired
Japan has a no-tipping culture. Excellent service is the standard.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Both Japan and South Korea are generally safe for tourists. Be aware of petty theft in crowded areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
110
119
119
English support available at #7119 (medical) and #9110 (police non-emergency)
Payments
Cash is still widely used, especially at small shops and rural areas
Accepted at major stores and hotels; less common at small restaurants
IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) widely accepted at convenience stores and transit
Carry cash — many places are cash-only. 7-Eleven ATMs accept foreign cards.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Spring is famous for cherry blossoms, while Autumn boasts vibrant foliage. Be aware of Golden Week in Japan and Chuseok in South Korea, as these periods can be crowded and expensive.
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- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
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