Japan & South Korea 9-26 May 2027 - Get Your Sushi & Kimchi On Tour 🍣

✈️ Get Your Sushi & Kimchi On Tour for Over 50's Japan & South Korea 9-26 MAY 2027

✈️Open to Women, Men, Couples, Friends, Singles - perfect getaway for everyone & if you’re a solo traveller who’s a bit nervous to travel on your own - you’re in good, very safe hands!

We are going to Japan a BIG bucket list of my own, in like, forever! AND whilst we’re there we’re popping over to South Korea too.

🎁Trust me it will be amazing! If this is your first ever time to Japan and/or South Korea I package it all up, add the highlights and must see’s + include little Penny extras, so you don’t have to outlay much at all on tour. In Asia food is so good, so affordable.

🎁I bundle the package 👉You purchase your flights (in this case there is 2 internationals to purchase) 👉and we are pretty much set apart from small incidentals. So easy!

🙋🏻‍♀️I host EVERY tour. I’m right there with you on the ground, in the bus, on the boat, up the mountain, eating and laughing with you. I created my travel business so I could continue to enjoy the glorious wonders of the globe and spend time with people like you to EXPLORE WHAT'S NEXT!

💎This is a PREMIUM STYLE EXPERIENCE but not at huge premium prices. I work diligently with my suppliers to maintain affordability, style + comfort and immersive experiences.

Single Room per person AUD$10,922

Twinshare per person AUD$8,481

*If you do the maths on the single room, it is only about AUD$144 per night extra for your own room if you want your own space!

💠Tour Package Inclusions:

• 2 Countries
• 4 nights South Korea
• 13 nights Japan
• 24/7 Private Tour Host (me)
• Japanese/Korean English speaking guides
• Private group coaches (buses)
• Airport Arrival and Departure Transfers
• 4-star hotels or similar
• 17 Breakfasts at Hotel
• 7 Lunches
• 3 Dinners
• 3 full leisure days
• A handful of free afternoons
• Other transport as specified
• Shinkansen high speed train tickets (Japan)
• KTix Train tickets (Korea)
• Ferry tickets
• Ropeway ticket
• Pirate Ship Cruise
• Onsen room at Hakone Hotel (*Note tattoo restrictions)
• Land to Water Duck Boat
• Korean BBQ
• All sightseeing and entrance fees & tickets on itinerary
• Entrance to palaces, bridges, museums, guard changing ceremony etc
• Fun Plastic Food Key Ring / Magnet making
• Tea Ceremony
• Luggage transfers city to city
• Messenger chat group
• WhatsApp Tour Group Chat
• Life360 Safety Group Access (optional)
• Emergency contact priority

PLUS: Your own private tour HOST, Penelope, owner of Switchlife on ground for the entire journey with you for anything you need! Feel sick, I’m there. Lost your way, I’m there. Need to chat privately, I’m there. Need a reminder, I’m there. I got you!

Visas:

No Visas required for Australian passports to Japan or South Korea. Customs declarations are required and can be completed online prior arrival - I shall guide you with this. Please check your country requirements in travelling on other passports.

EXCLUSIONS:

• Long Haul International flights
• International flight Busan Korea to Tokyo Japan Day 5 13/5/27. I will assist with this as a group, incurs additional airfare cost around $420 one way as my supplier was unable to include this in the package.
• Domestic airfares (there are none on this tour)
• Public Transportation
• Private Onsen Experience (additional cost if you have tattoos that cannot be covered by a bandage)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Optional activities on free days
• Accommodation and bathing taxes where applicable

Ps. I’m almost 60 and I’m naturally curious. I’ve lived on 5 amazing continents and love people and cultures. We have to say yes to things if we want adventure and memories ~ life is way too short ~ I would be honoured to host you around these 2 culturally rich countries, so I hope to see you on Day 1 in Seoul. I’m so fricken excited, thank you for stopping by. Love, Penelope xo

Day 1 Seoul, South Korea Arrival

Sunday 9 May 2027

ARRIVAL IN SEOUL Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your local English-speaking guide and assisted with your private transfer to Seoul.

Settle into the city and enjoy a comfortable stay at Amid Hotel or a similar hotel, ideally located for exploring the historic heart of Seoul.

We will enjoy an arrival meet and greet early evening.

• No meals in Seoul on arrival day
• Amid Hotel Seoul
• Day Tour & transfers included

Day 2 Seoul Tour

Monday 10 May 2027

After breakfast, begin your private exploration of Seoul, a fascinating city where centuries-old traditions meet a dynamic modern lifestyle.

The day begins with the spectacular Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of the five royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. Witness the colourful traditional uniforms, ceremonial music, and time-honored rituals that bring Korea’s royal heritage vividly to life.

Continue with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace before strolling through Bukchon Hanok Village. Set among winding lanes and traditional Korean houses, Bukchon offers an authentic glimpse into Seoul’s elegant past.

Enjoy a Korean BBQ lunch at Insadong Street, a cultural district renowned for its traditional restaurants, tea houses, galleries, and Korean handicrafts.

In the afternoon after lunch take some free time to enjoy a relaxing traditional Korean tea break at a local tea house or browse the charming shops. Complete the day at Namdaemun Market, Seoul’s largest traditional market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of local life. Take time to sample a variety of Korean street foods and local snacks, or browse the market stalls for souvenirs, traditional goods, and other unique finds.

After the tour, return to your hotel at your own leisure.

• Amid 4 Star Hotel
• Touring included
• English speaking guide
• Breakfast at Hotel
• Korean BBQ Lunch included

Day 3 Seoul to Gyeongju

Tuesday 11 May 2027

After breakfast, depart Seoul aboard the KTX high-speed train for Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom known as the “Museum Without Walls”.

Upon arrival, begin your private sightseeing tour with a visit to the Gyeongju National Museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts reflecting the artistic and cultural achievements of the Silla Kingdom. Continue to Tumuli Park, where enormous grass-covered royal tombs create one of Gyeongju’s most distinctive landscapes.

Then, enjoy free time at Hwangridan-gil, a charming and vibrant street lined with trendy cafés, boutique shops, and local eateries. Take a relaxing coffee break at one of the area’s popular cafés or spend some time exploring the street at your own leisure, discovering its unique blend of traditional Gyeongju charm and contemporary atmosphere.

As the afternoon unfolds, admire the graceful beauty of Woljeonggyo Bridge, a beautifully reconstructed Silla-era bridge that is particularly enchanting against the surrounding scenery.

End time at Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond, a former royal palace complex. As evening approaches, the reflection of the illuminated palace buildings across the tranquil pond creates one of Gyeongju’s most memorable views.

Make your own way back to the hotel.

Overnight at Gyeongju The K Hotel or similar.

• The K Hotel or similar
• Meals: Breakfast at hotel
• Lunch and Dinner included
• Half Day Tour included

Day 4 Gyeongju to Busan

Wednesday 12 May 2027

After breakfast, continue your exploration of Gyeongju with a visit to Bulguksa Temple, one of Korea’s most celebrated Buddhist temples and a masterpiece of Silla architecture.

Travel by private vehicle to Busan, Korea’s vibrant coastal metropolis, approximately 1.5 hours away. Upon arrival, discover the distinctive character of Busan, beginning with Haeundae Beach, one of Korea’s most famous seaside destinations.

Next, experience the colorful atmosphere of Gamcheon Cultural Village, a hillside neighborhood famous for its brightly painted houses, artistic installations, narrow alleyways, and panoramic views.

Continue to Bupyeong Kkangtong Market, one of Busan’s most popular traditional markets, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse selection of local street foods.

Take the opportunity to experience one of Busan’s signature specialties, Korean fish cake (eomuk), and sample this beloved local delicacy fresh from the market stalls.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Jagalchi Fish Market, one of Korea’s most famous traditional seafood markets. Experience Busan like a local by selecting fresh seafood directly from the market, then taking your choice of seafood to a nearby restaurant, where it can be prepared and cooked to your preference.

Enjoy freshly prepared seafood while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors of Busan’s renowned seafood district. Check in at Busan Asti Hotel or a similar hotel and enjoy your final evening in Korea.

• Busan Asti Hotel
• Breakfast at hotel included
• Lunch and Dinner included
• Half day tour included

• Meals Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 Arrival Day Tokyo

Thursday 13 May 2027

After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to Gimhae International Airport for your departure flight to Tokyo

Tokyo Arrival Arrive Tokyo Airport. Meet our English-speaking guide and driver at arrivals Transfer to our hotel. On arrival will be leisure time + a Japan meet and greet early evening.

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Tokyo
• Breakfast at Busan Hotel
• Transport: Private Coach Guide: English speaking Guide (Airport to Hotel)

Day 6 Tokyo Day Tour

Friday 14 May 2027

09:00 Meet guide and driver at hotel, we will be visiting:

*Imperial Palace & Nijubashi Bridge *Meiji Jingu Shrine Lunch at Shibuya *District, Shibuya Crossing Shibuya Sky (Ticket Included)

*Remainder of day at leisure

*Make your own way back to hotel

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Tokyo or similar
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transport for day touring (group coach)
• Any public transport own cost
• English-speaking

Day 7 Tokyo Day Tour

Saturday 15 May 2027

09:00 Meet guide and driver at hotel, today we will be adventuring to:

*Asakusa District, Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise Street

*Fukagawa Edo Museum (Ticket Included)

*Lunch at Ryogoku Edo NOREN

*Afternoon at leisure

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Tokyo
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transport: group coach
• Any public transport own cost
• English-speaking Guide

Day 8 Tokyo Do your Own Thing Leisure Day

Sunday 16 May 2027

Enjoy some of your own exploring time away from the group with sightseeing, shopping or optional activities.

↓↓Optional (Ticket not included, book in advance so you don't miss out!)

Tokyo Tower

Disneyland

DisneySea

Teamlab Planets

Mario Kart Go-Kart

• Breakfast at hotel
• No other arrangements

Day 9 Tokyo to Hakone

Monday 17 May 2027

Today we hop on our coach and head out of Tokyo to explore another region not far away - a full day to Hakone with sights!

09:00 Meet guide and driver at hotel

*Transfer to Hakone

*Hakone Shrine

*Lunch at Hakonemachi Pier

*Lake Ashi Pirate Ship Cruise *Hakonemachi Pier to Togendai Pier (Ticket Included)

*Hakone Ropeway (Togendai station →Sounzan Station) with stop at Owakudani Valley (Ticket Included)

• Transfer to hotel
• Hotel: 4★ Onsen Hotel in Hakone
• Meal: Breakfast at Hotel
• Lunch: In Hakone (included)
• Transport: Private Group Coach English-speaking Guide

Day 10 Hakone to Kyoto

Tuesday 18 May 2027

08:00 Meet guide and driver at hotel

Transfer to Mishima Station

8:54 - 11:34 Take JR Shinkansen to Kyoto Station, meet with guide & driver at platform (Ticket Included)

12:14-13:15 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) (Ticket Included)

13:45–14:15 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

15:00 - Rest at hotel and have some lunch at your own leisure

16:30–18:00 Tea Ceremony with Kimono Experience (Ticket Included)

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Kyoto
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel

Day 11 Nara Day Trip Kyoto

Wednesday 19 May 2027

10:30 Meet with guide and driver at hotel

*Nara Deer Park & Todai-ji Temple (Golden Buddha)(Ticket Included)

*Lunch

*Naramachi Old Town District

*Transfer to hotel

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Kyoto
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transport: Private Group Coach
• English-speaking Guide

Day 12 Do your Own Thing Kyoto

Thursday 20 May 2027

Enjoy Kyoto's beauty on your own today for sightseeing, shopping or optional activities.

↓↓ Optional(Ticket not included) Samurai Ninja Museum

Fushimi Inari Grand Shrine

• Luggage transfer to Hiroshima hotel on next day
• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Kyoto
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transport: Nil
• Guide: Nil

Day 13 Kyoto to Hiroshima

Friday 21 May 2027

We make our own way to Kyoto station today (no guide / no driver) we will walk as a group on our own little transfer discovery!

09:46–11:27 Take JR Shinkansen to Hiroshima Station, meet with driver and guide at platform (Ticket Included)

12:25–12:35 Ferry to Miyajima Island (Ticket Included)

12:35–16:25 Miyajima Exploration • Itsukushima Shrine • Omotesando Shopping Street (Ticket Included)

16:25–16:35 Ferry back to Hiroshima (Ticket Included)

16:45 Transfer to hotel

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Hiroshima or similar
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel Transport: Shinkansen, Ferry & Private Group Coach
• English-speaking Guide

Day 14 Hiroshima Day Tour

Saturday 22 May 2027

09:00 Meet with guide & driver at hotel

09:15-09:30 - Atomic Bomb Dome

09:45-11:45 Yamato Maritime Museum, JMSDF Kure Whale of Iron Museum (Ticket Included)

12:00-13:00 Lunch (Own choice)

14:15-16:30 Saijo Sakagura-dori Street

16:45 Transfer to hotel

• Luggage transfer to Osaka hotel on next day
• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Hiroshima
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transport: Private Group Coach
• English-speaking Guide

Day 15 Hiroshima to Osaka

Sunday 23 May 2027

09:00 Meet guide and driver at hotel

09:53–11:13 Take JR Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station, meet with driver and guide at platform (Ticket included)

12:00–13:30 Osaka Castle Park & Osaka Castle (Outside Photo)

14:00–16:00 Lunch (own expense) and sightseeing/Shopping at Dotonbori District

16:15–17:00 Namba Yasaka Lion Head Shrine

17:15 Transfer to hotel

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Osaka
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel Transport: Private Group Coach(from Shin-Osaka station) & Shinkansen (Hiroshima to Osaka)
• English-speaking Guide

Day 16 Osaka Touring

Monday 24 May 2027

10:00 Meet guide at hotel

10:45–12:00 Osaka Duck Tour Land/River Bus (Ticket Included)

12:15-13:30 Lunch (Own expense and arrangement)

Time TBA - Plastic Food Sample Workshop (Ticket Included) - make your own Japan food sample keyring / magnet to take home

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Osaka
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transport: Public Transportation (Not Included, own expense)
• English-speaking Guide

Day 17 Do Your Own Thing Leisure Day Osaka + Tour Final Day!

Friday 25 May 2027

Enjoy your own wonderful independent day today sightseeing, shopping or optional activities as you take in what the last 18 days has been like for you - tonight we will celebrate with a special dinner (own cost) - venue to be advised!

Optional activites:

↓↓ (Ticket not included)

Universal Studio Japan

Or anywhere else in Osaka, do some of your own research!

• Hotel: 4★ Hotel in Osaka
• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transport: Nil
• Guide: Nil

Day 18 Departure Day Osaka Home

Saturday 26 May 2027

Gather your things, meet the coach driver at hotel reception and transfer to the airport for your journey home!

• Meal: Breakfast at hotel
• Transfer to airport

Single Room per person AUD$10,922

Twinshare per person AUD$8,481

SO THAT’S OUR SUPER SPECIAL SWITCHLIFE TOUR EXPERIENCE! (Hope the itinerary inspired you to find out more…)

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