Korea and Japan 7-Day Itinerary

Wednesday November 15: Seoul, South Korea

Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Seoul. In the morning, visit the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace and witness the changing of the guards. In the afternoon, explore the trendy district of Myeongdong, known for its shopping and street food. As evening approaches, stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream and enjoy the beautiful city lights.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Myeongdong: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Cheonggyecheon Stream: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday November 16: Tokyo, Japan

Embark on a day of exploration in Tokyo. Start your morning with a visit to Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of the world's largest fish market. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Meiji Shrine and the nearby gardens. As night falls, make your way to the lively Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world.

• Tsukiji Fish Market: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Meiji Shrine: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Shibuya Crossing: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Friday November 17: Busan, South Korea

Spend the day exploring the coastal city of Busan. Begin your morning by visiting the renowned Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea. In the afternoon, head to Haeundae Beach and enjoy the beautiful sandy shores. As evening approaches, take a stroll through Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its vibrant and colorful houses.

• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Haeundae Beach: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Variable
• Gamcheon Culture Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday November 18: Kyoto, Japan

Explore the cultural heart of Japan in Kyoto. Start your day with a visit to the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. In the afternoon, wander through the historic streets of Higashiyama and visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple. As evening sets in, experience the traditional art of geisha in the historic Gion district.

• Kinkaku-ji Temple: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Higashiyama District: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Gion District: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday November 19: Seoul, South Korea

Return to Seoul and delve deeper into the city's attractions. Spend the morning visiting the vibrant district of Insadong, known for its traditional crafts and teahouses. In the afternoon, explore the charming Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can wander through the narrow alleyways and admire the traditional Korean houses. As you reach the evening, visit N Seoul Tower for panoramic views of the city.

• Insadong: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Bukchon Hanok Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• N Seoul Tower: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Nandaemun Market, where you can enjoy traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap and gimbap. Average cost for a meal is about 8,000 KRW per person.
• For lunch, head to Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul's oldest and largest traditional markets. Here you can try a variety of street food, including Korean pancakes and spicy rice cakes. Average cost for a meal is about 10,000 KRW per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dinner at Samcheong-dong, a trendy neighborhood filled with charming cafes and restaurants. Try traditional Korean barbecue at Maple Tree House, known for its high-quality cuts of meat and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 30,000 KRW per person.

Monday November 20: Osaka, Japan

Experience the lively city of Osaka. Begin your day by exploring the iconic Osaka Castle and its surrounding park. In the afternoon, shop till you drop at Dotonbori, a bustling street known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious street food. As night falls, visit the popular entertainment district of Shinsekai and try some local delicacies.

• Osaka Castle: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dotonbori: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Shinsekai: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday November 21: Seoul, South Korea

Wrap up your trip in Seoul with a day of relaxation and cultural immersion. Begin your day at the iconic Namsan Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village nestled on the slopes of Namsan Mountain. In the afternoon, pamper yourself at one of Seoul's renowned jjimjilbangs, where you can experience traditional Korean bathhouses. As evening approaches, indulge in a delicious Korean barbecue dinner in one of the city's many restaurants.

• Namsan Hanok Village: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Jjimjilbang: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Korean Barbecue: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit Jagalchi Fish Market in Busan, where you can buy fresh seafood and have it cooked right in front of you. In Kyoto, take a scenic boat ride along the Hozu River for breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Lastly, in Osaka, visit the Umeda Sky Building for an impressive view of the cityscape from their observatory.

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