Hokkaido Explorer from Seoul to Tokyo by Rail

South Korea & Japan

Best time to travel

Apr – Nov

Ideal length

13 nights

Perfect for

All

From (incl flights)

€7,449 pp

At a glance

International flights from Dublin to Incheon and home from Tokyo.
All private transfers, car hire and bullet train tickets as well as a short flight from Incheon to Sapporo.
13 nights’ accommodation in Seoul, Sapporo, Shikotsuko, Lake Toya, Hakodate and Tokyo.
Guided tours and experiences including a private foodie tour in Seoul, guided tour in Sapporo and tea tasting experience in Hakodate.
Luxury luggage forwarding service to make your journey comfortable and convenient.
Orientation meeting in Sapporo where you will be provided with a portable Wi-Fi device, in-depth recommendations and maps as well as your PASMO pass for the metro.

Let's plan your trip!

Introduction

South Korea and Japan are wonderful examples of the fact that modernism and traditionalism can live in harmony. On this suggested itinerary, we will take you to the bright lights of Tokyo, Seoul and Sapporo, where hidden izakaya and ukiyo-e woodblock collectors live between the towering skyscrapers of the city. United with the sleepy hot spring resorts and lakeside towns of Hokkaido, this is the perfect exploration of the juxtapositions of modern Japan and South Korea.

Luxury bespoke services

The incredible culture and character of Japan and South Korea are wonderfully rewarding but difficult to discover. With OROKO, we have visited both countries numerous times and know what it takes to ensure the most seamless experience. Combatting language barriers and distinct cultural differences, it is paramount to have experience and luxury services on your side. That is why we have partnered with outstanding local guides and arranged comprehensive services like portable Wi-Fi devices, in-depth recommendations and maps, transport passes, seat selection aboard bullet trains and luxury luggage forwarding services. We will be with you every step of the way.

View all of our luxury holidays to Japan and South Korea.

Trip Overview

Depart from Dublin to Incheon, South Korea.

Your private driver will transfer you to Seoul, where you will spend four nights. Explore artsy neighbourhoods like Insa-dong and visit celebrated landmarks like Changdeokgung Palace. We’ll take you on a tour of the Korean Demilitarised Zone.

Experience a sumptuous guided foodie tour.

Korea is renowned for its outstanding food scene and culinary traditions. Sample flavourful dishes like bibimbap, kimchi and bulgogi as you browse food markets and experience authentic Korean BBQ paired with a wonderful array of classic banchan.

Depart for Japan’s city of Sapporo, where you’ll spend two nights.

Receive an in-depth welcome orientation where your guide will provide you with your PASMO pass, portable Wi-Fi device with unlimited data and in-depth maps and recommendations.

Get to know Sapporo on an evening food tour.

Discover hidden izakaya and markets, sampling local delicacies with your guide. The following day, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Sapporo’s landmarks, partake in a kimono workshop and pay a visit to a famous chocolate factory in the city.

Collect your pre-arranged rental car and drive to Lake Shikotsu.

Take the scenic route towards the lake, where one can enjoy lake boat rides and nature trails. Spend one night in a traditional ryokan, bathing in your private natural spring onsen and enjoying a traditional dining experience in the evening.

Set out for Lake Toya, via the Upopoy National Ainu Museum.

Arrive on the shores of the lake for your two night stay. We recommend taking the ropeway to the summit of Mount Usa, enjoying a boat ride on the lake and exploring the hot spring resort of Toyako Onsen.

Drive the scenic coastal road to Hakodate.

Spend two nights in a traditional ryokan and visit sites like Hakodate Morning Market and Goryokaku Tower, which offers spectacular views. You’ll also partake in a tea tasting workshop and have the chance to make your own unique blend.

Leave your rental car behind and transfer to Tokyo, via bullet train.

Spend two nights in the futuristic metropolis, visiting trendy neighbourhoods like Shinjuku and Shibuya. We’ll provide you with a list of restaurant recommendations for the best eateries specialising in dishes like tempura, sushi and yakitori.

Explore the city’s highlights.

Visit fantastic sites including Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji Market and Hamarikyu Gardens. Pick up authentic souvenirs like ukiyo-e woodblock prints in the historic shops of Asakusa and handmade pottery and yakimono porcelain in Taito, home to the famed Kappabashi Street.

Depart for the international airport for your flight home.

Arrive in Dublin.

Tailoring your holiday

OROKO Itineraries are created with you in mind and no two are the same. These can be used to help plan your trip - or we can design a completely different itinerary to suit you.

Let's plan your trip!

Accommodation

Where to rest your head

Looking for the best accommodation? We've got the contacts

Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

The luxury Four Seasons brand brings its exceptional hospitality to Seoul’s vibrant district of Gwanghwamun. The hotel is housed in a contemporary high rise building.

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JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo

Housed in a contemporary high-rise building, the JR Tower Hotel offers spectacular views over Ishikari Bay. Interiors are bright and modern, and the hotel offers a variety of facilities.

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Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu No Uta

The traditional spa resort of Mizu No Uta is ideally situated on the shores of Lake Shikotsu. Offering an authentic experience, guests are introduced to onsen, traditional hot spring baths.

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Ryokan Bourou Noguchi Hakodate

Bourou Noguchi is a contemporary ryokan in central Hakodate. A modern interpretation of a Japanese inn, interiors are stylish and minimalistic.

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Hoshinoya Tokyo

Situated in the financial district of Otemachi lies Hoshinoya Tokyo Hotel. The luxury property’s contemporary high-rise exterior contrasts greatly to its traditional ryokan furnishings of flooring.

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The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kiochio, A Luxury Collection

Just steps from the historic Kitashirakawa Palace, The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho offers luxurious accommodation in the heart of Tokyo.

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What people are saying

We loved the OROKO travel documents! We are so impressed with the service we have received from your company. We will most certainly recommend you to our family and friends. You have thought of everything and we are very appreciative.

Sharon & Tom – Greece, September 2019