The Best Private Trips to Book in East Asia

There’s so much to see in Japan, from modern metropolises to ancient communities, epic mountains to scenic islands and spiritual bamboo forests. Thanks to the speed and efficiency of the country’s famed rail network, we were able to put together this comprehensive Japan itinerary, which starts in Osaka and ends in Tokyo. City stops along the way include Hiroshima, Kyoto and Hakone, but you’ll also get to discover a Miyajima Island, a Arashiyama bamboo forest and Lake Ashia, with views of Mount Fuji. Authentic experiences include a stay at a traditional ryokan inn, a visit to Hida Folk Village and an expert sushi-rolling class in the capital. By the time you’re belting out karaoke songs in a neon-lit Tokyo bar on the eleventh night, you’ll have sampled both the old and the new Japan, as well as getting a taste for authentic Japanese cuisine and more photo opportunities than you can fit in an Instagram post.

East Asia’s most lesser-known gem is without doubt the island nation of Taiwan, off the coast of China. This place is full of natural beauty and a collection of modern cities, each with their own distinct sense of identity. Taiwanese culture is a fascinating blend, with lots of influences from China, Korea and Japan, but also an unmistakable sense of independence. Our nine-day Rail Trip loops around the whole island, starting and ending in the capital, Taipei. You’ll explore night markets here and in Taichung, discover the culinary capital of Tainan and the striking artworks and temples of Kaohsiung. Rural detours include a cycle around and boat cruise across the serene Sun Moon Lake, plus a tea tasting at a nearby factory, and a guided exploration of the cave systems, unique rock formations and suspension bridges of Taroko Gorge. Highlight include a Taiwanese cooking masterclass, a responsible sky lantern experience and a remarkably scenic train journey along the island’s eastern coastline.

South Korea is a real treasure of a destination, which can take you from luscious national parks to neon-lit cities and ancient Buddhist temples in just over a week. Our 10-day itinerary offers the ultimate Korean experience, starting and ending in Seoul. In the capital you’ll get a guided tour, visit a traditional Hanok village and sing karaoke, before heading out to the Demilitarised Zone. The DMZ is a fascinating place, on the border with North Korea, where you can learn about the nations’ complex relationship, explore military tunnels and catch a glimpse at South Korea’s mysterious neighbour. Next up are the luscious peaks of Seoraksan National Park and the ancient city of Gyeongju, followed by a traditional Korean temple stay at Golgulsa, a sixth-century Buddhist cave temple. Learn how to meditate and martial art like a monk before returning to modernity in coastal Busan, where you’ll get a cooking class, a tea tasting, a soju sampling and a visit to the city’s famous fish market. En route back to Seoul, we’ll stop off in Jeonju, where you’ll visit another Hanok village and sample bibimbap –Korea’s most iconic dish – in the city of its birth.