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Whether you’re looking to book a private trip with family, friends or a social group, these are the best Culture Trip itineraries you can book in East Asia.


There’s plenty of pros for going private. Obviously it means you can keep the guest-list locked down, but it also allows for far greater flexibility on travel dates, group sizes (minimum of 4) and even age requirements. Simply get in touch with our Travel Experts to organise your personalised Culture Trip adventure.

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View from a flowery field as the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) zooms past Mount Fuji in the Japanese countryside

Japan by Train: The Grand Tour

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.

From US$4527.2 Next available from 13th Oct 2024 Secure your spot with a low deposit
Trip highlights and details
STARTS AT Osaka, Japan
arrow pointing to the right
ENDS AT Tokyo, Japan
DURATION 12
GROUP SIZE 16
PHYSICAL RATING
Moderate info icon
STYLE
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Train approaching the Duoliang Station in Taitung, on the east coast of Taiwan

A Taste of Taiwan by Train

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.

From US$2031.2 Next available from 12th Oct 2024 Secure your spot with a low deposit
Trip highlights and details
STARTS AT Taipei, Taiwan
arrow pointing to the right
ENDS AT Taipei, Taiwan
DURATION 9
GROUP SIZE 16
PHYSICAL RATING
Moderate info icon
STYLE
Discovery info icon
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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple on sea shore. Busan, South Korea

Soulful South Korea

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.

From US$3399.15 Next available from 23rd Mar 2025 Secure your spot with a low deposit
Trip highlights and details
STARTS AT Seoul, South Korea
arrow pointing to the right
ENDS AT Seoul, South Korea
DURATION 10
GROUP SIZE 16
PHYSICAL RATING
Moderate info icon
STYLE
Discovery info icon

About the author

Gethin Morgan has developed an exciting portfolio across a series of roles at Culture Trip. With a keen interest in food and drink, Gethin is also particularly interested in niche or alternative travel which, in his case, usually involves following the Wales national soccer team to Europe's most obscure cities.

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