The Best Private Trips to Book in East Asia
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.
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$4045
Next available from 2nd Sep 2024
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Trip highlights and details
STARTS AT
Osaka, Japan
ENDS AT
Tokyo, Japan
DURATION
12
GROUP SIZE
16
PHYSICAL RATING
STYLE
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
Next available from 20th Jul 2024
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Trip highlights and details
STARTS AT
Taipei, Taiwan
ENDS AT
Taipei, Taiwan
DURATION
9
GROUP SIZE
16
PHYSICAL RATING
STYLE
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$3223
Next available from 19th May 2024
Secure your spot with a low deposit
Trip highlights and details
STARTS AT
Seoul, South Korea
ENDS AT
Seoul, South Korea
DURATION
10
GROUP SIZE
16
PHYSICAL RATING
STYLE
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
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