JAPAN AND KOREA
WITH THE SISTERHOOD
March 27 – April 12, 2027
JAPAN AND KOREA TOUR
A Culturally Immersive, Women-Only Journey
through Two of Asia’s Most Enchanting Destinations
Step into a world where ancient traditions meet modern marvels on this exclusive women’s tour of Japan and South Korea. Curated by Sisterhood Travels for curious and adventurous women, this unforgettable journey offers rare cultural experiences you simply won’t find on typical group tours.
Over 17 days, you’ll travel by bullet train, ferry, and foot through serene Shinto shrines, bustling markets, bamboo forests, centuries-old palaces, and vibrant city streets. Along the way, you’ll share traditional meals with local families, meet North Korean defectors and Hiroshima survivors, watch ama pearl divers in action, and walk beneath the iconic torii gates of Kyoto and Miyajima Island.
This is more than a tour: it’s a deep cultural immersion, designed for women who crave connection, storytelling, and a deeper understanding of the places they visit. Every detail has been thoughtfully planned to provide authentic encounters, meaningful conversations, and once-in-a-lifetime moments that honor both the beauty and complexity of Japanese and Korean culture.
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through cherry blossom-filled temple grounds, savoring a kaiseki dinner prepared with seasonal precision, or hearing living history from the voices who lived it, this journey is your invitation to experience the extraordinary.
Along the way, you’ll laugh, share, and create lifelong memories with a close-knit group of women who will quickly become your new best friends. It’s the kind of magic only Sisterhood can bring – where connection, curiosity, and culture come together in the most unforgettable way.
Trip Highlights
- Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Tokyo.
- Dine beachfront with ama pearl divers and learn their traditions.
- Cook Hiroshima’s iconic okonomiyaki in a hands-on class.
- Hear a Hiroshima survivor’s moving story of resilience.
- Share a home-cooked Korean meal with a Seoul family.
- Meet a North Korean defector and hear their story of escape.
- Visit the DMZ for a rare glimpse at the world’s most restricted border.
OUR ITINERARY
March 27, 2027
Welcome to Tokyo, where ancient tradition meets neon futurism! After arriving in Japan’s dazzling capital, take time to ease into the rhythm of the city on your own terms. Whether you’re strolling through tranquil shrines, diving into department store fashion culture, or simply soaking up the organized energy of it all and relaxing, you’re standing at the crossroads of centuries-old history and cutting-edge innovation. Tonight is all about settling in and savoring the anticipation of what’s to come with your new Sisters for an informal gathering in the hotel lobby. (No meals are included today)
Hotel: Aloft Tokyo Ginza
March 28, 2027
Today is yours to explore Tokyo as you wish with your Sisters. Whether you’re into art, anime, temples, or tech, Tokyo delivers it all in bold, beautiful style. Sip matcha in a quiet garden, people-watch in Shibuya, or head to a quirky café in Harajuku. With every turn, Tokyo reveals something unexpected. This city never sleeps, and she always surprises. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Aloft Tokyo Ginza
March 29, 2027
We’ll start our morning like true locals by zipping through the city on Tokyo’s famously sleek subway with our Tour Manager. Step into history as we visit the serene Imperial Palace and the Niju Bridge, one of the city’s most iconic views. This afternoon, take time to explore the upscale Ginza district, known for its fashion, art galleries, and impossibly chic cafés. Tonight, we’ll gather together over a delicious Welcome Dinner as we toast the start of our unforgettable adventure together. (Breakfast and Dinne included)
Hotel: Aloft Tokyo Ginza
March 30, 2027
We’ll begin our day immersed in one of Japan’s most beloved rituals: a traditional tea ceremony, where you’ll learn the subtle, graceful art of preparing matcha. Then, stroll the colorful stalls of Nakamise Street before stepping into the spiritual heart of Tokyo at Sensoji Temple. This afternoon, explore the Tokyo National Museum, home to samurai swords, silk screens, and ancient artifacts that tell Japan’s story through its art. The evening is yours with your Sisters to discover Tokyo by night. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Aloft Tokyo Ginza
March 31, 2027
All aboard the shinkansen! Today you’ll glide through the countryside at over 200 mph on Japan’s world-famous bullet train, sleek, silent, and unforgettable. Upon arrival in Ise-Shima, step into serenity at Ise Shrine, the country’s most sacred Shinto site dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Surrounded by towering trees and thatched-roof sanctuaries, it’s an atmosphere of calm reverence. Tonight, delight in a traditional kaiseki dinner, an artful, multi-course meal prepared with seasonal precision and quiet elegance. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Nemu Resort, Ise-Shima
April 1, 2027
This morning, we’ll dive into a world of beauty and bravery at the Mikimoto Pearl Museum. Learn about the ama pearl divers: women who, for generations, free-dived into the sea to harvest oysters and pearls. At sunset, we’ll cross the sands of Azurihama Beach to a traditional ama hut. There, over a crackling charcoal fire, our seafood is grilled to perfection as the divers share personal stories and sacred traditions. It’s an intimate, unforgettable evening on the coast of Japan. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Nemu Resort, Ise-Shima
April 2, 2027
Today, we’ll head to Nara, home of ancient temples and the famously friendly “bowing” deer. Step inside the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple and behold the Great Buddha, a towering bronze statue that radiates peace. Afterward, hop back on the shinkansen and race toward Hiroshima. Tonight, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn how to make okonomiyaki, Hiroshima’s favorite savory pancake, layered with flavor and loved by locals. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima
April 3, 2027
We’ll begin the day with a moving visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Stand before the Atomic Dome, a UNESCO site that tells a story the world must never forget. Then, during a powerful, exclusive exchange, hear firsthand from someone who lived through the aftermath of that devastating day. In the afternoon, we’ll board a ferry to Miyajima Island, where the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine welcomes you to one of Japan’s most magical places. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: ANA Crowne Plaza Hiroshima
April 4, 2027
Today, we’ll travel by bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s timeless cultural capital. Our first stop: Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its vermillion torii gates that wind through the forest. Walk beneath them to the inner shrine for a moment of reflection. Then, wander the lantern-lit alleys of Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. If luck is on your side, you might just catch a glimpse of a geisha gliding silently into a teahouse. The evening is yours to explore Kyoto at your own pace with your Sisters. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Hotel Monterey Kyoto
April 5, 2027
Spend your morning immersed in Kyoto’s natural beauty as we stroll through the Arashiyama bamboo forest, where towering green stalks whisper in the breeze. Then, marvel at the shimmering Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion and once the retirement home of a shogun, a Zen temple covered in gold leaf, glistening beside a reflective pond. Later, enjoy a hands-on sushi-making class followed by a fresh, delicious dinner made by you and your Sisters! (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Hotel Monterey Kyoto
April 6, 2027
This morning, explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s “Kitchen Alley,” packed with everything from handmade pickles to fresh wasabi. Then, the rest of the day is yours to dine and explore your way. Perhaps wander Kyoto’s tranquil gardens, return to Gion’s hidden lanes, visit a museum, or sip matcha in a teahouse with a view. Kyoto invites you and your Sisters to slow down, breathe deep, and take it all in. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Hotel Monterey Kyoto
April 7, 2027
Say farewell to Japan as we board our group flight to Seoul, South Korea’s dynamic capital where modern innovation meets timeless tradition. We’ll arrive this afternoon and enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant, where our Korean adventure begins with bold flavors and warm hospitality. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun Seoul
April 8, 2027
Today, you’ll travel to one of the world’s most heavily guarded borders: the Demilitarized Zone, or the DMZ, the tense divide between North and South Korea. It’s a sobering, fascinating look at a nation split in two. We’ll take an exclusive tour of this storied border, seeing Imjingak Park, the Bridge of Freedom, the DMZ Theater and Exhibition Hall, the Dora Observatory, and the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel. This is a rare opportunity to see the “Hermit Kingdom” of North Korea up close, and learn about the long cold war between the two countries. After returning to Seoul, enjoy your evening at leisure with your Sisters to reflect, relax, or explore. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Hotel: Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun Seoul
April 9, 2027
This morning brings an unforgettable, exclusive opportunity as we meet with a North Korean defector who shares their story of life in North Korea, how they escaped to the south and are adjusting to their new life, and the struggles they face in a new country. After, we’ll visit a local market to pick up fresh ingredients before we sit down to a warm, home-hosted lunch with a South Korean family. This heart-to-heart meal offers a rare glimpse into daily life, family traditions, and the enduring spirit of the Korean people. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Hotel: Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun Seoul
April 10, 2027
We’ll start our day at the majestic Gyeongbok Palace, where we’ll witness the elaborate changing of the guard ceremony. Then, wander the narrow alleys of Insadong, a cultural haven of tea shops, artisan boutiques, and street food. The afternoon is yours to explore more of Seoul’s treasures. Tonight, gather with your Sisters one last time for a delicious Farewell Dinner and celebration of everything we’ve experienced together. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun Seoul
April 11, 2027
Today is completely yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you’d like to savor one more cup of tea near the palace, explore a museum, pick up last-minute souvenirs, or simply relax and reflect on your journey, the day is wide open. Take time to wander, shop, dine, or begin preparing for your journey home. As your unforgettable adventure draws to a close, carry with you the laughter, stories, and Sisterhood connections that made this experience truly extraordinary. Until next time, Sisters. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Courtyard Marriott Namdaemun Seoul
April 12, 2027
Today, we’ll be transferred to the Seoul Airport for our return flights home. As your unforgettable adventure draws to a close, carry with you the laughter, stories, and Sisterhood connections that made this experience truly extraordinary. Until next time, Sisters. (Breakfast included)
Trip Inclusions
- 16 nights/17 days deluxe accommodations
- 24 meals (15 breakfasts, 2 Lunches, and 7 Dinners)
- Private roundtrip transfers between airport and hotels
- One group flight in economy class from Kyoto to Seoul
- Hotel porterage
- All sightseeing tours, exclusive experiences and excursions as listed within this itinerary
- Deluxe, private transportation throughout the itinerary
- Private Tour Director
- Sisterhood Travels Group Leader
- Sisterhood Travels Swag
DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS
- Non-refundable deposit due at time of booking: $1000 per person
- 2nd Non-refundable payment due on or before March 27, 2026: $2000 per person
- 3rd Non-refundable payment due on or before July 27, 2026: $2500 per person
- Final payment due on or before November 27, 2026
important information
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY
- There will be a maximum of 18 Sisters on this tour, including your Sisterhood Travels Group Leader. Roommate matching is available.
- International airfare is not included in your pricing. You can fly into either Tokyo Haneda (HND) or Tokyo Narita (NRT) airport and you will depart from Seoul, Korea (ICN).
- One group flight in economy class from Kyoto to Seoul is included in your pricing. There is no opportunity for upgrades. The flight is approximately 2 hours and we will provide you with the details closer to departure.
- You can arrive at any time on March 27, 2027, and depart at any time on April 12, 2027.
- Check-in time at your arrival hotel is at 3:00 pm.
- All international flight arrangements must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels on or before November 27, 2026. If you need help making flight arrangements, or to submit your independent flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Information.
- Arrival transfers are provided only on March 27th from either Tokyo airport to our hotel. Departure transfers are only provided on April 12th from our hotel to the Seoul airport. If you arrive or depart outside these days and times, or you’re needing transfers or hotels elsewhere, you are responsible for making your own arrangements at your own expense.
- Complete valid passport information is required on or before August 28, 2026. You are required to travel with a passport with a minimum of two blank pages that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the date of your return. Your passport information is required to secure your group flights to Korea. If you fail to submit your information on time, we cannot guarantee your flight and you will be responsible for any additional costs incurred.
- When reserving accommodations, be advised that rooms in Japan and Korea are often smaller in size.
- You must travel with a passport with a minimum of two blank pages that is valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the date of your return. At this time, US citizens are not required to have a visa to enter Japan or Korea.
- Some venues, such as temples and shrines, require guests to remove their shoes in order to enter.
- This tour provides authentic Japanese dining experiences. It is possible that special meal requests such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free may not always be able to be accommodated as these are not widely catered to in Japan.
- Please don’t schedule any optional excursions on your own for this trip as we cannot promise that you will arrive in time at any location to make your independent excursion. Sisterhood Travels won’t be liable for any expense you incur because of this.
- Gratuities for your Tour Manager, local guides, and coach driver are not included in your pricing. We will provide you with tipping guidelines for your trip.
- Travel Insurance is strongly recommended and is not included in your pricing. We will send you a quote via email.
- We cannot accommodate wheelchairs, assistive devices, scooters, walkers or rollators, or Zimmer-frames. You must be able to ambulate independently with no assistance from devices or others on the trip. It is imperative that you read the activity level description below.
- There are no refunds for unused portions of this tour.
- Dates and times of itinerary as well as hotels listed are subject to change without notice due to operational or logistical reasons.
- Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.
- You will receive an invitation soon after you book your trip for our travel app, “Trip Plans”. You will need to download this app to your smart phone as this is where you will find the most up-to-date, accurate information regarding your itinerary in addition to all of the critical information you need to know.
Need a Roommate?
Cancellation & Refunds
Activity Level:
Moderate
ACTIVITY LEVEL: 3 Moderate
This thoughtfully curated journey through Japan and South Korea is ideal for women who are comfortable walking and standing for moderate periods and participating in full days of scheduled cultural experiences. In keeping with Sisterhood Travels’ values, this tour is paced for engagement, reflection, and meaningful connection with space for fun, spontaneity, and rest along the way.
Walking & Standing: Expect moderate walking most days, often through city streets, shrines, temples, outdoor markets, and historical districts. Daily sightseeing includes guided walking tours, visits to cultural and spiritual sites, and immersive activities that may require standing for extended periods. Paths may include uneven stone walkways, stairs, and occasional inclines, particularly in temple grounds and garden settings.
Terrain, Transport & Accommodations: You’ll travel across a variety of terrain from urban sidewalks, forested paths, temple steps, and beachfront areas, typically at a comfortable pace. This itinerary includes several rides on Japan’s world-class shinkansen (bullet train), local subways, walking tours, and short ferry rides. Hotels are centrally located and modern, with access to elevators and standard amenities. Some smaller cultural venues or restaurants may involve navigating short stairways or traditional flooring.
Cultural Experiences & Required Participation: This tour includes deeply enriching cultural activities such as tea ceremonies, cooking classes, market visits, and exclusive, emotional exchanges with local families and storytellers. These are immersive but not physically strenuous.
Pacing & Free Time: This itinerary is full but thoughtfully paced, with most days beginning around 8:00–9:00 a.m. and concluding after dinner or evening exploration. Multiple blocks of free time are built in, offering opportunities to rest, shop, or explore independently. While days are active, there is ample downtime to recharge, connect with your Sisters, or simply take in the beauty and rhythm of your surroundings. Participation requires an open mind, a spirit of curiosity, and a love for shared discovery.