Sublime Grand Asia Tour: Japan, South Korea, and China

The morning sunshine may peek through the clouds and pour across Tokyo’s spirited districts, some decorated in decadent resorts and some shrouded in age-old heritage. The day is yours at leisure to submerge yourself in your new surroundings and start to get a feel for the Tokyo vibe. Strolling through the many marvelous neighborhoods flanking your accommodation, you will come to enjoy the many pleasures of Tokyo from the humble chatter of the locals biding their time to the boisterous ambiance emanating from the cities buzzing markets.

Having had some time to settle into the high-octane capital, you will be eager to explore more of Tokyo today after a sumptuous breakfast spread enjoyed alongside panoramic views of the city. After tucking in, you will jet off with your private tour guide and walk across the famous Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection, to nearby historic memorials such as the Hachiko memorial. The empirical glory of the Meiji Jingu Shrine, boasting manicured gardens that stretch across the cityscape, and the fashion-forward elegance showcased along Omotesando street will unravel the multifaceted nature of Tokyo before your eyes.

Tokyo’s mesmerizing skyline is best witnessed from soaring vantage points, and the panoramas atop the towering Roppongi Hills Mori Tower Observatory are second to none. Furthermore, the Mori Museum stationed at the top of the skyscraper will introduce you to emblematic contemporary artworks from Japan’s greatest talent. Afterward, you will continue to the iconic Mitsukoshi Depachika, a treasure trove of culinary delights and artisanal creations where you will indulge your senses. A final stop at the upmarket shopping district Ginza will give you an opportunity to uncover the art galleries and boutique store gems hidden along its humming back alleys.

A Shinkansen, a Japanese bullet train, will send you racing through the Japanese countryside from Tokyo to Kyoto, the former capital and historic hub of Japanese culture. Kyoto is a destination dripping in heritage and overflowing with stunning scenes, both beautifully wrapped up in a bewitching spiritual site, the Kinkaku-Ji Temple. Its golden facade fringed by the tranquil waters of a sparkling pond will offer picture-perfect moments to fill up your memory card before you continue to Ryoanji. The rock garden framing this age-old Japanese temple and the distinct architecture comprising its grounds make for an alluring display of history.

After a stroll through the wondrous Nishiki Market this morning, you will meet Catherine Ludvik. She is a professor of Japanese religions with a deep understanding and appreciation for the country’s spiritual roots and will be your private tour guide for the day. Leading you to the palatial Daitoku-Ji Temple, Catherine will share inside knowledge of its origins as you peruse the grand complexes, sprawling bamboo forests, and sanctified shrines that compose its grounds. Following your tour, return to the city to devour delectable dishes prepared at an esteemed restaurant fusing traditional Japanese and Italian cuisine.

The shores of Korea lie beyond the break of day, after a brief flight from Japan this morning. Arriving in Seoul, you will be swept up by the larger than life atmosphere swooping the city’s thronging neighborhoods. The Gyeongbokgung Palace, an ode to the Joseon Dynasty, will introduce you to the ancient history and culture of Korea through architectural and sculptural exhibits distinct of the former dynasty. This evening, you will lap up a lovely supper at an exquisite restaurant before wandering along the banks of the glistening Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Stretching for miles and teeming with stalls serving succulently prepared seafood dishes, the vast Noryangjin Fish Market will set your senses off as you peruse the terraced tables laden with fresh fish and scrumptious shellfish. After grabbing a bite to eat, you will head to the Yangpyeong Farm Village, a locale circled by flowering fields and rolling greenery as far as the eye can see. Here, you will cherish the rural and rustic agricultural culture that still remains a prevalent part of the Korean economy by partaking in the various activities on offer across the farmland.

During today’s tour, you will gain a deeper understanding of the wartime tribulations and tragedies endured by the Korean people some years ago as you begin with a visit to the 3rd Tunnel. It is believed that thousands of troops would occupy these tunnels day in and day out as they weaved beneath the Korean landscape. Your trip into the country’s tragic past will lead you to the Dora Observatory, a lookout point offering views of North Korea and marking the northernmost point of the Military Demarcation Line of the Western Front.

From one pulsing city to the next, you will soon arrive in the capital city of China, Beijing, a vast skyline emblazoned with elaborate hotels and traditional districts providing the perfect mix of antiquity and modernity for you to swoon over during your stay. Upon arrival at your palatial suite, you may step outside and stroll through the Houhai Hutong District, a historic neighborhood of authentic courtyard homes and small alleyways where you will find hideaway restaurants. Spend your afternoon treasuring the secret finds before ravishing the city’s famous delicacy, Peking Duck.

The Temple of Heaven is a sacred spiritual complex created during the reign of the Ming Dynasty and represents the cultural beliefs of the people living during this time period. Its incredible architecture and regal stylings are symbols of the ruler's desire to create a space on Earth worthy of the heavens. A visit to the National Museum afterward will further your understanding of Chinese traditions as you explore exhibits and relics spotlighting ancient China. You will grab a quick lunch before continuing to the remarkable grounds of the Summer Palace, another royal landmark of tremendously beautiful proportions.

Today, you will tour two of Beijing’s most impressive historical sites. Your first stop will be the Forbidden City, a gateway into ancient imperial China that stands magnificently against the sprawling cityscape backdrop. Its impeccable construction is only second to the momentous Great Wall of China, a visually striking marvel you will have the luxury of exploring in the Huairou District just beyond the borders of Beijing. The Great Wall of Mutianyu, a rugged section of the larger wall, is a remarkable site to appreciate the wall’s construction and the landscape on which it rests.

You will be pleased to escape the ecstatic energy of Beijing for a few days, made all the more appealing as these days hidden from the crowds will be spent in the bewitching ancient Tang Dynasty capital, Xian. The city is a melting pot of cultural influences tracing back to ancient Chinese communities and more modern Muslim settlers. You can see the heritage among many of the markets and districts you will visit today. Spend your afternoon wallowing in the quietude of your tucked away grand accommodation, where you may rest and recover in peace.

Xian’s major claim to fame is that it is home to the historic terracotta warrior statues. After breakfast, you will venture to the site and tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to marvel at the enormous collection of century-old statues that remain preserved in the very positions they were found. Following this historic discovery, set off to the Wild Goose Pagoda, where ancient Buddhist influences can be traced back to the days when monk Xuanzang arrived back from India to present Buddhist sutras.

The remainder of your escape to Asia will be spent in the spirited city of Shanghai, a destination swimming in culture and boasting extravagant experiences to enjoy the finer things in life. Such enchanting memories will be made from the second you arrive as you drop your belongings off and visit the impeccable Yuyuan Gardens. You may explore the garden’s flowered patios and rolling emerald fields, strolling along cobbled paths and crossing a quaint bridge to the Huxinting Teahouse. Afterward, discover the decadence of Chinese nightlife hosted in the architectural marvel, Xintiandi, a home of chic restaurants and glamorous stores.

In the morning, stroll along the leafy boulevards of the French Concession, where the melodies of stringed instruments and fragrances of baking pastries bellow from the stores lining the elegant street. After enjoying the luxuries along the boulevard, you will continue to the Shanghai Museum, a home of Chinese ceramic art and stylish furniture, exemplifying the local peoples’ love of creating memorable and striking pieces of work. To conclude your day’s exploration of Shanghai, you will ascend to the summit of the city’s tallest building and scan the staggering horizon.

Rise to the rhythm of Shanghai, as you catch the echo of honking cars from the buzzing streets below. Stepping out onto your balcony overlooking the cityscape, you will have a moment to think back on your grand Asian experiences from the minute you touched down in Tokyo. These memories will live on with you forever, so be sure to cherish the final moments as you tuck into a decadent breakfast and slowly make your way to the international airport where you will board your flight headed home.