Check out the magnificent views of Mount Moiwa in Japan. Photo Credit: @baitoeyzii on Instagram
Planning to maximize your vacation time? We've got you! Given that Japan and South Korea are neighboring countries, you might want to consider also going to Japan after checking off some of these unmissable things to do in South Korea.
Not to mention, going to Japan during the holiday season is just as amazing as spring because of all the winter experiences they have to offer!
We know that planning and arranging your transportation bookings can be complicated, so we're breaking down these three options on how you can travel from South Korea to Japan, fuss-free.
Traveling from South Korea to Japan made easy
1. Getting on an airplane from South Korea to Japan and vice versa
Feel sky high when you travel to Japan via airplane. Photo Credit: @dfwairport on Instagram
Here's a little travel hack: instead of going back and forth on multiple tabs to check flight schedules and prices, just type down your departure and arrival on Klook, and it gives all the flight options across different airlines!
For reference, a ticket from South Korea to Japan starts at around USD 177.11 and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Of course, prices can still change depending on your travel date, season, and other factors, so make sure to book early!
2. Taking a ferry from Japan to Korea and vice versa
Cruise through the waters on a Panstar Cruise service!
If you want the best views and a relaxing time on your South Korea to Japan (and vice versa) ferry experience, take the Panstar Cruise from Osaka to Busan. It's owned by the world's largest cruise company, Carnival Group! It will take you on a pleasant Osaka ferry to Korea in just one day.
The cost of Osaka to Busan ferry tickets varies, depending on the room type that is most suitable for you: Royal Suite Room, Deluxe Suite Room, Family Room, or Single Occupancy - Deluxe Suite Room. Taking a ferry from Japan to Korea could be a more affordable option than booking a flight.
3. Hopping on a train from South Korea to Japan and vice versa
There's no direct train from South Korea to Japan, so this is a good excuse to experience taking the high-speed Korean Train Express (KTX Train)! It's a bullet train that can take you from South Korea to Japan in as little as 2 hours and 30 minutes.
You first need to take the KTX to Busan. Then from there, you can ride a ferry to Tokyo or Osaka, and voila, you're in Japan!
Klook Tip: Make sure to fill up your tummies before hopping on the KTX train, as only light snacks and water are available on board.
Other Tips and Reminders for your South Korea to Japan Travel
Learn basic etiquette
Strike a pose by the popular vending machines in Japan! Photo Credit: @claudia_luong on Instagram
Now that you've touched down in Japan, it's important to research and know how to respect their culture. So here are some unspoken rules to live by when taking a trip to the Land of Vending Machines!
Klook Tip: If you're arriving at Narita Airport, take the Tokyo Skyliner to the city in just 36 minutes! You can also buy a Tokyo Skyliner and Subway pass combo for a much cheaper price than buying them individually.
Do's
- Do learn basic Japanese phrases like "Arigatou gozaimasu", which means "Thank you", "Hai" for yes, or "Wi-Fi arimasuka?" if you're asking for a Wi-Fi connection.
- Do follow lanes when walking along sidewalks. The right side is for pedestrians, and the left side is for those riding bicycles.
- Do bow or at least a slight nod when greeting, saying goodbye, or when you want to show gratitude.
Don't's
- Don't rub your disposable wooden chopsticks together; don't stab food with them; and definitely, don't stick them upright on your bowl of rice!
- Don't be loud, especially on public transportation.
- You can definitely walk around while eating and drinking as long as it's not messy.
Where to stay in Japan
Osaka
Take a photo by the famous Glico man. Photo Credit: @kellytan1111 on Instagram
1. Shinsaibashi Grand Hotel
The Shinsaibashi Grand Hotel is conveniently located near tourist attractions in Osaka. Prepare to shop until you drop at Shinsaibashi-Suji and go on a food trip at Dotonbori!
If Dotonbori sounds familiar, it's because that's where you can see the famous Glico running man! The best part is that these areas are just under a 10-minute walk away, including Shinsaibashi Station.
Address: 2 Chome-4-4 Higashishinsaibashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0083, Japan
2. Liber Hotel
Here's where you can stay less than 10 minutes away from a theme park! At the Liber Hotel, request a room with a view of the Osaka Bay area.
It's a good morning indeed when you wake up to their wide spread of yummy continental breakfast options. So, definitely add this to your list if you're planning to go to Universal Studios!
Address: 1-chōme-1-35 Sakurajima, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0031, Japan
Nagasaki
Be amused by the quirkiness of Huis ten Bosch!
1. Hotel Nikko Huis Ten Bosch
Huis Ten Bosch, which translates to "House in the Forest" in Dutch, is a much less crowded theme park in Japan. Here, you'll find windmills, tulips, replica canals, and Dutch buildings that make you feel like you're transported to the Netherlands!
Staying at Hotel Nikko means being only a five-minute walk from this unique theme park where you can experience seasonal festivities like a Christmas town, shows, and ice skating. The hotel's accommodating hospitality service is a big plus, too!
Address: Japan, 〒859-3243 Nagasaki, Sasebo, Huis Ten Bosch Machi, 6番地
Nagoya
Hit up the many community markets in Nagoya selling antiques, handicrafts, and more. Photo Credit: @nagoya_is_not_boring on Instagram
1. Mitsui Garden Hotel Nagoya Premier
You'll find the luxurious Mitsui Garden Hotel in the heart of Nagoya. It's equipped with a sky bar restaurant, a vast public bath spa, and interiors adorned with original artworks symbolizing the Nagoya spirit.
Klook Tip: If you're traveling with your loved one, you can request to arrange a little anniversary surprise with a cake of your choice and a customizable message to be displayed on your hotel room TV.
Address: SYMPHONY TOYOTA BLDG., 4 Chome-11-27 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 450-0002, Japan
Tokyo
See the Tokyo cityscape from high above Shibuya Sky. Photo Credit: @misselvani on Instagram
1. Narita Tobu Hotel Airport
Book here at Narita Tobu Hotel Airport if you want to stay near the airport. Their amenities feature an indoor heated pool, sauna, gym, and meeting rooms if you're here for a business trip.
P.S.: They also offer a shuttle service to nearby places like JR Narita Station and Aeon Mall. The front desk staff will happily help you get a ride!
Address: 320-1 Tokkō, Narita, Chiba 286-0106, Japan
2. Tokyo Prince Hotel
Staying at the Tokyo Prince Hotel will make you feel like royalty! It's a lush urban oasis close to tourist destinations like Red Tokyo Tower, which is just an eight-minute short walk away.
The hotel has a lot of amenities to enjoy, like restaurants, a bakery, and a shopping arcade selling a range of things from fashion to jewelry to home items. You'll love going around the shops if you stay here.
Address: 3 Chome-3-1 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-8560, Japan
3. Hotel Gracery Ginza
Make every day a shopping day when you stay at Hotel Gracery Ginza! It's a 4-star hotel right at the back of Dior and just a few steps away from numerous luxury boutiques and Mitsukoshi department store.
If you aren't into luxury, don't worry; there are lots of more affordable stores in this shopping district to discover like MUJI and UNIQLO. We also recommend going on an early-morning food trip to Tsukiji Market, home to the Tiktok-viral Strawberry Daifuku mochi and A5 Wagyu sticks!
Address: 7 Chome-10-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061, Japan
Fukuoka
Spot a rare White Torii gate by the sea! Photo Credit: @timmy727 on Instagram
1. Lamp Light Books Hotel Fukuoka
Staying at the Lamp Light Books Hotel means getting a unique concept of traveling through the world of books. Guests can select their book of choice and get lost in its pages from the 24/7 local bookshop on the first floor.
You'll also find a cafe that serves coffee and pastries where you can cozy up to as you read in peace. Expect clean and modern rooms from this hotel nestled in a neighborhood filled with numerous shops.
Address: 1 Chome-15-22 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0041, Japan
2. Canal City Fukuoka Washington Hotel
If you're looking for a standard mid-range, comfortable hotel within Hakata Ward, Canal City Fukuoka Washington Hotel is the answer to your dilemma. It's only five minutes away from Canal City and Kushida Shrine and 1.2 km away from Tenjin Underground Mall.
The convenient location and value for money are the two main reasons why guests love staying at this hotel! They even offer a room with four single beds, which is rare in Japanese accommodations.
A unique shopping experience awaits at Canal City mall! Photo Credit: @the_onefive_terrace_fukuoka on Instagram
Address: 1 Chome-2-20 Sumiyoshi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, 812-0018, Japan
Written by: Mara Go
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