Family Christmas in Japan & South Korea
From the neon-lit streets of a major city to the serene beauty of Kyoto, there is no shortage of breathtaking adventures to be had in Japan. Whether you're a foodie looking to indulge in fresh sushi and sizzling ramen, or an adventurer seeking to hike scenic trails and soak in natural hot springs, Japan will provide a perfectly romantic backdrop to an unforgettable honeymoon.
From the bustling city of Tokyo to the serene beauty of Kyoto, Japan is full of awe-inspiring sights and experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're interested in exploring historic temples, sampling delicious cuisine, or immersing yourself in Japanese pop culture, Japan is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking adventure and inspiration.
December 22 - 26, 2024
- Tokyo | 4 nights | Kitano Hotel
December 26 - 28, 2024
- Hakone | 2 nights | Hakone Ten-yu
December 28, 2024 - January 1, 2025
- Kyoto | 4 nights | Ace Kyoto
January 1 - 4, 2025
- Seoul | 3 nights | Four Seasons Seoul
Japan:
- December is winter in Japan, and Tokyo experiences cold temperatures during this month.
- Average high temperatures in Tokyo are around 12-13Β°C (54-55Β°F), while average lows can drop to 3-4Β°C (37-39Β°F).
- December is relatively dry in Tokyo, with occasional rainfall or snowfall, but it's not as snowy as some other parts of Japan.
Seoul:
- December is also winter in Seoul, and the weather is cold and dry.
- Average high temperatures in Seoul range from 2-5Β°C (36-41Β°F), and average lows can plummet to -5 to -2Β°C (23-28Β°F).
- While snowfall is not as frequent in Seoul as in some parts of Japan, it can still snow occasionally during December.
In general, tipping is not necessary in Japan. Guests do not have to tip restaurant staff, bellmen, taxi drivers, or housekeeping.
While not expected, guides and drivers will always appreciate a tip for their services. Amounts are not fixed, but any number beginning with 4 should be avoided for superstitious reasons (4 is pronounced the same as "death" in Japanese). Tips should be passed along in a plain, white envelope with no markings/ribbons on it.
In South Korea, tipping is not as common or expected. However, there are a few instances where you might consider giving a tip or showing appreciation, such as tour guides (an appropriate amount is suggested), and a small amount per bag for bellhops in hotels. Tipping in restaurants is not necessary.
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
We have designed a great playlist for you to enjoy before and during your trip to Japan!
- Japan is a curated selection of popular music from Japanese artists - straight off the streets of Tokyo!
Today, arrive in Japan and settle into a hotel in Tokyo.
Tokyo is a city that seamlessly blends traditional and modern culture. Known for its incredible food scenset, with everything from Michelin-starred sushi to mouth-watering street food, Tokyo is the heart of Japan and the intersection of cutting edge technology, fashion, history and of course... food!
Meet your private driver at the Tokyo airport who will transport you to your hotel for check in.
Booked by Scenset
Check into your hotel and get ready to explore!
Sushi Kanesaka at the Palace Hotel garnered a Michelin star for its traditional yet innovative approach to the Japanese staple cuisine.
- Note: Pending arrival time at the hotel.
Booked by scenset | Paid Locally
The Kitano Tokyo
Room Types:
- Superior King (1)
- Superior Double (1)
- Superior Twin (2)
Breakfast Included.
Booked by someone
Why we love it for you: Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the hotel offers a serene haven where guests can immerse themselves in the city's rich culture while enjoying unparalleled luxury and hospitality. With its blend of traditional Japanese charm and contemporary comforts, it's the ideal retreat for those seeking a truly unforgettable experience in the bustling capital.
Tour the highlights of Tokyo on your first full day in Japan's capital.
On your full-day experience, you will see:
Meiji Shrine
- Meiji Shrine was built nearly 100 years ago to commemorate Emperor Meijiβs contribution to modern Japan. The shrine is entirely surrounded by a forest, with an area of 70 hectares of land and over 120,000 trees, all of which were donated to the shrine from different parts of Japan.
Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue
- In Shibuya, one can witness (and experience) the world's busiest intersection, as well as one of Japan's most endearing symbols of loyalty - the statue of Hachiko; known for his loyalty in waiting for his master for nearly 10 years, arriving at the station daily in anticipation of his master's return from work.
Shinjuku
- Finally, round out the day with a food and shopping tour of the Harajuku and Shibuya districts - famous for food, shopping, and people watching. Pick up some last minute Christmas gifts at one of the most famous shopping areas in the world.
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End the afternoon with a private visit to a Sumo stable, where you'll be able to watch professional Sumo wrestlers during a training and practice session.
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Robot Restaurant is as unique of a dining experience as you can get! Dine on Japanese food and enjoy the 90-minute show, one of the most entertaining and sensory experiences in Japan.
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The Kitano Tokyo
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Continue your exploration of Tokyo by diving into Japan's most famous cuisine, before a special Christmas Eve celebration in the evening.
- After breakfast, a private guide will meet you at your hotel and bring you to tour the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market. Tsukiji is one of the largest and busiest fish markets in the world, known for its wide variety of fresh seafood, including fish, seafood products, and sushi ingredients.
- Next, experience a private sushi class where a master sushi chef will show you how to make your own nigiri lunch using the finest ingredients from the local fish market.
Booked by Scenset
Head back towards your hotel to rest before the Christmas celebrations begin.
Enjoy a Christmas Eve service at St. Andrews in Tokyo, with program details to be announced closer to the date.
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We will make a recommendation for dinner this evening based upon whether you would like to dine before or after church and if you have any special preferences for a Christmas Eve meal.
The Kitano Tokyo
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Spend the day at leisure celebrating Christmas with your loved ones.
Celebrate Christmas with your family and enjoy an unscheduled day at leisure.
- Note: Restaurants are open on Christmas day, and we would be happy to make arrangements for a special lunch or dinner based on your schedule preferences.
The Kitano Tokyo
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After breakfast and checkout, a private driver will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to the base of Mount Fuji to begin your tour.
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Enjoy the first half of the day with a privately guided tour of the Mount Fuji area. Visit iconic viewpoints and learn about the history of the area from a local expert.
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Continue on to your hotel in Hakone for check in.
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Check in to your hotel and get ready for an afternoon of leisure!
Head to the hot springs or downstairs for a drink at the stunning bar and restaurant.
Why we love it for you: Perched amidst the tranquil landscapes of Hakone, Hakone Tenyo Hotel beckons with its enchanting ambiance and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Awaken your senses to the harmony of nature and luxury, promising an unforgettable retreat where relaxation and rejuvenation seamlessly intertwine.
Today is a day to reset and luxuriate in the hotel's onsen baths, followed by a relaxed evening of superior dining.
- Have a relaxed morning and spend the day taking advantage of the hotel's world-class onsen baths.
- Follow the baths with a massage at the hotel spa.
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Hakone Ten-yu
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You're off to Kyoto today! Hop on a train and settle in to Japan's cultural hub.
Meet your driver in the lobby of your hotel and move to Odawara Station.
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Board the first class car of your train to Kyoto.
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You will be greeted at Kyoto Station and escorted with your bags to a private car, where the driver will transfer you to your hotel for check-in.
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Check in to your hotel and get ready to explore a new city!
Lura draws upon classical and modern techniques using local and foraged ingredients from the chef's own farm.
Booked by a user
Ace Hotel Kyoto
Room Types:
- Deluxe King (1)
- Deluxe Double (1)
- Deluxe Twin (2)
Breakfast Included.
Booked by a user
Why we love it for you: Nestled within the historic streets of Kyoto, Ace Hotel invites you to immerse yourself in the city's timeless charm and vibrant energy. With its blend of contemporary design, curated amenities, and a nod to Kyoto's rich cultural heritage, Ace Hotel offers a captivating retreat that promises to inspire and delight.
Today, you'll explore the best sights in Kyoto with a private guide.
Meet your private guide and take a tour of Kyoto's best sights.
Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji)
- Founded in 1482, the Silver Pavilion "Ginkakuji" is widely considered to be the birthplace of much of Kyoto, and Japanese culture. The founder's love of culture lead to the development of the tea ceremony, Noh theater, and flower arrangement.
- The temple is closed for entry, but the grounds are the perfect opportunity to take in classical Japanese architecture and gardens.
Philosopher's Path
- A scenic, stone path that connects the Silver Pavilion and Nanzenji.
- This path, which received its name after the daily meditative strolls of a philosopher, is home to many small local shops, artisans, and temples. The path is exceptionally beautiful during the spring cherry blossom season and fall foliage season, but beware - the crowds during this time are also quite large.
Tea Ceremony
- Engage in an authentic tea ceremony at the traditional home of a master of the art. Prepare to change into a kimono!
Sanjusangendo
- The Buddhist temple Sanjusangendo was built in Kyoto in 1165. Being one of the most popular tourists destinations in Kyoto, this long flat and squared block of wood that really says very little from the outside, inside hiddens a real treasure: 1001 golden statues of the Thousand Armed Kannon deity, to whom the temple is dedicated.
Gion / Yasaka Area
- Famous for its shrine, traditional winding streets, and wooden town houses, the Gion / Yasaka area offers seemingly endless hidden alleyways to explore. The area is filled with some of Kyoto's finest dining, unique shopping and of course, the chance to witness a geisha on her way to an evening engagement. Should you spot a geisha, please be considerate in your requests for pictures.
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Misoguigawa is dedicated to preserving the traditional style of French cuisine and infusing the Japanese spirit with kaiseki presentation.
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Ace Hotel Kyoto
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Take a stroll to some of our favorite sights in Kyoto:
Nishiki Market
- A long, narrow street, this market sells everything from pickles, to countless green tea varieties, and lots of Kyoto typical delicacies. As you stroll through the market, youβll have plenty of chances to sample treats and pick up some unique items to bring home.
NijΕ Castle
- Known for its nightingale floors that chirp with every step, the castle provides a stunning example of architecture and interior decorations. After you explore inside the castle, enjoy the stroll around the castle grounds with its beautiful gardens.
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Take the rest of the day to explore Kyoto at your own pace.
Hanaroku is a popular Teppenyaki restaurant featuring a minimalistic decor and ingredients sourced from Kyoto.
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Ace Hotel Kyoto
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Head out for a day around Kyoto, before ringing in the new year Japanese style.
Continue on your Kyoto journey with a half-day guided tour of some of the best sightseeing spots:
Golden Pavilion
- Kinkakuji, or the Golden Pavilion, is one of Japanβs iconic sites. The temple grounds first began as a small villa in 1224 and was converted to a Zen temple shortly after.
Tenryuji
- With a history dating back nearly 700 years, Tenryuji is one of Arashiyama's most visited sites, and for a good reason. While the building complex has suffered from fire damage throughout history (like much of Japan), the stunning gardens remain in their original form. As you stroll through the garden, both from within the temple and on the garden paths, you'll move from the pond, which symbolizes a large lake, up the mountain and into the forest (where multiple cherry trees can be found).
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
- The bamboo forest offers paths for walking or biking. It is a must see for those visiting Arashiyama. The bamboo grown here has been used for centuries for creating crafts, such as tea whisks, sake cups, baskets and many others.
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Take the afternoon to rest and reset before the New Year's Eve celebrations begin.
It is common to eat "toshikoshi soba" on New Year's Eve, which is a type of noodle dish eaten for good luck and to symbolize cutting ties with the old year. We can arrange a dinner at a soba noodle restaurant in the evening, followed by New Year's Eve celebrations. Details on NYE fireworks shows and events are typically announced around May.
Arranged by Scenset | Paid Locally
Ace Hotel Kyoto
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Today, head to the Osaka airport for your direct flight to Seoul and settle into South Korea's most captivating city.
Meet your private driver in the hotel lobby after checkout and head to the airport for your flight to South Korea.
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Details to be confirmed once airlines announce their schedules.
Booked by a travel agent
A private driver will meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel for check in.
Booked by Scenset
Check in to the hotel and get ready to explore Seoul!
Settle into your final destination and explore Seoul at your own pace.
Jungsik offers a sophisticated and innovative dining experience, known for its modern reinterpretation of traditional Korean cuisine with a creative twist.
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Why we love it for you: Simply look outside your roomβs floor-to-ceiling windows, and youβll see that Seoul is a dynamic capital city that is both deeply traditional and forward-thinking. Four Seasons Seoul invites you to indulge in complete serenity at our urban Spa, take a dip in our year-round pool, or savor Cantonese cuisine at a restaurant, before toasting Asia's city that never sleeps over drinks at a bar or the new contemporary bar.
Delve into the culture and culinary scene of Seoul today on a full day tour of the highlights.
- Accompanied by a private guide, discover the artistry and cultural treasures at the Leeum Museum, a showcase of both traditional and contemporary Korean art.
- Then, continue into the vibrant atmosphere of Gwangjang Market, known for its diverse food offerings and bustling Food Street.
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- Experience the serenity of a traditional Tea Ceremony at Korea House, where you'll delve into the intricacies of Korean tea culture.
- Conclude your day with an exquisite culinary journey, savoring the richness of Korean cuisine with a Full Course Dinner (Hanjeongsik) at Korea House.
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Four Seasons Seoul
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Continue exploring the many highlights that Seoul has to offer.
- Enjoy a captivating day of cultural immersion as you delve into temple life, engaging in activities like ringing the bell, conversing with a monk, and practicing meditation.
- Further enrich your experience by crafting Korean spicy sauce (Gochujang) under the guidance of a master.
- Enjoy a serene lunch at the temple, followed by a visit to the iconic Seoul N Tower atop Namsan Mountain.
- Conclude your day with a culinary delight at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
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Four Seasons Seoul
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Time to head home!
After checkout, a private car will pick you up and take you to Seoul airport for your flight home.
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Details to be confirmed.
Booked Independently
Scenset is a proud member of The Conscious Travel Foundation, a global community that unites members of the travel industry to reshape the impact of tourism on the world.
While on the trip, you can access your support team if any need arises to make your trip as smooth as possible. We are here to support you.
- Tokyo | 4 nights | The Kitano Tokyo
- Hakone | 2 nights | Hakone Ten-yu
- Kyoto | 4 nights | Ace Hotel Kyoto
- Seoul | 3 nights | Four Seasons Seoul
- Daily breakfast
- Snacks (where mentioned in itinerary)
- VIP Airport Assistance
- Private guide throughout
- Private driver and all transfers mentioned in itinerary
- All train journeys as detailed in the itinerary
- All experiences as mentioned in the itinerary
If you like what you read and are ready to pull the trigger on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, please send a message in the app to let us know. We would be thrilled to secure all the reservations and make sure everything is taken care of, including special surprises along the way.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for booking your trip with us.