12-Day Classic Japan-South Korea Group Tour

Japan: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka; South Korea: Seoul, Jeju

Traveler Reviews

Tour Code: TCT-Japan-GT-02

Tour Type: Group Tour

(Fixed departure China group tour from Beijing)

Tour Highlights:

  • A super-value mini-group Japan & South Korea tour (maximum 8 pax)
  • Private coach door-to-door service ensures you a worry-free trip
  • Uncover the beautiful nature and unique culture of Japan and South Korea
  • Visit well-known destinations, i.e. Mt Fuji, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara & Seoul, Jej

From $ 3160

Check availability

Day 1Arrival Tokyo Nata
Met by local representative, Transfer to hotel

Meals: No meal
Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan Ikebukuro or similar

 

Welcome to Japan! Upon arrival at Narita International Airport, met our local representative with a name board at the airport exit and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, you will be free at leisure on your own.

 

Please note:

1. Hotel check-in time is from 15:00. If you arrive at the hotel in the morning, luggage can be stored at the hotel when you explore the city on your own.
2. We suggest you fly to Tokyo Narita International Airport. If you fly to Tokyo Haneda Airport, it will cause a separate transfer fee. Please advise us in advance.
3. The airport pick-up will be arranged with only driver service.
4. If you are a solo traveler and can not share the transfer service with other tourists, an airport transfer supplement: US$100 per car per way will be charged.

Tokyo City View
Tokyo City View

Day 2Tokyo
Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, Imperial Palace East Garden, Hama-rikyu Garden, enjoy a boat ride on the Sumida River, Asakusa Kannon Temple

Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Hotel Metropolitan ikebukuro or similar 

 

Today is your time to explore Tokyo city. After your breakfast at the hotel, our local guide will meet you at the hotel to start a full day to explore Tokyo city through the convenient public transportation system. 

The first stop is Tokyo Tower (approx. 30 mins), from which you could enjoy a panorama of Tokyo from the main observation platform. Then we will move to Meiji Shrine. It takes a fine example of Japanese shrine architecture. It is nestled in a peaceful and picturesque area. Passing by the Akasaka Guest House and National Diet Building, we will go to visit Imperial Palace East Garden and enjoy a pleasant walk through the garden, which is a place of historical interest and scenic beauty. 
 

At noon time, our local driver or guide will advise you of a good place where we will have about 1 hour to enjoy a typical Japanese-style lunch.
 

In the afternoon, your guide will lead you to visit Hama-rikyu Garden, which is a typical daimyo (Japanese feudal lord) garden in the Edo period with a tidal pond. Then we will enjoy a boat ride on the Sumida River from Hinode Pier to Asakusa to see a harmonious blend of old and new Tokyo. In the Asakusa area, we will visit Asakusa Kannon Temple which is a famous temple in the Asakusa district.  

Tokyo city exploring tour will end by sending you back to the hotel by our local guide.

 

Note: Lunch is on your own arrangement. Your guide will make recommendations for your preference

Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine

Day 3Tokyo - Mt.fuji - Hamanako
Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi cruise

Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Hotel The Hamanako or similar (hot spring ) 

 

After breakfast in your hotel, please check out and meet your guide at the hotel lobby.

you will start the exciting tour to visit Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi. The motor-coach rides for about 150 minutes, and we arrive at Mt. Fuji 5th Station, from which we could enjoy a panoramic view for about half an hour and you will be amazed by the spectacular and breathtaking views from above the clouds. 

After lunch, we will ride the Lake Kawaguchi cruise You can enjoy the magnificent Mt. Fuji and the panoramic 360-degree view. Later drive down and coach to Hamanako (2.5hrs duration) for an overnight stay. 

Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji

 

Day 4Hamanako - Kyoto
Nijo-jo Castle , Kinkaku-Ji Temple, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine , Sanjusangen-do Temple, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple

Meals: Breakfast,
Hotel: Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia or similar

 

After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Kyoto for 2.5 hours and start a full-day Kyoto tour. The 1st stop is to visit Nijo-jo Castle (50 min), once Kyoto imperial castle with stunning Tamami rooms in which there are many beautiful paintings of the Edo period. Then visit Kinkaku-Ji Temple (45 min), the most well-known temple in Japan, which is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The next stop is Kyoto Imperial Palace (40 min) before a Japanese-style lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, the guide will escort you to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (30 min), the head shrine of about 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, and Sanjusangen-do Temple (30 min) first. Sanjusangendo is a unique and impressive temple in Kyoto. It dates back to 1164 and is famous for its 1001 golden statues of Kannon, goddess of mercy. Before going back to hotel, we will visit Kiyomizu-Dera Temple (70 min), which is the oldest temple in Kyoto, known for the "stage of the Kiyomizu". It was listed as one of the world's cultural heritage sites in 1994.

Finish the tour and drive to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy your free leisure evening exploring this ancient city. 

Kinkaku-ji Temple
Kinkaku-ji Temple

 

Day 5Kyoto - Nara - Osaka
Todaiji Temple, Nara Garden, Kasuga Tasha Shrine

Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Art Hotel Osaka Bay Tower or similar

 

Have a leisurely breakfast in the hotel. Today our guide will escort you to explore Nara, which is near Kyoto. Meet at the hotel and take a coach to Nara. The first stop in Nara is the Todaiji Temple through Nara GardenKasuga Tasha Shrine is another highlight in Nara, famous for its lanterns, which have been donated by worshipers. After a stop at Nara Nagomikan (a gift shop), where tourists could buy some souvenirs for their loved ones. 

After that, drive for half an hour to Osaka and overnight there. 

 

Note: 
1. Kyoto - Nara: 45km, 45 minutes drive
2. Nara - Osaka: 33km, 34 minutes drive

Nara Park
Nara Park

 

Day 6Osaka
Enjoy your free leisure day

Hotel: Art Hotel Osaka Bay Tower or similar
Meals: Hotel breakfast

 

Enjoy your free leisure day in Osaka today to explore the city on your own. You may walk around for shopping some souvenirs as gifts for family or friends.

Or you could choose to take the Optional Tour to Hiroshima (NOT INCLU. COST AT USD290/P.P. for up to 6 pax joining).

 

Optional Hiroshima Tour Details:

This morning transfer to Shin-Osaka Train Station, where your bullet train awaits. Climb aboard and marvel at the train’s incredible velocity during a 2-hour ride to Hiroshima. On arrival, continue the journey to Miyajimaguchi by coach or train then board a boat traveling to the majestic Miyajima Island, otherwise known as Itsukushima, or Divine Island. A landmass hailed as one of Japan's most beautiful landscapes. Disembark and discover the natural and cultural treasures of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed island for 45-minutes with your guide. See the shimmering Itsukushima Shrine then revitalise with a delicious lunch in a local eatery (not included).

Re-board the boat and cruise back to Hiroshima to reflect on the history of the region. Take a moment of contemplation at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a historical site near to where the atomic bomb exploded. See exhibitions that articulate the destruction the bomb caused and marvel at the city's regenerative recovery. Finally, board a bus to the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome), a skeletal structure that miraculously survived the 1945 attack.

Return to the train station for the exhilarating return journey to Osaka on the bullet train, where the tour concludes.

Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island

 

Day 7Osaka – Seoul
Sharing basis transfer to Osaka Kansai Airport, Fly to Seoul and

Meals: Hotel breakfast
Hotel: Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan or similar

 

After breakfast, our tour officially ends. Checkout time is 11 am. Please check out from the hotel on your own. 

Tourists book the 2023 tour with us: Please make your own arrangement for Osaka Kansai Airport. Your guide or driver will share with you the necessary information about how to get to the airport. 

Tourists book the 2024 tour with us: Our driver will pick you up from the hotel and transfer to the airport together as a group. 

Farewell to Japan and start your exploring trip to South Korea. Your local tour guide will be met you at the exit of the airport by holding you’re signboard. You will be transferred to the check-in hotel and free at leisure for the rest of the day. 

 

Notes for tourists who booked the 2023 tour with us:
1. As each tourist in the group may depart by a flight at a different time. We do not include the transfer service to the Osaka Airport. Please Check out and depart for Osaka Kansai Airport on your own.
2. It is about 50 km from downtown Osaka to Osaka Kansai Airport. It will cost about USD110-150 by taxi depending on different times or taxi.
3. There are JR trains from Bentencho Station ( only 3-5 minutes walking distance from Art Hotel Osaka Bay Tower) to Shin-Imamiya Station, where to take Limited Express Train to Osaka Kansai Airport.  More detailed information about the transportation to the airport will be offered when the booking is made with us.
4. If you prefer a private transfer, please contact us to double-check the separate airport transfer supplement based on different vehicle types.

 

Notes for tourists who book the 2024 tour with us:
1. We will arrange a transfer for the whole group together to Osaka Kansai Airport together at a certain time. Generally speaking, the transfer time is at 11:00 in the morning, which might be adjusted when we receive and consider all the tourist flights information
2. If you prefer a private transfer or the time is not suitable for your flight timing, please contact us to double-check the separate airport transfer supplement based on different vehicle types.

Seoul City View
Seoul City View

 

Day 8Seoul
Gyeongbok Palace, National Folklore Museum, Gwanghwamun Plaza, Bukchon Hanok Village, Cheongyecheon stream

Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan or similar

 

Pick up from the hotel and start our first day of exciting Seoul exploring.  First, we will move to visit Gyeongbok Palace, the largest palace among the Five Grand Palaces built in Joseon Dynasty. Gyeongbokgung Palace was once destroyed by Japan in the early 20th century. The palace has been gradually restored since then. (Tuesday: Replaced by Changdeokgung Palace). Then we will visit the National Folklore Museum, which is located on the ground of Gyeongbokgung Palace. The design of the building is based on various historical buildings in Korea. You can see over 98,000 historical objects that were used in everyday life from prehistoric times to the end of the Joseon Dynasty.

We will pass by the Presidential Blue House or Cheong Wa Dae, which has blue tiles as the signature markings. These tiles were baked individually so that they can withstand for hundreds of years. The Blue House is actually a complex of buildings and each is uniquely designed, mainly in Korean architectural style with some elements of modern elements.

Later we will get to Gwanghwamun Plaza. The redesigned Gwanghwamun Square just opened to the public on Aug 1st, 2009, which is located at the center of the 600-Year old historic city of Seoul, where you can see the statue of King Sejong the Great who invented the Korean Alphabet ‘Hangul’ and the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin.

Gyeongbok Palace
Gyeongbok Palace


In the afternoon, we will go to visit Bukchon Hanok Village, home to hundreds of traditional houses, called Hanok. This hanok is closely packed together, which makes it a great photo spot for you to take. Hanok galleries, Hanok Handicraft Workshops, and Hanok restaurants are also available. However, please note that this is a living place for residents and you need to keep your voice low. Walk around Insadong Antique Street in the heart of the city, which is a unique place where you can see ancient but precious and traditional goods on display. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. Within these alleys, there are galleries and traditional restaurants, tea houses, and cafes.

The last spot of today is the Cheongyecheon stream, which has 600 years of story to tell. It was once neglected after the Korean War because it was soon filled with trash as many people settled down along the stream. However, it was restored in 2005 and became an example of successful restoration in the megacity.

After the tour, you will be transferred to drop off at your hotel. Enjoy your leisure time for the rest of the day. 

NOTE: Generally speaking, the tour time is between 09:00-18:00 
 

Cheongyecheon Stream
Cheongyecheon Stream

 

Day 9Seoul - Jeju
Hongdae shopping area, Trick Eye Museum & Ice Museum, Korea House(Seaweed Museum), Seoul N Tower(No tower observatory), Hangang River cruise, Myeongdong Fashion Street, Namdaemun market

Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Gloucester Hotel Jeju or similar

 

After breakfast, meet with a tour guide at the hotel lobby and start the tour.

In the morning, we start in the Hongdae shopping area, A place that is well-known for its youthful and romantic atmosphere, underground culture, and freedom of self-expression. There are unique cafes, accessory stores, art markets, fashion shops, street performances, and more for you to explore. Then visit Trick Eye Museum & Ice Museum.  You can enter Trick Eye Museum and Ice Museum at once. Unlike most museums, you can touch and interact with displayed exhibits in the Trick Eye Museum. The Ice Museum is located inside the Trick Eye Museum, and it is filled with objects that are fully made out of ice. Be sure to prepare extra clothes to put on. 

 

Trick Eye Museum
Trick Eye Museum

In the afternoon, visit Korea House(Seaweed Museum),  established in 2016, Korea House(Seaweed Museum) is a place where you can try Kimchi Making and Hanbok wearing experiences. Move to Seoul N Tower(No tower observatory),  Established as a broadcast tower in 1969, Seoul N Tower has become the representative landmark of Seoul and is renowned for its cityscape. The place becomes more popular at nighttime when the tower lights are turned on. You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the cityscape. Enjoy the Hangang River cruise in Yeouido. You can take a break from the busy urban atmosphere and enjoy a relaxing time on the cruise while watching the Han river view. Course route: Yeouido – Dangsan Railway Bridge – Yeouido.

Walk along Myeongdong Fashion Street,  one of Seoul’s popular shopping and tourism districts among young people. Floating populations are estimated to be 2 million per day and it is one of the most expensive shopping districts in the world. You can find mid to high-priced brands including Korean cosmetics and enjoy trendy food streets here.

Walk into Namdaemun market near Namdaemun Gate. It is one of the largest and oldest markets in Korea. You can buy a variety of goods such as clothes, glasses, kitchenware, toys, fishing equipment, carpets, ginseng, flowers, and imported goods.

After the tour, you will be transferred to airport for the flight to Jeju. Upon arrival, your driver will pick you up and drive to hotel for check in. 


NOTE: Generally speaking, the tour time is between 09:00-18:00 

Hangang River Cruise

Day 10 Jeju
O’Sulloc Tea garden/ Innisfree, Mt. Sanbangsan, Jusangjeoli Cliff, Jeongbang Waterfall, 1,100 Altitude Wetland,

Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Gloucester Hotel Jeju or similar

 

After breakfast, meet with a tour guide at hotel lobby and start the tour.

O’Sulloc Tea garden/ Innisfree: Here, you can learn about Korea’s traditional tea culture. Interestingly, the entire building takes the shape of a green tea cup. It seeks to harmonize the cultures of the West and East and past traditions with the modern world. You can enjoy unique O’Sulloc teas or views of the nearby green tea fields and the surrounding landscape in the observatory, located on the second floor of the building.

In the afternoon, Mt. Sanbangsan, a trachytic tuff lave dome connected to the sedimentary layer of Dragon coast. It is a bell-shaped thalloid that stands tall in the plains of Southwest Jeju. Then visit Jusangjeoli Cliff [UNESCO GEO Park]. The columnar joints in the Jungmun Tourism Complex were designated as Natural Monument #433 on December 27, 2004. They look like a large folding screen with black hexagon stone pillars. It is a wonder to look at the columnar joints with beautiful ocean waves crashing against them.  

Enjoy a good time at Jeongbang Waterfall, one of three main Jeju waterfalls, along with Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and Cheonjaeyeon Waterfall. It is the only one in Korea which spills directly into the sea. Harmonized with the sea, two 23m-tall columns of the waterfall with a sound like thunder make a magnificent view. 

1,100 Altitude Wetland: Above 1,100m from sea level, the wetland has been designated as one of the national wetland protected areas. You can take a look at the observatory and service area. Also, take a 10-15 min walk through the course and observe diverse species living in the wetlands.

Enjoy your free time for the rest of the day. You may walk with your loved ones on the beach of the island, relaxing.

Mt. Sanbangsan
Mt. Sanbangsan

 

Day 11Jeju - Seoul
Dragon-Head Rock, IlChul Land, Seongeup Folk Village, Seopji Coji coast, Sunrise Peak, Sarabong Sunset

Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Yongsan or similar


After breakfast, meet with a tour guide at the hotel lobby and start the tour. The first stop is Dragon-Head Rock or Yongduam, which was created by strong winds and waves over thousands of years. It got its name because the rock formation has the shape of a dragon’s head. There are two different legends about the rock. Many believe that the black dragon symbolizes bravery, hope, and good luck. Then we will go to IlChul Land,  an ecological and cultural attraction where you can enjoy different themes such as replica folk village, and Micheongul Cave as well as convenient facilities. Before lunch, we will visit Seongeup Folk Village, a small town that holds a vast amount of culture. Cultural properties have been handed down from generation to generation and include treasures such as residential houses, Confucian shrines and schools, ancient government offices, stone statues, large millstones (pulled by horses or ox), fortress ruins, and stone monuments.
 

Dragon Head Rock
Dragon Head Rock

In the afternoon, walk along the Seopji Coji coast, which is located at the end of the eastern shore of Jeju Island, where you can see a nice view of the ocean from the lighthouse even in winter. The place gets covered with yellow canola fields in the spring and 20-30 min. A stroll along the coast is recommended. The next stop is Sunrise Peak on the eastern end of Jejudo Island, it rose from under the sea in a volcanic eruption over 100,000 years ago. There is a huge crater at the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak. With the 99 sharp rocks surrounding the crater, it looks like a gigantic crown. While the southeast and north sides are cliffs, the northwest side is a verdant grassy hill that is connected to the Seongsan Village. The ridge provides an ideal spot for walks and for horse riding as well.  our tour bus/car will drive along the beautiful coastline of North-Eastern Jeju and you will pass by Hado Beach & Saehwa beach whilst heading to Manjang cave. Plus, Jongdalri Shore Road is known for its hydrangea during Summer.

Enjoy the Sarabong Sunset. Sarabong is shaped like a horse shoe from the sky. This is a perfect place to see the sunset in Jeju. From the top of Sarabong, you can see the panoramic view of the city, Jeju airport, and Jeju harbor, and to the south, Mt. Hallasan. Then take a night flight back to Seoul overnight.
 

Sunrise Peak
Sunrise Peak

Day 12Departure Seoul
Transfer to airport together

Meals: Hotel breakfast



After breakfast, you will meet with a DRIVER ONLY at hotel lobby and transfer to ICN Airport for departure.

 

Please note: 
1. According to the international common practice, the hotel check out time is 11:00. Check-out after 11:00 will cause a late check-out fee. 
2. The airport transfer service will be arranged on a sharing basis at a suitable time. If you prefer a private transfer or the sharing transfer time can not meet your timing, it will cause a transfer supplement. Please check with us in advance.

 

Service ends

Tailor-made Free Inquiry

Tour Price (US$ per person)

2023
2024
Arrival Date Departure Date Price Based on Above Listed Hotels Enquire
Double Occupancy Sole Occupancy
2023-09-01 2023-09-12 $3160 $3903 Enquire
2023-10-19 2023-10-30 $3160 $3903 Enquire
Arrival Date Departure Date Price Based on Above Listed Hotels Enquire
Double Occupancy Sole Occupancy
2024-03-28 2024-04-08 $3638 $4838 Enquire
2024-04-11 2024-04-22 $3299 $4178 Enquire
2024-05-16 2024-05-27 $3299 $4178 Enquire
2024-06-13 2024-06-24 $3299 $4178 Enquire
2024-07-11 2024-07-22 $3299 $4178 Enquire
2024-08-15 2024-08-26 $3299 $4178 Enquire
2024-09-12 2024-09-23 $3299 $4178 Enquire
2024-10-17 2024-10-28 $3299 $4178 Enquire
Arrival
Date
Departure
Date
Double
Occupancy
Enquire
2023-09-01 2023-09-12 $3160 Enquire
2023-10-19 2023-10-30 $3160 Enquire
Arrival
Date
Departure
Date
Double
Occupancy
Enquire
2024-03-28 2024-04-08 $3638 Enquire
2024-04-11 2024-04-22 $3299 Enquire
2024-05-16 2024-05-27 $3299 Enquire
2024-06-13 2024-06-24 $3299 Enquire
2024-07-11 2024-07-22 $3299 Enquire
2024-08-15 2024-08-26 $3299 Enquire
2024-09-12 2024-09-23 $3299 Enquire
2024-10-17 2024-10-28 $3299 Enquire

Price Includes

  • Airport pick-up by local driver service
  • Private door-to-door transfer on the tour days
  • Experienced English-speaking driver guide service
  • Superior hotel accommodation with daily breakfast as specified
  • All attraction entrance fees as specified
  • The internal flights from Osaka to Seoul and between Seoul and Jeju Island  are based on economy class
  • A sharing basis transfer (as a group) from Osaka Hotel to the airport on Day 7 (2024 tour) 
  • A sharing basis transfer (as a group) from Souel Hotel to the airport on Day 12.

 

Price Excludes

  • International air tickets or train tickets for arrival in Japan and departure from South Korea
  • Visa fee
  • Optional tours, meals, activities, and services
  • Transfer service from Osaka Hotel to the airport on the last day(2023 tour)
  • Meals (Lunch & dinner) 
  • Personal expenses
  • Comprehensive personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities to tour guide and driver
  • Private transfer service on Day7 and Day12 to the airport if requested (2024 tour)
  • Any airport transfer supplement for solo travelers on the 1st day and last day
  • Single room supplement
  • Personal comprehensive travel insurance (suggest to buy)

 

Remarks:

  • It is a mini-group tour. The maximum number of the group is 8 pax
  • The group guarantee departure if at least 3 travelers join the group on a date
  • Group tour has a fixed itinerary. If you have your own tour interests, please do not hesitate to let us know to customize your own Japan tour.
  • The above price is based on US$ per person on twin sharing basis.
  • Children at or over 12 years old will be at the adult's price.
  • The above prices exclude international flights to Japan and from South Korea for departure. If you hope us to include the international air tickets, please inform our travel consultant. 

Traveler Reviews Feedbacks & Photos >>Feedbacks

5.0

PunkNelson

5.0

Great Hotel stay Very Nice Tour guides Convenient planned daily trips Average selection of restaurant for food though
Kiwimac53

5.0

We were looking for a tour in SW China while in the area for work and found this one. While we wouldn't normally get a private tour but surprisingly it was actually cheaper than most of the group tours in the area and was great value. While I would usually rather keep one guide for the whole tour, as you get to know each other and they get to know what you are interested in, we changed guides 5 times during this trip (fortunately we had the same guide in Kunming at the start and end of the tour which was a real bonus as Murphy, our Kunming based guide, was excellent.) In this case changing guides had the advantage of local knowledge at each site so compensated for the change. Of the 4 guides we had 3 excellent and 1 very good with each of them working hard to look after us and make sure we enjoyed our trip. Vicky, our Dali based guide was also extremely good making our time there a highlight. The tour gives you 2 days at each base ie travel in the morning, have the afternoon and the next day touring the area then drive to the next base. We chose the driving tour as we feel it gives you a better experience of the area and you get to see the locals in action. All the drivers we had were great - they went out of their way to look after us and were very safe, which is saying something for driving in China. While all of the guides were very fluent in English none of the drivers could speak English which was a slight disadvantage as you didn't have the guides with you when traveling between bases but the friendliness and helpfulness of the drivers more than made up for this. The tour was very well organised and we knew what we were doing from the time we met our guide on arrival at the Kunming railway station to when we walked through security at the airport on our way out. The tour comes with 4,5 and 6 star accommodation choices and we went for the cheapest 4 star option. While the English at the hotels was limited the guides made sure we were checked in and out and took care of any issues (which were minimal). The 4 star option is largely "Chinese style" hotels ie designed for Chinese visitors with breakfast consisting of what many westeners would consider dinner style food but there was always eggs and toast for the less adventurous. The hotels were all clean and comfortable and generally very well located. The Hotel in Kunming (Jin Jang Inn) was a bonus as it seemed higher than 4 star and we stayed there both on our way in and out. As well as breakfast, lunch came with the tour which was enjoyable as the guides choose the restaurants so we got a variety. I got the feeling that most of the restaurants were owned by friends or family or there was some arrangement with the guide, but as you get to formally review each guide and the meals at the end of each stop they work hard to make sure you enjoy the meal and there was always an abundance of food. We tried a range of local cuisine and there was only one meal we didn't think was up to par. You get your own dinner which also suited us as there is invariably a range of restaurants or for the more adventurous there is the street vendors and you can choose what you want. The vehicles we were driven in were all very good- plenty of space and very comfortable. Being a private tour, while there was a set itinerary, which was diverse and very interesting with something for most people, the guides could tweak it to suit individual interests eg more time at one site and less at another. It is easy to get a bit templed out but overall the itinerary was a good mic of nature and culture. I would thoroughly recommend the tour and the company and we will be looking to the company if/when we go back - Guilin is next on the list as the guides were very happy to discus what they thought we would and wouldn't enjoy based on working with us on this tour,
N2265ZIinfo

5.0

Excellent guides, flexible and knowledgeable travel agent. They speak good English. Our trip was very well organized. We are 100% happy and I can recommend Top China Travel to everybody.
Wesley O

5.0

I contacted Top China travel for a 13 day China vacation (Beijing/Xian/Yangtze River cruise/Shanghai) and right from the start Bonnie provided me with great choices and package options. Throughout the entire planning and even during the trip Bonnie was there for us following up and making sure everything was perfect. Thank you Bonnie for making our China vacation unforgettable.
Johnf8958

5.0

From the minute I contacted Vicky at Top China Travel to book our holiday, to the time we were taken to Pudong airport for our flight home, the experience was perfect. My wife and I visited Beijing, Xian and Shanghai and all of our tour guides were fluent in English, very knowledgeable and very friendly. Thank you Vicky and all at TCT and I will definitely be in contact when I return to China.
lakazdi

5.0

I went on a Top China Travel group tour. Everything was so well organised that I never had to worry about anything. I really liked that the group was small and it felt like we were a big group of old-friends all travelling together, not just a passenger on the bus. Every hotel, guide, driver and restaurant was very well picked. I was very happy with how well-informed each guide was, how flexible they were to ensure we all had a great time, and their English was all very good. At every step of the way, guides had us fill in a Top China Travel feedback form which I am certain the company take very seriously since their service was so good. I will be passing on their details to all my friends and family who want to travel in China.
DEBORAH O

5.0

Thanks to Ms Raylene He we had a wonderful and well organised trip to 5 destinations which all went off without a hitch including being met by guides and drivers in each city and looked after very well. This all included several domestic flights a train trip and permits. I have no qualms in recommending this company to other travellers.
EBTraveler

5.0

With forty years of travel to the far corners of our world we have encountered many guides. Like most travelers some have not been very good, some decent and the rare few that are outstanding. During our three weeks in China last month we encountered just such a rare individual. Our guide in Guilin was a young women named Ping (I'll provide her email later). Ping demonstrated knowledge and command of the history, stories and culture all along the way. Beyond that, Ping exuded infectious enthusiasm not only for our touring, but for us personally as well. We had a serious medical issue occur suddenly, in fact one of us went into diabetic shock. It was four in the morning but no matter, after calling Ping she took command and arranged for the hotel to send us, with a car, driver, and assistant to a hospital. Upon our arrival there was Ping who obviously thru on some clothes, got on her motorbike and rushed to meet us. There she not only served as translator but as though a family member, she became invested in our proper care and recovery. Truly remarkable to have such a person supporting you. In small ways she flavored her guiding with a sense of our interests and preferences, like the day we mentioned our love of pomegranates and the next morning there she is smiling and with samples for us as a treat. When we left a jacket behind, once again was on it as Ping arranged for its shipment to out next stop and tracked it until it was in our hands. Beyond that, Ping was in frequent contact to make certain of our full medical recovery and to offer her help where or whenever it might be needed while in China. Amazing! Ping can be contacted at bellakanas@163.com Sheila Hertz, Howard Entin
ourview_11

5.0

From the first email to Top China Travel with Joyce to our wonderful Tour Guide Linda and our driver I can not say more happily what a wonderful trip we have had. Linda was very Kind and very informative with all your tours. The vehicle used was at very high standard and the Driver very safe. We had a private Tour for myself and my Husband we would totally recommend this company.
Geonannie

5.0

Top China Travel is the the tops! I booked an 21 day tour of China for my husband and I and from the very first contact with Lily Lui I was totally impressed. We communicated via e-mail and Lily was very quick and helpful with her responses. Because this was not our first trip to China, I wanted an itinerary that was different from the norm. Lily's recommendations were top notch. The hotels she used were top shelf as we requested. Our guides and drivers were fantastic. What impressed me the most was that when we were in China, Lily called to speak to me and make sure everything was going well. When I ran into some issues due to altitude sickness, I contacted her and she had the itinerary changes done and finalized within an hour. This was a private tour with guide and driver and I honestly can say there was not one thing I wished we had done differently. Thanks to Top China Travel and Lily our trip to China was perfect. I will definitely be contacting Lily when we return to China for yet another visit.
Allessandr0

5.0

I am a tour leader from Italy and this was my first cooperation with Janet and how lucky we met her!! We followed the trip with her to remote areas in China including some ethnic group area in Guizhou province and Sanjiang, Longsheng and Guilin, we enjoyed completely throughout the whole trip and some arrangement even out of our surprise, like we went to Janet’s home to learn how to pack Chinese Ravioli, she invited a Taichi teacher and we had a 1 hour Taichi class inside her home community. Everything was fine and our group members are all like her very much. We strongly recommend Janet Chan (janet@topchinatravel.com) as your China trip consultant! She is so considerate and carefully planned each detail of our trip. Guizhou is a very interesting and primitive place for visiting, you should include in your China trip as well! Thank you Janet! You are very professional!!
Salim A

5.0

When I planning our private trip to china I have read many trip adviser reviews and I have noticed Janet Chan’s name came up a number of times so i sent her an e-mail asked for the best two weeks private tour in China for 6 persons , whiten two days she replied me recommending 5 cities ( Zhangjiajie, hangzhuo , shanghai, Beijing , Guilin ) we went through the program which she sent to us it was excellent so we asked her to go ahead to arrange our journey . it was a great choice we made, The tour guides were knowledgeable and helpful. The hotels which reserved for us by TCT were excellent We can only say thanks for TCT and especially Janet Chan
Karan J

5.0

From the 1st point of contact till the end Joyce was great and helped plan a perfect trip which I was for a short time in Beijing. I was traveling alone and was recommended to join a small group of fellow travelers which was perfect. Great tour guide with a clean bus. Pick up on time and overall a great experience.
Ms Masha B

5.0

My husband and I booked a two week private tour of China with Top China Travel. It was an excellent experience. Vicky, a tour consultant, offered us a very good program visiting Beijing, Xian, Zhangjiajie, Shanghai and Nanjing. We really enjoyed every location. The tour guides were knowledgeable and helpful. In Beijing, Shanghai and Nanjing me made our own hotel reservation and in Xian an Zhangjiajie TCT made the reservations for us. Lunch was included in the tour and the selection of the restaurants was excellent in most locations (except Xian). Overall great tour!
Chris W

5.0

When planning our China trip we read many trip advisor reviews and noticed Janet Chan’s name came up a number of times so we asked for her to arrange our journey across this fascinating land. What a great choice we made, she listened and responded to our questions and arranged all our trip that went off without any problems. We didn’t want shopping nor group travel and she responded brilliantly. Two days hiking on the wall with fabulous guide Miko, in fact all our guides and drivers were just excellent. High speed train meant we saw lots of China’s varied countryside and went to some out of the way places. We can only say great things about TCT and especially Janet Chan if you are planning a trip. Thank you Janet for an exciting and memorable trip! Chris n Jools Winstanley
Raghavan A

5.0

We signed up with TCT after reading reviews of Tibet tour agencies. Our trip included 4 days in Lhasa, two in Shigatse and one at the base camp. TCT made all the arrangements including the Tibet permit, hotels, tour guide, car and the driver for the entire trip. The arrangements were superb. The guide and the driver were very accommodating to our needs and made the entire trip very convenient. At the base camp, the guide even arranged for extra oxygen in case we need it. She was also very helpful in advising us as how to get acclimated to the altitude. The entire trip was smooth and enjoyable and we would highly recommend TCT for travel to Tibet.
karenilena

5.0

wonderful visit and wonderful guide Li. Li showed us all the charms of this great city together with our Li river tour. We fell in love with this place and Yangshou. Great place to visit and it was a favourite city in all the cities we visited. great guide
Natasha J

5.0

I can't recommend this company enough!! I started talking to Yocky via the chat system on their website, as we wanted to do a 2.5 week trip around China. Our itinerary was: Shenzhen-Beijing-Xian-Kunming-Dongchuan-Chengdu-Guilin-Sanya Here's how things went: 1) She was instant in her replies and responded to subsequent emails within the hour (and trust me, I sent A LOT of emails). She was always so thorough and efficient. 2) She made us a tailor made trip that covered everything we wanted, including some slightly more off the beaten track attractions. 3) She helped us keep to our budget and suggested reasonable things we could cut out when things were too expensive (not something many companies would do as they are trying to make a quick buck). 4) She listened to all of our requests for things such as early morning flights, vegetarian food, and readjusting itineraries. 5) All our drivers and guides were EXCELLENT; they were prompt, kind, spoke excellent English and had a wealth of knowledge about all the sites we saw. All the cars on our private tours were nice and comfortable and had water. 6) Despite asking for 3* hotels, all 7 hotels we stayed in seemed like 4* to us and all included breakfast. 7) With such a large and complicated trip there were bound to be a few hiccups (e.g. there was a marathon in Xian one day which meant a lot of roads were closed, so we couldn't access sites). Yocky was in touch with us the entire time and helped us rearrange our plans quickly and ordered complimentary tickets to a show to make up for the inconvenience. We were so nervous about our first trip to China as we speak no mandarin and are strict vegetarian but honestly this was one of the best trips of our life; this company made it so easy for us and I really can't imagine having been able to do it myself any better!
JrnyJunkie

5.0

The views are stunning and the boat that we were on had VIP seating for just our group with a private balcony to view the river.
Candi S

5.0

Raylene did a wonderful job organizing our tour to meet our time constraints. She answered all questions very efficiently. Our tour guide Rocco met us at the airport and the Driver was waiting near by. I have specific dietary restrictions and the guide was extremely helpful communicating that with the restaurants. The trip was so easy and we always felt safe. My husband and I are looking forward to booking a more extended trip in the future. There is so much to see and the food is wonderful!
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