When planning an unforgettable holiday, many will be drawn to an adventure holiday to Japan and South Korea, with the promise of rich histories, captivating landscapes and unique cultural experiences in each location. However choosing between these two diverse countries can be a real challenge. We offer incredible itineraries, suitable for a range of travellers to both nations, each tailored to show off their most intriguing highlights. Here's a little overview to help you decide which of these two incredible countries best suits your travel preferences.

Japan is known for its seamless blend of ancient traditions and ultramodern living. Travellers exploring Japan through our walking holidays can tread the Nakasendo Trail or undertake the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage, both offering profound insight into the country's feudal past. The paths are lined with historic post towns, Shinto shrines, and Buddhist temples that speak of centuries-old rituals. Stays in ryokan inns allow visitors to experience omotenashi, or traditional Japanese hospitality, alongside delicacies like multi-course kaiseki meals.

On the other hand, an adventure holiday to South Korea presents a dynamic mix of deep-rooted Confucian traditions and cutting-edge modernity. The South Korea Discovery Tour gives travellers an in-depth look at cities such as Seoul, where futuristic skyscrapers coexist with historic palaces like Gyeongbokgung. Venturing beyond the city, you'll find Andong's Hahoe Folk Village, a living testament to Korea's Joseon-era culture, complete with mask dances and traditional hanok architecture.

Choose Japan if you're drawn to experiences that highlight historical depth through serene landscapes and age-old pilgrim routes. Opt for Korea if you're looking for vibrant cityscapes coupled with a deep connection to its Confucian heritage and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Japan excels in scenic walking holidays, making it perfect for travellers who enjoy slow-paced exploration through breathtaking vistas and cultural hotspots. Our self-guided and guided holidays let you traverse peaceful forests, charming mountain villages and dramatic coastal paths. Walking the Kumano Kodo or the Nakasendo Trail not only rewards you with a physical challenge but also offers moments of solitude and reflection amidst Japan's verdant beauty.

South Korea, meanwhile, provides a different type of thrill with cycling holidays that chart routes from the modern capital of Seoul to the historic city of Andong. You can explore a variety of terrains—from river paths lined with cherry blossoms in the spring to countryside roads that reveal hidden temples and rural charm. Our cycling holiday provides a mix of cultural stops, like visits to ancient Confucian academies and natural beauty, such as Korea's rolling green hills and rice paddies.

Pick Japan for immersive, historical walks through meticulously preserved trails. Choose South Korea if you prefer cycling through contrasting urban and rural landscapes, with bursts of vibrant city life and tranquil countryside.

Both countries boast stunning scenery, but they showcase their natural wonders in unique ways.

Japan is famous for its meticulously cared-for gardens, snow-capped mountains and the iconic cherry blossoms that cast a pink hue across parks and trails each spring. Walking holidays in Japan often pass through the Japanese Alps or the Kiso Valley, where you can enjoy panoramic views and fresh mountain air. The Kumano Kodo trail also offers forested pathways and sacred waterfalls, blending spirituality with awe-inspiring scenery.

South Korea is home to dramatic coastlines, mountainous national parks and volcanic landscapes, particularly on Jeju Island, known for Hallasan Mountain and its lush Olle walking trails. Our holidays often highlight the beauty of Korea's natural environment, from the picturesque Han River pathways in Seoul to the rolling hills and ancient pine forests of the Andong region.

Take on an Adventure holiday in Japan if your heart is set on serene landscapes with mountain vistas, cultural gardens and forested pilgrim paths. Go for Korea if you crave varied outdoor experiences that include volcanic peaks, river routes and coastal hikes.

Food can be a deciding factor when choosing a travel destination and both countries have distinct culinary traditions that cater to different palates.

Japan is globally renowned for its sushi, ramen and kaiseki, the latter being a multi-course meal that showcases seasonal ingredients and refined techniques. Our walking holidays in Japan often include stops at local eateries where you can savour dishes unique to specific regions, such as soba noodles in the mountains or fresh seafood in coastal areas.

South Korea offers a more robust and bold flavour profile with dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap. Our cycling and discovery holidays include opportunities to sample local specialities, from street food in Seoul's vibrant markets to hearty traditional meals in Gyeongju and Andong. Korean food is known for its communal dining experience, with banchan (small side dishes) often served alongside main courses.

Choose Japan if you favour delicate, artfully prepared meals that reflect the season. Opt for South Korea if you enjoy rich, spicy flavours and social dining experiences with a variety of side dishes.

Choose Japan if:

• You enjoy walking holidays that reveal layers of history and culture at a relaxed pace.
• You're drawn to serene landscapes, spiritual paths and moments of quiet reflection.
• Culinary finesse and meticulously crafted experiences are what you seek.

Choose South Korea if:

• You want a mix of active exploration, like cycling through bustling cities and scenic countryside.
  
• You appreciate dynamic urban settings interspersed with significant historical landmarks.
• Bold, flavourful cuisine and lively communal dining experiences excite you.

Whichever destination you choose, we will ensure that your active holiday in Japan or South Korea is immersive, enriching and tailored to show the best of these East Asian gems. From Japan's spiritual pilgrim trails to South Korea's vibrant cityscapes and folk traditions, your holiday will be filled with memories that resonate long after your return home.