Seoul and Tokyo Trip Summary
Day 1 - October 6, 2024 (Seoul)
- Morning:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: Witnessed the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, immersing in the rich history of Korea.
- Bukchon Hanok Village: Strolled leisurely through this traditional area, admiring the beautifully preserved hanoks.
- EumSikDang Cafe (Insadong): Enjoyed a light lunch featuring local flavors. (Naver Maps)
- Afternoon:
- Cheonggyecheon Stream: Walked along the scenic waterway, appreciating the tranquil surroundings.
- Hoji Bobo Steak House (Itaewon): Dined early, savoring a delicious meal. (Naver Maps)
- Myeongdong Shopping Street: Explored shops and relished street food delights.
- Cat Cafe Sarangchae: Relaxed and played with furry friends. (Naver Maps)
- Returned to accommodation to unwind.
Day 2 - October 7, 2024 (Seoul)
- Morning:
- Namsan Seoul Tower: Hiked up for stunning panoramic views of the city.
- HongDae: Had lunch at Kyochon Chicken, a popular local eatery. (Naver Maps)
- Afternoon:
- Hongik University: Explored the vibrant campus filled with youthful energy.
- National Korean Museum: Delved into Korea’s rich history and culture.
- Myeongdong Street Food: Relished a variety of delicious street food for dinner.
Day 3 - October 8, 2024 (Seoul)
- Morning:
- DMZ - Panmunjom: Visited the Korean Demilitarized Zone, gaining insights into its historical significance.
- Insadong: Had lunch at Insadong Chon restaurant (Naver Maps)
- Afternoon:
- Han River: Spent a leisurely afternoon by the river.
- Rudy’s Place: Caught up with friends, sharing stories and experiences.
Day 4 - October 9, 2024 (Seoul/Tokyo)
- Morning:
- Blue House: Explored the presidential residence, learning about its significance.
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: Experienced the palace while wearing traditional Hanbok attire.
- Afternoon:
- Noryangjin Fish Market: Browsed the famous seafood market, immersing in local culture.
- Gimpo Airport: Departed for a flight to Tokyo.
Day 5 - October 10, 2024 (Tokyo)
- Morning:
- Arrived in Tokyo the previous night (Oct 9th).
- Asakusa Shrine: Visited the shrine, enjoying its serene atmosphere.
- Shibuya: Explored the Hachiko Statue.
- Shinjuku: Had lunch at Ootoya (Google Maps), then explored Shinjuku’s Memory Lane.
- Afternoon/Evening:
- Takeshita Street in Harajuku: Strolled through this vibrant shopping street.
- Dinner: Enjoyed a delightful meal at a Monja restaurant in Asakusa with Go-san. (Google Maps)
Day 6 - October 11, 2024 (Tokyo/Yokohama)
- Morning:
- Breakfast: Left the hotel and had breakfast at a standing soba restaurant inside Shinagawa Station.
- Oomori: Stopped by to visit the location of my old accommodation.
- Yokohama: Explored the Ramen Museum and the Red Brick Warehouse.
- Afternoon/Evening:
- Chinatown in Yokohama: Wandered through the bustling streets, enjoying local delicacies.
- Reflexology Massage: Relaxed with a soothing massage.
- Dinner: Enjoyed dinner with Yuri, Makie, and Yuri’s husband in Asakusa. (Google Maps)
Day 7 - October 12, 2024 (Tokyo)
- Morning:
- Mt. Takao: Hiked through beautiful natural scenery, soaking in the fresh air.
- Afternoon/Evening:
- Dinner: Dined at Ootoya in Shinjuku, relishing traditional Japanese cuisine.
Day 8 - October 13, 2024 (Tokyo/Kyoto/Nara)
- Morning:
- Shinkansen to Kyoto Station: Took the high-speed train to Kyoto.
- Nara: Transferred to Nara by train to explore the historic site.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Returned to Kyoto to visit this iconic shrine.
- Afternoon/Evening:
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Walked through the stunning bamboo grove.
- Dinner: Enjoyed a delicious ramen meal in the Gion area. (Google Maps)
- Shinkansen Back to Tokyo: Returned to Tokyo after a fulfilling day.
Day 9 - October 14, 2024 (Tokyo)
- Morning:
- Komeda Coffee: Started the day with breakfast at this cozy café. (Google Maps)
- Shopping: Bought gifts in Asakusa and the Kappabashi area. (Google Maps)
- Ghibli Museum: Visited the enchanting Ghibli Museum, celebrating the art of animation.
- Afternoon/Evening:
- Shinjuku: Headed to Shinjuku for a relaxing reflexology session. (Google Maps)
- Birthday Celebration: Ended the trip with a special dinner at a restaurant in Ginza to celebrate my wife’s birthday. (Google Maps)
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