East Asian Odyssey with EF: 12-Week Gap Semester (Seoul and Tokyo) Recently Updated

Spend 12 unforgettable weeks exploring Seoul and Tokyo—two of East Asia’s most dynamic cities. This immersive semester blends cultural discovery, language basics, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures with a supportive travel community.

Sample Program Itinerary:

Weeks 1 - 3: Seoul, South Korea

Stroll through Seoul’s historic heart from Gwanghwamun to Sungnyemun, step back in time wearing a traditional hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Palace, and learn to craft classic flavors in an authentic Korean cooking class.

Weeks 4 - 6: Seoul, South Korea

Ride a cable car up to Namsan Tower for sweeping city views, channel your inner star during a high-energy K-pop dance class, snack your way through the bustling stalls of Gwangjang Market, and hike the historic Seoul Fortress Wall all the way to the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Seoul Highlight Getaway: Weekend Trip to Busan

2-day trip to Busan, Korea’s second-largest city and a coastal hub. Explore the city’s heritage and culture, from beaches to temples to markets. 

Weeks 7 - 9: Tokyo, Japan

Step back in time at Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district and the iconic Sensoji Temple, roll your own sushi with the help of a local chef, and dive into the colorful, trendsetting streets of Harajuku.

Weeks 10 - 12: Tokyo, Japan

Find peace beneath the towering torii gates of Meiji Shrine, then turn up the energy with an unforgettable night of karaoke.

Tokyo Highlight Getaway: Weekend trip to Kyoto

Travel by bullet train on a two-day adventure to Kyoto, where you’ll explore Japan’s most celebrated temples and shrines.

This program starts at $18,000 and includes:

Interactive language classes

Korean in Seoul and Japanese in Tokyo, offered at all learning levels.

Activities & excursions

2-3 cultural activities per week, and 1 overnight weekend excursions or extended day trip per location.

Flights & transportation

Internal flights and transfers between locations, including airport pick-up.

Room & board

Accommodations in an EF Student Residence with other members of your cohort.

EF Global Support Network

One-on-one mentorship and 24/7 travel support before and during your program.

Travel protection

Enrollment and cancellation protection fees included.