Experience an unforgettable journey of faith, culture, and adventure through South Korea and Japan on this exclusive World Youth Day 2027 pilgrimage with Connor McLaughlin. Begin in Seoul as Catholics from around the world gather for one of the Church’s most powerful international celebrations alongside the Holy Father. Following World Youth Day, continue to Japan and experience the energy of Tokyo through iconic landmarks, world-famous cuisine, immersive cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments that blend ancient tradition with modern innovation. From spiritual encounters to extraordinary cultural discoveries, this pilgrimage offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience unlike any other.

Welcome to a new continent: WELCOME TO ASIA. Welcome to a new country: WELCOME TO SOUTH KOREA

After arriving at Incheon International Airport in Seoul, we will proceed through immigration and baggage claim. Meet our representative, who will be waiting with a sign displaying our group name. We will then board our private transfer to the hotel in Seoul for check-in (check-in begins at 3:00 PM). Overnight stay in Seoul.

Day dedicated to all World Youth Day activities.

After the events conclude, we will board our bus and return to the hotel.

Free afternoon and evening to explore Seoul at your own pace. Opportunity to visit central city areas using public transportation.

This morning we depart from Seoul and begin following in the footsteps of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, the first Korean Catholic priest and one of the great martyrs of Asia.

Our first stop is Solmoe Shrine, the birthplace of Saint Andrew Kim, born in 1821. Surrounded by peaceful hills and beautiful nature, this sacred site invites pilgrims to reflect on the early life and spiritual formation of Korea’s beloved first priest.

We continue to Mirinae Shrine, one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in South Korea.

During times of persecution, many Christians sought refuge here while remaining faithful to Christ despite tremendous suffering. Mirinae is home to the tomb of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon and Bishop Ferréol, the French missionary bishop who mentored him and requested to be buried at his side.

The shrine includes a magnificent basilica, beautiful gardens, and memorials dedicated to the Korean martyrs.

We celebrate Holy Mass at one of the holiest Catholic sites in Korea, joining in prayer where generations of faithful Christians persevered through persecution and gave witness to Christ.

This will be one of the most spiritually moving moments of our pilgrimage.

Enjoy free time for lunch and personal time for prayer, reflection, or exploring the surrounding pilgrimage grounds.

In the afternoon we return toward Seoul and visit Saenamteo Shrine, the exact place where Saint Andrew Kim Taegon was martyred in 1846, together with many Korean bishops, priests, and faithful Catholics.

The shrine includes a beautiful church, museum, and memorials dedicated to the heroic witnesses of the Korean Church.

Standing in the very place where Saint Andrew Kim gave his life for Christ, we pray for the grace of courage, perseverance, and faith in our own journey.

At the conclusion of our pilgrimage day, we return to Seoul.

Enjoy a relaxing evening with free time to explore the vibrant city of Seoul on your own, visit local cafés, shop, or simply enjoy the energy of one of Asia’s most fascinating cities

If flight schedules allow, free time to explore Seoul. Optional self-guided for those who wish, enjoy time for personal prayer or visit a nearby Catholic church before departing South Korea. A peaceful moment to reflect on the incredible spiritual journey experienced during World Youth Day.

At the scheduled time, transfer to Incheon International Airport for your flight to Tokyo. Meal onboard.

Arrival at Tokyo International Airport (Narita or Haneda). Immigration process and baggage claim. Welcome to a new country: WELCOME TO JAPAN. Reception by our representative, who will guide you to board the bus that will take you to the hotel. Check-in at the hotel. We prepare to begin our adventure in Japan. Overnight stay in Tokyo.

Following the energy and excitement of Tokyo, we will visit St. Mary’s Cathedral, the heart of the Catholic Church in Japan. Here we pause for a moment of quiet reflection and gratitude while visiting one of Tokyo’s most beautiful and inspiring spiritual landmarks.

Welcome to your Tokyo adventure day.

Today is your opportunity to experience the energy, culture, and incredible flavors that make Tokyo one of the most exciting cities in the world. To help you enjoy every moment, Trinitours has prepared a curated collection of hand-selected recommendations featuring iconic neighborhoods, unforgettable food experiences, viral dessert destinations, unique themed restaurants, and some of the city’s most memorable attractions.

From exploring Tokyo aboard the famous Sky Hop Bus to discovering hidden culinary gems and world-famous Japanese experiences, this day is designed to let you experience Tokyo in a way that matches your own sense of adventure.

All experiences and recommendations throughout the day are completely optional. Any activities, meals, transportation, reservations, or attractions chosen during the day are separate from the pilgrimage itinerary and may be enjoyed freely based on your own preferences.

Enjoy breakfast before beginning a full day exploring one of the world’s most exciting cities.

We recommend using Tokyo’s famous Sky Hop Bus, a convenient way to explore the city at your own pace while visiting some of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods and attractions.

Recommended routes include Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree, Tsukiji Market, Ginza, Tokyo Tower, and more. (Red Course)

For sushi lovers, we highly recommend visiting the famous Tsukiji Outer Market, one of Tokyo’s most celebrated food destinations. Enjoy incredibly fresh sushi, sashimi, and authentic Japanese seafood prepared by local masters.

No visit to Japan is complete without authentic ramen. Warm broth, handmade noodles, and unforgettable flavors make this one of Tokyo’s essential culinary experiences.

We recommend:

Ichiran Ramen – Shibuya
(best first timer option, very fun individual booths)

OR

Afuri Ramen – Harajuku
(famous yuzu ramen, lighter broth, very Instagram friendly)

• Age.3 Ginza (Ginza District)
One of Tokyo’s newest viral dessert sensations, famous for its Japanese fried sandwiches filled with fresh whipped cream, strawberries, custard, matcha cream, and premium seasonal ingredients. A perfect stop while exploring Ginza.

• A Happy Pancake (Omotesando District)
Perhaps Tokyo’s most famous soufflé pancake experience. Known for incredibly soft, fluffy pancakes that practically melt in your mouth. One of the city’s most iconic dessert destinations.

• Sembikiya Fruit Parlor (Nihonbashi or Ginza)
A legendary Japanese fruit café known for luxury fruit parfaits, strawberry cream sandwiches, fresh fruit cakes, and beautifully crafted desserts made with Japan’s premium seasonal fruits.

• Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory (Setagaya)
A famous Tokyo bakery known worldwide for its adorable Totoro-shaped cream puffs, inspired by Studio Ghibli. A fun stop for anime lovers and one of Tokyo’s most recognizable dessert experiences.

Tokyo is famous for creating some of the most imaginative dining experiences anywhere in the world. If you are looking to make your final evening in Japan truly unforgettable, Trinitours recommends considering one of these unique themed restaurants for dinner.

Important: Many of these restaurants sell out days or even weeks in advance. We strongly recommend making reservations ahead of time whenever possible.

Our top recommendations include:

• Pokémon Café (Nihonbashi)
One of the most difficult reservations to secure in Tokyo and a dream experience for Pokémon fans of all ages. Enjoy Pokémon-themed meals, exclusive merchandise, and one of Tokyo’s most unique dining experiences.
Website: https://www.pokemon-cafe.jp/en/cafe/

• Kirby Café (Tokyo Skytree Town)
A beautifully designed themed café inspired by Nintendo’s Kirby universe. Famous for creative presentation, collectible merchandise, and highly sought-after reservations. Perfect if you are already visiting Tokyo Skytree.
Website: https://kirbycafe.jp/

• Ninja Akasaka / Ninja Tokyo (Akasaka District)
A full immersive ninja-themed dining experience featuring hidden doors, secret passageways, theatrical ninja performances, and beautifully presented Japanese cuisine. One of Tokyo’s most memorable dinner experiences.
Website: https://www.ninja-tokyo.jp/

• Vampire Café (Ginza District)
For travelers looking for something completely different, Vampire Café offers gothic castle interiors, dramatic presentations, candlelit dining rooms, and one of Tokyo’s most unique themed restaurant concepts. Located conveniently in Ginza.
Website: https://www.dd-holdings.jp/shops/vampirecafe/ginza#/

• Maidreamin Maid Café (Akihabara District)
One of Japan’s most famous pop culture experiences. Located in Tokyo’s anime capital, this iconic maid café offers interactive performances, themed food presentations, and one of the most uniquely Japanese cultural experiences visitors can have.
Website: https://maidreamin.com/

Tokyo offers experiences unlike anywhere else in the world, and these restaurants can quickly become one of the most memorable highlights of your time in Japan. Trinitours highly recommends booking reservations as early as possible, as availability can fill quickly, especially during busy travel seasons.

After a full day discovering Tokyo’s incredible culture, food, and unforgettable experiences, return to the hotel for overnight rest.

Breakfast included.

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will have a completely free day to continue exploring Tokyo on our own and at our own pace. Personalized recommendations for activities available during the day will be provided, along with opportunities to once again enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at some of the city’s famous restaurants.

Japan is famous for extraordinary food experiences, but one of the country’s most surprising culinary highlights can be found in the most unexpected place: 7-Eleven Japan.

Far from an ordinary convenience store, Japanese 7-Eleven locations have become world famous for offering incredibly fresh, high-quality, and affordable meals loved by both locals and travelers. During your time exploring Tokyo, Trinitours highly recommends stopping at one of these iconic stores and experiencing a unique side of Japanese food culture.

Some of our top recommendations to try include:

• Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando) – Japan’s legendary fluffy sandwich made with creamy egg salad and incredibly soft milk bread. A must-try favorite.

• Fresh Onigiri Rice Balls – Convenient and delicious rice balls filled with salmon, tuna mayo, spicy cod roe, or pickled plum. Perfect while exploring the city.

• Japanese Soufflé Pancakes – Light, fluffy, and one of Japan’s most viral desserts, often available seasonally at select convenience stores.

• Premium Matcha Desserts & Mochi Ice Cream – A perfect introduction to Japan’s world-famous dessert culture, featuring authentic matcha flavors and seasonal sweets.

Sometimes the most unforgettable food experiences in Japan are found in the places you least expect. During your day exploring Tokyo, don’t miss the opportunity to discover why Japanese convenience stores have become famous around the world.

At the designated time, we will board our bus and head to Tokyo International Airport (Narita or Haneda) to board our return flights to our countries of origin. Transcontinental flight. Meals will be served onboard. Overnight flight. We wish everyone a very pleasant journey. May God bless you all!!

Gloucester Hotel Incheon is a modern hotel conveniently located across from Soraepogu Station and just steps from the famous Sorae Fish Market. Featuring comfortable guestrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, and on-site dining, it provides an ideal base for exploring Incheon and the Seoul metropolitan area while remaining within easy reach of Incheon International Airport.

Gloucester Hotel KINTEX is conveniently located next to the KINTEX Exhibition and Convention Center in Goyang, making it an excellent base for exploring the greater Seoul metropolitan area. The hotel offers modern guestrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and easy access to shopping, restaurants, and public transportation. With convenient connections to Seoul’s major attractions and international airports, Gloucester Hotel KINTEX provides a comfortable and well-located stay during your pilgrimage.