Tour Korea or Japan on own or tour?

[motherhood]

What are your thoughts? Would love to hear those who have been to these countries..did you go on your own or tour? I would personally prefer free and easy but am worried about the language barrier.

[chelseakings]

I had gone to both and did DIY itinerary as it's cheaper and you can maximise your time (esp in taking pics) that way. However, in Japan when we wanted to go skiing it was more convenient to join a tour. Language barrier is not that much of a problem. Those who are younger are particulrly good at english, and you can always use google translate

[hope]

I'm keen too! Japan or Korea...and skiing too..anyone has a good ski resort in Japan to recommend and not too ex?