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Korea Discover in Depth 12days 11nights
Korea Discover in Depth 12days 11nights
Korea Discover in Depth 12days 11nights
Korea Discover in Depth 12days 11nights
Korea Discover in Depth 12days 11nights

Korea Discover in Depth 12days 11nights

By Korea DMC Tour
Free cancellation available
Price is €11,903 per adult* *Get a lower price by selecting multiple travellers
Features
  • Free cancellation available
  • 12d
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
Overview

Accommodation: Best selected 4star hotels located in the heart of city centre.

Tour Guide: Best selected Licensed English speaking guides, who are passionate, well-trained, and knowledgeable to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Tour condition: Premium quality Service, Comfort, Hassle-free Travel, Not too rushed.

Kimchi making class

You can take kimchi-making classes taught by a professional kimchi instructor.

Experience of Trying on Hanbok

Hanbok is the traditional attire of the Korean people.

Hanji experience: Visitors can make Hanji themselves with the help of a jijang (paper-making expert).

As Korean culture spreads around the globe, more and more people come to Korea seeking to experience it first hand.

Activity location

  • Incheon International Airport (ICN)
    • 272 Gonghang-ro
    • 22382, Gonghang-ro, Incheon, South Korea

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • LOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong
    • 362 Samil-daero
    • 04542, Samil-daero, Seoul, South Korea

Multiple meeting/redemption points available, see location information for full list

Check availability


Korea Discover in Depth 12days 11nights
  • Activity duration is 12 days12d12d
  • English

Accommodation: Best selected 4star hotels located in the heart of city centre.

Tour Guide: Best selected Licensed English speaking guides, who are passionate, well-trained, and knowledgeable to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Tour condition: Premium quality Service, Comfort, Hassle-free Travel, Not too rushed.

Kimchi making class

You can take kimchi-making classes taught by a professional kimchi instructor.

Experience of Trying on Hanbok

Hanbok is the traditional attire of the Korean people.

Hanji experience: Visitors can make Hanji themselves with the help of a jijang (paper-making expert).

As Korean culture spreads around the globe, more and more people come to Korea seeking to experience it first hand.

Language options: English
Price details
€11,902.83 x 1 Adult€11,902.83

Total
Price is €11,902.83
Until Sat, 30 Mar

Know before you book

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transport options are available nearby
  • Specialised infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, activities services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. Supplier cancellation policy will apply.

Activity itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at Incheon International airport ➜ Hotel
  • 1 stop
  • Meals: Not included
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Seoul (Incheon), 4star hotel
Incheon International Airport (ICN)
  • 30m
Meet Local guide and transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Seoul ✈ ➜ Jejudo Island, Korea’s Gem
  • 3 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Jejudo island, 4star hotel
Bugak Skyway
  • 1h
After breakfast, check out the hotel. Then, we will be driving up Bugak Skyway, to enjoy the beauty of mother nature but also a panoramic view of the entire city. Visitors can enjoy a traditional plaza, a pagoda resting area, and a wildflower garden.
Gilsangsa Shrine
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
We visit Gilsangsa Temple, The temple is highly regarded for its involvement in cultural exchanges with other religions, and its programmes to help visitors experience Buddhism. Afterwards, we will fly to Jeju Island, also known as the “Island of Gods”.
Yongduam Rock
  • 1h
The volcanic island has scenic natural beauty, unique cultural traditions, and a temperate climate. In 2007, the Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes were listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site in South Korea. We will visit Yongduam, Dragon’s Head Rock, before dinner.
Day 3: Jejudo Island
  • 6 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Jejudo, 4star hotel
Sangumburi
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Sangumburi (산굼부리) is a crater with a circumference of over 2 km, and has been designated as a Natural Monument. It is located on the southeast side of Jeju-si, and is a flat crater, about 650 metres wide, 100 metres deep, and 2,070 metres in circumference. If you look at the crater from above up, it looks like a man-made circular stadium. There is a variety of plant-life in the crater. On the north side, Nandaeseong vegetation such as red-thorn trees, and magnolia trees grow, along with the rare winter strawberries. On the south side of the crater, Ondaerim vegetation such as evergreens, maples, and mountain strawberry trees cover the area. Because so many different kinds of trees and plants grow in such a limited space, it attracts the attention of researchers as well.
Ilchul Land
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
beautiful theme park with flower garden including Bonsai Garden, Micheon Lava Cave.
Seongsan Ilchulbong
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak rose from under the sea in a volcanic eruption over 100,000 years ago. Located on the eastern end of Jejudo Island, there is a huge crater at the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak. The crater is about 600m in diameter and 90m high. With the 99 sharp rocks surrounding the crater, it looks like a gigantic crown. While the southeast and north sides are cliffs, the northwest side is a verdant grassy hill that is connected to the Seongsan Village. The ridge provides an ideal spot for walks and for horse riding as well. The sunrise from the crater is magnificent. Also the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak surrounded by bright yellow coloured canola flowers in the spring is truly a sight to behold.
Haenyeo Museum
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Haenyeo refers to female divers who dive into the ocean water to gather various shellfish, seaweed, etc, without using any underwater diving equipment. When diving underwater, a haenyeo carries only a pair of goggles, a round ball-like tube to keep her balance, and a basket to put her collections in. Such women involved in the fishing industry are known to be scattered all around Jeju-do, Korea, Japan, and Russia. Jeju-do has established the Jeju Haenyeo Museum to introduce to the world the unique activities and culture of Jejudo’s haenyeo female divers. Exhibition Hall 1 is entitled “Haenyeo Diver’s Life” and has a restoration of a traditional haenyeo’s home, and her meals. Also on display, to show a more realistic view into their daily lives, are the various utensils used by female divers.
Jeju Folklore & Natural Museum
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
The museum is divided into four exhibition halls: the Natural History Hall, the Folklore Exhibition HallⅠ, the Folklore Exhibition HallⅡ, and the Outdoor Exhibition. The Natural History Exhibition Hall displays mainly natural historical items such as marine life, soil and rocks, and fauna and flora of Jeju in a three-dimensional way. It gives visitors a better understanding of Jeju’s unique nature and culture. It is divided into an Ecology Hall of Marine Life, a Soil and Rock Exhibition Hall, and a Land Ecosystem Hall. In Folklore Exhibition Hall I, you will see a transformation in the lifestyle of Jeju-do Island as well as Jeju people, when you look at 2,381 displayed items. It also plays a very important role to visitors in helping them to understand the ancient lifestyle on Jeju Island by recapturing Jeju’s traditional housing architecture, rites of passage, and regional food specialities.
Mysterious Road (Dokkaebi Road)
  • 30m
Nothing is more baffling than the strange movement of things on the Mysterious Road of Jeju Island. Objects on the road roll up the hill instead of moving downwards. How could this be possible? On the surface, this upward movement appears to defy the laws of gravity but in reality, the phenomenon is just a mere optical illusion. The Mysterious Road or the Dokkaebi Road in Jeju Island is one of the numerous magnetic hills scattered around the world. A slight downhill slope appears to be an uphill slope due to the seemingly high surroundings, creating an optical illusion that objects roll uphill. Unbelievable? See how this natural illusion tricks your eyes.
Day 4: Jejudo Island ✈ ➜ Seoul ➜ Suwon ➜ Jeonju, Land Mark of Korea Culture
  • 3 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Jeonju, 4star hotel
Hwaseong Fortress
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
it is the best of Korean traditional architecture designated as World cultural heritage by UNESCO. In other word, Haenggung, meaning detached palace, is a palace built within the walls of Hwaseong to house King Jeongjo when he was away from his palace in Seoul worshipping at his father's tomb. When he was not in residence it was used by his delegated official as a base of government. The palace was built in 1789, but was expanded between 1794 and 1796 to house 600 compartments and in doing so became the largest haenggung in Korea. If mini train is available on the visiting day, we take it to look around Fortress.
Hanji Museum
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Originally christened the Hansol Paper Museum in 1997, it was changed to the Pan-Asia Paper Museum in 2001. Again, in 2005, it was changed once more and is today called the Jeonju Hanji Museum. It’s located in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do. As Korea’s first museum specialising in paper it has an extensive collection of 3,000 artefacts and a data-base documenting the long history and superiority of Hanji (Korean paper). The museum also hosts two special exhibitions every year with diverse paper-related themes. Programme Information Themes: Paper crafts, archives, old books, 100 types of paper and paper-manufacturing tools Hanji experience: Visitors can make Hanji themselves with the help of a jijang (paper-making expert).
Jeonju Hanok Village
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Jeonju Hanok Village is located in the city of Jeonju and overlaps Pungnam-dong and Gyo-dong. There are 735 traditional Korean hanok houses. While the rest of city has been industrialised, Hanok Village retains its historical charms and traditions. Jeonju Hanok Village is especially beautiful for its unique roof edges, which are slightly raised to the sky. Hanok houses are generally divided into two sections, Anchae and Sarangchae. Sarangchae is where the men dwell, and is referred to as the Seonbi room. Because men and women had to remain separate, Anchae is situated deep inside the house so that it is secretive and quiet. Another trait of Hanok is that all the houses are heated with ondol, a unique sub-floor heating system. Since Koreans enjoy sitting, eating, and sleeping on the floor, it needs to remain heated. A part of Hanok has been set aside so that tourists can experience traditional Korean life, called Hanok Life Experience Hall. You can enter the rooms to experience the warm floor first-hand. An advantage of this system is that it is warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The food provided is very traditional, which adds to the traditional ambience. At Jeonju Hanok Village, visitors can enjoy traditional Korean life and traditional foods like bibimbap, the most well known dish from the Jeonju region.
Day 5: Jeonju ➜ Suncheon, which lies off the beaten track in both aspects of nature and culture.
  • 3 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in suncheon, 4star hotel
Gyeonggijeon Shrine
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Historic Site No. 339, Gyeonggijeon Shrine was erected in 1410 and holds the portrait of King Tae-jo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. The King and his wife’s mortuary tablets are enshrined here at Jogyeong Shrine. The structure was partially destroyed during the Imjin War (1592-1598), and the existing structure was remodeled in 1614. Inside Gyeonggijeon, the portraits of King Tae-jo and other successive kings such as Sun-jong, Cheol-jong, Yeong-jo and many others can be found on display. The carriage used to move the mortuary tablets as well as carriages used to transport dignitaries and individual chair-like carriages are also on display.
Family House(Jeonju Bibimbap)
Bibimbap (비빔밥) is a large bowl of rice topped with an array of individually prepared vegetables and meat and served with a gochujang (고추장) sauce. Bibim means mixing, and bap means rice. The mixing usually happens at the table by the diner. It’s one of my favourite Korean dishes! Hope you enjoy bibimbap at home with this easy to follow recipe.
Nagan Eupseong Folk Village
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Then we move to Suncheon to visit Naganeupseong, is the only remaining Joseon dynasty castle in Jeollanamdo. It finely has the old images of Joseon folk village and castle, with about 100 houses and government offices. Nowadays, there still are 85 households and 229 people living there. It has the biggest feature that it was built on the plain fields and has the narrow stone walls around the castle.
Day 6: Suncheon ➜ Haeinsa Temple ➜ Busan ➜ Gyeongju, Known as ‘the museum without walls, World Heritages designated by UNESCO
  • 4 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Gyeongju, 4star hotel
Boseong Green Tea Field Daehan Dawon
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation produces high-quality green tea and is a popular tourist attraction year-round thanks to the vast rows of tea trees that line the hillside like a deep green carpet. Despite being a small peak at just 350 metres above sea level, the observation deck offers views of the sea on clear days. Daehan Dawon Tea Plantation has been featured as a filming site in dramas such as “Summer Scent (2002),” “Legend of the Blue Sea (2017),” and “The Rebel (2017).”
Haeinsa Temple
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Haeinsa Temple was founded during the third year of King Ae-Jang's reign (802), by two monks Suneung and Ijung. The name "Haein" originates from the expression Haeinsammae of Hwaeomgyeong (Buddhist scripture), which means truly enlightened world of Buddha and our naturally undefiled mind. Along with the Tripitaka Koreana (National Treasure No.32) and Janggyeongpanjeon (National Treasure No. 52), 15 more public treasures and some 200 private treasures are enshrined at Haeinsa Temple, which has been appointed as a universal cultural heritage since December, 1995 for its many cultural properties and historical remains. Iljumun, Daejeokgwangjeon and the Tripitaka Koreana are recognised as famous treasures. Iljumun Gate was the first gate that every sattva must pass to become a Buddha and considered as a representative work of ancient architecture. Daejeokgwangjeon, the grand sanctuary, and the three-story stone pagoda in the yard possess the majestic appearance of the one thousand-year-old temple. Since the 23rd year of Goryeo Dynasty (year 1236), it took 16 years to finish the Tripitaka Koreana, the most famous national treasure of Haeinsa Temple, which was made as a wish to overcome the national crisis caused by Mongolia Invasion. The printing blocks are 68cm wide, 24.5cm long, 3 cm thick with wood fixed at each end to maintain balance and lacquer was applied to prevent corrosion. Silver magnolias growing near the South Sea and Geojae area were cut down, soaked in sea water for several years and then dried to make these printing blocks. The blocks are a result of the king and his people's effort to repulse the Mongolian army with support from Buddha. The 81,340 blocks include 6,791 volumes.
Jagalchi Market
  • 1h
Jagalchi Market, located on the shoreside road in Busan's Jung-gu, is Korea's largest seafood market, selling both live and dried fish. After the Korean War, the market solidified itself as a fish market. Most of the people who sell fish are women, so the vendors here are called Jagalchi Ajumma, "ajumma" meaning middle-aged or married woman in Korean. This market represents Busan and is famous throughout the country. Visitors can eat fresh raw fish right at the market. Even nowadays visitors can see women selling mackerel, sea squirts (ascidians) and whale meat on wooden boxes along the road outside of the market and along the shore. Every year in October, the Jagalchi Cultural Tourism Festival is held, and it is easy to visit because of the convenient transport provided by subway. Jagalchi Market is where you can see the lifestyle of the Busan locals.
Gyeongju Historic Area
the century old historical Gyeongju City, the 1,000 year old Capital of the Shilla Dynasty. The Gyeongju Historic Areas were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. The protected areas encompass the ruins of temples and palaces, outdoor pagodas and statuary, and other cultural artefacts left by the Silla Kingdom. The historic areas are also known as one of the largest outdoor museums in the world.
Day 7: Gyeongju ➜ Andong ➜ Yeoju, Korea’s Pottery Village
  • 4 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Wonju, 4star hotel
Bulguksa Temple
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Bulguksa Temple is the representative relic of Gyeongju and was designated as a World Cultural Asset by UNESCO in 1995. The beauty of the temple itself and the artistic touch of the stone relics are known throughout the world. Bulguksa Temple was built in 528 during the Silla Kingdom, in the 15th year of King Beop-Heung's reign (514-540). The temple was originally called ‘Hwaeom Bulguksa Temple’ or ‘Beopryusa Temple’ and was rebuilt by Kim Dae-Seong (700-774), who started rebuilding the temple in 751 during the reign of King Gyeong-Deok (r. 742-765) and completed it in 774 during the reign of King Hye-Gong (r. 765-780). Upon completion, the temple’s name was changed to Bulguksa. Bulguksa Temple underwent numerous renovations from the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), but was burned down during the Imjin War (Japanese Invasions, 1592-1598).
Seokguram
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Seokguram, located on Tohamsan Mountain, is the representative stone temple of Korea. The official name of Seokguram, National Treasure No. 24, is Seokguram Seokgul. Designated as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995, it is an artificial stone temple made of granite. The construction was started by Kim Dae-Seong (700-774) in 751 during the reign of King Gyeong-Deok (742-765) of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC - AD 935) and it was finished twenty-four years later in 774, during the reign of King Hye-Gong (765-780). Seokguram is known to have been built at the same time as Bulguksa Temple. According to the history book Samgukyusa of the Goryeo Dynasty (the country that unified the Korean peninsula at the end of the Silla Kingdom, 918-1392), Kim Dae-Seong had Bulguksa Temple built for his parents in his current life, and Seokguram Grotto for the parents of his former life.
Daereungwon Tomb Complex
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Within Daereungwon Tomb Complex is Cheonmachong Tomb (Ancient Tomb No. 155), which was excavated in 1973. Cheonmachong Tomb consists of a wooden coffin placed inside an underground chamber mounded with boulders and earth, characterised as a typical upper class tomb of the Silla period. The mound has a height of 12.7 m with a diameter of 50 m, and consists of a layer of rocks collected from streams. Below the rock layer is a wooden chamber with a length of 6.5 m and a width of 2.1, reaching 2.1 m in height, with the wooden coffin at its centre. A total of 11,526 artefacts were discovered within the tomb, including Cheonmado, an artwork considered to be highly valuable as it is Korea's first artwork to be excavated from an ancient tomb.
Andong Hahoe Folk Village
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Hahoe Village is home to descendants of the Ryu clan of Pungsan and is well-known for its traditional houses. Birthplace of renowned scholars of the Joseon Period such as Gyeomam Ryu Un-ryong and Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong, the village became even more famous after Queen Elizabeth of England visited on April 21, 1999. Hahoe Village (translating to “Village Enveloped by Water”) gets its name from Nakdong River, which flows around the town’s perimeter. The village is located at the foothills of Hwasan Mountain, an offshoot of Taebaek Mountain that rises up to the east. The centre of the village is populated by large tile-roofed houses belonging to the Ryu clan, adding their own unique charm to the surrounding thatched roofs. Hahoe Village boasts exquisite scenic sights: the elegant Nakdong River flowing around the village, the magnificent Buyongdae Cliff, endlessly unfolding sandy beaches, and lush, ancient pine trees. Visitors can take the boat to Buyongdae Cliff for a panoramic view of the village. In addition to breathtaking scenery, Hahoe Village offers delectable local delicacies. Try the Andong Soju (distilled alcoholic drink), Heotjesabap (a type of Bibimbap eaten by the nobles), Andong Gangodeungeo (salted mackerel), and Andong Guksu (a kind of noodle dish).
Day 8: Wonju ➜ Sokcho (Mt. Seoraksan), spellbinding landscape vistas of Mt. Seoraksan national parks.
  • 4 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Sokcho, 4star hotel
Sokcho Central Market
  • 1h
Opened in the 1950s as a five-day market, Wonju Jungang Market is now a permanently operated market. With the construction of the Yeongdong Motorway, the market transitioned from a wholesale focus to individual purchasers. The market naturally developed a food street with many restaurants opening up in the vicinity of each other. The market was losing business with the increase in supermarkets in the area and the ease of internet shopping. To combat this, the market opened an art market in 2013 and was designated as a cultural market in 2015. The second floor of the market houses the Maze Art Market, with twisting pathways lined with small design shops and restaurants. The flea market, held during the second weekend of every month, is not to be missed.
Seoraksan National Park
With its highest point, Daecheongbong Peak, located 1,708 m above ground, Seoraksan Mountain is one of the most beautiful mountains in Korea, boasting a variety of colourful flowers in spring, refreshing clear water streams in summer, vibrant autumn foliages in fall, and a scenic snow-covered landscape in winter. With the mountain changing in colour according to each season, a visit to Seoraksan Mountain guarantees a picturesque landscape any time of the year. Hangyeryeong and Misiryryeong serve as a boundary line dividing Oeseorak (Outer Seorak), located towards the East Sea, and Naeseorak (Inner Seorak). The Oeseorak is a home to gigantic waterfalls such as Biryong Falls, Oryeon Falls, and Towangseong Falls as well as notable rock formations such as Ulsanbawi Rock and Geumgang Cave. Convenient facilities are gathered around Seorak-dong, making the area one of the busiest region within Seoraksan National Park. Noteworthy hiking courses include Biseondae-Madeungryeong course and Biseondae-Cheonbuldong-Daecheonbong Peak course.
Abai Village
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
The village of Cheongho-dong is now the hometown to many people of North Korean ancestry and is commonly referred to as ‘Abai village.’ The word ‘Abai’ comes from the Hamgyeong-do dialect meaning ‘an aged person.’ Many elderly people fled to Cheongho-dong from North Korea during the Korean War; the large number of older residents resulted in the town’s current nickname. The streets of Cheongho-dong are lined with small Korean houses reminding many of Seoul in the 1970s. The simple nature of the town and quietness of the sea make for a unique atmosphere in Cheongho-dong. This area became extremely popular after the Korean drama "Autumn in My Heart" was filmed here. In the drama, the lead actress’s mother had a supermarket in Cheongho-dong. Nearby the supermarket the lead actress often took a boat, which has now become a popular attraction for tourists. Holding up to 35 people, this ‘Gaetbae’ boat operates on manpower (people pulling on ropes moving the boat across a waterway) and can be taken from city centre Sokcho to Cheongho-dong. When looking for a bite to eat, Abai sundae and hamheung naengmyeon are two of the most popular dishes.
Daepohang Fish Market
  • 1h
Located on the southern most point of Sokcho are the many raw fish restaurants and dried fish shops of Daepohang Port. This bustling port has become one of the most popular tourist spots for those in search of the freshest raw fish restaurants. At Daepohang Port it is said that the Seorak Mountains and the East Sea are gifts from nature. The port is filled with raw fish restaurants and a live fish market containing eel, flatfish, flounder, yellowtail, and plethora of other high-end seafood. Furthermore, the abundance of local dishes that can be found lining the streets includes ojingeo sundae (Korean sausage in a squid) and gamja songpyeon (steamed rice cake with potato filling). For raw fish lovers that are in the Sokcho area, Daepohang Port is the place to be. Nearby tourist attractions include Seorak Sunrise Park and Tourism Submarine. These are all great places to stop by while visiting the Seoraksan Mountains.
Day 9: Mt. Seoraksan ➜ Seoul, Fashion and technology forward but also deeply traditional.
  • 4 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Seoul, 4star hotel
Gwongeumseong Fortress
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Gwongeumseong Fortress is the site of a castle ruins located on Seoraksan Mountain, and it is also known as Mt. Onggeumsan Castle, or Toto Castle. It is located on the steep Dolsan Mountain of Seoraksan Sogongwon area. It is believed to have been built by the 23rd King of the Goryeo Period (918-1392), Gojong (r. 1213-1259). It is also called Gwon-Kim Castle, as there is a legend that two generals named Gwon and Kim, built the castle to avoid war. At the left side of Sogongwon, past the Biryonggyo Bridge over the ravine, there is a path which leads to Gwongeumseong Castle, but it takes over an hour of travel through a steep, rocky path (2.5km), so cable car is used. The cable car was installed by Dr. Gi-Sup Lee in 1971 and is still used by many tourists. It runs from 7 a.m. to 6 or 6:30 p.m., departing every 7 minutes, and you can only purchase return tickets at the ticket counter for that day.
Seoraksan Sinheungsa Temple
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
Sinheungsa (신흥사) is a short 10min walk away from the entrance to Sogongwon. In fact, many visit because of its close proximity to Sogongwon. Sinheungsa is a temple which used to be called Hyangseongsa, built by Jajangyulsa (590~658), who travelled to famous mountains all over the nation, in Queen Jindeok’s (?~654) 6th year of reign. It was destroyed and rebuilt many times since. On the path to Sinheungsa, there is a great bronze statue called Bronze Jwabul Statue, which is well over 10 metres high. Just beyond the statue, which is on a granite terrace, there is a bridge to the right called Hyeonsugyo, which was newly built for crossing the ravine. Past the bridge there is a long stone wall with a Cheongwang door, and you can enter the temple. At the entrance there are four Cheonwang (king) statues (Jiguk Cheonwang with a sword, Damun Cheonwang with a lute, Gwangmok Cheonwang with a tower, and Jeungjang Cheonwang with a dragon), placed on either side. The Buddhist statues at Sinheungsa were placed here during the founding days of Seongjeongsa, and include the statues Mireukbosal, Gwaneumbosal and Seji which were sculpted by Uisang Daesa. The buildings which were built during that time are still standing, like the sanctuary, main temple, Myeongbujeon, Bojaeru, and Chilseonggak, etc. There is also an important cultural property, Treasure No. 443, called Hyangseongsaji, a three-story stone tower. You can reach the Ulsan boulder by following the wall outside Sinheungsa. Sinheungsa is an ancient temple with deep historical significance, and many tourists come because of its beautiful scenery.
Myeongdong Shopping Street
  • 2h
Myeong-dong is one of the primary shopping districts in Seoul. The two high streets meet in the centre of the block with one beginning from Myeong-dong Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line No. 4) and the other from Lotte Department Store at Euljiro. Many brand name shops and department stores line the streets and alleys. Common products for sale include clothes, shoes, and accessories. Unlike Namdaemun or Dongdaemun, many designer brands are sold in Myeong-dong. In addition, several major department stores have branches here, including Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae Department Store, Myeong-dong Migliore, Noon Square and M Plaza. The department stores carry many premium labels and other fashionable goods at reasonable prices. Myeong-dong also has family restaurants, fast food, plus Korean, Western and Japanese dining options. Many restaurants in Myeong-dong specialise in dongaseu (pork cutlet) and kalguksu (noodle soup). Other businesses in the area include hair salons, banks and theatres.
Namdaemun Market
  • 1h
Opened in 1964, Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional market in Korea with shops selling various goods. All products are sold at affordable prices and the stores in this area also function as wholesale markets. Most of the goods are made directly by the storeowners. Namdaemun Market is even open overnight, from 11:00pm to 4:00am, and is crowded with retailers from all over the country. When day breaks, the site of busy shoppers bustling around the market creates a unique scene that attracts tourists worldwide. Namdaemun Market sells a variety of clothes, glasses, kitchenware, toys, mountain gear, fishing equipment, stationery, fine arts, accessories, hats, carpets, flowers, ginseng, and imported goods.
Day 10: Seoul ⇌ DMZ, where you can observe one country being divided into two
  • 4 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Seoul, 4star hotel
DMZ
  • 5h
  • Admission ticket included
The Demilitarised Zone is a unique area where you can observe one country being divided into two. Experience the tension but hope for peace in Korea and learn about their history and future. The highlight of today’s tour is the DMZ (Demilitarised Zone). *Note: Must bring passport for ID check. Located on each side of 38th parallel, this infamous border was established at the end of the war in 1953 at the signing Panmunjom’s armistice in order to separate North and South Korea. Upon arrival, proceed to passport security control followed by a short introduction at the United Nations’ camp. Visit Dora observatory and Dorasan railway station. Discover Imjingak Park with the Memorial, the Liberty Bridge and the bell of unification. Late morning, visit the 3rd tunnel dug into the rock at a depth of 73m and able of moving a full division per hour with their weapons.
Museum Kimchikan
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
I probably don’t need to tell you that kimchi is the best-known Korean dish, and Koreans eat it literally everyday with every meal. Kimchi is basically a catch-all Korean term for fermented vegetables. There are hundreds of kimchi varieties in Korea, but this napa cabbage kimchi is the most common variety. In this Korean kimchi recipe, I will show you how to make traditional napa cabbage kimchi, aka. pogi kimchi.
Hanbok Museum
  • 1h
  • Admission ticket included
A Hanbok (South Korean) or Joseon-ot (North Korean) is a traditional Korean dress for semi-formal or formal attire during traditional occasions such as festivals, celebrations, and ceremonies. It is characterised by vibrant colours and simple lines without pockets. Although the term literally means "Korean clothing", hanbok usually refers specifically to clothing of the Joseon period. Korea had a dual clothing tradition in which rulers and aristocrats adopted different kinds of mixed foreign-influenced indigenous styles while commoners preserved a distinct style of indigenous clothing, today known as hanbok.[1][2] In 1996, the South Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism established "Hanbok Day" to encourage South Korean citizens to wear hanbok.[3]
Insadong
  • 2h
Insa-dong, located in the heart of the city, is an important place where old but precious and traditional goods are on display. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. Within these alleys are galleries and traditional restaurants, teahouses, and cafes. The galleries are the heartbeat of Insa-dong. There are about 100 galleries in the area and you can see every example of traditional Korean fine art from paintings to sculptures. The most famous galleries are Hakgojae Gallery, which functions as the centre of folk art, Gana Art Gallery, which promotes many promising artists, and Gana Art Centre. The teahouses and restaurants are the perfect complement to the galleries. At first they might be hard to find, but if you take the time to stroll around the twisting alleyways, the window shopping in itself can be very entertaining. The shops in Insa-dong are very popular among all age groups, because each one is unique. Every Saturday from 14:00 to 22:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00, the high street is blocked off from traffic and it becomes a cultural space. Stores set up booths outside and Korean sweets merchants and fortune teller stalls can easily be found; there are traditional performances and exhibits as well. Insa-dong is especially popular among international tourists. This is where they can experience and see traditional Korean culture first-hand, and also purchase pieces of fine art. On the street you can eat Korean taffy and traditional pajeon (spring onion pancake), and lose yourself in all the joyous festivities of the street.
Day 11: Seoul City Tour, what the world calls New Seoul, will be the highlights of today.
  • 2 stops
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Seoul, 4star hotel
Gyeongbokgung Palace
  • 2h
  • Admission ticket included
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also commonly referred to as the Northern Palace because its location is furthest north when compared to the neighbouring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghuigung (Western Palace) Palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful, and remains the largest of all five palaces. The premises were once destroyed by fire during the Imjin War (Japanese Invasions, 1592-1598). However, all of the palace buildings were later restored under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun during the reign of King Gojong (1852-1919). Remarkably, the most representative edifices of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond have remained relatively intact. Woldae and the sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) represent past sculptures of contemporary art. The National Palace Museum of Korea is located south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is located on the eastern side within Hyangwonjeong.
Bukchon Hanok Village
  • 1h
Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional houses, called hanok, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The name Bukchon, which literally translates to "northern village," came about as the area lies north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants and tea houses, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.
Day 12: Seoul ➜ ICN airport for deparutre ✈
  • 1 stop
  • Meals: breakfast
  • Accommodation: Not included
Incheon International Airport (ICN)
  • 2h
Depart Seoul for Incheon airport

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIESIncheon International Airport (ICN)
    • 272 Gonghang-ro
    • 22382, Gonghang-ro, Incheon, South Korea

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLELOTTE City Hotel Myeongdong
    • 362 Samil-daero
    • 04542, Samil-daero, Seoul, South Korea
  • PEOPLEPEOPLETmark Hotel Myeongdong
    • 15 Chungmu-ro
    • 04554, Chungmu-ro, Seoul, South Korea

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