Arrival at ICN Airport ➜ Hotel

Incheon International Airport - A local guide will greet and transfer guests from the airport to the hotel.

Seoul, Embrace of Traditional Korean Culture

Gyeongbokgung Palace - Established in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is often called the Northern Palace due to its location being the furthest north compared to the nearby Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghuigung (Western Palace). It is considered the most beautiful and remains the largest of the five palaces.

The palace was once destroyed by fire during the Imjin War (Japanese Invasions, 1592-1598) but was later restored under Heungseondaewongun during King Gojong’s reign (1852-1919).

Remarkably, the most iconic structures of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond, have remained largely intact. Woldae and the sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) are examples of past contemporary art.

The National Palace Museum of Korea is located south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is situated on the eastern side within Hyangwonjeong.

Current Status

Historic Site No.117 (Designated on January 21, 1963)

Closed

Tuesdays

Gyeongbokgung Palace - In ancient times, the royal guards of the Joseon Dynasty performed their duties by guarding the Gwanghwamun Gate, the entrance to Gyeongbokgung Palace where the king governed. Since 1469, the ceremony has been held, with the current reenactment based on historical records for authenticity.

The reenactment of the original ceremony began in 1996. The gate guardsmen perform their sentry duties, change the guards, and hold a parade. The guards’ uniforms, weapons, and accessories, along with their strict ceremonial procedures, captivate passersby, especially foreign tourists. Since traditional events are rare in a large city like Seoul, the changing of the guards ceremony is a wonderful opportunity. It occurs daily except Tuesday.

National Folk Museum of Korea - Situated inside Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum of Korea showcases historical artifacts used in the daily lives of Koreans in the past. Through the exhibits, visitors can learn about domestic and agricultural lifestyles, as well as Korea’s cultural beliefs.

The museum features three permanent exhibitions, two special exhibitions, a library, a souvenir shop, and other facilities.

Bukchon Hanok Village - Encircled by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional houses, known as hanok, dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. The name Bukchon, meaning “northern village,” originated because the neighborhood is north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many hanoks serve as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses, offering visitors a chance to experience and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.

Kwangjang Market - Gwangjang Market was Korea’s first permanent market and remains a popular tourist destination. The second floor is filled with silk, satin, and linen bed-sheet stores, the largest and most renowned in Seoul.

Many stores in the area have their own factories supplying fabrics to Namdaemun Market, Pyoung Hwa Market, and some department stores. Although the goods are not brand-name, the wide selection of high-quality items at affordable prices makes for an enjoyable shopping experience.

Dongdaemun Market - Dongdaemun offers every fashion item imaginable: fabric, clothes, accessories, and wedding goods. The latest fashion trends and fabrics often debut here. It is home to Korea’s largest clothing suppliers, and aspiring designers come here to hone and test their skills. Affordable and diverse clothing attracts not only fashion leaders but also the average consumer. It has become a popular spot for major Korean and international buyers.

DMZ, Korean Paradox ➜ Andong

DMZ - A visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) requires business casual attire and comfortable walking shoes due to extensive walking. A passport is necessary for entry. Despite being one of the most dangerous places on earth, the DMZ captivates with its tranquility, lush green hillsides, and rare birds in untouched marshland.

Andong Hahoe Folk Village - Located in Gyeongsangbuk-do province, Andong is the heartland of Korean Confucianism and is considered Korea’s spiritual and cultural capital. The first stop is Dosan Seowon Confucian Academy, where Yangban (noble gentleman) students prepared for critical civil service exams during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897).

Andong, Academic Center of Traditional Korean School

Andong Hahoe Folk Village - Hahoe Village is home to descendants of the Ryu clan of Pungsan and is renowned for its traditional houses. Birthplace of famous scholars of the Joseon Period like Gyeomam Ryu Un-ryong and Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong, the village gained fame after Queen Elizabeth of England visited on April 21, 1999.

Hahoe Village, meaning “Village Enveloped by Water,” is named after the Nakdong River, which flows around the town. The village is located at the foothills of Hwasan Mountain, an offshoot of Taebaek Mountain. The center of the village is populated by large tile-roofed houses of the Ryu clan, adding charm to the surrounding thatched roofs.

Hahoe Village offers exquisite scenic views: the elegant Nakdong River, the magnificent Buyongdae Cliff, sandy beaches, and ancient pine trees. Visitors can take a boat to Buyongdae Cliff for a panoramic view of the village.

In addition to stunning scenery, Hahoe Village offers delicious local delicacies. Try the Andong Soju (distilled alcoholic beverage), Heotjesabap (a type of Bibimbap eaten by the nobles), Andong Gangodeungeo (salted mackerel), and Andong Guksu (a noodle dish).

Nearby attractions include Bongjeongsa Temple (built during the Silla Period), Gosan Seowon (Confucian Academy), Gwiraejeong, Gyemyeongsan Mountain Recreational Forest, Hakgasan Mountain Recreational Forest, and Waryongsan Mountain.

Hahoe Village, along with Yangdong Village in Gyeongju, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List under “Historic Villages in Korea” on July 31, 2010.

Hahoe Mask Museum - Located in Andong Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Important Folklore Material No. 122, the Hahoe Mask Museum is a representative traditional Korean folk town and home to the Hahoe Mask (National Treasure No. 121) and the Byeolsin Gut Mask Dance (Important Intangible Cultural Properties No. 69). The museum displays Hahoe masks and other traditional masks from around the world.

The museum consists of five permanent exhibition halls and one special exhibition hall, showcasing a wide range of masks from around the world along with Hahoe masks. The museum also offers activities such as wearing a mask, mask trick art, photo zone, and more.

Gyeongju, Known as ‘the Museum Without Walls,’ World Heritages Designated by UNESCO

Bulguksa Temple - Bulguksa Temple is the representative relic of Gyeongju and was designated a World Cultural Asset by UNESCO in 1995. The temple’s beauty and the artistic touch of the stone relics are renowned worldwide.

Bulguksa Temple was built in 528 during the Silla Kingdom, in the 15th year of King Beop-Heung’s reign (514-540). Originally called ‘Hwaeom Bulguksa Temple’ or ‘Beopryusa Temple,’ it was rebuilt by Kim Dae-Seong (700-774), who began rebuilding in 751 during King Gyeong-Deok’s reign (742-765) and completed it in 774 during King Hye-Gong’s reign (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).

Reconstruction began again in 1604 during the 37th year of King Seon-jo’s reign (Joseon Dynasty) and was renovated about 40 times until 1805 (during King Sun-Jo’s reign, 1790-1834). After this, the temple suffered serious damage and was often targeted by robbers.

In 1969, the Bulguksa Temple Restoration Committee was formed, and in 1973, Mulseoljeon, Gwaneumjeon, Birojeon, Gyeongru, and Hoerang (all previously demolished) were rebuilt. Other old or broken sites (such as Daeungjeon, Geungnakjeon, Beomyeongnu, and Jahamun) were repaired.

Today, Bulguksa Temple is home to many important cultural relics such as Dabotap Pagoda (National Treasure No. 20), Seokgatap Pagoda (National Treasure No. 21), Yeonhwa-gyo & Chilbo-gyo Bridges (National Treasure No. 22), Cheongun-gyo & Baegun-gyo Bridges (National Treasure No. 23), Seokguram Grotto (National Treasure No. 24), the Golden Seated Vairocana Buddhist Figure (National Treasure No. 26), the Golden Seated Amita Figure (National Treasure No. 27), and Saritap Pagoda (Treasure No. 61).

Current Status

UNESCO World Heritage / Historic Site No. 502 (Designated on December 21, 2009)

Seokguram - Seokguram, located on Tohamsan Mountain, is Korea’s representative stone temple. Officially named Seokguram Seokgul, National Treasure No. 24, it was designated a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995. It is an artificial stone temple made of granite. Construction began by Kim Dae-Seong (700-774) in 751 during King Gyeong-Deok’s reign (742-765) of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC - AD 935) and was completed twenty-four years later in 774, during King Hye-Gong’s reign (765-780).

Seokguram is believed to have been built simultaneously with 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 built Bulguksa Temple for his parents in his current life and Seokguram Grotto for the parents of his former life.

Inside the round-shaped main hall are the Bonjon Statue, Bodhi-sattva, and his disciples. The Bonjon figure, wearing a generous smile, is seated on a stage engraved with a lotus flower design. The rounded ceiling resembles a half-moon or a bow and has a lotus flower-decorated cover. The sunrise view is beautiful, and many people hike the mountain at daybreak.

Current Status

National Treasure No. 24 (designated on December 20, 1962)

Daereungwon Tomb Complex - Within Daereungwon Tomb Complex is Cheonmachong Tomb (Ancient Tomb No. 155), excavated in 1973. Cheonmachong Tomb features a wooden coffin inside an underground chamber mounded with boulders and earth, typical of upper-class tombs of the Silla period. The mound is 12.7 m high with a 50 m diameter, consisting of a layer of rocks collected from streams. Below the rock layer is a wooden chamber 6.5 m long, 2.1 m wide, and 2.1 m high, with the wooden coffin at its center. A total of 11,526 artifacts were discovered, including Cheonmado, Korea’s first artwork excavated from an ancient tomb.

Current Status

[Daereungwon Ancient Tomb Complex, Gyeongju]

Historic Site No. 512 (Designated on July 28, 2011)

Busan, Hub of Asia

Jagalchi Market - Located on the shoreside road in Busan’s Jung-gu, Jagalchi Market is Korea’s largest seafood market, selling both live and dried fish. After the Korean War, it became a prominent fish market. Most vendors are women, known as Jagalchi Ajumma, “ajumma” meaning middle-aged or married woman in Korean.

This market represents Busan and is famous nationwide. Visitors can enjoy fresh raw fish right at the market. Even today, women sell mackerel, sea squirts (ascidians), and whale meat on wooden boxes along the road and shore.

Every October, the Jagalchi Cultural Tourism Festival is held, and it is easily accessible by subway. Jagalchi Market offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of Busan locals.

Taejongdae - Designated as a Busan monument, along with Oryukdo Island, Taejongdae is renowned for its rock beach. Featuring its highest peak at 250 meters, it boasts forests of pine trees and 200 other tree varieties. Taejongdae was named after the 29th king of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC-AD 935), King Taejong Mu-Yeol (604-661). King Taejong traveled extensively, but this was his favorite spot for archery.

Under the lighthouse is Sinseon Rock, named after the myth that gods and goddesses came here to relax. At this rock is Mangbuseok, named after a woman who waited for her husband taken to Japan. Taejongdae is also known for the rain-praying ritual performed during droughts, with rain on the 10th day of the fifth lunar month called “Taejong Rain.” On clear days, Japan’s Tsushima Island is visible from the observatory.

Current Status

Scenic Spot No.17 (Designated November 1, 2005)

Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan - Gamcheon Culture Village is formed by houses built in a staircase fashion on the foothills of a coastal mountain, earning it the nickname “Machu Picchu of Busan.” Many alleys are vibrantly decorated with murals and sculptures created by residents.

Haeundae Beach - Haeundae Beach is Busan’s most famous beach. The white sand beach stretches roughly 1.5km long over a 30~50m wide area, creating a beautiful coastline before a shallow bay, making it perfect for swimming.

People flock to Haeundae Beach every summer. The area around the beach offers accommodations from luxury hotels to private guesthouses, making it an ideal summer vacation spot. Haeundae Beach is also known for various cultural events and festivals held throughout the year. Other facilities include Dongbaek Island, Busan Aquarium, a yachting dock, BEXCO, driving courses, and more.

Tongyoung, Naples of the Orient

Tongyeong Daegyo - Located in Tongyeong (Gyeongsangnam-do), Mireuksan Mountain (461m) is one of Korea’s 100 best mountains. While not as high as others, it features a lush forest, pure water valleys, odd-shaped rocks, rock caves, and ancient temples. From the mountain’s top, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea surrounding Tongyeong. Near Tongyeong are numerous large and small islands, including Mireukdo.

Hiking was once the only way to climb the mountain, but a cable car (over 2km, the longest in Korea) now carries visitors to a stop leading to the top via wooden decks (400m in length). In clear weather, visitors can see Tsushima Island (Japan), Cheongwangbong Peak in Jirisan, and Dolsando in Yeosu. The mountain’s top boasts a dazzling array of spring flowers and exquisite fall foliage, attracting visitors year-round. At the mountain’s outskirts are two ancient temples, Yonghwasa and Miraesa.

Jeonju, Discovery of Korean Artistry

Jeonju Hanok Village - Jeonju Hanok Village is located in Jeonju city, overlapping Pungnam-dong and Gyo-dong. It features 735 traditional Korean hanok houses. While the rest of the city has industrialized, Hanok Village retains its historical charm and traditions.

Jeonju Hanok Village is especially beautiful for its unique roof edges, slightly raised to the sky. Hanok houses are generally divided into two sections, Anchae and Sarangchae. Sarangchae is where men dwell, referred to as the Seonbi room. Since men and women had to remain separate, Anchae is situated deep inside the house, making it secretive and quiet.

Another feature of Hanok is the ondol, a unique sub-floor heating system. Koreans enjoy sitting, eating, and sleeping on the floor, so it needs to remain heated. A part of Hanok is set aside for tourists to experience traditional Korean life, called Hanok Life Experience Hall. Visitors can enter the rooms to experience the warm floor firsthand. This system is warm in winter and cool in summer.

The food provided is very traditional, adding to the ambiance. At Jeonju Hanok Village, visitors can enjoy traditional Korean life and foods like bibimbap, the most well-known dish from the Jeonju region.

Current Status

Designated as Slow City in 2010

Hanji Museum - Originally named the Hansol Paper Museum in 1997, it was renamed the Pan-Asia Paper Museum in 2001. In 2005, it became the Jeonju Hanji Museum, located in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do. As Korea’s first museum specializing in paper, it has an extensive collection of 3,000 artifacts and a database documenting Hanji’s long history and superiority. The museum hosts two special exhibitions annually with diverse paper-related themes.

Program 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).

Day of Korean Martial Arts, Taekwondo & Temple Stay

Taekwondowon - Taekwondowon is a place for practicing “change” with the aim of cultivating the spirit of taekwondo through physical training and the endless quest for mastery of this martial art. Some 45 training and hands-on experience programs are offered under the themes of experience, training, rest, and interest. The programs are open to anyone interested in training the mind and body through taekwondo, including local and international practitioners, business groups, students, and the general public.

Gangnam Style

Dragon Hill Spa - THE SPA

Welcome to Seoul, Korea! Introducing Dragon Hill Spa, a perfect getaway and healing paradise in Yongsan, the heart of Seoul, for those seeking a healthy lifestyle.

Naturalism in the heart of the city

Gangnam Underground Shopping Area - Consumers in their 20s to 30s frequently visit Gangnam Station Underground Shopping Center.

The mall is located in Gangnam Station of Seoul Subway Line 2 and features all the latest fashion trends. It is also an ideal place to browse shops and keep up with “Gangnam Style.”

The mall includes a rest area called Herb Plaza, where shoppers can take a break from shopping.

Seoul ➜ ICN Airport for Departure ✈

Incheon International Airport - After breakfast, enjoy last-minute shopping near the hotel, one of Seoul’s main shopping and tourism districts. If nothing was found during the journey, this is the best place to purchase souvenirs. In the evening, transfer to the airport for the return flight, concluding an unforgettable journey in Korea.

• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• All fees and/or taxes

• Lunch and Dinner

• Tour itinerary can be switched by flight schedule or situation caused.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.