DAY 1 : ICN – SEOUL
You will meet with the DRIVER ONLY upon arrival and transfer to the hotel.
**NOTE: Driver cannot speak English
DAY 2 : SEOUL – GWANGMYEONG – YONGIN - DAEJEON (B/L)
After breakfast you will meet with a tour guide and transfer to Daejeon. Then you will visit Gwangmyeong Cave which was the heart of the evolution of modern industries in Korea and also a historical site of the Japanese colonial period. It takes pride itself as being the only one cave found in the metropolitan cities.
After, you will experience making Kimchi andwearingHanbok (Korean clothes) in the Korean Folk Village of Yongin. It introduces traditional culture from the late Joseon period to both local and international visitors through cultural classes experience, shaman faith, seasonal customs and others.Performances including nongak (farmer’s music), martial art on horseback, traditional wedding ceremony, and other special events are available by season.
Finally, you will enjoy a foot Spa in Daejeon Spa Park.
DAY 3 : DAEJEON – ANDONG (B/L)
After breakfast you will meet with a tour guide and transfer to Andongto visit Hahoe Village & Mask Museum. Hahoe Village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has an important Folklore Material. Hahoe Village is a representative traditional Korean folk town and is the home of the Hahoe Mask and the Byeolsin Gut Mask Dance. The Mask museum not only displays Hahoe masks, but also other traditional masks from all over the world. The research room houses a wide range of books, documents, and video-audio materials related to masks.
You will then visit Byeongsan Confucianism Schoolthat was established by esteemed Confucian scholars to pay tribute to the memory of Seong-nyong Yu who was well-respected for his writings and personality.Around the time of 1863, Confucian schools enjoyed many freedoms under the Joseon rule, students and scholars of the school were exempt from taxation and other expenses.
DAY 4 : ANDONG – GYEONGJU (B/L)
After breakfast you will meet with a tour guide and transfer to Gyeongju.
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. Then you will see Seokguram, located on Tohamsan Mountain, which is the representative stone temple of Koreaand alsodesignated as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995.
The next place is Daereungwon Tomb Complex. Large ancient tombs of kings and nobles of the Silla Kingdom can be seen around Gyeongju at the Daereungwon Tomb Complex (Cheonmachong Tomb). There are twenty-three large tombs located there.
CheonseongdaeObservatoryis the oldest existing astronomical observatory in Asia.The 362 stones used to build Cheomseongdae represents the 362 days in a lunar year.Finally, you will visit Gyeongju National Museumwhere you can view the cultural history of Gyeongju district.
DAY 5 : GYEONGJU – BUSAN (B/L)
After breakfast you will meet with a tour guide and transfer to Busan.
You will visit HaedongYonggungsa Temple, this superb attraction offers visitors the rare find of a temple along the shore line; most temples in Korea are located in the mountains. Then you will pass by DalmajiRoadandGwangandaegyo Bridge.
After you will go to Dongbaekseom Island, itis a very small island, and many dongbaek trees and evergreens thrive there. At the top of the island, there is a statue and a monument of Choi Chi-Won, a scholar and writer during the Silla Kingdom. Then you will visit UN Memorial Cemetery Parkwhich honors UN soldiers from 16 countries who were killed in battle during the Korean War.
Finally, you will enjoy the Gwangbokdong Street and Jagalchi Market. This street captures the heart of fashion, art, culture, and shopping in Busan.Jagalchi Market, located on the shore side road in Busan's Jung-gu, is Korea's largest seafood market, selling both live and dried fish.
DAY 6 : BUSAN – MUNGYEONG – SEOUL (B/L)
After breakfast you will meet with a tour guide and transfer to Seoul via Mungyeong.
You will visit MungyeongSaejae, which overlays Mt. Joryeongsanandhas always been the highest and most dangerous mountain pass. It was cleared during the time of King Taejong (1400-1418) of Joseon Period, and was used until a new road was built through the Ihwaryeong Gyegok Valley.
After you will enjoy in the same area MungyeongSaejae KBS Drama Studio. It is located in Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park, specializing in historical dramas, and it is the largest scale studio in the world.
After tour, head back to Seoul and overnight stay in Seoul.
Day 7 : SEOUL – ICN (B)
After breakfast, meet with a driver only at the hotel lobby and transfer to Incheon airport.
End of our services.
Our services include :
- Accommodations for 6N (Twin, Triple sharing room based)
- Meal as specified (KRW 15,000/PAX/MEAL)
- All transportation
- All entrance fees
- English Speaking tour guide as mentioned
Meals :
- Seoul : Bibimbap–Tteokbokki–Bulgogi–Samgyetang
- Andong : Salted Grilled Mackerel – Braised spicy chicken
- Gyeongju : Grilled short rib patties –Ssambap– Tofu soup –Milmyeon
- Busan : Jajangmyeon–Jjambbong– Pork soup –Hoedeobap
Our services do not include :
- International flights
- Personal expenses
- Overtime charge for transportations and tour guide
Accomodation :
- Seoul : Stanford Myeongdong Hotel or similar ★★★
- Busan : Arban Hotel or similar ★★★
- Daejeon : ICC Hotel or similar ★★★
- Gyeongju : Gyeongju GG Hotel or similar ★★★
- Andong : Richell Hotel or similar ★★★
South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a vibrant and technologically advanced country located on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, modern cities, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. From bustling metropolises like Seoul and Busan to the tranquil countryside and historic temples, South Korea offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.
Getting There:
South Korea is well-connected internationally, with Incheon International Airport (ICN) near Seoul serving as the main gateway. Other major airports include Gimpo International Airport (GMP) in Seoul, Gimhae International Airport (PUS) in Busan, and Jeju International Airport (CJU) on Jeju Island. Direct flights from major cities around the world make it easy to reach South Korea.
Where to Stay:
South Korea offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and traditional Hanok stays. Some popular options in major cities include:
Seoul: The Shilla Seoul, Lotte Hotel Seoul, Myeongdong Guesthouse.
Busan: Park Hyatt Busan, Haeundae Grand Hotel, Kimchee Guesthouse.
Jeju Island: The Shilla Jeju, Jeju Sun Hotel & Casino, Yeha Guesthouse.
Things to Do:
Seoul:
Gyeongbokgung Palace: Explore this grand palace, the largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty.
Bukchon Hanok Village: Wander through this traditional village, showcasing Korean Hanok houses.
N Seoul Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this iconic tower.
Myeongdong Shopping Street: A bustling area known for shopping and street food.
Busan:
Haeundae Beach: Relax on one of South Korea’s most famous beaches.
Gamcheon Culture Village: Explore this colorful village known for its artistic murals and narrow alleyways.
Jagalchi Fish Market: Experience the largest seafood market in South Korea.
Beomeosa Temple: Visit this serene Buddhist temple located on the slopes of Geumjeongsan Mountain.
Jeju Island:
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): Hike up this volcanic crater for stunning sunrise views.
Jeju Olle Trail: Walk along scenic coastal trails that circle the island.
Manjanggul Cave: Explore this impressive lava tube, one of the longest in the world.
Jeju Folk Village: Learn about traditional Korean culture and history.
Gyeongju:
Bulguksa Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea.
Seokguram Grotto: A stone grotto containing a beautiful Buddha statue, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Gyeongju National Museum: Discover artifacts from the Silla Kingdom, which ruled Korea for nearly a thousand years.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone):
Joint Security Area (JSA): Visit the truce village of Panmunjom and see the border between North and South Korea.
Dora Observatory: Get a glimpse into North Korea from this observation post.
Imjingak Park: A park with various monuments related to the Korean War and the division of Korea.
Where to Eat:
South Korea is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:
Kimchi: Fermented vegetables, often spicy, served with almost every meal.
Bibimbap: A mixed rice dish with vegetables, meat, and a spicy gochujang sauce.
Korean BBQ: Grilled meats (often beef or pork) cooked at the table and served with various side dishes.
Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes often found at street food stalls.
Samgyeopsal: Grilled pork belly served with garlic, onions, and dipping sauces.
Jjajangmyeon: Noodles in a black bean sauce, a popular Korean-Chinese dish.
Practical Tips:
Currency: South Korean Won (KRW). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's useful to have some cash for small purchases and in rural areas.
Language: Korean is the official language. English is spoken in major tourist areas, but learning a few basic Korean phrases can be helpful.
Transportation: South Korea has an efficient public transportation system, including subways, buses, and high-speed trains (KTX). Taxis are also readily available.
Safety: South Korea is generally very safe for travelers. Standard precautions should be taken against petty crime, such as keeping valuables secure.
South Korea is a dynamic country that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Seoul, relaxing on the beaches of Busan, hiking the scenic trails of Jeju Island, or delving into the rich history of Gyeongju, South Korea offers something for every traveler. Its friendly people, delicious food, and diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination in East Asia. Enjoy your journey through the "Land of the Morning Calm"!