South Korea Cultural Trip & Natural Wonders

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Seoul & Airport Transfer

  Greetings to you in Seoul! Upon arrival, a personal driver will escort you to the hotel. After settling in, take some time to unwind then step out to explore the nearby bustling streets.

  • Seoul

• Day 2: Seoul Highlights Tour

  Explore the highlights of Seoul with your guide today. Start at Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you can witness the solemn Royal Guard Changing Ceremony and delve into the rich history and culture through the interactive exhibits at the National Folk Museum of Korea. After that, stroll through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, where the charming rooftops of traditional Korean houses create a unique landscape. Later in the afternoon, head to Gangnam District to experience the K-Wave culture, where the global hit song by Korean singer Psy originated. The K-Star Road here is lined with statues of celebrities and iconic landmarks, as well as K-pop shops selling merchandise of idols. Finally, conclude your day with a taste of Gangnam's vibrant nightlife or indulge in delicious local cuisine.

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  • Seoul

• Day 3: Day Tour to Seoraksan National Park & Sokcho

  Today, we drive about 3 hours from Seoul to Seoraksan National Park. Commence your adventure by ascending to the Gwongeumseong Fortress via a cable car and enjoy breathtaking vistas from the mountain summit. Explore the tranquil Sinheungsa Temple, featuring a giant Buddha statue. Wander through the temple grounds, appreciate the intricate details of the structures, and consider participating in any available traditional temple rituals.

  Replenish your energy with a lunch before heading towards Sokcho town. Here, you'll take a gatbae to cross the river and explore Abai, a tiny village established by North Korean refugees. Then, climb to the Lighthouse Observatory to take in stunning views of Mt. Seoraksan, the East Sea, and Sokcho. Return to Seoul for the night.

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  • Seoul

• Day 4: Korean Folk Village & Suwon Hwaseong Fortress

  Undertake a tour of the Korean Folk Village, an open-air museum that brings to life the daily routines and traditions of Koreans during the Joseon Dynasty. Here, immerse yourself in cultural traditions such as tightrope walking, horseback martial arts, and perhaps even a ceremonial Korean wedding. Next, make your way to Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and meander along its walls to discover the historical remnants and experience the military architecture of the period. Finally, unwind at Starfield Suwon, where the stunning library serves as an idyllic spot for leisure, perfect for capturing photos or savoring a cup of coffee.

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  • Seoul

• Day 5: Korean Demilitarized Zone & Hongdae District

  Start your day with a hotel pickup, then journey to the DMZ to discover the 3rd Tunnel, a relic of North Korea's past incursion attempts. This exclusive experience provides an up-close look at the Korean Peninsula's fraught historical narrative. At the Odusan Observatory, seize the chance to peer into the rural landscape of North Korea.

  In the afternoon, shift gears to modernity with a trip to Hongdae. Renowned for its vibrant street art, bustling nightlife, and artistic vibe, this district is an ideal spot to relax after a morning steeped in history. Stroll along the energetic streets, savor the diverse street cuisine that has made Hongdae a culinary hotspot or catch a live music act.

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  • Seoul

• Day 6: Seoul - Gyeongju, Temple Stay

  Board the KTX train for a 4-hour journey to Gyeongju. Upon arrival, be picked up and begin your exploration of Golgulsa Temple for an overnight stay. Follow the temple's schedule and attend an orientation to learn etiquette tips for a meaningful experience. Engage in a serene meditation session and communal work, participate in sunmudo training - a traditional Korean Buddhist martial art, and conclude your day with a vegetarian Buddhist dinner, following the principles of Buddhist dietary traditions and simplicity.

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  • Gyeongju

• Day 7: Gyeongju Highlights Exploration

  Begin your exploration of Gyeongju's historical treasures with Daereungwon, the regal burial ground of the Silla Dynasty, akin to an outdoor museum. Each ancient tombstone here tells a tale of the grandeur and enigma of bygone eras. Then, proceed to Chomsongdae, the most ancient observatory in Eastern lands, offering a glimpse into the cosmos as perceived by our ancestors and their reverence for celestial timekeeping.

  In the afternoon, the serene vistas of Donggung and Wolji transport you to the peaceful and harmonious ambiance of the ancient imperial court, particularly magical at dusk when the water's surface shimmers with the reflection of the lights, look like an alluring painting. Conclude your day at Woljeonggyo Bridge, the nation's largest wooden span, which transforms under the night's illumination into a scene of particular charm. Here, you can relish the calm and splendor of Gyeongju's nocturnal vistas while soaking in the contemporary allure of the city.

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  • Gyeongju

• Day 8: Gyeongju - Busan, Busan West Course Tour

  Set off from your hotel to Tongdosa Temple, a revered sanctuary in Korea for having no Buddhist statues, as believed to shrine true relics of the Buddha. Following this spiritual start, embark on a picturesque 1.5-hour drive to the Taejongdae Cliffed Coast, where you can stroll along the coast, discovering natural rock sculptures and hidden coastal grottoes. Next, meander to the Songdo Cloud Trails, a coastal paradise that invites you to wander along its scenic pathways and savor panoramic views from the vantage point of a cable car ride.

  In the afternoon, step into the Gamchon Culture Village, a vibrant arts enclave that evolved from a war refugee settlement. Wander through its streets adorned with colorful murals and artistic installations, and capture moments with the iconic Little Prince statue. Conclude your day with a foray into BIFF Square, the pulsating epicenter of Busan's cinematic essence. Indulge in local street cuisine, hunt for distinctive mementos, and bask in the exuberant energy of the area's thriving nightlife.

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  • Busan

• Day 9: Busan East Course Tour With Night View

  Embark on a serene morning at Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, taking in the intricate Buddhist carvings and classic architecture, while the invigorating ocean breeze and the rhythmic surf create a tranquil atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to offer prayers and make a heartfelt wish in the presence of the Guanyin statue. Next, head to the Ahopsan Bamboo Forest, a family-friendly haven where you can stroll on the serpentine trails and immerse yourself in the embrace of nature.

  After lunch, go on a novel adventure to the Haeundae Sky Capsule, offering a bird's-eye view of Busan's picturesque coastline. Make your way to the Oryukdo Skywalk, an exhilarating destination known for its transparent glass walkway suspended in mid-air, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience as you tread above the clouds. As night falls, ascend to the Hwangnyeong Mountain observatory for a panoramic view of Busan's glittering cityscape, along with the lights of towering buildings and the famous Gwangan Bridge. Finally, descend to the vibrant epicenter of Busan's evening buzz - Gwangalli Beach, and bask in the lively essence of Busan.

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  • Busan

• Day 10: Transfer From Busan to Jeju

  Have a morning on your own to discover more in Busan before heading to Jeju by air. On arrival, be picked up and transferred to your hotel.

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  • Jeju Island

• Day 11: Nature's Wonders on Jeju Island

  Kickstart your day at Jeongbang Waterfall, the only waterfall in Asia cascading directly into the ocean. Prepare for a trek along the Jeju Olle Trail. Allow the towering forests, cultivated fields, and endless sea to accompany your footsteps as you traverse this route.

  Make your way to the UNESCO-listed Seongsan Ilchulbong, known for its unique formation created by hydrovolcanic eruptions over 5,000 years ago. Hike to the top and be rewarded with panoramic views of Jeju and the boundless sea. Take a moment to explore some local cuisine, savoring the flavors of Jeju before returning to the hotel and concluding the day.

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  • Jeju Island

• Day 12: The East of Jeju Island

  Today, take a ferry ride to Udo Island, where you can rent bicycles or drive around to explore the beaches and volcanic rock formations. Ascending to the Udo Peak, you shall behold the boundless ocean and take in the vista of the distant Sunrise Peak. On the rocky shore, you might see the celebrated female-only Haenyeo divers don their wetsuits and search for shellfish.

  After you visit Udo Island, make a stop at the Manjanggul lava caves. Venture beneath the surface of the island and marvel at the intricate network of caves formed by ancient volcanic activity.

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  • Jeju Island

• Day 13: Jeju - Seoul

  After your flight back to Seoul from Jeju, have some leisure time at your disposal. Take this opportunity to relax or explore Namsan Park on your own. Hallyu fans might consider partaking in a K-pop dance class. Accompanied by skilled instructors, you will find yourself effortlessly moving to the rhythm of dynamic music, triggering a rapid release of dopamine.

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  • Seoul

• Day 14: Seoul, Departure

  On the final day of your journey, a private transfer will take you to the airport in Seoul. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the convenience and comfort as you bid farewell to this vibrant city.

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