Korea Past and Present 6days 5nights

Korea Past and Present 6days 5nights

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

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.

Split by a border, the Korean Peninsula offers the traveler a dazzling range of experiences, beautiful landscapes and 5000 years of culture and history. There is so much to explore in Korea - from magnificent scenery, affluent cultural heritages, to the unique customs & traditions.

Be inspired in this fantastic Korea experience!

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Incheon airport ➜ Hotel

Stop At: Incheon International Airport, 272 Gonghang-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon, South Korea
A local guide will pick up from the airport
Duration: 30 minutes

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Overnight in Seoul (Incheon)

Day 2: Seoul ➜ Jeonju, The land mark of Korea Culture

Stop At: Jeonju Hanok Village, Eunhaeng-ro, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do South Korea
the most celebrated village of Jeonju, an important tourist center that is famous for its Korean foods and historic traditional buildings. In May 2012, Jeonju was chosen as a Creative City for Gastronomy as part of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network. This honor recognizes the city's traditional home cooking handed down through generations over thousands of years, its active public and private food research, its system for nurturing talented chefs, and its hosting of distinctive local food festivals

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Hanji Museum, 59, Palbok-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do 561-723 South Korea
(Korean Traditional Mulberry paper), As Korea’s first museum specializing in paper, it has an extensive collection of 3,000 artifacts and a data-base documenting the long history and superiority of Hanji (Korean paper).
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Gyeonggijeon Shrine, 26, Gyo-dong 1-ga, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do 560-070 South Korea
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.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum, 74, Hanji-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do 55041 South Korea
The Jeonju Korean Traditional Wine Museum offers visitors the unique chance to explore the world of traditional Korean liquor and engage in related hands-on experience programs. At the museum, visitors can see the tools and machines used in the making of alcohol and get a closer look at the different types of Korean traditional wine. Some of the most interesting displays at the museum are the alcohol preparation room and the fermentation room. Thanks to speakers located in these two rooms, visitors are able to hear the amplified sounds of the fermentation process.
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight in Jeonju, 4star hotel

Day 3: Jeonju ➜ Suwon ➜ Seoul, Fashion and technology forward but also deeply traditional.

Stop At: Hwaseong Fortress, 910, Jeongjo-ro, Paldal-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 16253 South Korea
Hwaseong Fortress is an impressive structure from the latter part of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) and the official fortress of Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do. The fortress, constructed from 1794 to 1796, was built as a display of King Jeongjo’s filial piety towards his father and to build a new pioneer city with its own economic power.

The fortress wall stretches for a total of 5.52km and has a great variety of military facilities that are hard to find anywhere else. Four gates face each of the cardinal directions—Janganmun (north), Paldalmun (south), Changnyongmun (east), and Hwaseomun (west)—and the seven-arch style Sumun gates straddle the point where the nearby stream reaches the palace. Above the Sumun gates is a pavilion called Hwahongmun.

Hwaseong Fortress was constructed under the guidance of Yu Hyeong-Won (1622-1673) and Jeong Yak-Yong (1762-1836), and is believed to have been constructed very scientifically. The fortress wall was built using Seokjae and Jeondol (bricks) and the holes between the bricks are just big enough to fire guns, arrows, or long spears through in case of an attack.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Mungyeongsaejae KBS Drama Studio, 932, Saejae-ro, Mungyeong-eup, Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do 36919 South Korea
The KBS Suwon Studio is an outstanding film studio that produces HD digital TV dramas. It is comprised of an open set, drama production center, special set, and various facilities.

Intended to be used semi-permanently, the studio boasts realistic buildings. A variety of dramas filmed there include historical dramas such as Empress Myeongseong and Dongyang Geukjang; the studio is also a popular site for producing movies, commercials, and music videos.

In close collaboration with Suwon, KBS opened this media theme park full of attractions. Visitors can visit the studio through its tour program or the Suwon City Tour run by Suwon.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Myeongdong Shopping Street, Jung-gu, Seoul South Korea
Myeong-dong is one of the primary shopping districts in Seoul. The two main streets meet in the center 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 specialize in dongaseu (pork cutlet) and kalguksu (noodle soup). Other businesses in the area include hair salons, banks and theaters.
Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight in Seoul, 4star hotel

Day 4: Seoul, Discovering the new era at hand in Korea, what the world calls New Seoul, will be the highlights of today.

Stop At: Deoksugung, 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul 04519 South Korea
The Opening and Closing of the Royal Palace Gates and Royal Guard Changing Ceremonies

In ancient times, the royal guards of Joseon Dynasty performed the given task by guarding the Gwanghwamun Gate, the entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace where the king ruled the country. Since 1469, the ceremony has taken place, with the present reenactment ceremony being based on historical records for authenticity.

The reenactment of the original ceremony began from 1996. The gate guardsmen serve their sentry, perform the changing of the guards, and hold a parade. The guards' uniforms, weapons, and accessories as well as their strict ceremonial procedures catch the eyes of passersby, especially foreign tourists. Since it is hard to experience traditional events in such a big city like Seoul, the change of the guards ceremony is a great opportunity. It takes place every day except Tuesday.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Gyeongbokgung Palace, 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul South Korea
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also commonly referred to as the Northern Palace because its location is furthest north when compared to the neighboring 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.

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Bukchon Hanok Village, 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03059 South Korea
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 neighborhood 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.
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Insadong, Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul South Korea
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 center of folk art, Gana Art Gallery, which promotes many promising artists, and Gana Art Center.

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 main street is blocked off from traffic and it becomes a cultural space. Stores set up booths outside and Korean candy 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 firsthand, and also purchase pieces of fine art. On the street you can eat Korean taffy and traditional pajeon (green onion pancake), and lose yourself in all the joyous festivities of the street.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Maruzon Kimchi Market, 1543-2 Gayang-dong 2002 Plaza B1, Gangseo-gu, Seoul 157-200 South Korea
Traditional napa cabbage kimchi is the most iconic kimchi dish in Korean cuisine. Learn how to make this kimchi with easy to follow instructions and step-by-step photos! You’ll find surprisingly easy to make delicious kimchi at ho
Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Hanbok Cafe, 249-24, Jangchungdan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul 04564 South Korea
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 characterized by vibrant colors and simple lines without pockets.
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight in Seoul, 4star hotel

Day 5: Seoul

Stop At: Gwangmyeong Cave, 142, Gahak-ro 85beon-gil, Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi-do 14341 South Korea
is the largest themed cave park with varied cultural and artistic things, created in a gold mine where gold, silver, and bronze were mined. Visitors can experience wine at Wine Cave, as well as Cave Aqua World, Gold Falls, Gold Road, Gold Palace, Horror Experience, Cave Basement World, Underground Lake, the largest dragon sculpture in the nation, LED lights, and other facilities adding more fun to the visit. In addition, Black Light Performance will be held every weekend. The cave features many healing spots to heal one’s mind while taking a walk around the venue.

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Hangang Park, Seoul South Korea
Hangang River Ferry Cruise began operations on October 26, 1986, traversing the Hangang River as it runs through Seoul from east to west. The operation company, E-Land Cruise, currently offers river cruise programs from two ferry terminals, located in Yeonuido and Jamsil. Riders can see the beautiful Hangang River by day on the Story Cruise, or take in the city nightscape and colorful Banpo Rainbow Bridge on the Music Cruise. The Lunch and Dinner Buffet cruises provide delicious cuisine.

E-Land Cruise aims to develop a cruise theme park at Hangang River as the iconic attraction representing Seoul. It also aims to promote and familiarize Hangang River to international tourists as a world famous attraction. Visitors and Seoul residents alike can take a break from the busy urban atmosphere and enjoy a relaxing time while on the cruise.

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Dongdaemun Market, Jung-gu, Seoul South Korea
Dongdaemun Market is a large commercial district comprised of traditional markets and shopping centers that covers the entire area around Dongdaemun Gate, a prominent landmark in Korea. It is Korea’s largest wholesale and retail shopping district featuring 26 shopping malls, 30,000 speciality shops, and 50,000 manufacturers. All kinds of goods can be found here including silks and fabric, clothes, shoes and accessories, electronics, leather goods, sporting goods, office supplies, pet products and toys.

Although Dongdaemun Market is traditionally famous for its night market, this popular shopping district attracts hordes of shoppers and tourists at all times of day. Like Namdaemun Market, Dongdaemun Market sells a variety of products, but unlike Namdaemun Market, it is open 24-hours a day. The powerful appeal of Dongdaemun Market stems from the fact that you can buy everything you need at a reasonable price, in one convenient location and at anytime. Most major wholesalers and retailers are here along with specialist outlets focusing on the youth market, making Dongdaemun Market the best place to find the latest fashions at bargain prices. Dongdaemun’s famous food alley, Mukja Golmok, is also essential for anyone wanting to check out the latest trends in Korean cuisine.

Duration: 1 hour

Stop At: Seoul K-Medi Center, 26, Yangnyeongjungang-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02570 South Korea
Seoul K-Medi Center, Experience K-medi-related health services including a thermomassage bed, K-medi natural facial pack with foot massage, herbal warmth foot bath and aroma therapy.

Duration: 2 hours

Meals included:
• Breakfast
Accommodation included: Overnight in Seoul

Day 6: Seoul ➜ ICN airport for deparutre ✈

Stop At: Incheon International Airport, 272 Gonghang-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon, South Korea
Leave Seoul for ICN airport
Duration: 1 hour

Meals included:
• Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.