Departure from for South Korea
On arrival at Seoul, the capital of South Korea and one of East Asia's financial and cultural centers. Meet your representative and transfer to the hotel. Leisure and relax.
Overnight: Seoul
Begin the day in Seoul with the opportunity to try on hanbok, a traditional Korean dress. Next, watch the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace before heading the Bukchon Hanok Village. Take a walking tour of this traditional Korean village and immerse yourself in its ancient Joseon Dynasty atmosphere. Later, explore the traditional Gwangjang Market, known for its textiles and street food, and then visit the National Museum of Korea that will take you on a journey through Korea's past, from prehistoric times to the end of the Empire period. Later, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by dinner
Overnight: Seoul
Depart Seoul early this morning and head to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)*. Learn about the history of the conflict between the North and South. Upon arrival at Imjingak Park, view Freedom Bridge and continue to Dorasan Station and Dora Observatory from where you can look at North Korea through binoculars. After, experience the Third Tunnel, one of four known tunnels stretching under the border between North and South Korea. Following lunch at a local restaurant, return to Seoul. The balance of your day is at leisure
*Due to military exercises and/or heightened tensions along the border, the order of sightseeing and access to sites is subject to change due to military exercises and heightened tensions along the border. A passport is required for visiting the DMZ. All visitors must adhere to the dress code. Overnight: Seoul
Board a high-speed train to Gyeongju, former capital of the Silla kingdom of ancient Korea this morning. Travel south through some of the country's most beautiful scenery. On arrival, have lunch and afterward, head to Yandong Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village is steeped in history, boasting a remarkable collection of traditional hanok houses. Explore this historic community and get a glimpse into Korean culture, religion, architecture and lifestyle, during the Joseon period. Next, visit a brewery to gain insight into the process of Soju production. This traditional Korean beverage is made by distilling rice wine using traditional methods. Perhaps, try your hand at making your own. Afterward, have dinner at a local restaurant and then, check into your hotel
Overnight: Gyeongju
Your day of discovery begins with a visit to Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled on the slopes of Toham Mountain. It was established in the late 8th century and is home to an exquisitely carved Buddha statue. The nearby Bulguksa Temple, encompasses seven National Treasures of South Korea including the Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas. Continue to Gyeongju National Museum and learn about the culture of the Silla kingdom. Next, head to Daereungwon Tomb Complex where kings and nobles are buried. Proceed to Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory, dating back to the Silla period. Following lunch at a local restaurant, head to Anapji Pond, which was part of a lavish 7th century palace compound located in Gyeongju National Park. Return to the hotel with free time to rest. Tonight after dinner at a local restaurant, take a stroll along Woljeonggyo Bridge before returning to the hotel
Overnight: Gyeongju
After breakfast, depart Gyeongju for Busan. On arrival, embark on a city tour that begins with a poignant visit to the UN Memorial Cemetery, dedicated to those who lost their lives while serving the United Nations during the Korean War. Pause to reflect at the Wall of Remembrance and the UN Forces Monument. Then, proceed to Jagalchi Fish Market, and walk the lanes of the sprawling market. After lunch, take a walking tour of Gamcheon Culture Village, nestled on a hillside overlooking the sea. Walk along the narrow winding alleys, lined with brightly colored houses. Next, take a ride on the Songdo cable car and marvel at the views of the coastline and the sandy shores of Songdo Beach. Continue to the impressive Yonggumg Suspension Bridge, an engineering masterpiece. Later have dinner, before returning to the hotel
Overnight: Busan
Begin early this morning with your flight to Jeju Island, located off the southern coast of South Korea. Upon arrival, have lunch at a local restaurant. Next, proceed to Jusangjeolli Cliff, a spectacular site with unusual pillar-shaped lava rock formations at the south coast of the island. Visit the O'Sulloc Tea Museum, surrounded by bright green rolling hills and learn about Korea's traditional tea culture. Afterward, the tour takes you to Spirited Garden featuring beautiful botanical gardens. Stroll through the lush grounds covered with native trees and plants. Return to the hotel
Overnight: Jeju
Continue the exploration of the volcanic island of Jeju this morning. Visit the unique Haenyeo Museum, providing insight into the centuries-old tradition of the Haenyeo, or "sea women." Then, drive to Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Seongeup Folk Village and learn about everyday life of the locals, who still live in thatched-roofed houses. Conclude the day with a visit to the famous Jeongbang Waterfall, and then, head to Saeyeongyo Bridge, known for its unique design resembling a Tewu, (traditional flat long boat). Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Jeju
Transfer to the airport this morning, for your flight back to Seoul. On arrival, have lunch on your own. Afterward, spend free time in bustling Myeongdong, one of Seoul's most popular shopping districts. Later, attend a Nanta performance, which is an award-winning nonverbal show, that combines traditional Korean folk music with comedy, martial arts and acrobatics. Tonight is at leisure to explore Seoul's famous street food scene independently
Overnight:Seoul
Morning head to a Buddhist temple, and get a glimpse into the life of Buddhist monks and participate in a tea ceremony. Tonight, during dinner, bid farewell to Tour manager and share wonderful memories of your journey through South Korea
Overnight: Seoul
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight