[Every Sunday, Departing Seoul | 1-Day Tour] Gyeongbokgung Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village & Namsan Seoul Tower & Gwangjang Market + Local Specialty (Tosokchon Samgyetang)

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest of the Five Grand Palaces, offers a rich array of experiences. Visitors can explore the majestic Geunjeongjeon Hall, where royal ceremonies were held, and Sajeongjeon, the king's office. You can also visit royal living quarters like Gangnyeongjeon and Gyotaejeon, and stroll through picturesque gardens with serene ponds such as Hyangwonjeong Pavilion. The detailed architecture and historical ambiance provide a glimpse into Korea's royal past.

The Changing of the Guard Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-see cultural performance. It typically takes place at the Gwanghwamun Gate and Heungnyemun Gate. The guard changing ceremony is held at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM daily, except on Tuesdays when the palace is closed. This elaborate re-enactment features guards in traditional uniforms, showcasing a significant part of Joseon Dynasty royal history.

Gyeongbokgung Palace holds immense historical significance as the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, built in 1395. It is the largest and arguably most beautiful of South Korea's Five Grand Palaces. Its grand scale reflects the power and prestige of the Joseon kings, encompassing numerous halls, gates, and courtyards. Despite periods of destruction and restoration, it remains a powerful symbol of Korean heritage and sovereignty, central to Seoul's history.

General admission is required to enter Gyeongbokgung Palace. Visitors can purchase individual tickets at the entrance. However, those wearing a Hanbok (traditional Korean attire) are often granted free entry, offering a unique cultural experience. If you are part of a guided tour, such as a day tour visiting multiple Seoul attractions, the admission fee for Gyeongbokgung Palace is typically included as part of your tour package for added convenience.

This tour provides convenient and seamless transportation for visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Namsan Seoul Tower. You will enjoy a comfortable pick-up directly from your Seoul hotel lobby. Throughout the day, a dedicated vehicle transports the group between all the attractions, eliminating the need to navigate public transportation or arrange individual rides. This ensures a relaxed and efficient sightseeing experience, concluding with a drop-off back at your hotel.

Bukchon Hanok Village is a historically rich cultural site nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. It's renowned for its beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses, or hanoks, many of which are still inhabited. The village offers a unique opportunity to experience the architecture and lifestyle of the Joseon Dynasty nobility, featuring winding alleyways, craft workshops, and cultural centers. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city's modern skyline juxtaposed with traditional roofs.

Namsan Seoul Tower offers breathtaking panoramic 360-degree views of the entire city of Seoul and beyond. From its observation decks, visitors can identify iconic landmarks like the Han River, Namsan Mountain, and various districts stretching to the horizon. Beyond the stunning vistas, the tower area is famous for its 'love locks' installations, where couples leave padlocks as symbols of affection, and frequently hosts cultural performances and light shows, creating a memorable experience.

Gwangjang Market is a vibrant culinary paradise, famous for its bustling food stalls and diverse street eats. Highlights include freshly made bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap (addictive mini seaweed rice rolls), and various tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). As part of this tour, you will also savor Tosokchon Samgyetang, a renowned local specialty. This traditional ginseng chicken soup, known for its rich flavor and health benefits, offers an authentic taste of Korean cuisine that is highly sought after.