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Traditional Hanok houses in Bukchon Hanok Village stand gracefully under a blue sky, with N Seoul Tower visible in the distance, showcasing Seoul's blend of old and new charm.
The magnificent Bugak Palgakjeong (Bugak Octagonal Pavilion) stands majestically on the mountaintop, offering unique traditional Korean architecture and a superb viewpoint for panoramic Seoul city views.
Vibrant yellow and pink roses bloom on the old brick walls of Bukchon Hanok Village, bathed in sunlight, showcasing the unique charm of this traditional Hanok settlement.
Overlooking Seoul from the Bugak Skyway, the city stretches out embraced by mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic city views and majestic mountain scenery.
The bustling indoor aisles of Gwangjang Market, lined with vendors selling various traditional Korean foods and goods, showcase the authentic local atmosphere of Seoul's markets.

[Seoul City Morning Tour] Gyeongbokgung Palace (Changing of the Guard Ceremony) + Bukchon Hanok Village + Bukak Skyway + Gwangjang Market Tour (English Guide)


Booking confirmed within 1 working day(s)
Duration:4 hour(s)
Guided language: English
Free cancellation 2 day(s) prior to experience date

  • A half-day tour including Gyeongbokgung Palace & Royal Guard Changing Ceremony and Bukchon Hanok Village, popular tourist destinations in Seoul!
  • We will visit Bukak Palgakjeong, a viewing point where you can see the whole of Seoul at a glance. 🚗
  • Enjoy the easy-to-find Gwangjang Market with a guide. ✨🌟


Enjoy the must-see destinations in Seoul, such as the palaces and Bukchon Hanok Village, as well as the Bukak Skyway Drive, which is difficult to access without a car.
An English-speaking guide specializing in city tours will guide you.
Bukaksan Palgakjeong is a popular observation point for locals, offering a panoramic view of downtown Seoul.
After guiding you through Gwangjang Market, the tour ends and you can conveniently move on to another location or have lunch.


📌Only English guides are available for on-site support for this product.

[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

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Sightseeing Tours

Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point
Tour typesGuided tour
Meal arrangementArrange yourself
Sightseeing typeTraditional markets, City walking tour
TransportCharter car

Product Info

The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace & Royal Guard Changing Ceremony (Closed on Tuesdays: Changdeokgung Palace) :
    It was the most central palace of the Joseon Dynasty and the first palace built after the capital was moved to Hanyang in the fourth year of King Taejo's reign (1395).
    This is the place that served as the backdrop for many historical events, including the creation of Hangul by King Sejong and the assassination of Empress Myeongseong.
    Even today, it is the most visited palace by foreigners visiting Seoul and is firmly established in the center of Seoul.

  • Bukchon Hanok Village:
    Bukchon Hanok Village is a neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses, boasting 600 years of capital history. It usually refers to the area from Gyeongbokgung Palace to Changdeokgung Palace.
    Above all, what makes it special is that it is a living hanok village that people still use as their daily living space.
    Bukchon Hanok Village is becoming a popular tourist destination in Seoul as the charm of our traditional hanoks is being rediscovered.

  • Bukak Skyway Drive & Bukak Palgakjeong:
    Bukaksan Skyway, which is considered a popular date course for couples, is a place where you can see the entire Seoul from a different angle than Namsan Seoul Tower.
    When you climb to the octagonal pavilion at the top, you can see the castle walls and the forest of buildings surrounding the mountain ridge at a glance.
    The view is good, with the ridge of Mt. Bukhan clearly visible in the front and Mt. Namsan and Mt. Gwanaksan behind.

  • Gwangjang Market:
    It is one of the most vibrant traditional markets in Seoul, formed in the early 20th century, and handles a variety of items including clothing and food, and is particularly famous for its food market.
    Famous dishes include kimbap served with a highly addictive sauce, mung bean pancakes, and raw beef.
    For those interested in clothing, it would be fun to stop by the hanbok store where you can see colorful hanbok and the vintage clothing store on the second floor.

Gyeongbokgung Palace's Hyangwonjeong Pavilion serenely reflects in the pond under a blue sky with clouds, surrounded by pleasant autumn foliage, showcasing the elegant harmony of the palace's garden architecture.

The magnificent Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, with royal guards in vibrant traditional attire performing a solemn exchange, showcases Korea's rich history and culture.

In front of Gyeongbokgung Palace's majestic Gwanghwamun Gate, a solemn Haechi statue guards the entrance, as visitors prepare to enter this historic Korean palace.

Fresh Korean beef tartare (Yukhoe) is ready at a Gwangjang Market stall, showcasing the enticing charm of authentic Korean market cuisine.

Outdoor stalls at Gwangjang Market are laden with various agricultural products, dried goods, and Korean chili peppers, offering visitors an authentic market shopping experience.

The bustling indoor aisles of Gwangjang Market, lined with vendors selling various traditional Korean foods and goods, showcase the authentic local atmosphere of Seoul's markets.

Traditional Hanok houses in Bukchon Hanok Village stand gracefully under a blue sky, with N Seoul Tower visible in the distance, showcasing Seoul's blend of old and new charm.

Vibrant yellow and pink roses bloom on the old brick walls of Bukchon Hanok Village, bathed in sunlight, showcasing the unique charm of this traditional Hanok settlement.

The magnificent Bugak Palgakjeong (Bugak Octagonal Pavilion) stands majestically on the mountaintop, offering unique traditional Korean architecture and a superb viewpoint for panoramic Seoul city views.

Overlooking Seoul from the Bugak Skyway, the city stretches out embraced by mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic city views and majestic mountain scenery.

Purchase Notice

  • The order of visits may change depending on traffic conditions on the day.
  • Please arrive at the meeting point on time. The bus will depart 5 minutes after the meeting time, and no refunds will be given if you arrive late.
  • Please keep your valuables safe.

Reminders

  • Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time

  • The order of visits may change depending on traffic conditions on the day.

  • Please arrive at the meeting point on time. The bus will depart 5 minutes after the meeting time, and no refunds will be given if you arrive late.

  • Please keep your valuables safe.

  • ⚠️All of our travel itineraries do not include personal travel insurance. Outdoor activities have certain risks and dangers. Guests should assess their own health and abilities. The company is not responsible for any physical damage or harm caused by accidents or unforeseen factors.

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations 2 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
  • Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
NOTE
  • Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

FAQ

1. What are the closing days for Gyeongbokgung Palace and when is the best time to visit?

Gyeongbokgung Palace is typically closed on Tuesdays. To avoid closures, it's recommended to visit on a weekday morning when crowds are usually smaller, allowing for a more relaxed experience. If you wish to see the changing of the guard ceremony, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and ensure you can see the entire procession clearly.

2. What are the ticket prices and how can I purchase tickets for Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Admission to Gyeongbokgung Palace requires a ticket. You can purchase tickets on-site or book in advance through online travel platforms like KKday. Booking through KKday offers a convenient purchasing process, saving you time from queuing on-site and making your travel plans smoother, ensuring timely entry.

3. What are the timings and highlights of the changing of the guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace?

The changing of the guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace takes place daily, usually at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM (except on Tuesdays when the palace is closed). Key highlights include the guards' vibrantly colored traditional attire, the solemn and orderly procession, and the majestic music played by traditional instruments. The ceremony is held at the Heungnyemun Gate plaza; arriving early is recommended for the best viewing positions.

4. What are the significant palaces or buildings within Gyeongbokgung Palace and their characteristics?

Gyeongbokgung Palace features several important structures. The Geunjeongjeon Hall served as the royal office for the king and the venue for important ceremonies, and it is one of the largest wooden structures remaining in Korea. The Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, a beautiful lakeside pavilion, was used for state banquets and entertaining envoys. The Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, located in the royal women's quarters, is an elegant pavilion showcasing the architectural art and royal splendor of the Joseon Dynasty.

5. What cultural etiquette and notable features should be observed when visiting Bukchon Hanok Village?

Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential area, so it's crucial to maintain quiet and avoid loud noises to respect the local residents' lives. Its main feature is the well-preserved cluster of traditional Joseon Dynasty hanok houses. Visitors can wander through the charming alleys, experiencing the unique historical atmosphere. Comfortable shoes are recommended for easy walking.

6. What panoramic views of Seoul can be seen from Bugaksan Mountain's Palgakjeong Pavilion or the Bugak Skyway?

From Bugaksan Mountain's Palgakjeong Pavilion and the Bugak Skyway, you can overlook the magnificent panoramic views of Seoul. You can see Namsan Tower, the Han River, the Blue House, and the bustling city skyline. Especially at dusk, when the setting sun paints the city in golden hues, or at night when the city lights sparkle, the views are particularly impressive.

7. What authentic local foods can be tasted and what local life can be experienced at Gwangjang Market?

Gwangjang Market is one of Seoul's oldest traditional markets. Here you can sample a wide variety of authentic Korean street food, such as crispy mung bean pancakes, addictive 'mayak' kimbap (drug gimbap), spicy tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes), and hot fish cakes. It's a place where you can deeply experience Korean local food culture and the vibrant market atmosphere.

8. What is the historical and cultural significance of Gyeongbokgung Palace as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty?

Gyeongbokgung Palace was the first and largest palace built during the Joseon Dynasty, symbolizing its power and dignity. It was not only the core residence and administrative center for the king but also a crystallization of Joseon's history, architecture, art, and culture. Its overall layout and architectural style embody the essence of Confucian thought and feng shui principles, holding profound historical and cultural significance.

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