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[Japanese Guide] Top 8 Seoul Hot Spots: Enjoy a fulfilling day
[Japanese Guide] Top 8 Seoul Hot Spots: Enjoy a fulfilling day
[Japanese Guide] Top 8 Seoul Hot Spots: Enjoy a fulfilling day
[Japanese Guide] Top 8 Seoul Hot Spots: Enjoy a fulfilling day
[Japanese Guide] Top 8 Seoul Hot Spots: Enjoy a fulfilling day

[Japanese Guide] Top 8 Seoul Hot Spots: Enjoy a fulfilling day

South Korea-Ikseon-dong Hanok Village , Bukchon Hanok Village , N Seoul Tower , Seoul , Seoungsu , Myeongdong
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  • Efficiently visit the must-see spots in Seoul in one day
  • You can easily travel between each spot by using a tour bus.
  • An experienced Japanese tour guide will provide detailed explanations about each tourist spot.
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

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.

- Course Information -

  • Vehicle type used: Varies depending on the number of participants.
  • Tour type: Group tour

- Course Introduction -

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace

One of Seoul's five major royal palaces, it is a royal palace with a 600-year history as the principal palace of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). It was built in 1395 by Yi Seong-gye (King Taejo, reigned 1392-1398), the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, as the palace of the new dynasty when the capital was moved to present-day Seoul. Because it is located north of Seoul, it is also known as "Bukgwol" (Northern Palace).

  • Changing of the guard ceremony

We will observe the opening and closing of the palace gates and the changing of the guard ceremony, which took place during the Joseon Dynasty. The changing of the guard ceremony held at Gyeongbokgung Palace features many soldiers of different ranks, and you can witness a powerful ceremony where commands and musical instruments ring out, and in time with the waving of colorful flags, their positions change.

  • Bukchon Hanok Village

Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine, this traditional residential area has a history intertwined with Seoul's 600-year history, and its old-fashioned streets have been preserved. Currently, it is used as a traditional culture experience center and a hanok restaurant, offering a place to experience the atmosphere of the Joseon Dynasty.

  • Insadong

Insadong is a labyrinthine area with a main street at its center, flanked by a complex network of side streets. Here, modern atmospheres and time-honored traditions harmonize in the heart of the city, and art galleries, traditional craft shops, traditional restaurants, and cafes are densely packed together.

  • Ikseon-dong

Ikseon-dong is an "urban-style hanok" settlement that developed in the 1920s, with over 120 houses crammed together. While Bukchon, another hanok village, was mostly a high-class residential area for yangban (aristocrats) and the like, Ikseon-dong was home to the middle class. Today, it has been beautifully renovated and features stylish cafes, restaurants, and shops converted from hanok, making it a hot tourist destination that is bustling with Seoulites and tourists from overseas every day.

  • Gwangjang Market

In the past, Korean markets were generally temporary, operating on a daily, every-other-day, or 3, 5, or 7-day basis. However, Gwangjang Market was the first publicly established market in the country, created in 1905 with government permission, and it grew into a large market handling all kinds of goods. In the center, there are rows of food stalls offering a variety of dishes, including bibimbap with plenty of vegetables, bindae-tteok (mung bean pancakes) made with mung beans ground and grilled on the spot, sundae (blood sausage) with generous fillings, kalguksu (noodle soup), gimbap (seaweed rolls), jeon (Korean pancakes), dumplings, sashimi, and yukhoe (beef tartare).

  • Seongsu-dong

Seongsu-dong is a district located on the west side of Seoul. Until the 1970s, it was a vibrant heavy industrial area that supported South Korea's economic growth. However, it subsequently declined, and until a few years ago, it was a desolate area lined with vacant houses and dilapidated buildings. But since then, thanks to the efforts of local residents, the local government, and young entrepreneurs, cafes, fashion stores, and restaurants have been created one after another by renovating old, charming houses, and it has gradually regained its vibrancy as a hot spot in Seoul.

  • N Seoul Tower Palgakjeong Pavilion

Located in the heart of Seoul and a symbol of Namsan Mountain, the octagonal pavilion is a representative landmark of the city. Its panoramic city views harmonize with the beauty of traditional Korean architecture, making it a popular resting place for tourists throughout the year. Due to its beautiful scenery, it's also famous as a filming location for many popular Korean dramas, such as "My Love from the Star" and "True Beauty." It's the perfect spot to take memorable photos and feel like you're the star of a drama.

  • The group will disband in front of the Myeongdong Sejong Hotel or in front of the Dongdaemun Mireore.


Purchase Notice

  • This tour will be conducted as a shared tour with other customers.
  • Please be sure to arrive on time. The tour will depart 10 minutes after the scheduled departure time, and if you are unable to board, you will not be able to join the tour midway or receive a refund.
  • Tour schedules may be changed or canceled due to weather, traffic conditions, etc.
  • If there are three or fewer participants, we may provide transportation using public transport.
  • Due to traffic conditions, there may be slight variations in the travel time.
  • We assume no responsibility whatsoever for accidents caused by natural disasters or other causes not provided on this tour.
  • Please note that the tour lounge on the 2nd floor of the Lotte Hotel in Myeongdong, which is the meeting point, is not affiliated with the tour operator. Therefore, please refrain from contacting or calling the tour lounge.
  • If you wish, we can also drop you off at a sightseeing spot along the tour route.
  • Wheelchair access is not available.
  • At N Seoul Tower, you will only be able to visit the octagonal pavilion; you will not be admitted to the tower itself.

Reminders

  • A minimum of 2 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 1 day(s) before the departure date

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

FAQ

1. How can visitors travel between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village?

Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village are conveniently located close to each other. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk of approximately 10-15 minutes between these two iconic sites, experiencing the traditional atmosphere along the way. For those on an organized tour, dedicated transportation is typically arranged, ensuring a seamless and efficient transfer between attractions.

2. What makes Bukchon Hanok Village a worthwhile visit for travelers?

Bukchon Hanok Village offers a unique opportunity to experience Seoul's 600-year history through its beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses. As an active residential area, it provides a glimpse into local life amidst historical architecture. The village is also renowned for its picturesque alleys, offering excellent photo opportunities and scenic views of the city, framed by the surrounding palaces.

3. What are the admission policies and entry requirements for Gyeongbokgung Palace?

Gyeongbokgung Palace requires an admission ticket for general entry, which can be purchased at the palace gates. Visitors wearing a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) are often granted free admission, which is a popular way to enhance the cultural experience. It is recommended to verify the palace's operating hours and any special closure dates before your visit.

4. What are the key differences between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace for visitors?

Gyeongbokgung Palace is known for its grand scale and represents the main royal palace, featuring magnificent architecture and the iconic changing of the guard ceremony. Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its natural landscaping and the Secret Garden (Huwon), which requires a separate guided tour. Gyeongbokgung offers a grand historical display, while Changdeokgung emphasizes harmony with nature.

5. What makes Eunpyeong Hanok Village distinct from other traditional villages in Seoul?

Eunpyeong Hanok Village offers a unique blend of modern architecture and traditional Korean houses, set against the backdrop of Bukhansan Mountain. Unlike the bustling urban setting of Bukchon or Ikseon-dong, Eunpyeong provides a more tranquil and natural environment. It is ideal for visitors seeking a serene escape and a different perspective on hanok architecture, away from the city's core.

6. What kind of historical experience can visitors expect at Donuimun Museum Village?

Donuimun Museum Village offers an immersive journey into Seoul's past, particularly recreating the streets and atmosphere of the 1960s to 1980s. Visitors can explore various preserved and restored buildings, including traditional houses, a retro barber shop, a comic book store, and a guesthouse. It serves as an interactive cultural space, bringing historical periods to life through its exhibits and architectural details.

7. What views can be seen from the Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky observatory?

From the Lotte World Tower Seoul Sky observatory, situated 555 meters high, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic 360-degree views of Seoul. On clear days, you can spot major landmarks such as the Han River, Namsan Mountain, and even parts of Gyeongbokgung Palace. The observatory also features impressive glass floors, providing a thrilling downward view of the city below.

8. What kind of interpretive guidance is provided when visiting Seoul's historical sites and villages?

When exploring Seoul's significant historical sites and traditional villages, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village, visitors can greatly benefit from detailed interpretive guidance. Experienced guides often provide insightful explanations about the rich history, cultural significance, and architectural details of each location, enhancing understanding and appreciation of these unique Korean landmarks.

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