Lifestyles and the City from Seoul to Busan

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Incheon International Airport (ICN).

Embark on a full-day Seoul city tour. Begin with a short transfer and visit to the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace. Immerse yourself in Korean tradition with a traditional Hanbok fitting and a classic photo session within the palace! Afterwards, transfer to the lively Gwangjang Market, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic street foods, experiencing the rich flavors of Seoul. Enjoy a guided tour of Namsangol Hanok Village, exploring well-preserved hanok houses and tranquil gardens that showcase Korea's architectural heritage. Later, take a transfer back to the hotel from Namsangol Hanok Village. For today's activities, you'll want to wear comfortable walking shoes.

• Gyeongbokgung Palace & Traditional Hanbok Fitting Experience

  After breakfast, you'll take a 20-minute private transfer from the hotel to Gyeongbokgung Palace, to explore and learn about the history of the palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace is a majestic architectural masterpiece that served as the main royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1395, it boasts an impressive array of ornate halls, pavilions, and courtyards surrounded by picturesque mountains. The iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace remains a symbol of Korean history and culture. Then, you'll get to experience a traditional Hanbok fitting, a beautifully crafted and elegant Korean attire, characterized by vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and graceful lines, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of Korea. It was worn daily up until about a century ago; however, it remains an important part of Korean culture, with people wearing it on special occasions and holidays. With your local Guide, you will be fitted into a traditional Hanbok and take classic photos in Gyeongbokgung Palace.

  09:00· 120 min· Seoul
• Bukchon Hanok Village

  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 translates to "northern village," came about as the neighborhood lies north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno.

  11:15· 30 min· Seoul
• Gwangjang Market

  From Gyeongbokgung Palace, take a 20-minute transfer to the famous Gwangjang Market. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of stalls, Gwangjang Market offers a sensory feast with its street food vendors, textiles, and traditional Korean goods. The bottom floor serves as a labyrinth of vendors and food stalls. Here you will sample some of the city’s iconic street food staples like bindaetteok, tteokbokki, mayak kimbap, and san-nakji. Be sure to pack some extra cash with you if you want to purchase any additional food, beverages, or souvenirs!

  11:45· 60 min· Seoul

After breakfast, you'll transfer to Seongsu-dong, where the trendy Yeonmujang-gil showcases a fusion of old industrial charm and contemporary culture. Explore the revitalized area, marked by the iconic "Daerim Warehouse," before strolling to the tranquil Seoul Forest, offering lush greenery and a deer park. This diverse experience captures the vibrant contrasts of Seoul. Then, enjoy a transfer to the Seoul Sky Observatory atop the Lotte World Tower, standing at a majestic 555 meters (or 1,820 feet). Revel in breathtaking 360-degree views of Seoul's cityscape, mountains, and the Han River from the observation deck. You'll then hop on a high-speed train journey from Seoul to Busan, followed by a transfer to the hotel for a relaxing evening to settle in.

• Seongsu-dong and Seoul Forest Visit

  From the hotel, a 35-minute transfer will take you to Seungsudong. Yeonmujang-gil in Seongsu-dong, once known for its old factories and a street filled with shoemaking workshops, has undergone a transformation into a hub of trendy cafes and cultural spaces. While the energy of car repair shops, printing factories, and handmade shoe streets still persists, the infusion of global restaurant brands, select shops, and cafes has given rise to a distinctive atmosphere unique to Seongsu-dong. The pivotal role played by "Daerim Warehouse'' marked a turning point in the area, serving as the prototype for the warehouse-style cafes prevalent along Cafe Street today. With its preserved red-brick structure, vintage signboards, and spacious interior, the old warehouse has evolved into a venue suitable for fashion shows and exhibits, revealing the renewed potential of Seongsu-dong's historic architecture. Then, you'll walk over to Seoul Forest, which provides a serene escape with lush greenery, walking trails, and a deer park. Together, these locations create a diverse and fascinating experience, showcasing the dynamic contrasts within the vibrant city of Seoul. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for this activity, as you'll be walking around for about 2 hours.

  09:00· 120 min· Seoul
• Seoul Sky Observatory

  From the Seoul Forest is a 20-minute transfer to experience the Sky Observatory. Ascend to new heights at the Seoul Sky Observatory, perched atop the remarkable Lotte World Tower, soaring to a staggering height of 555 meters (or 1,820 feet). A swift elevator journey transports you to the observation deck, where expansive floor-to-ceiling windows unveil breathtaking, 360-degree views of Seoul's bustling cityscape, the mountains, and the majestic Han River.

  12:00· 90 min· Seoul
• Transfer · Seoul → Busan

  Later, take the high speed train from Seoul to Busan. There are restroom onboard the train. Once you arrive in Busan, you'll then take a 40-minute transfer to the hotel.

  train · 150 min

Embark on a dynamic day exploring Busan's highlights, starting with a transfer to the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, known as the "Machu Picchu of Busan." Wander through its narrow alleys adorned with colorful houses, street art, and charming cafes, immersing yourself in a captivating blend of art and history. Then, take a transfer to Shinsegae Centum City, recognized as the world's largest department store. Dive into a shopping and entertainment extravaganza with luxury and everyday brands, an indoor ice rink, spa, cinema, and diverse dining options. Enjoy leisure time for shopping and having lunch at your own expense before a transfer back to the hotel this evening. You'll want to wear comfortable shoes for walking around today!

• Gamcheon Culture Village

  Following breakfast, embark on a 45-minute private transfer to Gamcheon Culture Village. Nestled on a hillside in Busan, this lively and whimsical community boasts colorful terraced houses, narrow alleyways, and eclectic street art. The village, often referred to as the "Machu Picchu of Busan" due to its staircase-like architecture on the coastal mountain foothills, features vibrant alleys adorned with murals and sculptures created by the locals. Initially a refuge for Korean War refugees, the village has evolved into a thriving artistic hub, enticing visitors with its distinctive charm and imaginative installations. A journey through Gamcheon Culture Village's narrow streets reveals a captivating blend of history, art, and local culture, enhanced by charming cafes along the way.

  09:00· 90 min· Busan
• Shinsegae Centum City

  Take a 30-minute transfer to Shinsegae Centum City, a colossal shopping and entertainment complex located in Busan. Recognized as the world's largest department store by the Guinness World Records, Shinsegae Centum City offers a vast array of luxury and everyday brands across its numerous floors. Beyond shopping, the complex features an indoor ice rink, a spa, a cinema, and a diverse range of dining options, making it a comprehensive destination for retail therapy, leisure, and entertainment. You'll have a few hours to walk around and shop. Lunch is not included today, but you will have plenty of time here to have lunch at your own expense. Afterwards, you'll take a 15-minute transfer back to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

  11:30· 180 min· Busan

Begin your day with a morning transfer to the Waveon Cafe, one of Busan's popular spots, offering a serene ocean view to enjoy your morning coffee. Afterwards, you'll transfer to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a rare coastal gem perched on Busan's northeastern coast. Founded in 1376, this temple provides a scenic vista with unique features such as Haesu Gwaneum Daebul, Daeungjeon Main Sanctuary, and a three-story pagoda adorned with four lions. Conclude the day with a transfer from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to Busan Train Station, where you'll board a high-speed train for a journey back to Seoul. For today's activities, you'll want to wear comfortable walking shoes, as well as a light jacket.

• Coffee at the Waveon Cafe

  This morning, you'll take a 40-minute private transfer to Waveon Cafe. One of the most popular cafés in Busan, the ocean view is the perfect place to relax and start your day! Please note that one cup of coffee of your choice is included. Additional food and drinks are available to purchase at your own expense.

  09:00· 90 min· Busan
• Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

  Afterwards, take a 40-minute private transfer to Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Perched on the northeastern coast of Busan, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple stands as a rare coastal gem, diverging from the mountainous settings typical of Korean temples. Founded in 1376 by the esteemed Buddhist teacher Naong during the Goryeo dynasty, this temple boasts a scenic vista featuring Haesu Gwaneum Daebul (Seawater Great Goddess Buddha), Daeungjeon Main Sanctuary, Yongwangdang Shrine, Gulbeop Buddhist Sanctum nestled in a cave, and a meticulously crafted three-story pagoda adorned with four lions. The temple underwent reconstruction in 1970, preserving traditional colors, and features a uniquely designed Buddhist sanctum inside a cave. Notable elements include a symbolic four-lion pagoda, 108 stairs, and stone lanterns along the rocky landscape, creating a serene and picturesque retreat by the ocean.

  11:30· 60 min· Busan
• Transfer · Haedong → Busan

  Take a private transfer from Haedong Yonggungsa Temple to Busan Train Station.

  private · 60 min
• Transfer · Busan → Seoul

  Take a high speed train from Busan to Seoul. There are restroom onboard the train.

  train · 150 min

Today is your last day in Seoul! Begin with a transfer to Ikseon-dong, a historic neighborhood blending traditional Korean architecture with trendy cafes and boutiques. Roam through its charming streets and savor the unique fusion of old and new. Following a delightful exploration, join a cheeky costume party and photoshoot at a studio, adding a fun and memorable touch to your week together. Conclude your day with a farewell dinner picnic at Yeouido Hangang Park, featuring Korean fried chicken and pizza, a local favorite!

• Ikseon-dong Neighborhood Exploration

  This morning, a 30-minute transfer will take you to the Ikseon-dong Neighborhood. Ikseon-dong is a historic neighborhood in Seoul known for its traditional Korean architecture, narrow alleyways, and a blend of old and new establishments. When exploring Ikseon-dong, visitors can stroll through its charming streets lined with hanok (traditional Korean houses) converted into trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. The area offers a unique juxtaposition of modern and traditional elements, making it a popular destination for those seeking a taste of both contemporary and historical Seoul. With its vibrant atmosphere, cultural shops, and culinary delights, Ikseon-dong provides a captivating experience for those interested in Seoul's rich heritage and evolving urban culture. You'll have a chance to roam around and meet the guide at a designated spot. It is recommend to eat lunch here (at your own expense)!

  09:00· 120 min· Seoul
• Four Cut Photoshoot

  While in Ikseon-dong, you'll take a short 10-15 minute walk to a studio for a cheeky costume party and photoshoot. The trend these days among Korean youth is visiting self-studios to take fun photo booth pictures, called “four cut” photos. The bookmark-sized printed photos are a great way to enjoy K-entertainment while creating a record of your life. The small size makes these photo booth photos the perfect memento of your Korean trip!

  11:30· 90 min· Seoul

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Incheon International Airport (ICN).