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Heritage and Flavors of Andong
Embark on a cultural and culinary adventure to Andong, the heart of Korean heritage. Travel effortlessly by KTX from Seoul to discover Andong's rich traditions. Visit iconic landmarks like Hahoe Folk Village and Bongjeongsa Temple, and indulge in the region's famous salted mackerel. Immerse yourself in the charm of ancient Korea, its art, history, and flavors, all tailored for a seamless, unforgettable journey. Perfect for culture and food enthusiasts!
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Cheongnyangni KTX Station
- Let's meet at the arrival hall in front of the train gate.
Leaving Cheongnyangni Station for Andong by KTX
Starting at Cheongnyangni Station, the KTX-Eum train whisks you away from the bustling capital, offering a comfortable and efficient ride. As the train speeds through the countryside, you'll witness a blend of urban outskirts, rolling hills, and picturesque rural landscapes. In just about 2 hours, you'll arrive at Andong Station, ready to explore the cultural richness of this historic city. It's the perfect way to travel in style and comfort!
Andong
After arriving in Andong by the fast and comfortable KTX-Eum, we'll step straight into a private vehicle rented via Socar—no waiting lines or tedious paperwork required! With just a few taps on the app, the car is ready for us, ensuring a hassle-free start to our exploration.
Visiting Dosan Seowon – A Sanctuary of Wisdom
Step into the serene world of Dosan Seowon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Korea's most iconic Confucian academies. Nestled amidst tranquil landscapes, this historic site offers a glimpse into the life and teachings of Yi Hwang, a revered Confucian scholar. Wander through its elegant wooden halls, admire the harmony of nature and architecture, and feel the timeless wisdom that still lingers in the air. A must-visit for history buffs and seekers of peace!
Vising Bongjeongsa Temple – A Journey to Serenity
Discover the timeless beauty of Bongjeongsa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled on the slopes of Mt. Cheondeungsan. Built in 672, this ancient temple is the oldest surviving wooden structure in Korea. Visitors can marvel at its stunning architecture, explore tranquil courtyards, and uncover fascinating stories of its founding. Whether you're seeking peace, history, or breathtaking views, Bongjeongsa Temple offers an unforgettable experience that connects you to Korea's spiritual heritage.
Lunch: A Taste of Andong – Salted Mackerel Delight
Get ready to savor Andong's iconic salted mackerel, a dish steeped in tradition and bursting with flavor. Known as "gangodeungeo," this delicacy was once a clever way to preserve fish far from the sea, but today it's a culinary masterpiece. Imagine biting into perfectly grilled mackerel, its crispy golden skin giving way to tender, savory meat with just the right hint of saltiness. Paired with steaming rice and a variety of side dishes, it's a meal that will steal your heart—and your appetite!
This isn't just lunch; it's a journey into Andong's rich food heritage. Ready to indulge?
Exploring Hahoe Village – A Living Time Capsule
Step into the enchanting world of Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like a journey back to the Joseon Dynasty. Nestled in a scenic bend of the Nakdong River and surrounded by majestic cliffs, this traditional village is a masterpiece of Korean culture and architecture.
What Awaits You:
- Wander through centuries-old hanok houses, still inhabited by descendants of the Ryu clan.
- Marvel at the village's unique layout, shaped like a lotus flower, designed according to Korean geomancy (pungsu).
- Visit the iconic Buyongdae Cliff for breathtaking panoramic views of the village and river.
Hahoe Village isn't just a destination—it's a storybook come to life, where every corner whispers tales of Korea's past.
Hahoe Mask Dance Performance – A Cultural Spectacle
Prepare to be captivated by the Hahoe Mask Dance Performance, a one-hour journey into Korea's vibrant traditions. Set in the picturesque Hahoe Village, this UNESCO-recognized cultural gem brings ancient stories to life through dynamic movements, colorful masks, and lively music. Watch as performers weave humor, satire, and folklore into a mesmerizing show that has entertained audiences for centuries. It's an unforgettable experience that connects you to Korea's rich heritage in the most entertaining way!
Visiting Byeongsan Seowon – Harmony of Nature and Scholarship
Nestled along the serene banks of the Nakdong River, Byeongsan Seowon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Confucian academies from the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1613 to honor the scholar Yu Seong-ryong, this seowon blends elegant architecture with its natural surroundings. Visitors can admire the iconic Mandaeru Pavilion, offering breathtaking views of the river and mountains, and explore the tranquil courtyards that once nurtured Korea's brightest minds. A perfect spot for history and nature lovers alike!
A Relaxing Stroll at Andong Downtown for Dinner
Andong's downtown area is a lively hub where tradition meets modernity. Here are some highlights:
- Wolyeonggyo Bridge: The longest wooden bridge in Korea, with a romantic backstory of love and devotion. It's stunning both day and night, offering picturesque views and hosting seasonal festivals.
- Andong Jjimdak Alley: A must-visit for food lovers, where you can savor the city's famous spicy braised chicken dish. This hearty braised chicken dish is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, simmered to perfection in a soy-based sauce. Originating from Andong's old market, Jjimdak was created to rival the growing popularity of Western fried chicken, and it has since become a beloved Korean classic.
- Andong Galbi Alley is a must-visit for meat lovers. This vibrant street is lined with restaurants specializing in grilled Korean beef ribs (galbi), known for their tender, juicy texture and rich flavor. The galbi here is often marinated in a savory soy-based sauce with hints of garlic and fruit, then grilled over charcoal for a smoky finish. Many places also serve side dishes like spicy braised galbi and hearty soybean paste stew, making it a feast to remember. Perfect for a delicious and authentic Korean BBQ experience!
Going back to Seoul (By ITX)
Ending Point
Cheongnyani KTX Station
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- English Speaking Driving Guide
Transportation
- Clean & Brand-new Air-conditioned Vehicles
- Gasoline fee and toll fees
- If you are a group of 3, it will be Hyundai New Avante. If you are a group of 4~6, it will be KIA New Carnival.
- All Admission fees
- Bottle of water
- Beverage, Lunch, and Dinner
Tour Important Information
- Transportation: my initial plan is to give you a more local experience by taking the express train (KTX) from Seoul to Andong. However, this would mean the schedule needs to align closely with the train timetable. While I’ll manage everything smoothly, if you’d prefer a more flexible journey, we can use my car from Seoul instead.
- This tour not necessarily involves a lot of walking, but you'd better wear comfortable shoes.
- Lunch & Dinner are included; please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Not on Monday as the Hahoe Mask dance performance is off
Important message from the supplier
Basically available all days! However, as I have multiple job, please let me know in advance and I can flexibly schedule it!
Also, let me know your preferences! I will help you customize your own itinerary!
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Kwan J.
Hello, and welcome to Korea!
My name is Kwan, and I have been an authorized tour guide with the Korean Tourism Organization (KTO) since 2019. My tour programs are designed to provide you with authentic and meaningful experiences of Korea, focusing on its rich culture, history, and traditions rather than fleeting trends. If you're looking for a leisurely and relaxed itinerary filled with captivating stories about our heritage and people, I am the guide for you!
Additionally, I bring over 13 years of experience delivering exceptional service to VIP clients during my tenure at Cartier, the world-renowned jewelry brand. With this background, I ensure that your journey will be marked by an unparalleled level of care and attention.
Reviews
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Jori H.
“A wonderful day with Kwan!”
We really enjoyed our trip to Andong with Kwan. He picked us up promptly and was a very safe driver. The morning was bitterly cold, and he gave us hand warmers. Kwan was always attentive and showed us many kindnesses. We enjoyed visiting and learning about neo Confucian seowons, Bongjeongsa Temple with the oldest wooden building in Korea, and the Hahoe Folk Village in Andong. We also watched the Mask Dance. Kwan was a very knowledgeable guide, and you could tell he really loves the places on his tour. The scenery of the whole area was gorgeous, even in winter. It must be breathtakingly beautiful in other seasons. The restaurant we had lunch at was quaint and the food was delicious! Kwan took a lot of nice photos. By the end of the day, we felt like Kwan was our good friend. Andong is not to be missed and Kwan is the perfect guide to take you there! Thank you Kwan, for a wonderful day trip!
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Kwan J.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I truly appreciate your kind words and the way you mentioned each place we visited together. It was my great pleasure to guide you both—such a warm, humorous, and thoughtful couple. I especially enjoyed our conversations about family and the hopes we share for our sons as parents. Moments like those make guiding meaningful for me. I’m grateful for the time we spent together in Andong, and I’m delighted to hear the day was memorable for you as well. Wishing you both many more beautiful travels ahead, and I hope our paths cross again someday.
M J.
“Very Memorable Trip in Seoul, Thank you! ”
Kwanyoung wasn't just a guide - he became like a big brother to me during our time in Seoul. From the moment we met, there was an immediate sense of connection and trust that went far beyond a typical guide-client relationship. What made our experience so special was how Kwan treated us like family rather than tourists. We shared meals together like locals, explored neighborhoods side by side, and he opened up his knowledge of Seoul in a way that felt like a friend showing you around his home city. His warmth, humor, and genuine care created moments of real brotherhood that I'll always treasure. His expertise in Seoul's dining scene and hidden gems was exceptional - he secured impossible-to-get reservations and provided insights only a true local could offer. But more importantly, he read our energy levels, adapted to our needs (including my partner's medical considerations), and created experiences that felt authentic and personal. When unexpected circumstances arose, he was incredibly understanding, handled everything with grace and professionalism. I didn't just gain a guide in Seoul - I gained a friend. I'll absolutely reach out to Kwan every time I return to Korea, and I'd recommend him without reservation to anyone seeking not just a tour, but a genuine human connection and authentic Korean experience. Thank you, Kwan. You made this trip unforgettable.
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Kwan J.
Hi, MJ! Thank you so much for your wonderful words. It was truly my pleasure to prepare every detail of your itinerary and share insights on the places you were curious about. I genuinely enjoyed our time together—especially the dinners, drinks, and the chance to introduce you to the local vibe and hidden corners of Seoul that many visitors never get to experience. Guiding you never felt like work; it felt like spending time with good friends. I appreciated how open you were to trying new things, exploring different neighborhoods, and embracing the culture with such enthusiasm. Your positive energy made the entire journey memorable for me as well. I’m grateful for the trust you placed in me throughout the trip, and I’m glad I could support you and your partner’s needs along the way. If you ever return to Korea, I’ll be more than happy to welcome you back and create even more meaningful experiences together. Thank you again for making this tour truly special. Warm regards, Kwan
Ashley L.
“Outstanding 6am Transit Tour with Kwan - Starfield Library & Local Market Highlights”
Kwan was an excellent guide, and this transit tour exceeded my expectations. He met me right on time at 6:00am, which I truly appreciated given my early arrival, and everything from that point on was seamless and stress-free. The tour was perfectly paced and very flexible. Highlights included visiting the Starfield Library, exploring a local market, and trying mung bean pancakes, which were amazing and something I wouldn’t have found on my own. Kwan did a great job balancing must-see spots with local experiences. He was a calm, safe, and attentive driver, and navigating the city during a transit layover felt effortless. He was friendly and knowledgeable without being overwhelming, and he made sure the day was tailored exactly to what I wanted. If you’re looking for a reliable, professional guide for a private or transit tour, Kwan is an excellent choice. I would absolutely book with him again.
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Kwan J.
Thank you so much, Ashley. It was truly a pleasure guiding you yesterday — I also had a wonderful time. You’re such a kind and caring person, and I really appreciated your positive energy throughout the tour. I only wish we had a bit more time so we could have explored even more places together. I hope you have an amazing and memorable time in Palawan, and I’d be delighted to welcome you back to Seoul again in the future. Safe travels, and thank you once again for a great day.
$250/ per group
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