K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
Korean cuisine, much like its rich culture and long history, showcases remarkable diversity, reflecting the country's daily life and environment. To truly explore Korea, I recommend experiencing local foods at their place of origin. Discover how these dishes have evolved over time and the unique stories behind the regions you visit. K-Food Trip Version 1 takes you to Incheon's Chinatown and fish market, offering a immersive journey into the area's culinary traditions and vibrant food culture.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Yongsan Station (in Seoul)
- Please meet me at the waiting hall of the station. If you’d like to adjust the station based on your hotel’s location, I can help you consider alternatives and find the most convenient option. Let me know what you’re thinking!
Leaving for Incheon by Subway 1st Line (Blue)
Why take the subway?
The subway is the main mode of transportation for an average of 220,000 passengers commuting daily between Seoul and Incheon. This 50-minute ride offers an authentic local experience and a unique view of suburban Korea. Worried it might be crowded? Don't be! The subway is only packed during rush hours, from 7 to 9 in the morning.
I also have some personal stories from my 10 years of commuting on the subway to share. From unexpected encounters to small memorable moments that made my everyday rides special, the subway holds a unique charm that goes beyond mere transportation.
Of course, if you prefer a private car ride, I can arrange that for you. However, I strongly recommend taking the subway to immerse yourself in the real local culture and meet the locals!
Arrival at Dongincheon Station & Check in a rent car
In Incheon, for your convenience, we will use a rental car. This will be a unique experience for you as well. With Korea's instant rental car system, one can book a car via mobile without any paperwork or check-in process, and there are no keys required to access the vehicle. (I will book a car in advance prior to our tour)
The cars are in nearly brand-new condition, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Enjoy the convenience of this cutting-edge technology!
Visiting Fish market
This is a fish marker first open in 1981. It is about 12K square meter in size and about 500 shops operating in the market!
Like Norayngjin fish market in Seoul; it has been undergoing major efforts to become a cleaner and more appealing tourist destination.
At the fish market, you can find fish, shellfish, dried & fermented seafood, and even watch skilled vendors prepare fish or slice sashimi.
Additionally, during our visit to the fish market, I will share a story about a traditional Korean dish made with fish. This will offer a deeper insight into Korean cuisine and culture, highlighting the significance of fish in Korean cooking and its connection to the local way of life.
Lunch: Marinated Blue-Crab
Koreans enjoy blue crab in various ways -- boiled, in stews, or marinated in soy sauce. Among these, the marinated version is the most beloved, so much so that there's a saying: "it practically steals your rice." Only fresh crab can be used for this delicacy.
The restaurant, Samdae Incheon Gejang, has been specializing in marinated crab for over 60 years. It exclusively uses blue crabs only from Yeonpyong island, a renowned source of the best blue crab, and traditionally aging soy sauce to ensure authentic flavor.
Visiting Chinatown & Old district.
It is the biggest & the oldest Chinatown in Korea.
We'll take a leisurely stroll through Chinatown's main street, stopping by the Black-bean Noodle Museum. Along the way, you'll hear fascinating stories about the area, as Incheon is my hometown and black bean noodles were once my absolute favorite dish.
If we're lucky, we might get to see a chef skillfully hand-pulling noodles right in Chinatown.
After exploring Chinatown, we'll head to Incheon's oldest district where we can admire buildings from the late 1800s that mark the beginning of Korea's modern era.
If you need a rest, let me know and we can have a break at nice & cozy coffee shops in the district.
Early Diner / Black-Bean Noodle
We’ll visit one of two small yet famous Chinese restaurants—Teahwawon or Shinseongru—depending on the situation and your preference:
Teahwawon: Located in Chinatown, this restaurant has been serving customers since 1926 and is now run by its third generation. Its spot in Chinatown means long lines of travelers are almost always expected.
Shinseongru: Situated outside of Chinatown, this restaurant holds sentimental value for me—it’s been around since I was a child, making it more than 50 years old. While it’s always crowded, you won’t have to wait in a line.
Menu? Naturally, black-bean noodles are the perfect choice here! However, if you’d like to change or add other dishes, I’ll gladly help you place your order.
Going back to Seoul (By Subway)
We will return the car and take the subway to Seoul. Depending on your hotel location or your next destination—perhaps hanging out at night—I’ll help you find the nearest station.
Ending Point
Yongsan Station (in Seoul)
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70043/fbff8d33-cbbe-4b9f-afe8-56f03213c110.png)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Fares for transportation (Subway, car rental)
- Lunch & Dinner (Marinated crab & Chinese Black-Bean Noodle)
- Personal guide fee
- Parking, toll, and admission fee
- other beverage or meal beside mentioned above
- any souvenir purchased
Tour Important Information
This tour includes some moderate walking, so I recommend wearing comfortable shoes! As both lunch and dinner are included, please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, so I can make the necessary arrangements.
This tour can be customized by your preferences; please let me know if you want change any!
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
Claire D.
“Very informative and a great guide”
Kwan was very polite and very knowledgeable. This tour was very interesting as it shows you on site exactly what has and is happening in the area. It always resonates more when it is an immersive experience. I definitely recommend Kwan. He is a great guide.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70043/fbff8d33-cbbe-4b9f-afe8-56f03213c110.png)
Kwan J.
It was such a pleasure guiding you on the tour, Claire! I really appreciated your genuine interest in Korean history and enjoyed our conversations throughout the day. I hope your conference in Busan goes really well, and that you’ll also have time to make some wonderful memories there during your free time.
Max S.
“A+++ all the way and a fantastic person”
A fantastic individual who takes pride in the business of being a guide and an ambassador to Korea for tourists, like us. Private tour for my wife & me. Met us with a bag of orange tangerines, took us to DMZ and other places; stopped along the way to show some off beaten areas, meals. And lots of conversation and laughter. Good memorable times. Me personally, Kwan will be my go-to guy for my next Korea trip. Simple. Kwan: Sumathi & I had a wonderful time and hope to be back soon. Wishing you the very best. Cheers Magesh
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70043/fbff8d33-cbbe-4b9f-afe8-56f03213c110.png)
Kwan J.
Hi Magesh, Big thanks to you and Sumathi! I had such a fun time guiding you both — it honestly felt like being with close friends the whole way, with all the conversations and laughter we shared. I really enjoyed every moment together and hope you’ll come back to Korea again soon. Looking forward to more good times when you do! Cheers, Kwan
Diyana A.
“I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!”
I highly recommend Kwan as your tour guide. It was the 3 of us, my mother, my sister, and I. He went above and beyond from itinerary planning, to driving, to last minute adjustments, it was all so wonderful. He was very happy to cater to our wants and needs, from dietary to activities. Kwan was also so knowledgeable of Korea and shared so many insights. He was very happy to learn on our culture and religion during the trip as well. Kwan was very chivalrous - assisted my mother with her door every time, help carry our bags, and even brought us bottled waters and Korean tangerines! We had an amazing time and we look forward to return to Seoul and reserve a tour with Kwan again!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70043/fbff8d33-cbbe-4b9f-afe8-56f03213c110.png)
Kwan J.
Thank you so much, Diyana, for your wonderful review! It was also such a cheerful and memorable time for me. This was my first opportunity to learn more about Islamic culture, and I truly enjoyed visiting the mosque in Itaewon, exploring halal restaurants, the mart, and even the prayer room. I learned so much and it was amazing! You and your lovely mother and sister are such kind and delightful people. I was so glad to see you really enjoying an autumn day in Seoul. I sincerely hope you will come back again in January—I would be very happy to guide you once more!
$400/ per group
More tours by Kwan J.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18332/571b377b-89bf-47ff-938e-0e8b83017402.jpg)
Private DMZ tour
Step into one of the most unique and historically significant places in the world -- the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This remarkable tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the division between North and South Korea, blending history, tensions, and the hope for reunification. With expert guides and immersive storytelling, your DMZ journey will deepen your understanding of Korea's history while standing on the very frontier of its future.
Private DMZ tour
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!
Heritage and Flavors of Andong
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18407/6985b1ec-b827-4425-a3f1-fe3a21487813.jpg)
K Food Trip Version 2: Namdaemun & Hanyang Fortress Walk - A journey Through Time and Flavor
Start at Namdaemun Gate, a historic landmark, then ascend to the Hanyang Fortress remains, where ancient stone walls and scenic park offer a peaceful retreat. Wander through hidden alleys, uncovering old Seoul's charm, before arriving at Namdaemun Market, loved by locals for its ling-standing family-run shops, authentic flavors, and rich history.
K Food Trip Version 2: Namdaemun & Hanyang Fortress Walk - A journey Through Time and Flavor
East Coast Bliss: Discover the Calm of Gangneung
Embark on a serene journey to Gangneung aboard the KTX, witnessing Korea's iconic mountainous landscapes. Explore Gangneung's rich traditional heritage, visit a tranquil cabbage field set over 1,000 meters high, and savor the region’s authentic local dishes. With private vehicle convenience, this immersive tour blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and culinary delights, offering a unique East Coast experience.
East Coast Bliss: Discover the Calm of Gangneung
Other Popular Food & Drink Tours in Seoul
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18736/7b40a946-4e64-40f9-a3ad-ff7490067c64.jpg)
Seoul Retro Food Tour: Ikseon-dong Vibes + Jokbal
As you stroll through the charming hanok alleys, the mouthwatering aroma of jokbal (braised pig's trotters) will tempt you! Experience both the past and present of Seoul in one tour—exploring Ikseon-dong and Jangchung-dong. o Tour Highlights Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley Walk: Snap unforgettable photos in this small village in Seoul, filled with trendy cafes and retro shops! Exploration of Streets Blending Tradition and Modernity: Discover hidden stories and aesthetic spots tucked into every alley.
Seoul Retro Food Tour: Ikseon-dong Vibes + Jokbal
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/53323/24a66646-d2e9-4e6d-9241-c1d64dc8f2a3.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19244/e1672f24-dba9-4fdc-affc-5e48435380f9.jpg)
Evening Walk: Street Food, Hidden Alleys & a Glowing Palace(Food Included)
Discover the flavors and charm of Seoul on this 3-hour evening walking tour. We'll start by sampling local street food at a bustling traditional market — food tastings are included. As the sun sets, we’ll walk along the old stone wall of Jongmyo Shrine, lined with small cafés, ending our tour with a night visit to a beautifully lit royal palace. Perfect for travelers who want to experience real Korean life, hidden corners, and unforgettable night views, all guided by a local expert.
Evening Walk: Street Food, Hidden Alleys & a Glowing Palace(Food Included)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/75964/4a592fba-e4c5-40d2-9bc3-98a4496d0fac.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18407/6985b1ec-b827-4425-a3f1-fe3a21487813.jpg)
K Food Trip Version 2: Namdaemun & Hanyang Fortress Walk - A journey Through Time and Flavor
Start at Namdaemun Gate, a historic landmark, then ascend to the Hanyang Fortress remains, where ancient stone walls and scenic park offer a peaceful retreat. Wander through hidden alleys, uncovering old Seoul's charm, before arriving at Namdaemun Market, loved by locals for its ling-standing family-run shops, authentic flavors, and rich history.
K Food Trip Version 2: Namdaemun & Hanyang Fortress Walk - A journey Through Time and Flavor
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70043/fbff8d33-cbbe-4b9f-afe8-56f03213c110.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17798/59ea3e98-6c80-4031-979e-0bbb915aaa27.jpg)
Korean BBQ & Pub crawling
Do you want to learn about Korean barbecue and drinking culture? How about a drink with a Korean friend? I will share with you interesting stories about Koreans and their life passages in a comfortable atmosphere. Here's a program that's perfect for you. I'll take you to a heap spot in Seoul. There are 4 options below. You can select a place you prefer or a place close to your accommodation. A) Hongdae B) Jongno (Ikseon-dong) C) Jamsil D) Where you want to go
Korean BBQ & Pub crawling
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/66005/256759bf-e0dc-4d2a-a953-15d48bea709c.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/daf1d2c4-09eb-4503-b712-96e1fc5b6f54.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/c254c5e6-3c5c-474e-adf6-904fe3ccb699.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/f3925e8d-da0d-4068-9310-b91070cf7671.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/224628f2-ff95-44ff-80e7-6baab0b35a34.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/c07ab8f4-d8a9-49b9-b43c-c3cc8440230b.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/5c28e46c-0e90-4154-888f-1dbd49526798.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/5b43617e-84d3-44ff-85b4-71c951621291.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/bd369bd2-8218-4c86-beb9-3f8baa7caba4.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/a869b1d5-44fc-4b07-beb1-27db3d597fdb.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/041b1e09-afae-4a3b-8645-d0405e09bacb.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/51feb55a-e5c0-478e-8963-61844ca84335.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/4937235c-2c36-48e5-8e61-994ffee7c2b0.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/cc72bb7f-d8f2-4108-820f-ae00b5169176.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18274/08711335-45d5-43a3-a113-fbd670be3470.jpg)