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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.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Namdaemun Gate
- From Seoul station Exit 4 by walk (4 minutes) / walk straight about 200 meters (3 blocks)
Hanyang Fortress Remains (Hanyang Doseong Historic Site)
Hanyang Fortress, also known as Hanyangdoseong or the Seoul City Wall, is a remarkable historical structure that reflects the defensive and administrative strategies of the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1395 under King Taejo's reign, the fortress originally encircled the capital, Hanyang (modern-day Seoul), to protect it from external threats and demarcate the city's boundaries
Old alleys to the Namdaemun Market
The old alleys of Namsan are a fascinating glimpse into Seoul's past. These alleys, nestled around Namsan Mountain, are remnants of traditional Korean neighborhoods that have survived amidst the city's modernization. They feature narrow pathways, hanok-style houses, and small courtyards that reflect the architectural and cultural heritage of earlier times.
Walking through these alleys, you can experience a sense of nostalgia and discover hidden gems like local eateries, artisan workshops, and historical sites. Some of these alleys lead to Namdaemun Market, adding to their charm and significance. They offer a unique blend of history and community life, making them a must-visit for anyone exploring Seoul.
Namdaemun Market Tour & Late Lunch
Namdaemun Market is a vibrant and historic destination in Seoul, perfect for introducing to foreign visitors. As Korea's largest traditional market with over 600 years of history, it offers an authentic Korean shopping experience. The market is known for its variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and even prescription glasses made on-site. What sets Namdaemun apart is the presence of many old, family-run local culinary shops, creating a warm, community-oriented atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling food scene of Gwangjang Market. Visitors can also savor delicious street food, such as hotteok (sweet pancakes), tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and mandu (dumplings).
Namdaemun Market's two standout dishes are hairtail stew and kalguksu.
Hairtail Stew: This dish features hairtail fish, known for its long, silver, belt-like appearance. At Namdaemun, the stew is typically braised in a spicy chili sauce, creating a rich and flavorful experience. The tender fish absorbs the bold spices, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Kalguksu: Known as knife-cut noodles, kalguksu is a comforting dish served in a hearty broth made from anchovies or seafood. The noodles are handmade, giving them a chewy texture, and the dish is often topped with ingredients like spring onions, sesame seeds, and crushed seaweed.
Ending Point
Shinseage Department Stores (Subway Line 4 Hoehyeon [Namdaemun Market] 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 Tour Guide
[Food & Beverage]
Lunch fee is not included as there is a wide variety of dishes to choose from. After exploring the options together, I'll help you select the perfect meal!
For your information, below are prices by dishes.
- Hairtail Stew: KRW14,000
- Kalguksu: KRW9,000
- Big Dumpling: KRW1,000/each
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
For your information, please avoid Sunday as many shops at the Namdaemun markets are closed!
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.
$80/ per person
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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.
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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.
K-Food Trip Version 1: Black-bean noodle & Marinated blue-crab in Incheon
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