Seoul: A Journey Through History
Seoul has been the capital city of Korea since 1392. You will explore cultural heritage sites, including a royal palace, a Buddhist temple, the old streets, and a traditional market in the northern part of the city, all in one full day.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
I will pick you up at your hotel or metro station.
Royal Guards Changing Ceremony & Gyeongbokgung Palace
Visit the first and main palace of the Joseon Dynasty built in 1394. Explore royal heritages and architectures, which are the national treasures of Korea. The royal guards' changing ceremony starts at 10:00 am.
National Folk Museum of Korea
Located next to the royal palace, explore Koreans' life passage with traditions and customs from birth to death that have been continued from the old days to today.
Bukchon Hanok Village
A traditional village where aristocrats lived during the Joseon dynasty. The village has been preserved with Hanok (traditional houses) despite the city’s industrialization.
Lunch
It is highly recommended to try the exquisite dishes of Korean cuisine.
Jogyesa Temple
Discover Buddhism at Korea's most significant temple, the heart of Korean Buddhism which was introduced to Korea in 372.
Insadong Alley
Insadong is a historic neighborhood with a deep connection to traditional Korean culture. Once home to scholars and artists during the Joseon Dynasty, it developed into a center for antique dealers, art galleries, and traditional crafts.
Gwangjang Market
One of Korea's oldest traditional markets opened in 1905. Famous for their street food made with warm, homemade mother’s touch. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and experience local life up close!
Seoul City Fortress Wall
Seoul City Fortress Wall stretches about 18 km along Seoul’s four inner mountains built in 1396 to protect the capital. Parts of the wall remain well-preserved, offering scenic walking trails that blend history with panoramic city views.
East Gate
The main eastern gate, one of the Four Great Gates of Seoul’s fortress wall, built in 1398 for protecting the capital. It is famous for its unique double-wall structure, designed for stronger defense.
Your Hotel
I will take you back to your hotel or your preferred place.
Ending Point
I will take you to your hotel or your preferred place. (To be discussed)
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
- Guide fee
- Hotel pick-up.
Public transportation
-- Subway US$10/person (round-trip)
-- Taxi US$ 20~30/4 people (round-trip)
Admission Ticket
-- Gyeongbokgung Palace US$3/person.
- Meal & snack
Tour Important Information
* Times and places can be changed depending on your requests.
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so 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.
* Please inform me in advance if you require a private car.
* Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays. Changdeokgung Palace will be replaced.
Important message from the supplier
Full time (8hrs) or Part time (4hrs) is available.
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 Sally K.
I am a government-certified tour guide, showcasing popular tourist attractions, breathtaking scenic spots, and hidden gems across Seoul and other major cities in Korea. I am passionate about sharing insights into Korean history, culture, traditions, food, politics, inter-Korean relations, and modern social trends.
I truly value building genuine connections and intimacy with my guests. By creating a warm and engaging atmosphere during the tour, I promise you a joyful, meaningful, and unforgettable experience during your stay in Korea.
Reviews
Edward C.
“Sally K is great.”
I will hire her again in the future.
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Sally K.
Thank you, Edward. I love to be your guide again. Until then, please take care and best wishes always. :)
Jeannette H.
“Such a great day!”
Sally took great care of us. We learned a lot, traded wonderful stories, and shared fantastic food. I appreciated her enthusiasm and thoughtfulness.
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Sally K.
It was such a great pleasure to be your guide! Thank you so much for joining my tour and for being such amazing guests. Wishing you all the best, and hope to see you again someday!
Adam G.
“Excellent introduction to Seoul ”
Sally was a great guide for us, showing us the main areas of the city and explaining what we were looking at. She arranged transport to meet us at our hotel, took photos for us and her English was excellent. Highly recommend.
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Sally K.
Thank you, Adam, for joining me on the tour in Seoul. I truly enjoyed the time we spent together. Thanks to your wonderful manners, politeness, and kindness. I hope to see you again and have a great autumn!
$385/ per group
More tours by Sally K.
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DMZ: Witness the Last Cold War Frontier
The DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a buffer zone that separates South and North Korea. Established in 1953 following the armistice agreement of the Korean War, the DMZ is 4 kilometers wide. Despite its name, it is one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world. This tour is not just a visit to a historical site; it is also a journey toward understanding the reality of division and the hope for peace on the Korean Peninsula.
DMZ: Witness the Last Cold War Frontier
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Central Seoul Walking Tour ; From Gwanghwamun Square to Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley.
Gwanghwamun Square connects the Joseon Dynasty and modern times. The view of Bukaksan Mountain and Gyeongbokgung Palace from Gwanghwamun Square is just like a landscape. Let's go on a journey back to the past at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. We can tour antique shops and galleries along the Insadong Cultural Street. Jogyesa Temple is worth visiting. Lastly, Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley has pretty cafes, restaurants, and stores while maintaing traditional Korea houses.
Central Seoul Walking Tour ; From Gwanghwamun Square to Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley.
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From the serene atmosphere of palaces and old traditional villages to the bustling traditional markets and streets, you will see and experience real life in Seoul. I will help you explore the hidden gems and stories!
Seoul Downtown Walking Tour - the past and the present
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