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
Your hotel
- I will pick up at your hotel.
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.
Insadong Alley
Insadong is a historic neighborhood with a deep connection to traditional Korean culture.
Gwangjang Market
One of Korea's oldest traditional markets opened in 1905. Enjoy food made with warm, homemade mother’s cook and experience local life in bustling atmosphere!
Cheonggyecheon Stream
A modern public recreation space and restored urban waterway running through the center of downtown Seoul.
Myeongdong
The biggest shopping area in Seoul. Busy and vibrant with K-beauty, skin care, fashion, shoes and many products. Street food opens at 4:00 PM.
Your hotel
I will take you back to your hotel or your preferred place.
Ending Point
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)
Private Transportation USD133
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.
With over 5 years of professional guiding experience, I have successfully led more than 1,000 guests from around the world.
I am trained in VIP protocol and assisted distinguished guests, including state visitors and the 2025 APEC Summit delegates. I specialize in delivering refined, seamless, and culturally insightful experiences tailored to each guest.
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
Victoria C.
“Excellent ”
As a first time traveling solo Korea, I was a little apprehensive, but during the tour Sally kindly gave me many useful tips. I felt like I was walking with a friend. She made the experiment very pleasant and I highly recommend her.
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Sally K.
Thank you so much for your lovely review! I know traveling solo in a new country can feel a little daunting at first, so I’m glad I could help you feel more at ease. It was truly a pleasure spending time with you, and I hope you made lots of wonderful memories here. Best wishes, Sally
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Marcus L.
“Seoul: A Journey Through History”
Sally expertly guided us through this full day tour. We were a large group but Sally maintained controlled and good humoured. We especially loved that she was so organised so that we had great vantage points and less queuing time at the most popular spots. Thanks Sally, you're a gem!
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Sally K.
Thank you so much for your lovely words! It was a pleasure guiding your group, and I’m so glad you enjoyed the day. It was wonderful having you all, and I hope to welcome you back to Korea for another memorable adventure!
Victoria B.
“Sally gave us a great tour”
We had a wonderful day with Sally. She went above and beyond to show us sights compatible with our interests. I recommend her without reservation. She has lived in the United States and her English is perfect! V from Pali Alto
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Sally K.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m truly glad you enjoyed the experience with me, for modern designs and architectures in Seoul. It was wonderful meeting you, and I hope to see you again on your next visit to Korea!
$399/ per group
More tours by Sally K.
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K-pop Demon Hunters One-Day Tour
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K-pop Demon Hunters One-Day Tour
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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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Cutting-Edge Seoul: Redefining Modern Living
Korea lives in 2050! You will explore the innovative designs and cutting-edge technology of Korea at present, which you have never experienced before anywhere in the world. You will visit the newest and trendy areas including Gangnam with great architecture, K-beauty, fashion, art, and more, that will surprise you every time for 8 hours.
Cutting-Edge Seoul: Redefining Modern Living
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K-Beauty Wonderland: Skincare, Makeup & More
I invite you to experience the heart of the global K-beauty trend. Explore the beauty secrets that have captivated the world and discover the latest trends with the professionals.
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Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Seoul
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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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Full-day Intro to Seoul and Korean History
This is my standard and very popular Itinerary for this ~8 hour tour: it can be adjusted for individual preferences. Its intention is to be a fascinating orientation & overview of Seoul "old & new", with introduction to who the Koreans are, and the key points of their history and customs. We can move faster and see more, or take our time and see a bit fewer sites; it's all up to your personal style. I will be telling colorful stories all along the way. You will learn so much, and in context!!
Full-day Intro to Seoul and Korean History
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Seoul Downtown Walking Tour - the past and the present
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Seoul Downtown Walking Tour - the past and the present
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Tracing the western influence in Korea
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Tracing the western influence in Korea
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