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UNESCO Jongmyo and Changdeokgung Walking Tour ; World Cultural Heritage Sites.
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Joined 2024
Jongmyo Shrine and Changdeokgung Palace, registered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites for their outstanding universal value, authenticity and integrity, are Koreans' pride. The world's most solemn and quietest Jongmyo Shrine is always a good place to visit. Beautiful cafes and shops along Seosulla-gil, attract passers-by. Changdeokgung Palace beloved by kings, is an eco-friendly space built while maintaining the maximum natural environment.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
In front of exit #11, Jongno-3(sam) ga Station
- Jongno 3-ga Station is where subway lines 1 and 3 intersect. Regardless of which line you use, we will meet you at exit 11 of Jongno 3-ga Station.
Jongmyo Shrine
With a history of about 5,000 years, Korea went through 518 years of the Joseon Dynasty. Established in 1392, the Joseon Dynasty was a country ruled by 27 kings. As it was founded on the foundation of Confucianism, the culture of "hyo(Filial piety)"was most important, holding ritual ceremonies to deceased ancestors and respecting their living elders. Thus, the Joseon Dynasty set up Jongmyo Shrine, the facility for the deceased ancestors, before constructing the king's palace. Jongmyo Shrine, the place for the deceased king and queen, consists of largey wooden buildings, "Jeongjeon Hall" and "Yeongnyeongjeon Hall." It houses spiritual tablets of deceased kings and queens, and rituals are held in every spring and fall. The world's solemn and quietest Jongmyo Shrine is a good place to visit anytime. In 1995, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding value as the best cultural asset.
Seosulla-gil
The road to Changdeokgung Palace along the stone wall of Jongmyo Shrine is called "Seosunra-gil." During the Joseon Dynasty, the patrol team who left Changdeokgung Palace in a procession passed the main gate of Donhawmun, passed Ikseon-dong, and then to Jongmyo Shrine. They detected and reported any suspicious movements that might arise or responded directly to situations occurring on the spot. Based on Jongmyo Shrine, there is "Dongsulla-gil" to the east, and Seosulla-gil approaches Donhawmun along the west walkway of Jongmyo Shrine. Beautiful cafes and shops attract passers-by on Seosulla-gil in Jongmyo Shrine. Compared to the nearby Ikseon-dong Hanok Alley, we can feel quiet and relaxed.
Changdeokgung Palace
Among the five palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, the most beautiful one is Changdeokgung Palace. Changdeokgung Palace, which is the best preserved of Korea's five palaces, was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1995. Changdeokgung is an eco-friendly space built while maintaining the maximum natural environment. Although it was built as a detached palace of Gyeongbokgung Palace, it was the most beloved palace by most of kings. If Gyeongbokgung Palace was the symbolic main palace, Changdeokgung Palace was the actual prime palace.
In particular, many traces of King Jeongjo, who is most loved by Koreans, along with King Sejong the Great, remain in Changdeokgung Palace. In addition, Nakseonjae, the frugal and most peaceful place in the palace, contains the heart of King Heonjong, who sincerely loved a woman. Entering Donhawmun, the main gate of Changdeokgung Palace, scholar trees welcome people. The scholar tree, called the Jeongseung tree, is named because three Jeongseung (3 high ranking officials including prime minister) discussed state affairs under the tree. Seonwonjeon Hall, which was specifically used as the council hall, is famous for its blue color tiled roof. Let's hear the hidden story of Changdeokgung Palace, the last palace of the Korean Empire, before the birth of today's Republic of Korea.
Near Geumho Gate of Changdeokgung Palace
Kumho Gate is a gate to the west of Changdeokgung Palace. It is the gate that comes out after a tour of Changdeokgung Palace. Therefore, the tour ends near Kumho Gate.
Ending Point
Near Geumho Gate of Changdeokgung Palace
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
* Profession tour guide fee
* Free photo service
* Subway tickets
* Admission fees
- Jongmyo Shirine : KRW 1,000 for those aged 7 to 64 (the rest are free)
- Changdeokgung Palace : KRW 3,000 for those aged 19 to 64 (the rest are free)
* Food and Beverages
* Personal expenses
* Traveler's Insurance
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.
* Prepare a bottle of water when the weather is hot, and wear sunglasses or hat when the sun is strong.
Important message from the supplier
Service is available even at dawn or late night including pick-up and sending at Incheon International Airport.
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
Joined 2024
About Tour Guide Charlie C.
Hello, I am Charlie, a tour guide. It’s very nice to meet you!
I warmly welcome you to Korea.
Korea is a beautiful country with 5,000 years of history.
Drawing on my experience working for a Korean government agency and my expertise in Korean history and culture, I would like to introduce you to many tourist attractions, including Seoul, Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province.
Join me on a journey, and let’s have a wonderful time together. Thank you very much!
Reviews
Ben G.
“Great Tour”
From the initial interaction Charlie was responsive and eager to help. He asked the follow up questions in order to understand our interests. He then proposed a highly customized tour and then worked with us further to adjust it based on what we wanted to see. On the day of the tour he showed up on time with a clean and comfortable vehicle. During the tour he showed his deep knowledge of Seoul, its history and its architecture. It was a memorable tour that we enjoyed and will remember. Charlie is a real pro! Ben
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Charlie C.
Dear Ben Gurdus, It was a great pleasure to guide you on our architecture tour of Seoul, visiting the Amorepacific Headquarters, Sebitseom, Lotte World Tower, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza. I especially enjoyed exploring the distinctive architectural character of each place with you—from the open courtyards and thoughtful spatial design of the Amorepacific Headquarters, to the unique floating architecture of Sebitseom on the Han River, the impressive vertical scale and panoramic views of Lotte World Tower, and the flowing curves and dynamic spaces of Dongdaemun Design Plaza. I sincerely appreciate your enthusiasm and genuine interest throughout the entire experience, from preparing the tour to visiting and discussing each architectural site together. Our conversations about the buildings, their design concepts, and how they relate to Seoul made the tour especially meaningful for me as well. Thanks to your thoughtful questions and passion for architecture, I also had a wonderful opportunity to study, learn, and discover many new things along the way. Thank you very much for your kind review and positive feedback. It truly means a lot to me. I hope the tour gave you not only memorable impressions of these remarkable buildings, but also a deeper sense of Seoul through its architecture and urban landscape. Warm regards, Charlie Choi
Diane L.
“DMZ tour with Charlie”
We had an awesome day with Charlie touring the DMZ zone. All communications prior to our arrival were perfect. He is extremely knowledgeable in the history as well as anything we may have asked. We had plenty of time to see the sights, he instructed us along the way with what you can and cannot do. He has a good sense of humor, is a careful driver so we felt comfortable all day. I cannot recommend Charlie enough! If you are interested in the DMZ tour, get in touch with Charlie. He also offered pickup and drop off at the airport which worked perfect for us! Thanks Charlie!
Charlie C.
Dear Diane, Thank you very much for participating in today’s tour. I truly had a wonderful time touring with you and your husband today. Especially for the DMZ tour, I sincerely appreciate your kind and thoughtful review. I hope we can meet again on your next visit to Korea. Thank you once again!
Johanna C.
“Highlight of my trip”
My granddaughter and I had a lovely day with Charlie. He was accommodating, answered any question we posed, and it was interesting to learn about the history of Korea from him. Our visit to the DMZ was a highlight of my stay in Seoul (where I was visiting my granddaughter who is studying there). Charlie went out of his way to show us a suspension bridge up in the mountains. He even shared his candy and other snacks with us. A wonderful tour.
Charlie C.
Thank you, Johanna, November 1st was the peak of the autumn weather, when large crowds gathered at Imjingak to visit DMZ. It was a bit of a bummer, but the tour with you was so enjoyable and happy. We climbed 275 steep steps to see the Gamaksan Mountain ridge and suspension bridge. Thank you for your passion for staying with me without giving up until the end. And thank you so much for leaving a wonderful review.
$220/ per group
More tours by Charlie C.
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Amazing Western Seoul Tour
Eunpyeong Hanok Village boasts a beautiful natural environment. It is a famous place where you can feel the beauty and peace. Seoul Botanic Park is a space where nearly 8,000 species of plants live. It has a botanical culture center, a botanical library, and cafe, so you can spend a leisurely time. The Han River is the most important river for Seoul citizens. “Hangang Tour Cruise” starting from Yeouido Dock is the best gift to see the beautiful scenery of the Han River and Seoul.
Amazing Western Seoul Tour
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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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Bukak Skyway and Hidden Seoul Tour
The Skyway, which runs along the ridges of Mt. Bukak, is the best attraction to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Mt. Bukak and downtown Seoul. Starting with Gilsangsa Temple located in Seongbuk-gu, you can look into the hidden aspects of Seoul and hear the hidden stories of Seoul by touring the Korean Stone Art Museum, Bukaksan Octagonal Pavilion, Seodaemun Prison History Hall, Donuimun Museum Village, and Gyeonghui Palace.
Bukak Skyway and Hidden Seoul Tour
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Dynamic Seoul and Foodi Tour
Once a rust belt, Seongsu-dong has been reborn. It is now full of various pretty cafes and pop-up stores. Seoul Forest, a former racetrack and golf course, has various botanical gardens and benches, making it perfect for a shelter. Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a place to breathe with a dynamic Dongdaemun Fashion Town. Its flexible and soft curves are similar to the shape of a spaceship. Gwangjang Market, which boasts a history of more than 100 years, is full of delicious foods.
Dynamic Seoul and Foodi Tour
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Seoul
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Seoul Downtown Walking Tour - the past and the present
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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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.
Seoul: A Journey Through History
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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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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.