A Perfect Seoul Tour Blending Tradition and Modernity.
Experience the past, present, and future of Korea by exploring Jongmyo, a site preserving deep traditions, and DDP, an representing cutting-edge technology.
Jongmyo & Changdeokgung Palace: Visit to these UNESCO World Heritage-
Bukchon Hanok Village: Stroll traditional hanok houses
DDP : futuristic architectural landmark where modern art and design coexist.
Myeongdong Street: Enjoy most famous shopping and food destinations.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At customer's Hotel
- At Hotel Lobby
Jongmyo Shrine, the Sacred Heart of the Joseon Dynasty
Hidden in the heart of Seoul, Jongmyo Shrine is not just a historical site—it’s a living legacy of Korea’s royal past. This sacred sanctuary, built in 1394, enshrines the spirits of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). It is one of the oldest and most authentic Confucian royal shrines in the world, offering a rare glimpse into the solemn traditions of Korea’s past.
In 1995, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Are you ready to witness the whispers of the past in this sacred royal sanctuary?
Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace, the most beloved palace of the Joseon kings, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Unlike Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung was designed in harmony with the natural landscape, following an asymmetrical layout that maximizes the existing terrain.
The buildings are arranged along the curves of the mountains rather than in rigid straight lines, emphasizing graceful curves over artificial symmetry.
This design highlights the beauty of nature while seamlessly integrating it with architecture.
The Huwon (Secret Garden), once an exclusive retreat for the king and the royal family, was designed to preserve the natural topography, creating a tranquil and secluded haven.
Changdeokgung is often regarded as "the most nature-friendly palace of the Joseon Dynasty", embodying the perfect balance between architecture and the natural world.
Step into a Time Capsule: Bukchon Hanok Village
Tucked away between the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a rare opportunity to walk through living history. Here, rows of beautifully preserved hanok (traditional Korean houses) line the narrow alleyways, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports visitors back to the days of the Joseon Dynasty.
Often called a “living street museum,” Bukchon is not just a place to see — it’s a place to feel. The name “Bukchon” (North Village) reflects its location north of Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno, but more than that, it tells the story of a prestigious neighborhood where Korea’s noble class, the yangban, once resided, drawn by its closeness to the royal palaces.
As you wander through its charming lanes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by tiled rooftops, wooden lattices, and the quiet hum of everyday life—a delightful blend of history and modern culture. Lose yourself in the maze of hanok, and discover why Bukchon remains one of Seoul’s most captivating hidden gems.
DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) – Where the Future Meets Creativity
Imagine stepping into a scene from a sci-fi movie—DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) isn’t just a landmark, it’s an experience. This futuristic masterpiece, designed by the legendary architect Zaha Hadid, feels like a spaceship that has landed in the heart of Seoul. Its flowing curves and glowing nightscape make it one of the most photographed places in the city.
Since its grand opening on March 21, 2014, DDP has been the epicenter of innovation, hosting world-class exhibitions, fashion shows, and product launches. From Seoul Fashion Week and MAMA (Mnet Asian Music Awards) to exclusive BTS exhibitions, every event here is a spectacle.
But DDP isn’t just for the elite—it’s a place where anyone can dream, design, and play. Whether you’re admiring its iconic architecture, catching a cutting-edge exhibition, or simply soaking in the neon-lit skyline, this is one Seoul experience you don’t want to miss.
Ready for a journey into the future? DDP is waiting.
Myeongdong Street – Seoul’s Fashion Playground
Myeongdong isn’t just a shopping district; it’s a bustling fashion playground where trends come to life. Stretching about 1 kilometer from Myeongdong Station (Line 4) to Euljiro and Lotte Department Store, this vibrant area offers a feast for the eyes and senses.
Here, you’ll find a blend of global brands, trendy boutiques, and high-end department stores all packed into one exciting space. Myeongdong is renowned as the ultimate fashion hub, offering everything from stylish clothing and chic footwear to statement accessories. Unlike Namdaemun or Dongdaemun, Myeongdong features a more refined selection of premium brands.
But it’s not just about shopping. Myeongdong is also a paradise for food lovers and entertainment seekers. You can’t visit without trying Myeongdong’s famous pork cutlet and the iconic Kalguksu (Myeongdong Kyoja), a noodle dish that has been beloved by locals for generations.
Don’t forget to explore Myeongdong’s unique attractions, including the stunning Myeongdong Cathedral, the vibrant Myeongdong Arts Theater, and the charming Myeongdong Jaemi-ro street.
Ending Point
At Hotel (Starting Point)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Private tour
Professional Tour Guide
Public transportation card (subway)
Travel Insurance
Gratuities
Anything not mentioned in details
Lunch
Entrance fee (total 3$)
This package is not available on Monday.
The Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace requires an advance reservation. (If you want, send me a message.)
There is an additional fee of $4 (one person) to visit the Secret Garden.
It don't operate on Mondays.
I can drive my own car to make customers comfortable.
My house is close to Incheon Airport.
I can pick up at Incheon Airport and take you to the hotel in my car.
When needed, I can invite a professional photographer to take photos.
I love history and travel.
So, I will make my customers' trips valuable.
In our country with distinct four seasons, I can guide joyfully at any time.
I lived in Gyeongju for a long time when I was young. I know a lot about Gyeongju.
I've traveled to Jeju Island dozens of times. I have a lot of knowledge about Jeju Island.
Hello! I am Alice.
I live in Incheon, South Korea. It's very close to Seoul.
I want to guide my clients through the charming city of Seoul.
Especially when introducing the five grand palaces of Seoul, I would like to invite a professional photographer to capture beautiful moments.
I can help them dress in hanbok and create stunning life shots.
I also want to guide them through Kyeongju, a city that breathes with a long history. I lived in Kyeongju until my teenage years.
I want to introduce UNESCO-listed Kyeongju, a city of culture and history.
I have traveled to Jeju Island more than several ten times. I also want to introduce Jeju Island.
My clients can go anywhere they want in South Korea.
There are many well-preserved cultural heritage sites with a long history in Korea, and they can also experience the convenience of fast-developing Seoul.
Come and visit Korea. Let's explore Seoul and travel together anywhere.
Traveling in Korea will be a memorable and cherished experience.
Best regards. Alice.
Moira S.
Pick-up at Incheon Airport and Hongdae Street tour
Customized
“Alice K. is the best ever . . .”
Honestly, my experience using Alice as my guide could not have been better! She was so professional and communicated clearly. I was anxious arriving in a country that I did not know the language (and the words I tried sounded nothing like they should, so nobody had a prayer of understanding me). She communicated with me every step, letting me know she was at the airport and advising me from step 1. She helped me get set up with the internet, helped with luggage, got me checked into the hotel (great car service with water bottles, etc.), and then shared all her knowledge of Hongdae by giving me a wonderful tour. She was so professional. I highly recommend her especially for anyone who needs a kind person who enjoys helping you enjoy Korea. Seoul was amazing and she made sure I could relax and enjoy myself. She was wonderful. I fully intend on using her again the next time I come to South Korea. Thank you Alice for helping me make memories!!!
Alice K.
Hello Moira!! I'm glad to hear that you arrived home safely. I was very worried because the WhatsApp messages weren't connecting. I was so happy to spend a wonderful time with you, who came all the way to Korea in the cold winter to see your daughter. I hope our country feels even warmer to your daughter. You were truly a great traveler. I wanted to show you more of Korea as you tried to understand it and wanted to visit libraries here. If you ever come back to visit your daughter again, please let me know. I would love to show you more of how beautiful this country is, a place where your daughter can continue to enjoy living. Wishing you health and happiness always. Best Regards. From Alice.
“12 hour layover in Seoul”
I had a wonderful day with Alice on my layover. She met me right outside of customs and was excellent communicating where to meet. We had a fast and furious day seeing the sites, eating the food, and doing a little unexpected shopping for cold weather gear for me. I'm so grateful to have spent the day with Alice and to have seen a snapshot of Korea. It was fascinating!
Alice K.
Thank you, Val. I also had a really great time today. It felt like meeting a close friend after a long time. I especially enjoyed having so many fun conversations with you. I hope you get a good rest on the flight back and have a comfortable journey. Wishing you happiness always, and I hope your family stays healthy and does well.
“Visiting Seoul first time - Seoul's past and present!”
As first time tourists in Korea, my wife and I, we decided to have a local guide and it was a very rewarding decision because Alice, our guide, provided an excellent job. We'd like to say many thanks to her for introducing us to Korea and Korean people and we had great discussions about the past and present time of Korea and also about the future of Korean peninsula! Yeonk-ok, a.k.a. Alice, is very professional, with excellent knowledge and pleasant in conversation! She adjusted the tour to our requests and made us feeling great in this beautiful city! Ovi and Chris R. from Naples, Florida say a big THANK YOU VERY MUCH ALICE!
Alice K.
Hello, Ovi!! You and Cris must be tired from the long trip. Traveling always fills us with excitement and happiness. But it can be tiring too. For me, traveling has always been great because it gives me a chance to step away from my life and experience living a different one, even if just for a moment. I believe that you and Cris will enjoy your daily lives and then, someday, head off to another destination. I’m sure you’re happy because you have Cris, who is always kind and a true friend to you. I hope to meet you again someday. Have a wonderful daily life. Best regards. From Alice.
$320/ per group