South Korea's Cultural and Scenic Odyssey - 9 Days

Welcome to Korea! Upon your arrival in Seoul, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and enjoy some leisure time to explore the city's surroundings at your own pace. In the afternoon, we will provide you with all the relevant information about the start of your tour. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On the second day, we begin our journey by setting off early to the Cheorwon region, visiting the renowned Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea. Our day includes an exploration of the Second Tunnel, a clandestine passageway dug by the North Korean army and discovered in 1975. From there, we make our way to the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, where you will be treated to sweeping views of the DMZ and the first glimpses of North Korean villages, complemented by a small on-site museum illustrating the Korean War. We continue to the deserted Woljeong-ri railway station before paying homage at the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, recognising the bravery of a French UN battalion during intense battles. Lunch is included as part of the experience.

Our day also features a visit to a local Makgeolli producer, where you can see how this traditional Korean rice liquor is made. We head back to Seoul by evening. Please carry your passport today, as entry to the DMZ�subject to sudden closure�is contingent upon it. If access is restricted, an alternative experience will be offered. In the evening, we head to City Hall to admire its impressive wave-inspired architecture. Nearby, we appreciate Deoksugung Palace, beautifully illuminated at night, which offers a striking contrast of historical charm and contemporary flair. Our evening promenade leads us to Myeongdong, celebrated as South Korea's largest hub for shopping and entertainment�its name aptly translating to "bright town". Dinner is included at a local eatery, and our return to the hotel is via Seoul's efficient metro system, with tickets provided for your convenience. Enjoy your overnight stay.

Today, we embark on an immersive five-hour exploration of Seoul, beginning with a visit to Changdeokgung Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is nestled within a sprawling park and houses a remarkable collection of palaces. Our journey continues past Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean homes offer a glimpse into the city�s rich history. The next stop is the War Memorial of Korea, an impressive museum that delves into the various conflicts shaping the country's past, with a particular emphasis on the Korean War, during which soldiers from numerous nations served under the United Nations. We will break for lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the vibrant Gangnam District. Known for its bustling shopping centres and lively entertainment venues, Gangnam is a must-see for any traveller. We conclude the day at the magnificent Lotte World Tower, a towering skyscraper at 550 metres high. Here, you have the option to ascend the tower (entry not included) or explore the adjacent park and luxurious shopping malls. Afterwards, we will return to our hotel, leaving you the evening at leisure to unwind or continue exploring the city at your own pace.

Today, we begin our day by visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, an impressive site with over 600 years of history. Here, you'll have the opportunity to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard if it coincides with our visit. Following this cultural experience, we will leave Seoul and journey southward. Our first stop is Suwon, once the capital of Korea, known for its remarkable UNESCO-listed walls. We will explore these formidable fortifications and visit the Hwaseong Haenggung, a summer palace offering insights into Korea�s regal history. Lunch is included today to refuel you on this interesting journey. Our travels then take us to Jeonju, where we will delve into its historic centre, Hanok Village. Here, you can explore charming traditional houses, quaint shops, and captivating art galleries, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Today, we'll begin our journey to Sunchang Gochujang Village, nestled at the foot of Mount Amisan. This village, with its traditional hanok houses and courtyards brimming with clay pots known as hang-a-ri, is famed for its master artisans who produce gochujang, or Korean chilli paste, using age-old methods. You'll have the chance to partake in crafting this renowned sauce firsthand. Our next stop is Damyang, home to the Juknokwon Bamboo Forest, renowned for its serene paths ideal for a reflective walk amid the refreshing breeze. Here, you'll also discover a variety of bamboo products, celebrated in places like the Bamboo Museum. Enjoy an included lunch featuring a local delicacy � rice cooked in a bamboo stalk.

We then head to Haeinsa, set amidst breathtaking mountain landscapes and forests. This is one of Korea�s most significant Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, established in 802. It houses the Tripitaka Koreana, the most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures, engraved on 80,000 wooden tablets. Our day concludes as we proceed to Busan, Korea's vibrant second-largest city, where we will settle for the night.

In the morning, we leave Busan to visit the Haedong Yonggung Temple, a stunning 14th-century Buddhist site perched by the sea. We then return to Busan to pay our respects at the UN Memorial Cemetery, a significant resting place honouring individuals from multiple nations. Following this, we explore Nampo Port's bustling fish market�South Korea�s largest of its kind�where we've arranged for an included lunch. Our afternoon begins with a leisurely walk to Yongdusan Park, showcasing its impressive 120-metre pagoda. Later, make your way to Songdo Beach, where you can enjoy a ride on the country's first marine cable car (ticket included, weather dependent), offering sweeping views of the bay. Our journey continues with a visit to Gamcheon Culture Village, renowned for its vibrant and colourful buildings, intricate alleyways, and art galleries. You'll also find pottery workshops and charming cafes nestled within this creative district. We�ll conclude our day back in Busan for an overnight stay.

Today, we'll head to Busan Airport for an included flight to Jeju Island, with an expected arrival by mid-morning. Recognised as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Jeju is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers captivating landscapes. Our exploration begins at Seongsan Ilchulbong Crater, also known as Sunrise Peak, which is a highlight for visitors due to its stunning vistas. We will then proceed to Seongeup Folk Village, nestled at the base of Hallasan Mountain and enclosed by walls. This village provides a glimpse into history with its traditional stone and clay houses topped with thatched roofs. You can wander through the streets, soaking up the authenticity of this cultural site.

Following our village exploration, we will make our way to the Haenyeo Museum. Here, you'll discover the rich tradition of Jeju's famous female divers. Through various exhibits, you'll learn about their enduring history, cultural practices, and the unique gear they use in their fishing endeavours. After our immersive experiences, we'll ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel for some relaxation and free time to continue exploring at your leisure.

Today, we'll set off on an excursion to Jeongbang Waterfall, renowned as the only waterfall in Asia pouring directly into the ocean, making for a truly unique and captivating experience. Following this, we'll visit the breathtaking Jusangjeolli Cliff. This impressive volcanic rock formation is characterised by its grand stone pillars lining the coastline, showcasing nature�s architectural prowess. Our journey continues at the Osulloc Tea Museum, where you will gain insight into the rich history and enduring tradition of Korean tea, a vital element of the nation's cultural heritage. To conclude the day, we'll enjoy a leisurely walk through the Garden of Thinking � an enchanting space merging art, creativity, and philosophy. Amidst beautiful landscapes and thought-provoking installations, it provides a serene and inspiring atmosphere. We'll later return to the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we conclude our unforgettable journey on Jeju Island. As you bid farewell, we hope the memories of diverse landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and new friendships made along the way will linger fondly in your thoughts. Safe travels!