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South Korea
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Seoul
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Tours & Activities
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Historical Seoul Tour: Cheongwadae Sarangchae and Gyeongbokgung Palace
3h30
Instant confirmation
About this activity
Your guide will pick you up from your Seoul hotel in the morning and take you by air-conditioned vehicle to Cheongwadae Sarangchae, a historical center where you can walk in the footsteps of Korean presidents and learn about the past, present and future of Korea and its capital.
On the first floor, the Korea Exhibition Center, learn about Korean history, culture, historic figures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Head to the second floor to visit the Presidential Center, whose photos display scenes from Korea’s major political events from 60 years ago to today. Gain insight into the country’s governmental developments and take home a photo souvenir of you posing with political leaders.
Next, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in 1395. Explore the grounds and marvel at the traditional architectural elements of each structure, such as the main residences of the Joseon Dynasty-era king and queen. You'll discover how Gyeongbokgung remains the most beautiful and grandest of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.
You’ll then head to central Seoul to visit the National Folk Museum of Korea, where you'll get a glimpse into how Koreans have lived throughout the centuries, from ancient times to the Joseon Dynasty to the 20th century. Browse interesting artifacts and gain insight into the deep roots of Confucianism in Korean culture.
Next, at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul’s Jongno-gu district, see where the administrative headquarters of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is housed. This 500-year-old temple, an international tourist destination, played an important role in the current state of Seon Buddhism in South Korea, and will give you a sense of authentic cultural and religious traditions.
Your final stop is the National Ginseng Outlet, where you’ll learn about the important role this plant plays in Korean culture, medicine and cuisine. You’ll then be taken back to your hotel or Seoul’s shopping district, whichever you prefer.
Note: Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced by Changdeokgung Palace instead.
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On the first floor, the Korea Exhibition Center, learn about Korean history, culture, historic figures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Head to the second floor to visit the Presidential Center, whose photos display scenes from Korea’s major political events from 60 years ago to today. Gain insight into the country’s governmental developments and take home a photo souvenir of you posing with political leaders.
Next, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, built in 1395. Explore the grounds and marvel at the traditional architectural elements of each structure, such as the main residences of the Joseon Dynasty-era king and queen. You'll discover how Gyeongbokgung remains the most beautiful and grandest of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.
You’ll then head to central Seoul to visit the National Folk Museum of Korea, where you'll get a glimpse into how Koreans have lived throughout the centuries, from ancient times to the Joseon Dynasty to the 20th century. Browse interesting artifacts and gain insight into the deep roots of Confucianism in Korean culture.
Next, at Jogyesa Temple in Seoul’s Jongno-gu district, see where the administrative headquarters of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism is housed. This 500-year-old temple, an international tourist destination, played an important role in the current state of Seon Buddhism in South Korea, and will give you a sense of authentic cultural and religious traditions.
Your final stop is the National Ginseng Outlet, where you’ll learn about the important role this plant plays in Korean culture, medicine and cuisine. You’ll then be taken back to your hotel or Seoul’s shopping district, whichever you prefer.
Note: Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced by Changdeokgung Palace instead.
Included
- Seoul city hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
- Local English-speaking guide
- Entry/Admission - Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Entry/Admission - The National Folk Museum of Korea
- Entry/Admission - Jogyesa Temple
- Entry/Admission - Cheongwadae Sarangchae
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
Additional
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- A moderate amount of walking is involved; comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- Please note that Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed on Tuesdays and will be replaced by Changdeokgung Palace instead.
Features
Tourism
95%
Cultural
90%
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Very good tour and very knowledgeable guide, Michael.
An excellent tailor made trip for a short visit to Tokyo. We really appreciated the thoughtful planning of this private tour to meet our specific interests and the professional leadership of our guide.
I shall summarize the experiences in two sentences. The guide William was punctual and is a friendly and knowledgeable guide who explain to us the history of the Palace and the temple. Unfortunately the Presidential Center was under renovation. The guard changing at Gyeongbokgung Palace is an interesting sight.