National Folk Museum of Korea

* Itinerary: Pick up from Hotel in Downtown - Jogyesa Buddhist Temple - Changing of the Guard Ceremony - Gyeongbok Palace - National Folk Museum - Pass by Blue House - Ginseng Museum & Shop - Drop off at Myeongdong or City Hall area. Jogyesa Temple – Discover the Heart of Korean Buddhism Jogyesa was built in 1395 and features a mix of both royal and temple architectural elements. Here you will see the golden Buddha statues and the iconic lanterns of Jogyesa. You will be able to explore the Hill of Supreme Bliss (Geuknakjeon) which is where the Buddha was enshrined. Jogyesa features the Daeungjeon (Main Buddha Hall) which is decorated with pine wood from the Baekdu Mountain. Here, you will be able to hear holy chanting. Gyeongbok Palace Our Gyeongbok Palace tour is perfect for those who have an appetite for history and love to follow in the footsteps of the kings and queens from the Joseon Dynasty. One of our most popular Tours in Seoul, our itinerary takes you through the key areas of the city that have a cultural significance. Continue on to the Gyeongbok palace where you'll first observe the changing of the guard ceremony. Then, explore Gyeongbok Palace, built in 1395 and is arguably the most beautiful palace in Korea and remains the grandest of all the five main palaces in Seoul. National Palace Museum of Korea The National Palace Museum of Korea was initially established as the “Korean Imperial Museum” in 1908; however, it was renamed and relocated many times throughout its history. Today the museum holds approximately 45,000 artefacts and royal treasures from Joseon Dynasty palaces and the Korean Empire. In addition, you can find 14 of South Korea’s National Treasures located here. With 500 years of history on display, you can get a real sense of the past and discover what it was like to live as a Joseon King and Queen. * Gyeongbok Palace (with Changing of Guard Ceremony) & National Folk Museum are closed on every Tuesday. (Itinerary for Tuesday : Gyeongbok Palace - National Folk Museum -> Changdeok Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village)

Discover the Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Seoul. Dress up like a Joseon-era nobleman or noblewoman and step back in time. Feel like you are the star of a drama set in Korean ancient as you walk through the palace grounds of Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung.  Check-in to receive your hanbok clothing and ticket-free entry to the Gyeongbok Palace at which you can visit at your own pace. Get hair-styling, Korean hairband, and a handbag to use during your rental. Pick from the most traditional hanbok to special and royal ones. With a full spectrum of optional add-ons get the best outfit to suit you. Store your street clothes in a provided locker.  Walk through the palace grounds like royalty and take some amazing photos to remember your trip. Choose from a rental that is for 2-hours, 4-hours, or a for the full-day. Return the rental by the time the shop closes at 7:00PM.

Discover the city highlights and secret alleys of Seoul with a professional guide. For the morning tour, meet at City Hall Station then walk to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Watch the changing ceremony of royal guards and learn the 500-year history of the Joseon Dynasty. Stop at the National Folk Museum of Korea, located within the palace. See over 98,000 artifacts and understand the daily lives of Koreans during the Joseon dynasty.   The next stop is Bukchon Hanok Village for walk through Samcheongdong Alley. Admire the traditional houses and see how old and new coexists within the city. The morning tour ends at the Insadong area, a perfect place to shop for souvenirs. You can ask your guide for recommendations. With the full-day option, lunch will be included, and the tour will continue afterwards.

Start the day with hotel pickup and meet your local guide to start exploring Seoul's best cultural highlights. The first stop on the itinerary is the Blue House, also known as 'Cheongwadae,' which serves as the official residence of the President of South Korea. Don't forget to capture a memorable souvenir photo in front of this iconic landmark. Gyeongbokgung palace is the oldest palace of the Joseon Dynasty, built in 1394 as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty by its founder King Taejo, it's the most comprehensive and grandest of the five palaces of the period. The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony is a great opportunity to experience a rare traditional scene in Korea. Be sure to bring a camera to take lots of pictures. Admire the guards’ costumes with brilliant primary colors. (As Gyeongbokgung palace is closed on Tuesdays, it will be replaced with a tour of Deoksugung palace on Tuesdays.) The next stop is Cheongha Korea Ginseng. Ginseng is first mentioned in “Ji Jiu Zhang” during Han dynasty of China as herb used widely in the orient for so many diseases and ailments. It is a plant which had been regarded as a panacea, a cure all. In the studies, Korean ginseng shows best performances in adaptogenic properties. After great Bibimbab lunch, you will visit Changdeokgung Palace which was used as the main palace by many Joseon Kings and is very well preserved. The palace was registered with UNESCO in 1997. (You'll visit Jongmyo Royal Shrine instead on Mondays) Continue the cultural journey at Insadong Antique Shop Alley, a vibrant street lined with art galleries, traditional tea houses, and antique shops. Discover unique souvenirs and traditional crafts Namsangol Hanok Village stands out between tall buildings in the middle of the city with its five restored traditional Korean houses, a pavilion, a pond, and a time capsule. (You will visit to Bukchon Hanok Village instead on Mondays) Now we will visit one of a symbol of Seoul's historical significance. Sungnyemun gate, also known as Namdaemun gate, is one of the Eight Gates in the Fortress Wall of Seoul. Take memorable photos of one of the gates that surrounded the city. (Outside only on Mondays) And then let's enjoy the Namdaemun Market! It is one of the oldest and largest open-air traditional markets in Seoul. Explore a wide array of goods, including clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and delicious street food. *Three main meals of the photos are included only in 3 main meal option. Finally, the tour will conclude with a drop-off at either Myeongdong or City Hall, depending on your preference.

You will meet your guide at designated point, Lotte Hotel Seoul for this small group Seoul tour. On your way to see the first attraction, The Blue House called as Cheongwadae and see into The Blue House, the executive office and official residence of the South Korean head of state, the President of the Republic of Korea. The Blue House is, in fact, a complex of buildings, built largely in the traditional Korean architectural style with some modern elements. One of the highlights of this tour is a Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. It is a great opportunity to experience a rare traditional scene in Korea. Be sure to bring a camera to take pictures. Afterwards, you will continue to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of the 5 grand palaces built by the Joseon dynasty. The government ministry district and main buildings of Gyeongbokgung Palace formed the heart of the capital city of Seoul and represented the sovereignty of the Joseon Dynasty. The architectural principles of ancient China were harmoniously incorporated into both the tradition and the appearance of the Joseon royal court. * Gyeongbokgung palace will replaced to Deoksugung palace on Tuesday, as Gyeongbokgung palace is closed on Tuesday. Later visit Cheongha Korea Ginseng. Ginseng is first mentioned in “Ji Jiu Zhang” during Han dynasty of China as herb used widely in the orient for so many diseases and ailments. It is a plant which had been regarded as a panacea, a cure all. In the studies, Korean ginseng shows best performances in adaptogenic properties. At the end of this tour, you will be dropped-off at Myeongdong Lotte Hotel or Namdaemun market finally. Itinerary: • Visiting the Blue House ‘Cheongwadae’. • Gyeongbokgung Palace, The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony (Only Deoksugung Palace on Tuesday) • Cheongha Korea Ginseng • 12:00 Drop off at Myeongdong Lotte Hotel or Namdaemun Market

Exploring of Korea’s unique cultural identity and beauty! Architecture is the center of culture and center of tour. Architectural style represents spirit of times. Confucianism is spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Confucianism culture of Joseon Dynasty is unique & differentiated characteristic of Korean culture, compared to Chinese and Japanese. The beauty and value of traditional architecture consists of architectural feature & its historical significance and spirit of times. With the basic information offered by guide, you can fully appreciate the beauty and value of not only Gyeongbokgung but entire Korea’s traditional culture. Without the basic information, you are just fascinated by their superficial beauty. The information helps tourists can fully enjoy not only this tour but also entire tour in Korea. Gyeongbokgung is the most beautiful place and must-see architectures in Korea. If we can visit only one of all the attractions and buildings that represent Korea's traditional culture, it should be Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung is highlight & essence of traditional palace. Gyeongbokgung was 1st & main palace of Joseon Dynasty built in 1395 and largest & grandest palace. Gyeongbokgung not only represents traditional Korean culture but also the most beautiful place in whole Korea. National Folk Museum of Gyeongbokgung shows the inner environment of house, living customs & cultures & activities and major ceremonies & conventions for general people of Joseon Dynasty. Bukchon and Folk Museum is one pair to appreciate folk culture of Joseon Dynasty. Jogyesa Buddhist temple is small but the headquarter Buddhist temple of Korean Buddhist Organization, built in 1926 in Insadong and located adjacent to Gyeongbokgung. Bukchon is hanok(traditional Korean house) village with long history, largest cluster of about 1,000 hanoks. Buckon village shows beautiful scenery that blends the traditional landscape with metropolitan skyscrapers and N Seoul tower in the background.

• Itinerary: Jogyesa Buddhist Temple - Changing of the Guard Ceremony - Gyeongbok Palace - National Folk Museum - Pass by Blue House - Ginseng Museum - Insadong Street (Free time for lunch) - N Seoul Tower (Including only round trip cable car) - Namdaemun Local Market or Traditional Market - Drop off at Myeongdong or City Hall area. * Lunch is not included (Tour guide will recommend the best restaurants and menu). * Gyeongbok Palace (with Changing of Guard Ceremony) & National Folk Museum are closed on every Tuesday. (Itinerary for Tuesday : Gyeongbok Palace - National Folk Museum -> Changdeok Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village) Don’t miss the chance to explore Seoul, South Korea’s vibrant capital on our Seoul City Tour! You will discover a mix of art, delicious cuisine, tradition, natural beauty, and a deeper understanding of culture. This is a wonderful opportunity to create lifetime memories with your loved ones! The Jogyesa Buddhist Temple is one of the most important landmarks of Korean Buddhism, first established all the way back in 1935. The temple is located in downtown Seoul and is graced by an ancient white pine tree. Next up on our Seoul City Tour is Gyeongbokgung Palace. This was the main home of the Josun Dynasty constructed in 1395. This is a stunning building with 7,700 rooms! The palace did take a few hits over the years, which makes it all the more interesting to see today! One of the first stops on our Seoul tour will be the Changing of the Guard Ceremony which is a beloved old tradition. Then, we will visit one of Seoul’s main palaces – Gyeongbok Palace which is home to thousands of years worth of history and has survived many turbulent events. After taking a lunch break, we’ll continue with our Seoul City Tour by heading over to two local markets – Insadong Arts and Crafts Market. Here, you can find beautiful local treasures to bring home to your loved ones and sample quirky little snacks and Korean street food. Once you’ve had your full of Korean treats, we’ll treat you to some magical views of downtown Seoul on the Namsan Cable Car. This well-known Korean landmark offers captivating views of Namsan Mountain and downtown Seoul as you ascend the 605-metre-long cable to the top. The last destination will be the first largest traditional market in Korea called Namdaemun Market. Various goods in store such as children’s, men’s and women’s wear. The displayed goods are sold at a reasonable price and it also functions as a wholesale market. Finally, we will drop you off at either Myeongdong or City Hall after a magical full day tour in Seoul.

Exploring of Korea’s unique cultural identity and beauty! Architecture is the center of culture and center of tour. Architectural style represents spirit of times. Confucianism is spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Confucianism culture of Joseon Dynasty is unique & differentiated characteristic of Korean culture, compared to Chinese and Japanese. The beauty and value of traditional architecture consists of architectural feature & its historical significance and spirit of times. With the basic information offered by guide, you can fully appreciate the beauty and value of not only Gyeongbokgung but entire Korea’s traditional culture. Without the basic information, you are just fascinated by their superficial beauty. The information helps tourists can fully enjoy not only this tour but also entire tour in Korea. Gyeongbokgung is the most beautiful place and must-see architectures in Korea. If we can visit only one of all the attractions and buildings that represent Korea's traditional culture, it should be Gyeongbokgung Palace. Tour starts from greeting of the guest at Inchon Airport and take AREX train together, and then go tours to the best places in Seoul, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the essence & highlight of palace architecture, Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong street for half days. With the end of tour, guide accompany guest to Seoul Station to take express train for Incheon Airport, so that guest take the train departing for Inchon airport. All transportation costs are included in the price of tour. Architecture is center of tour. Architectural style represents spirit of times, and Confucianism was spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Gyeongbokgung represents Confucianism. Through guide’s information of Confucianism, guest can fully appreciate the authentic beauty and value of Korean culture as well as Gyeongbokgung. Gyeongbokgung is highlight & essence of traditional palace. Gyeongbokgung was 1st & main palace of Joseon Dynasty built in 1395 and largest & grandest palace. Gyeongbokgung is the most beautiful architecture and place in whole Korea. National Folk Museum of Gyeongbokgung shows the inner environment of house, living customs & cultures & activities and major ceremonies & conventions for general people of Joseon Dynasty. Bukchon and Folk Museum is one pair to appreciate folk culture of Joseon Dynasty. Jogyesa Buddhist temple is small but the headquarter Buddhist temple of Korean Buddhist Organization, built in 1926 in Insadong and located adjacent to Gyeongbokgung. Bukchon is hanok(traditional Korean house) village with long history, largest cluster of about 1,000 hanoks. Buckon village shows beautiful scenery that blends the traditional landscape with metropolitan skyscrapers and N Seoul tower in the background.

Exploring of Korea’s unique cultural identity and beauty! Architecture is the center of culture and center of tour. Architectural style represents spirit of times. Confucianism is spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Confucianism culture of Joseon Dynasty is unique & differentiated characteristic of Korean culture, compared to Chinese and Japanese. The beauty and value of traditional architecture consists of architectural feature & its historical significance and spirit of times. With the basic information offered by guide, you can fully appreciate the beauty and value of not only Gyeongbokgung but entire Korea’s traditional culture. Without the basic information, you are just fascinated by their superficial beauty. The information helps tourists can fully enjoy not only this tour but also entire tour in Korea. Gyeongbokgung is the most beautiful place and must-see architectures in Korea. If we can visit only one of all the attractions and buildings that represent Korea's traditional culture, it should be Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung is highlight & essence of traditional palace. Gyeongbokgung was 1st & main palace of Joseon Dynasty built in 1395 and largest & grandest palace. Gyeongbokgung not only represents traditional Korean culture but also the most beautiful place in whole Korea. National Folk Museum of Gyeongbokgung shows the inner environment of house, living customs & cultures & activities and major ceremonies & conventions for general people of Joseon Dynasty. Bukchon and Folk Museum is one pair to appreciate folk culture of Joseon Dynasty. Bukchon Hanok Maeul is hanok(traditional Korean house) village with long history, largest cluster of about 1,000 hanoks. Buckon village shows beautiful scenery that blends the traditional landscape with metropolitan skyscrapers and N Seoul tower in the background. Let’s not forget about delicious street food of Korea at Gwanjang market. Guest can enjoy delicious Korean street food at Gwangjang market.

Exploring of Korea’s unique cultural identity and beauty! Architecture is the center of culture and center of tour. Architectural style represents spirit of times. Confucianism is spirit of Joseon Dynasty. Confucianism culture of Joseon Dynasty is unique & differentiated characteristic of Korean culture, compared to Chinese and Japanese. The beauty and value of traditional architecture consists of architectural feature & its historical significance and spirit of times. With the basic information offered by guide, you can fully appreciate the beauty and value of not only Gyeongbokgung but entire Korea’s traditional culture. Without the basic information, you are just fascinated by their superficial beauty. The information helps tourists can fully enjoy not only this tour but also entire tour in Korea. Gyeongbokgung is the most beautiful place and must-see architectures in Korea. If we can visit only one of all the attractions and buildings that represent Korea's traditional culture, it should be Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongbokgung is highlight & essence of traditional palace. Gyeongbokgung was 1st & main palace of Joseon Dynasty built in 1395 and largest & grandest palace. Gyeongbokgung not only represents traditional Korean culture but also the most beautiful place in whole Korea. Bukchon Hanok Maeul is hanok(traditional Korean house) village with long history, largest cluster of about 1,000 hanoks. Buckon village shows beautiful scenery that blends the traditional landscape with metropolitan skyscrapers and N Seoul tower in the background. Let’s not forget about young & vibrant atmosphere of contemporary Korean culture at Hondae street and the delicious food & living culture of Korea at Gwanjang market and beautiful landscape of Seoul at N Seoul Tower. Guest can enjoy Korean street food at Gwangjang market and appreciate panoramic view of beautiful Seoul at N Seoul Tower. Hongdae street is young & vibrant street for street performance of Korean POP song & dance & trendy shops. As alternative destination for Hongdae street, guest can choose National Museum of Korea. Among all Korean museums, National Museum of Korea is the largest and most prestigious museum with attractive huge outdoor garden representing Korea. National Museum offers the representative relics about 10,000 pieces on display from entire Korean history, and especially, there exhibit big scale collection of jade green color Goryeo Cheongja/Celadon embodying aristocratic Buddhism culture and Joseon Baekja-pure white porcelain without any decorative elements reflecting Confucianism culture, that represent the epitome and essence of Korean cultural art.