South Korea's Hidden Treasures

Seoul, the fast-paced capital of South Korea, has plenty to offer. From historic palaces and traditional architecture, to vibrant markets, busy malls and interesting restaurants there is so much to see and do. The city is home to five Joseon-era palaces of which the Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest. The walled complex, with nearly 300 buildings inside, has been meticulously restored offering a peek into a bygone era. There are a plethora of markets in Seoul such as Gwangjang Market, which sells clothes, traditional crafts and delicious local treats. Myeongdong and Gangnam are two areas where you can find iconic Korean beauty products and the latest in fashion. There are also quieter spots in the city such as the peaceful Seoul Forest and the neighborhood of Insadong with its quaint alleys filled with stores selling handcrafted artisanal products. For insight into the country’s long military history, visit the War Memorial of Korea. In the evening, the N Seoul Tower is the place to take in a stunning sunset before exploring the city’s buzzing nightlife. Plenty of day trips are possible from Seoul as well, including to the DMZ, which is 34 miles north of the city and is the area that separates North and South Korea.

Andong is the capital city of North Gyeongsang Province in South Korea. It is set on the banks of the Nakdong River and is known primarily for its open-air heritage museums and folk traditions. The Andong Folk Museum features exhibits of traditional ceremonies. The Hahoe Folk Village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has maintained the system of clan-based villages and showcases Joseon period-style architecture and valuable books. The Andong Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the blossoming of these beautiful flowers along the river in spring and includes food markets and artistic performances. The city also hosts the Andong Folk Festival in October every year, the highlight of which are the traditional Andong masks. Stroll across the Wolyung Gyo Bridge, the longest wooden bridge in Korea that is dedicated to the love story of a local couple. The Bongjeongsa Temple is set on the slopes of Mount Cheondung and contains the oldest wooden building among Korean temples. Nearby Buyongdae Cliff offers panoramic river views. While here, try Andong Soju, a specialty of the region that is made exclusively with natural ingredients. Salted mackerel is another popular local delicacy.

Immerse yourself in South Korean culture during this guided excursion. Begin with a scenic drive to Buyongdae Cliff in the Taebaek Mountains, a range that straddles South and North Korea. From the summit, enjoy splendid views of Hahoe Village and Nakdonggang River, and learn about local art and architecture. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village, tucked into a secluded rural valley. At this idyllic hamlet, visit the Hahoe Mask Museum, which displays a collection of more than 800 Korean and international masks. Stroll through the winding alleys lined with exquisite traditional homes, which once belonged to wealthy noble families of the Ryu clan. After, watch an enthralling Hahoe Mask Dance. It features eleven characters, with the masks representing their social position, occupation and economic status in the feudal society. After, head back to your hotel with a deeper understanding of Korean culture and history. (Duration: full day; Time: 1000 hrs; Private activity & transfers; All entry fees are included; Please bring your own refillable/reusable water bottle; This activity is only available as part of a multi-day tour package)

Gyeongju is a coastal city located in the southeastern region of South Korea. Popularly known as the ‘museum without walls’ it served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla for over a thousand years. Today, Gyeongju is a thriving city where historical monuments rub shoulders with modern buildings. It is packed with UNESCO-listed heritage sites such as the beautiful Bulguksa Temple, the mountainside Seokguram Grotto, and Cheomseongdae. Most of these ancient cultural sites are situated well within the city limits. Donggung Palace, Wolji Pond and Daereungwon, a royal tomb complex, are easily accessible as well. Early spring is a good time to view the cherry blossoms in all their glory. For a peek into the city’s culinary scene and to sample local specialities, visit the vibrant Hwang Nidan Street. The trendy cafes and restaurants here are housed in traditional Hanok-style buildings, which make for some great photographs.

Explore the historical and cultural attractions of Gyeongju. In the morning, meet your guide and drive across the city to visit the UNESCO-listed Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa Temple. Located on Mount Tohamsan, this temple complex houses the chief shrine of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and its hermitage. Follow your guide around the wooden buildings and stone terraces dating back to the Silla era, and get a closer look at the exquisite carvings and statues. Later, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before traveling to Gyeongju National Museum. Once you reach, view the extensive collection of artifacts, relics, and treasures chronicling the reign of the Silla dynasty. Next, head to the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, also known as Tumuli Park, with its cluster of royal tombs. Stop at Cheonmachong Tomb, the only one open to the public, to see the wooden coffin resting in an underground chamber. Your last stop of the day is the historic Woljeonggyo Bridge, first built during the heyday of the Silla kingdom and reconstructed in 2018. Take a walk on this gateway that connects the royal palaces of Silla to the south. Wind up your tour at the manmade Wolji Pond that was once part of an ancient Korean palace complex. (Duration: full day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Entry fees for Daereungwon Tomb Complex included; Please bring your own refillable/reusable water bottle)

Busan is located along the seafront in southeast Korea, and is the second largest city in the country. Famous for its busy port, the metropolis is also a popular tourist destination because of its lively beaches including Haeundae and Songjeong. The areas around the beaches are lined with restaurants, bars, and street food stalls that come alive in the evening. There are also quieter beaches to visit such as the peaceful Dadaepo. The mountain of Geumjeongsan has a cable car that goes all the way up and hiking trails for the more adventurous. Another city highlight are the famous marketplaces. At Jagalchi market, explore narrow streets packed with stalls selling fish, octopus and cooked seafood. To learn more about Busan, visit the Gamcheon Culture Village, with its artwork covered lanes and stairways. Busan Tower, in Yongdusan Park, is a great spot to take in panoramic views of the city. For a taste of the local nightlife, head to the areas of Gwangalli and Seomyeon with its clubs, eateries and pubs.

Jeju Island is located south of the mainland, in the Korea Strait. This UNESCO-listed destination makes for an idyllic getaway, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It contains the Hallasan National Park, named after South Korea’s highest mountain that is also a shield volcano. On the summit sits the small Baengnokdam Crater Lake, where deer come to drink water. Immerse yourself in nature at Bijarim Forest, Saryeoni Forest Trail, and Jeolmul Recreational Forest. There is also the iconic Jeju Olle Trail that winds past prominent landmarks. In summer, beaches such as Hyeopjae Beach, Samyang Beach, and Iho Tewoo Beach, are also open to public for swimming and watersports. The island’s nightlife centers around the cities with their vibrant markets and eye-catching lights. In Jeju City, you will find Dongmun Traditional Market and Olle Market, packed with stalls of fresh produce, seafood, and household goods. Meanwhile, Cheonjiyeon Falls and Saeyeongyo Bridge in Seogwipo City come to life in the evening. Food is an essential part of the Jeju experience, and it is known for local specialties including grilled red tilefish, black pork and the delicious orange fruit called hallabong.