South Korea Explorer

Upon arrival at Seoul Incheon International Airport, which has been recognized for its world-class service, you will be met by our airport representative who will provide the private vehicle transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

After breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM to begin a full day of exploration.

Today start with a visit to Jogyesa Temple, the heart of Zen Buddhism in Korea. Proceed to Gyeongbokgung Palace to witness the impressive Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. (Note: On Tuesdays, you will visit Deoksugung Palace instead.) Following this, continue to and explore the National Folk Museum to learn about the traditional lifestyle and history of the Korean people.

Your day continues with a stop at either a Korean Ginseng Centre or an Amethyst shop.

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic 90-minute drive to the Korean Folk Village. This expansive village provides a fascinating look into life during the late Joseon Dynasty, with over 260 traditional houses representing different regions of the country.

After your visit, return to Seoul, giving you the evening to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

After breakfast, meet your driver as you will be transferred to Seoul Station to board your high-speed train to Busan.

Your train, KTX 019, departs from Seoul at 9:30 AM and arrives at Busan Station at 12:16 PM. A representative will be waiting to meet you at 1:00 PM in front of the Toyoko Inn Hotel 1, located near the station.

The afternoon will be spent exploring Busan, starting with the lively Jagalchi Fishery Market, the city’s largest seafood market. You will then visit the beautiful Haeundae Beach and the scenic Dongbaek Park.

Later in the day, enjoy a drive of 100 kilometres to Gyeongju. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have the remainder of the day to relax and explore on your own.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your day of exploration begins as you meet your guide in the hotel lobby.

First, you will visit Seokguram Grotto (a UNESCO World Heritage site), a stunning Buddhist shrine built during the Silla Kingdom. Continue to and explore the magnificent Bulguksa Buddhist Temple (also a UNESCO site), renowned for its beautiful architecture and ancient stone relics.

Afterward, you will travel to Andong, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours.

In Andong, you will visit the Hahoe Village (a UNESCO site), which has maintained the traditional architecture and village structure of the Joseon Dynasty. The village is an authentic living community and gained international fame after a visit from Queen Elizabeth II.

Finally, you will be transferred to Pyeongchang, the host city of the 2018 Winter Olympics. The drive is about 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then meet your guide and begin the day with a scenic drive around the venues of the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang.

Next, will travel to Sokcho (a 1.5-hour drive) to visit Seoraksan National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Zone. Known for its stunning scenery, the park features majestic mountain peaks, crystal-clear streams, and a rich diversity of rare species. You may take an optional cable car ride to Gwongeumseong Fortress (approx. USD 20 per person) to enjoy some incredible panoramic views.

Please note: During the peak season in October, buses may be restricted from entering the park. If this occurs, the bus will park at the C District Square, and there will be a 3.6-kilometre walk to the park entrance. Due to this potential restriction, we may not be able to visit Seoraksan National Park on this day.

After this visit,  begin the 3.5-hour journey back to Seoul. The estimated arrival time is 5:00 PM, with drop-off at The Donghwa Duty Free Shop Building.