Discover Seoul’s rich history, culture, and flavors on this guided tour. Start at Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean neighborhood known for its scenic alleys and hanok house. Watch the iconic Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace and explore the palace’s stunning grounds, filled with centuries of royal heritage. Pass by the Blue House, Korea’s former Presidential residence, for scenic views and photos. Then visit Cheongha Korean Ginseng Center to learn about Korea’s famous ginseng and its health benefits. End the tour at Gwangjang Market, Seoul’s oldest market, where you can taste local street food like bindaetteok and mayak gimbap.
On Tuesdays, the tour visits Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Insadong, known for traditional crafts, art galleries, and street food, instead of Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Royal Guard Ceremony.
This well-paced tour offers a perfect mix of heritage, cuisine, and local culture—ideal for first-time visitors.
What better way to get to know a country’s heart and soul than going to its most traditional village? Bukchon Hanok Village is a 600 year old urban environment made up of hundreds of Hanok Houses (Korean traditional style houses) which date all the way back to the Joseon Dynasty. Traditionally this village was home to high-ranking government officials and nobles. Bukchon literally translated to “Northern Village” still to this day remains a residential neighbourhood, with real people living there. For this reason we ask that you be respectful and considerate at all times during our Hanok Village tour.
Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul’s grandest palace, showcases vibrant traditional costumes and music. Seeing this iconic ceremony is a must while in Seoul. The ceremony began as a safety precaution during the Joseon Dynasty, where the soldiers, also known as “Wanggung Sumunjang,” were responsible for opening and closing the palace gates and inspecting visitors to the king. The Joseon Dynasty was known for constructing magnificent palaces, and Gyeongbokgung is considered the most beautiful and impressive among the five royal palaces built around Seoul. Here, you’ll see original elements dating back to its construction in 1395. Although the palace was almost completely destroyed during the Japanese occupation in the 20th century, it has since been meticulously reconstructed, blending historic features with modern elements. Note: On Tuesdays, Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony are replaced with visits to Changdeokgung Palace and Insadong.
Cheongha Korean Ginseng Center Visit to Cheongha Korean Ginseng Center, where you can discover Korea’s famous ginseng and its renowned health benefits. Korean ginseng, known as “insam,” has been highly valued for centuries for its medicinal properties, such as boosting energy, improving immunity, and reducing fatigue. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how ginseng is cultivated, processed, and incorporated into various health products. There will also be time to browse or shop for premium ginseng products, including extracts, teas, and skincare items.
You will make your own way to the meeting points