CNN Market Walk and Rooftop BBQ in East Seoul
Explore a lesser-known but vibrant side of Seoul with this walking tour through Gyeongdong and Cheongnyangni Markets. Discover Korea’s traditional herbal medicine culture, observe daily local life, and walk through contrasting neighborhoods where historic markets meet modern developments.
Guided by a local expert, you’ll visit hidden alleys, taste unique market snacks, and enjoy a cup of traditional ssanghwa tea, known for its restorative properties. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history and transformation of East Seoul.
The tour ends with a delicious Korean rooftop BBQ (indoor option available in case of bad weather), offering a relaxed and social way to complete your cultural experience. This is a perfect tour for those looking to go beyond the usual tourist path and connect with the true atmosphere of the city.
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CNN Market Walk and Rooftop BBQ in East Seoul
What's included in CNN Market Walk and Rooftop BBQ in East Seoul
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Cheongnyangni-dong
Step into a side of Seoul that most travelers never see. Join us for a 1.5-hour walking tour through the vibrant streets of Cheongnyangni Market — the heart of East Seoul's local life. You can find the cheapest fruits in Korea here.
Gyeongdong Market
Tucked away in the lively eastern side of Seoul lies Gyeongdong Market, one of Korea’s oldest and most authentic traditional markets. — a chance to experience the true rhythm of everyday Korean life. Here, you'll walk through narrow alleys filled with the earthy scent of dried herbs, roots, and natural remedies. Local vendors call out with friendly voices, selling everything from ginseng and jujube to exotic teas and handmade goods. It's a sensory experience — vibrant, chaotic, and beautiful in its own way. During our visit, we’ll take a break at a cozy market tea shop and enjoy a warm cup of ssanghwa-cha (쌍화차) — a traditional Korean herbal tea that’s been enjoyed for centuries. Made from a mix of oriental herbs like cinnamon, licorice, peony root, and dates, ssanghwa-cha is known for boosting energy, relieving fatigue, and calming the body. It’s more than just tea — it’s a taste of Korean wellness culture in a cup.
Gyeongdong Market
Tucked inside what was once an old neighborhood theater, the Starbucks at Gyeongdong Market is unlike any other. With its vintage brick façade and preserved architectural details, this café blends the charm of Seoul’s past with the comforts of modern coffee culture. As you sip your latte beneath high ceilings and nostalgic film posters, you’re literally enjoying your drink in a piece of local history. It’s the perfect rest stop during your market adventure — where tradition meets trend in the most unexpected way.
Inclusions
- Pork BBQ (Samgyeopsal)
- Ssanhwacha traditional Korean herbal tea
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Cheongnyangni (CNN) Station line1, Kyungui-jungang line, KTX exit 4
