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12 Day Life & Culture of South Korea - Wednesday Departure

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Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Countries Visited

South Korea

Cities Visited

Busan , Gyeongju , Jeju , Seoul

DAY 1, Wednesday - Depart for South Korea
Depart for South Korea

DAY 2, Thursday - Arrive in Seoul
Arrive in Seoul, the capital of South Korea and one of East Asia's financial and cultural centers. Meet your representative and transfer to the hotel. Balance of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Seoul

DAY 3, Friday - Gwangjang Market, National Museum of Korea
Begin the day in Seoul with the opportunity to try on hanbok, a traditional Korean dress. Next, watch the Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace before heading the Bukchon Hanok Village. Take a walking tour of this traditional Korean village and immerse yourself in its ancient Joseon Dynasty atmosphere. Later, explore the traditional Gwangjang Market*, known for its textiles and street food, and then visit the National Museum of Korea that will take you on a journey through Korea's past, from prehistoric times to the end of the Empire period. Later, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by dinner*For the Oct 29 departure, Gwangjang Market will be swapped with Cooking Class which should take place on day 11.
Overnight: Seoul
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 4, Saturday - Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Depart Seoul early this morning and head to the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)*. Learn about the history of the conflict between the North and South. Upon arrival at Imjingak Park, view Freedom Bridge and continue to Dorasan Station and Dora Observatory from where you can look at North Korea through binoculars. After, experience the Third Tunnel, one of four known tunnels stretching under the border between North and South Korea. Following lunch at a local restaurant, return to Seoul. The balance of your day is at leisure *Due to military exercises and/or heightened tensions along the border, the order of sightseeing and access to sites is subject to change due to military exercises and heightened tensions along the border. A passport is required for visiting the DMZ. All visitors must adhere to the dress code. Please review Trip Preparation for additional dress code guidelines
Overnight: Seoul
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 5, Sunday - High-Speed Train to Gyeongju, Yangdong Village, Soju Brewery
Board a high-speed train to Gyeongju, former capital of the Silla kingdom of ancient Korea this morning. Travel south through some of the country's most beautiful scenery. On arrival, have lunch and afterward, head to Yandong Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village is steeped in history, boasting a remarkable collection of traditional hanok houses. Explore this historic community and get a glimpse into Korean culture, religion, architecture and lifestyle, during the Joseon period. Next, visit a brewery to gain insight into the process of Soju production. This traditional Korean beverage is made by distilling rice wine using traditional methods. Perhaps, try your hand at making your own. Afterward, have dinner at a local restaurant and then, check into your hotel
Overnight: Gyeongju
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6, Monday - Gyeongju, South Korea's Ancient Capital
Your day of discovery begins with a visit to Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled on the slopes of Toham Mountain. It was established in the late 8th century and is home to an exquisitely carved Buddha statue. The nearby Bulguksa Temple, encompasses seven National Treasures of South Korea including the Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas. Continue to Gyeongju National Museum and learn about the culture of the Silla kingdom. Next, head to Daereungwon Tomb Complex where kings and nobles are buried. Proceed to Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory, dating back to the Silla period. Following lunch at a local restaurant, head to Anapji Pond, which was part of a lavish 7th century palace compound located in Gyeongju National Park. Return to the hotel with free time to rest. Tonight after dinner at a local restaurant, take a stroll along Woljeonggyo Bridge before returning to the hotel
Overnight: Gyeongju
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Tuesday - Busan, UN Memorial Cemetery, Jagalchi Market, Gamcheon Culture Village, Songdo Cable Car Ride
After breakfast, depart Gyeongju for Busan. On arrival, embark on a city tour that begins with a poignant visit to the UN Memorial Cemetery, dedicated to those who lost their lives while serving the United Nations during the Korean War. Pause to reflect at the Wall of Remembrance and the UN Forces Monument. Then, proceed to Jagalchi Fish Market, and walk the lanes of the sprawling market. After lunch, take a walking tour of Gamcheon Culture Village, nestled on a hillside overlooking the sea. Walk along the narrow winding alleys, lined with brightly colored houses. Next, take a ride on the Songdo cable car and marvel at the views of the coastline and the sandy shores of Songdo Beach. Continue to the impressive Yonggumg Suspension Bridge, an engineering masterpiece. Later have dinner, before returning to the hotel
Overnight: Busan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Wednesday - Flight to Jeju Island, Jusangjeolli Cliff, O'Sulloc Tea Museum, Spirited Garden
Begin early this morning with your flight to Jeju Island, located off the southern coast of South Korea. Upon arrival, have lunch at a local restaurant. Next, proceed to Jusangjeolli Cliff, a spectacular site with unusual pillar-shaped lava rock formations at the south coast of the island. Visit the O'Sulloc Tea Museum, surrounded by bright green rolling hills and learn about Korea's traditional tea culture. Afterward, the tour takes you to Spirited Garden featuring beautiful botanical gardens. Stroll through the lush grounds covered with native trees and plants. Return to the hotel
Overnight: Jeju
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Thursday - Jeongbang Waterfall,Exploration of Jeju's East Coast
Continue the exploration of the volcanic island of Jeju this morning. Visit the unique Haenyeo Museum, providing insight into the centuries-old tradition of the Haenyeo, or "sea women." Then, drive to Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Seongeup Folk Village and learn about everyday life of the locals, who still live in thatched-roofed houses. Conclude the day with a visit to the famous Jeongbang Waterfall, and then, head to Saeyeongyo Bridge, known for its unique design resembling a Tewu, (traditional flat long boat). Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Jeju
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10, Friday - Flight to Seoul, Myeongdong, Nanta Performance
Transfer to the airport this morning, for your flight back to Seoul. On arrival, have lunch on your own. Afterward, spend free time in bustling Myeongdong, one of Seoul's most popular shopping districts. Later, attend a Nanta performance, which is an award-winning nonverbal show, that combines traditional Korean folk music with comedy, martial arts and acrobatics. Tonight is at leisure to explore Seoul's famous street food scene independently
Overnight: Seoul
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11, Saturday - Cooking Class, Temple Tea Ceremony
This morning, participate in a cooking class*. Learn how to prepare one of the most popular Korean dishes, Bibimbap, a delicious rice bowl. Afterward, savor your own creations for lunch. In the afternoon, head to a Buddhist temple, to get a glimpse into the life of Buddhist monks and participate in a tea ceremony. Tonight during dinner, bid farewell to Tour manager and share wonderful memories of your journey through South Korea*For the Oct 29 departure, Cooking Class will be swapped with Gwangjang Market which should be visited on day 3.
Overnight: Seoul
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12, Sunday - Depart South Korea
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

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Inclusions

Package Includes

  • Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
  • Round trip flights Los Angeles-Seoul, Seoul-Los Angeles
    Other departure cities available.
  • All intra-flights: Busan-Jeju & Jeju-Seoul
  • 10 nights accommodations
  • 5 nights Seoul
  • 2 nights Gyeongju
  • 1 night Busan
  • 2 nights Jeju
  • Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • High-speed train Seoul- Gyeongju
  • 24 meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
  • Services of local English-speaking tour manager throughout
  • Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
  • Active itinerary with unique cultural features
  •  

    Tour Highlights

    Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.

  • Tour dazzling Seoul, capital of South Korea where pop culture meets ancient temples
  • At the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), learn about the history of conflict between the North and South
  • Tour Yandong Village with its remarkable collection of traditional hanok houses
  • Gain insight into the process of Soju production during a tour of a brewery
  • Visit historic Gyeongju, capital city of the Silla kingdom
  • Discover Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing seven National Treasures of South Korea
  • Walk the lanes of the sprawling Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest of its kind in South Korea
  • Experience Busan's Gamcheon Culture Village, featuring steep narrow streets and brightly painted houses
  • Explore Jeju Island, the quintessential island paradise with its high volcanic cliffs and ancient villages

  • †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

    Not Included:
    Gratuities.


    Additional Information:
    Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

    Health and Safety Protocols for Discovery By Gate1 Tours

    At Gate 1 we take your safety and security very seriously. We have a strong network of tour managers, local offices, ground operators and colleagues which help us stay informed in all the destinations that we operate. We closely monitor local situations which enable us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our tours running safely. Millions of people travel the world each year and experience enjoyable and safe trips but crimes against people and property are sadly a fact of life. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Please remember that you have the same responsibility for your personal safety and possessions as you do at home. It is essential to prepare for a safe and healthy travel abroad. Therefore before you travel, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the US Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for up-to-date travel advice on the countries that you are visiting. The website provides useful information on subjects such as safety and security information, health precautions and medications, health insurance and additional tips for traveling abroad. If you do not reside in the United States, we recommend you check your government's travel advisory website for any country you will be visiting. We recommend that you review the safety guidance that may be provided by us, our agents or suppliers, either before you go or when you arrive in your destination. You can also find helpful tips on our website in the "Trip Preparation" tab of each of our tour packages. We do know that in-spite of careful planning, things can sometimes still go wrong, so rest assured, we will be there to help and support you.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

    Accommodations

    Amid Hotel Seoul
    This first class hotel is located in the center of Seoul, within walking distance to many attractions.

    Commodore Hotel Gyeongju
    This superior tourist class hotel overlooks Bomun Lake.

    Avani Central Busan Hotel
    This first class hotel is located in Busan, adjacent to Busan International Finance Center.

    Jeju Sirius
    This first class hotel is located in Jeju, within a short driving distance of the city center.

    Amid Hotel Seoul
    This first class hotel is located in the center of Seoul, within walking distance to many attractions.

    Amid Hotel Seoul
    This first class hotel is located in the center of Seoul, within walking distance to many attractions.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

    Questions & Answers

    Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

    Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

    Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

    Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

    Discovery By Gate1 Tours Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.3
    Accommodations
    4.1
    Itinerary
    4.4
    Professional Staff
    4.6
    Repeat with Operator
    4.3
    Value for Money
    4.1

    Ratings based off 449 reviews about Discovery By Gate1 Tours - currently showing 15 reviews with comments only

    This was an amazing trip. It exceeded my expectations. I loved it. My tour guide did an excellent job. She made sure to assist us even late in the evening with tickets as we are still in Japan and not leaving until two after the tour. She surprised us with unexpected, unplanned experiences for all to enjoy. I loved her. We really had so much fun even though there older tourists with different personalities she went beyond the call of duty to understand and have patience with them. I will definitely book a future tour with Gate1.

    Superb experience and guides were great.

    The trip to Jordan was fabulous. The accommodations were lovely. Our guide was excellent. His knowledge was superb. He had good humor & was kind & patient. I have been on every continent & have traveled with different companies. This is in my top 3 trips of all the places I have been. I loved this country. The people & sites were wonderful. Please let Gate 1 know this guide deserves recognition. He was the best.

    This was a fantastic trip with varied activities and a superb tour guide.

    Exalent trip we are so pleased with the service we will call you to plan the next trip

    The Gate1 tour guide/managers were very knowledgeable, courteous, professional and entertaining.

    Gate 1's tour operators are very good. It is organized and follows the published itinerary. The hotels are nice and as described.

    Trip was great experience. Enjoyed the itinerary and tour manager.

    Great experience. Our personal guide very experienced and personal. First class hotels and great excursions.

    Our accommodations were excellent. The tour was fabulous. The logistics for booking and traveling were clear and easy.

    Everyone from our agent (Trena) to our our guide (Fred) were awesome. Would highly recommend gate 1 to any and all. Went above and beyond our expectations..JOB WELL DONE!!! Thanks for a great vacation..

    This was a great tour. All the places we visited were worth seeing, and the combination of activities was very good.

    The rooms, the meals, the bus, and the tour guide were superior. The tour was more than expected. All our questions and needs were met. The whole operation was well managed and smooth.

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