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Best Things to Do - Half Day Seoul Trip (Seoul Palace & Temple)

4.8 (205 reviews)
3 hours
From $30
USD per person
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Duration: 3 hours
Shared tour
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Offered in: en, cmn
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About This Tour

Our Seoul City Half Day Tour is a complete and effortless experience. Just be sure to have your camera charged because you’re about to go on an unforgettable journey! You will be in the capable hands of our licensed tour guide who is available to answer any questions at any point, so feel free to ask away!

Are you looking to dive into Korea’s history and culture? Then our Gyeongbok Palace tour is the perfect choice for you! Don’t miss the chance to follow in the footsteps of royal history, see the President’s home, and witness an iconic ceremony!

What's Included

✓ Included

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Professional guide(English or Chinese)
  • Fuel surcharge

✗ Not Included

  • Lunch
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel Drop off Service

Itinerary

1
Stop
The Jogyesa Buddhist Temple is one of the most important landmarks of Korean Buddhism, first established all the way back in 1935. The temple is located in downtown Seoul and is graced by an ancient white pine tree. There are a few important steps to entering the temple.

First, you must go through “Iljum”, which is the one pillar gate. The “Iljumun” symbolizes the division between the world of the living and that of the holy Buddha world. You will have a beautiful spiritual experience and be able to admire the splendid, golden statues.
2
Stop
* Please note that Gyeongbok Palace is closed on Tuesdays, so it will be substituted for pretty Changdeok Palace.

You will see the meticulously choreographed ceremony that takes place in front of Gwanghwamun Gate.

This tradition originated during the Joseon Dynasty and the city decided to bring it back for reenactment in 1996. The soldiers wear colorful blue and red uniforms and gracefully patrol the gates of the palace in protection of the king. The tradition is very elegant and simply beautiful to watch!

Gyeongbok Palace (Except Tuesdays)

It was first destroyed during the Imjin War between 1592 and 1598. Then, Imperial Japan destroyed a large portion of Gyeongbokgung Palace in the 20th century. The palace, however, has been restored time and again, and is now close to its former splendor!

Some of the highlights here are Gangnyeongjeon, the king’s main quarters, Geunjeongjeon where the king accepted formal visits, Gyeonghoeru – the special banquet hall, and more!
3
Stop
Cheongwadae Sarangchae which serves as an exhibition hall to important Korean artifacts and documents. Here, you can learn about politics, history, and culture. Located just in front of the Blue House, this museum is a two-floor building that has a souvenir shop, so you can buy thoughtful gifts for the history lovers in your family.

On the first floor, there is a permanent exhibit that presents traditional Korean clothing, food, and music, and is a must-see! The second floor is where you will go to learn in-depth information about the Korean presidents and their legacies. You will also be inspired by the geography section which displays photos of the regions of the country that every traveler should visit!
4
Stop
Ginseng Shopping Center

Tour Options

This tour is available in multiple formats. Choose your preferred option when booking:

Half Day Seoul Trip-Afternoon

Starting points:
City Hall Station, Seoul, South Korea
Myeong-dong, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea

Half Day Seoul Trip-Morning

Pickup included

Select your preferred option on the booking page. Prices may vary by option.

Good to Know

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • 🐕 Service animals allowed
  • 🚌 Public transportation options are available nearby
  • 👶 Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • 💪 Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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