Jewels of South Korea (6 Days)

Day 1: Seoul Arrival

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to hotel where the remainder of the day is free to relax after your long flight.

Day 2: Seoul – Sightseeing (B, L)

Visit to the Blue House (outside) then transfer to Gyeongbokgung Palace which was built by the last Korean Dynasty. Within the Palace grounds visit Jogyesa Temple dedicated to Buddhism and still influential today. Here, you will also gain an insight into Korean culture, tradition & history at the National Folk Museum. After that, heading to Insadong which has a traditional atmosphere and represents Korean culture both past and present. After lunch, explore many antique, craft, pottery shops, traditional restaurants and teahouses. Lastly take in the panoramic views of city from the Seoul Tower, which is located on top of Mount Namsan.

Day 3: Seoul – Andong (B)

Transfer to Andong which is considered the spiritual home of Korea as well as the cradle of Korea’s cultural tradition. In the afternoon, enjoy a tour of Andong which includes the charming UNESCO listed Hahoe Folk Village, where approximately 130 traditional houses of varying size and standard have been immaculately preserved by the same families for generations. You will also visit the Andong Folk Museum which has several interesting exhibits relating mainly to Korea’s folk traditions, the ritual standards of confucianism and folk plays.

Day 4: Andong – Gyeongju (B)

Leave Andong for Gyeongju. Serving as the capital of Silla Kingdom from 57BC to 935AD, the entire city of Gyeongju is a living museum containing the remnants of the Silla Kingdom as well as relics pertaining to Buddhism, the national religion at the time. Your afternoon tour of Gyeongju includes visiting to Gyeongju National Museum which is home to the 23 ton Emille Bell cast in AD771 and numerous priceless treasures; Tumuli Park, with its collection of Silla royal tombs; Cheomseongdae Observatory, one the world’s oldest astronomical observatories and the scenic Anapji Pond where the Silla royal family spent their leisure time.

Day 5: Gyeongju – Seoul (B)

You will visit two UNESCO World Heritage listed temples – Seokguram Grotto, one of the Asia’s finest Buddhist shrines, surrounded by Bodhisattva, disciples, devas and the guardian king; Bulguksa Temple which was built during the glorious period of Silla Kingdom. The architectural design of Bulguksa Temple is one of constrained dignity and peaceful harmony and the temple still remains one of the most remarkable achievements of the ancient Far East. Depart for Seoul this afternoon and spend your final evening at leisure.

Day 6: Seoul Departure (B)

After check out, you will be transferred to the airport in Seoul for your own departure flight home.