Local Ganghwa Island Private Guided Tour(Optional layover)

Seoul , South Korea

Local Ganghwa Island Private Guided Tour(Optional layover)

Active

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you’re tired of the typical tourist spots in Seoul, let’s head somewhere different.
It’s a truly local area in Korea — full of history and authenticity.

A fortress where Korea and the United States fought in 1871

An observatory overlooking North Korea

A historic Catholic church in old Korean style

A dolmen site (UNESCO World Heritage)

A traditional market from the 1950s

Making rice wine using local specialties

We can even get a real view of North Korea — it’s so close that you can actually see people moving there.
This is a special experience you won’t get at the DMZ observatories.

The highlight is definitely the market.
It’s packed with locals, giving you a glimpse of how people live today — and how they lived back in the 1950s.

As a clean, farm-rich island, the area is also famous for its rice and other local produce.
If you’d like, we can even try making some ourselves!

Let’s explore this hidden local gem together and truly feel the spirit of Korea.

Available options

Picking up in Incheon

Picking up in incheon<br/>Pickup included

Picking up in Seoul

Picking up in Seoul<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Clean private vehicle(Van or SUV)

Trained guide

Fuel,Parking,Toll

Entrance tickets

Detailed itinerary

This is the best place in South Korea to observe North Korea.
Large group tours can’t come here because of the narrow roads, so it stays quiet and authentic.
Unlike the DMZ observatories where you can hardly see any movement, here you can actually see people farming, walking, and even smoking.
This is the real observation point of North Korea.

This is the first Catholic church built in a traditional Korean architectural style.
It still keeps its original appearance.
While enjoying the peaceful view, we’ll share the story of how Catholicism spread — and suffered — in Korea.

In 1871, a battle took place here between Korea and the United States.
It’s now a quiet historic site, but you can still feel the atmosphere of that time — the tension, the courage, and the reason why it happened.

This traditional market was opened by displaced people who fled from North Korea during the Korean War.
They missed their hometown markets, so they recreated one here.
Because it’s inside the Civilian Control Zone, it wasn’t modernized much — so it still keeps its authentic 1950s look and feel.

This dolmen dates back to around 1000 B.C. and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
It may look simple, but it gives you a vivid sense of how people in the Bronze Age built tombs — and how much effort it required.

What's not included

Gratuities

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Known for its vibrant street life, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural heritage, Seoul offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that captivates every traveler.

Top Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours 3,000 KRW (free for those wearing hanbok)

Bukchon Hanok Village

A traditional Korean village nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean life.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (some cultural experiences may have fees)

Namsan Seoul Tower

Located atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and is a popular spot for couples to lock love locks.

Viewpoint 2-3 hours 10,000 KRW (observatory), 1,500 KRW (cable car)

Myeongdong

A bustling shopping district known for its street food, fashion, and beauty products, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Shopping Half-day Varies widely, from budget to luxury

Hongdae

A lively and youthful neighborhood near Hongik University, famous for its nightlife, street performances, and trendy cafes.

Entertainment Evening or night Varies widely, from budget to upscale

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kimchi

Fermented spicy cabbage, a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with every meal.

Side dish Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Bibimbap

A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and gochujang (spicy paste), often served with a fried egg.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bulgogi

Marinated grilled beef, often served with rice and side dishes.

Main dish Contains meat

Tteokbokki

Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a popular street food often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs.

Snack Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Bukhansan National Park Biking along the Han River Water sports at Seokchon Lake Visiting traditional tea houses Enjoying a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) experience Strolling through scenic gardens and parks Participating in a traditional hanbok photo shoot Attending a traditional Korean performance

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Korean
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Time Zone

Korea Standard Time (KST, GMT+9)

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Seoul is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis
• Be wary of strangers offering help or assistance, as they may be trying to scam you

Getting there

By air

Incheon International Airport • 52 km from city center
Gimpo International Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Seoul Station, Yongsan Station

By bus

Seoul Express Bus Terminal, Central City Bus Terminal, East Seoul Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It operates from 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM, with frequent trains.

Taxis

Available • Apps: KakaoTaxi, T-money

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jongno Gangnam Hongdae Itaewon Insadong

Day trips

DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone)

50 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A unique and fascinating day trip, the DMZ offers a glimpse into the history and current status of the Korean Peninsula, with tours visiting various historical sites and observation points.

Nami Island

56 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A picturesque island known for its beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and filming locations for popular K-dramas like 'Winter Sonata'.

Suwon

30 km from Seoul • Full day

A historic city known for its well-preserved fortress, traditional markets, and cultural attractions, offering a mix of history, culture, and local cuisine.

Festivals

Seoul International Fireworks Festival • Mid-October (annual) Seoul Lantern Festival • Late November to early December (annual) Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Korean phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Use a T-money card for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try street food and local specialties for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore Seoul's diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more unique and immersive experience