Korean Palace and Temple Tour in Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jogyesa Temple
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3h
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About this experience
Get a glimpse of Korean culture and heritage on this tour of Seoul. Explore vast Gyeongbokgung Palace, learn about Korean history at the National Folk Museum, and discover Buddhist practices and traditions at Jogyesa Temple. At each place, your expert guide will tell you interesting facts and stories, especially about Korea’s notable Joseon Dynasty.
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Korean Palace and Temple Tour in Seoul: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jogyesa Temple
Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pickup
Admission Fee
Detailed itinerary
1
You’ll be picked up at your Seoul hotel in the morning and driven by comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle around the city.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
First, pass the Blue House (Cheongwadae), the executive office and residence of the South Korean head of state and president of the Republic of Korea.
3
Stop 3
Continue to Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was the primary residence of the royal family in the Joseon Dynasty. Arguably as the most beautiful palace in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung remains the largest and grandest of the Five Grand Palaces. With your guide, explore the palace compound on foot and learn about the traditional architecture typical of the Joseon Dynasty.
4
Stop 4
Inside the compound, visit the National Folk Museum to gain an understanding of how Koreans have lived from ancient times to today. Following your guide through the museum, learn about the customs of both the ordinary citizens and members of the aristocracy as you browse displays of traditional farming methods, hunting, weaving, cooking and other housekeeping chores.
5
Stop 5
Finally, head to Jogyesa Temple, the leading temple for Zen Buddhism in Korea. On your visit, you’ll get an authentic sense of Buddhism’s role during the Joseon Dynasty, and witness first-hand how this place provides a calm sanctuary for locals from the busy streets of Seoul.
6
We will visit one shopping center. (ginseng center)
7
Stop 7
After your time here, you'll be taken to the Ginseng Center before being dropped off at City Hall.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Hotel drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
33 reviews
5★
21
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6
3★
3
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1
1★
2
Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
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3★
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0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A moderate amount of walking is involved; comfortable walking shoes are recommended
This tour included one shopping center (ginseng center)
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
