Seoul Palace Morning Tour: A Historical Journey Through South Korea’s Heritage

If you are planning a visit to Seoul, a Seoul Palace Morning Tour is an excellent way to explore the city’s royal residences and get a glimpse into South Korea’s past. During this guided tour, you will visit some of the city’s finest royal palaces and Buddhist temples to gain a deeper understanding of Korea’s historical heritage.

Overview

The Seoul Palace Morning Tour is a half-day tour that lasts approximately four hours. The tour covers the following significant sights of Seoul:

Jogyesa Buddhist Temple

Your tour will begin with a visit to the Jogyesa Buddhist Temple, a center for Zen Buddhism. The temple, located in the heart of Seoul, is the main temple of the Jogye Order and plays an essential role in Korean Buddhism. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the history and significance of the temple and explain the basics of Zen Buddhism.

Blue House

Next, you will visit the Blue House, the official residence of the President of South Korea. Also known as Cheong Wa Dae, the blue-tiled roof house is where the president works and lives. You will see the exterior of the house and learn about its architecture and design.

Gyeongbok Palace

One of Seoul’s most famous landmarks, Gyeongbok Palace, is a must-visit when in the city. Built-in 1395, the palace was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. During the tour, your guide will lead you through the palace complex, showcasing its luxurious living quarters, banquet halls, and courtyards.

Changing of the Guard Ceremony

The tour ends with a visit to the Gwanghwamun Gate, where you can witness the changing of the guards ceremony. The changing of the guard ceremony is a military ritual that occurs every hour on the hour. The ceremony is a spectacle to watch and is an ideal way to end the tour.

Informative, Friendly, and Professional Guide

This tour provides a knowledgeable, professional, and friendly guide who will make the experience educational and insightful. Your guide will offer a wealth of information regarding each site, sharing historical and cultural insights along the way.

What’s Included?

The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, hotel pickup and drop-off at City Hall Seoul, and all entrance fees. You need not worry about footing additional costs during the tour since entrance fees to all visited attractions are included in the tour.

Family Friendly Tour

The Seoul Palace Morning Tour is suitable for families with children. The tour provides infants’ meals and lunch as part of the package, meaning that your children can have a comfortable and enjoyable experience with you.

Step Back in Time on a History Tour

The Seoul Palace Morning Tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience South Korea’s rich history firsthand. You will learn about the culture and traditions of the Korean people, explore historical landmarks, and understand the country’s past and present significance.

Book Your Tour Now

If history fascinates you or you want to explore the cultural and historical heritage of South Korea, the Seoul Palace Morning Tour is an ideal way to spend a morning. The tour includes knowledgeable and professional guides, all entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, and is family-friendly. Book the tour here and start your journey into the heritage of South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions about Seoul

Seoul is the capital city of South Korea and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. With a population of over 10 million people, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant city. Here are some frequently asked questions about Seoul that will help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Seoul?

The best time to visit Seoul is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is alive with seasonal flowers or foliage. However, if you plan to visit during the summer, be prepared for hot and humid weather, and during the winter, be prepared for cold temperatures and snow.

2. What is the currency in Seoul?

The currency in Seoul is the South Korean won (KRW). The symbol for the won is ₩, and it is commonly abbreviated as KRW. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.

3. How do I get around Seoul?

Seoul has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway system is a convenient and affordable option, with signs and announcements available in English. Taxis are also relatively cheap compared to other major cities, but be prepared for traffic during peak hours.

4. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Seoul?

Seoul has many must-visit tourist attractions, including:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace – the largest and most iconic palace in Seoul
• Namsan Tower – a popular observation deck with panoramic views of Seoul
• Myeong-dong – a shopping district with many street vendors and upscale stores
• Bukchon Hanok Village – a traditional Korean neighborhood with well-preserved hanok houses
• Hongdae – a district known for its art and nightlife

5. What is Korean food like?

Korean food is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, such as kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi. Korean cuisine also includes a variety of soups, stews, and noodle dishes. Vegetarian options are available but may be limited in some restaurants.

6. What are some Korean customs and etiquette I should be aware of?

Koreans place a high value on respect and politeness. Some customs and etiquette to be aware of include:

• Bowing – bowing is a common way of showing respect in Korea. The depth and duration of the bow depend on the status of the person you are bowing to.
• Shoes – it is customary to remove your shoes when entering a Korean home or temple.
• Paying for meals – it is common for the eldest person at the table to pay for the meal.
• Tipping – tipping is not common in Korea.

7. Are there any cultural events or festivals in Seoul?

Seoul hosts many cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Some popular events include:

• Seoul Lantern Festival – a festival that celebrates the Korean tradition of lantern-making
• Cherry Blossom Festival – a festival that celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms in the spring
• Boryeong Mud Festival – a festival that takes place on the beaches of Boryeong and involves mud-based activities and events

8. What are some helpful Korean phrases I should know when visiting Seoul?

Some helpful Korean phrases to know include:

• Annyeonghaseyo – hello
• Kamsahamnida – thank you
• Mianhamnida – sorry
• Yeogiyo – excuse me / here (when calling to a server in a restaurant)
• Gwaenchanayo – it’s okay

9. Is Seoul a safe city?

Seoul is generally a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, it is always important to practice basic safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings close to you in crowded areas.

10. What should I pack for a trip to Seoul?

What you pack for a trip to Seoul will depend on the time of year you visit. However, some items to consider include:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• A light jacket or sweater for spring and fall
• A waterproof jacket or umbrella for rainy days
• Winter clothes, including a heavy coat, scarf, and gloves, for the winter months
• A universal travel adapter for electronics

Book Your Tour Now

Seoul is a fascinating and vibrant city with much to offer visitors. From historic palaces to bustling shopping districts, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By planning ahead and learning about Korean customs and etiquette, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Seoul.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Seoul

Seoul is an incredibly vibrant city in South Korea. It is the capital and the largest city in the country. The city is well-known for its traditional cultures, skyscrapers, and wonderful parks. If you are planning a trip to Seoul, you will have a lot of things to do, see, and eat. In this guide, we will provide you a detailed step by step guide to help you plan your visit to Seoul.

1. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace

If you are interested in Korean history, then you should visit Gyeongbokgung Palace. It was the main royal palace in the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910). The palace was built in 1394, and it was burned down during the Japanese invasion in 1592. It was later rebuilt in 1867. Today, you can visit the beautiful palace and experience Korean history. You can watch the changing of the guards ceremony, which takes place every hour from 10 am to 3 pm.

2. Shop at Myeong-dong

If you love shopping, then you should visit Myeong-dong. It is a shopping district where you can find all kinds of fashion, cosmetics, and accessories. The district is the most popular shopping area in Seoul, and it attracts many tourists and locals. You can also find many street food vendors and restaurants in the area.

3. Visit Namsan Tower

Namsan Tower is a famous landmark in Seoul, and it is a great place to enjoy the city view. The tower is located on top of Namsan Mountain, and it is 236 meters tall. You can take a cable car or hike to the top of the mountain to reach the tower. There are many restaurants and cafes inside the tower, and you can also buy souvenirs.

4. Explore Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village, and it is a great place to experience Korean culture. The village consists of traditional Korean houses, called Hanok. You can walk around the village and appreciate the beauty of traditional Korean architecture. You can also find many cafes and souvenir shops.

5. Visit the War Memorial of Korea

If you are interested in Korean war history, then you should visit the War Memorial of Korea. The museum displays the history of the Korean War and the military history of South Korea. The museum has over 13,000 artifacts, including military equipment, paintings, and sculptures. You can learn about the history of the country and the brave soldiers who fought for it.

6. Eat Korean Food

Korean food is delicious, and you should try it when you are in Seoul. There are many Korean restaurants in the city, and you can find traditional Korean food, such as Kimchi, Bulgogi, and Bibimbap. You can also try street food, such as Tteokbokki, Korean fried chicken, and Gimbap.

7. Enjoy Korean Nightlife

Seoul is a city that never sleeps, and it has a vibrant nightlife. You can find many bars, clubs, and karaoke rooms in the city. You can also go to Gangnam, which is a famous district for its nightlife. You can dance all night long and immerse yourself in Korean youth culture.

Book Your Tour Now

Seoul is an incredible city with many things to do, see, and eat. You can visit the royal palace, shop at the cutesy district, enjoy the city view, explore the Korean village, learn about Korean war history, eat delicious Korean food, and enjoy Korean nightlife. We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Seoul.