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Korea Xclusive Tour

Day 01

Arrive in South Korea’s bustling capital, Seoul, and check in to one of our two recommended luxury hotels, either the Conrad Seoul or the Ritz Carlton Seoul. Visit the Gyeongbok palace, the largest and grandest of the city’s famous Five Grand Palaces. Gyeongbok translates to “greatly blessed by heaven,” and when you set eyes on its splendor, it’s easy to see why. Built in 1394 and restored after a war with Japan, this palace is in its original style.  A beautiful collection of both modern and ancient art ishoused at the Leeum Samsung Museum. New and old are positioned to create a sense of harmony in the museum. The trip won’t be complete without a perusal of the traditional Korean Bangsan Market. Be sure to pick up some of the intricate pressed wrapping paper.

Day 02

Join the hip kids in the Hongdae arts area - named for the university nearby. Check out the contemporary, edgy art galleries before you experience a more ancient culture - the Jinkwansa nun’s temple. This is a monastery for Buddhist nuns; you can also enjoy handcrafted, delicious and traditional temple foods. And don’t forget the Seoul’s own Jazz Club! The day wouldn’t be completely hip without it. Return to your luxury hotel for the night.

Day 03

See the DMZ, or Korea’s Demilitarized Zone, that functions as a buffer between North and South Korea. The line is drawn at the 38th parallel north, and runs for 250 km. The line has kept the peace since WWII. At the border, you’ll also experience Korea’s Freedom Bridge, that literally runs next to, but not over, the Imjingak river, offering a bird’s eye view. Explore the underground tunnels and learn how Korea’s war was fought underground. 

Day 04

Today, you’re off to Gyeongju, a coastal city with a picturesque landscape. Check in to your luxury room at the Hyundai Hotel. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Toham, the Bulguksa Temple is a must-see during your stay in Gyeongju. Wander the Seokguram grottos, and enjoy what are considered some of the best Buddhist sculptures in the entire world. Continue to the National Museum for further culture and art. The Anapji pond is part of a National Park and hosts over 730 relics. Relish the final hours of daylight while soaking in the culture.

Day 05

Breathe in the fresh air as you hike Namsan Park, and get some exercise while you view the wonder of South Korea’s exotic nature. Next, meander through the Haeinsa Temple, one of the three jewel temples of Korea. These special temples represent Buddha’s teachings. Get another dose of authentic culture as you visit the Andong Hahoe Folk Village. See how the ancient villagers lived and continue to live in Korea.

Day 06

Tucked away on the northeastern side of Busan Mountain, the Yonggungsa Temple is one of the few Buddhist temples located next to the coast. Savor freshly-caught fish from the Jagalchi Fish Market. The market is Korea’s largest fish market and offers an astounding selection of seafood.Look for exotic birds along the Nakdong River, South Korea’s longest river.

Day 07

Tucked away on the northeastern side of Busan Mountain, the Yonggungsa Temple is one of the few Buddhist temples located next to the coast. Savor freshly-caught fish from the Jagalchi Fish Market. The market is Korea’s largest fish market and offers an astounding selection of seafood.Look for exotic birds along the Nakdong River, South Korea’s longest river.

Day 08

After breakfast, you’ll be on your way to Jeju today. Jeju is located in an island province in the Korea Strait, and is blessed with a temperate climate. Break out into the mountain air and stretch your legs as you climb Mount Halla. The ancient shield volcano provides incredible panoramas of the surrounding national park. Put on your hard hat as you discover the Manjanggul Lava Tube Caves. The tube is just under 25,000 feet long, one of the longest in the world. See ancient island living at it’s finest as you visit the traditional village before calling it a full day. Return to your luxury hotel, we recommend the Hyatt Regency Jeju.

Day 09

For your final day of your Classic South Korea itinerary, you’ll visit a 590-foot-high volcanic crater. The Ilchulbong volcanic crater supplies an incredible view, and isn’t a difficult hike to the top. End your trip with one final glance of Korean culture at the Jeju Chusa Exhibition Hall. Say goodbye to South Korea as your check out of your hotel and check in for your international flight to your onwards destination.

Summary

9 nights, 8 days.
Accomodation in Ritz Carlton, Hyundai Hotel, Westin Chosun and Hyatt Regency

LOCATIONS

Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju