Gyeongbok-Gung and Seochon Walking Tour With Coin Lunchbox

This immersive tour allows visitors to step back in time and discover the rich cultural heritage of Korea. Explore the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, a striking example of traditional Korean architecture, and wander through the charming Seochon Hanok Village. But the real highlight? An interactive culinary experience at Tongin Traditional Market, where you’ll use special coins to sample authentic local dishes. With knowledgeable guides and the option to wear traditional Hanbok attire, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Korea’s vibrant culture. What secrets might you uncover?

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Key Points

A 3.5-hour small-group walking tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seochon Hanok Village, and Tongin Traditional Market, including a coin lunchbox experience.
Tour price is $57.15 per person with a 10% discount, and free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include exploring historic sites, sampling authentic Korean dishes, and immersing in the cultural heritage of the area.
Option to dress in traditional Korean Hanbok attire during the tour, with a nearby Hanbok rental shop.
Guided by an English-speaking expert, providing historical insights and discovering hidden gems in Seochon.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This walking tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Gyeongbok-gung Palace and the charming Seochon neighborhood.

It’s priced at $57.15 per person, a 10% discount from the regular $63.50 rate. The 3.5-hour small-group tour is limited to 9 participants, providing an intimate experience.

Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now with no upfront payment.

Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now with no upfront payment.

The tour starts at Gyeongbokgung Station and includes guided visits to the palace and Seochon, as well as a traditional Korean lunch at Tongin Market.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins at Gyeongbokgung Station, where you will visit the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the foremost royal palace established in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty.

Next, the group will explore Seochon Hanok Village, once a prestigious dwelling for the royal family.

The highlight is the culinary experience at Tongin Traditional Market, where guests use Yeopjeon (brass coins) to purchase authentic Korean dishes like tteokbokki, gimbap, and cold noodles.

The tour showcases the palace, historic hanok houses, and a traditional market, providing a well-rounded culture.

Experience Details

Guests can dress in traditional Korean Hanbok attire for the duration of the tour.

They’ll meet at Gyeongbok-gung Station and visit a nearby Hanbok rental shop before the tour begins.

Throughout the experience, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide provides historical insights into the sites.

A knowledgeable English-speaking guide provides historical insights into the sites throughout the engaging cultural experience.

Visitors will discover hidden gems in Seochon, including charming hanok houses and historic shops.

The tour emphasizes immersing participants in the rich cultural heritage of the area, offering an authentic and engaging exploration of Seoul’s past.

Lunch and Culinary Experience

One of the highlights of the Gyeongbok-gung and Seochon walking tour is the culinary experience at Tongin Traditional Market.

Participants use Yeopjeon, brass coins, to purchase an array of authentic Korean dishes, including tteokbokki, gimbap, fish cakes, and cold noodles.

This historic market, operational since 1941, offers a unique and immersive gastronomic encounter, allowing visitors to savor the traditional flavors of Korea.

The coin lunchbox provides a delightful and interactive way to sample the diverse cuisine, creating a memorable cultural experience amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Tongin Market.

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Important Information and Requirements

Participants must arrive 15 minutes early for the walking tour.

The tour requires a minimum number of travelers and may be canceled if that threshold isn’t met.

Children under 3 years old can attend for free but won’t receive the full tour experience.

Providing incorrect age information will incur an additional charge of 30,000 KRW per person.

The meeting point is in front of Exit 4 at Gyeongbokgung Station.

Guests should be mindful of the walking nature of the tour and dress accordingly.

Following these guidelines ensures an enjoyable and seamless experience exploring Gyeongbok-gung Palace and Seochon Hanok Village.

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What to Expect on the Tour

Visitors can expect a thorough guided tour of the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the foremost royal palace from the Joseon Dynasty.

After exploring the palace, the tour ventures into the charming Seochon Hanok Village, where guests can:

Discover the hidden gems of the neighborhood, including traditional hanok houses and historic shops.
Dress up in the elegant Korean traditional attire, hanbok, for a truly immersive cultural experience.
Savor an array of authentic Korean dishes, using brass coins called Yeopjeon to purchase items at the Tongin Traditional Market.

Exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace

As guests step into the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, they’ll be transported back in time to the glory of the Joseon Dynasty.

The largest of the Five Grand Palaces, Gyeongbokgung boasts impressive architecture and stunning gardens. Guided by a knowledgeable local, visitors will explore the palace’s key sites, including the iconic Geunjeongjeon throne hall and the serene Hyangwonjeong pavilion.

Along the way, they’ll learn about the palace’s rich history and the lives of the Joseon kings who once walked these grounds. This immersive experience allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for Korea’s remarkable cultural heritage.

Discovering Seochon Hanok Village

After exploring the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the walking tour leads participants to the charming Seochon Hanok Village.

This historic neighborhood was once home to the royal family during the Joseon Dynasty.

Visitors can:

Stroll along the quaint alleyways and admire the traditional hanok architecture.
Discover hidden shops and art galleries that offer a glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage.
Pose for photos in front of the picturesque hanok houses, capturing the essence of old Seoul.

The Seochon tour provides a fascinating contrast to the magnificent palace, allowing participants to enjoy the local charm and rich history of the neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The minimum age requirement for the tour is 3 years old. Children under 3 years old can attend the tour for free, but they won’t receive the full tour experience.

Can We Visit Additional Sites Beyond the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is fixed and does not include additional sites beyond the listed highlights. Participants are limited to the specified locations and experiences outlined in the tour details.

Is the Tour Conducted in Multiple Languages?

The tour is conducted in English by a knowledgeable guide. While the core itinerary is set, visitors may be able to visit additional sites beyond the tour’s highlights if they coordinate with the guide beforehand and time permits.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunchbox?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the lunchbox. Participants can enjoy a variety of authentic Korean dishes, including vegetarian options, at the Tongin Traditional Market using the provided Yeopjeon coins.

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour duration can’t be extended, as it’s a fixed 3.5-hour experience. However, guests can customize their dining experience at Tongin Market by using the provided Yeopjeon coins to purchase the Korean dishes they prefer.

The Sum Up

This small-group tour provides an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace, the charming Seochon Hanok Village, and engage in a unique culinary adventure at Tongin Traditional Market. With knowledgeable guides and the option to wear traditional Hanbok attire, it’s an exceptional way to discover Korea’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.