Seoul: Temple Vegan Cooking Class & Oriental Medicine Tour

This tour offers a fascinating mix of Korean culinary tradition, traditional medicine, and local culture, all packed into roughly four hours of immersive experiences. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a trip that’s both educational and enjoyable—perfect for curious travelers wanting to understand Korea beyond the usual tourist spots.

What we love most about this experience is the hands-on cooking class led by a Buddhist monk, which promises authentic plant-based recipes rooted in centuries-old philosophy. The visit to Seoul’s oldest herbal market and the Korean Medicine Museum also offers incredible insight into Korea’s holistic health practices. Plus, the chance to try local street foods and explore vibrant markets makes it feel like a true taste of Seoul’s everyday life.

A possible consideration is the group size and the pace—with a maximum of 20 travelers, you’ll want to arrive on time to enjoy every stop. Also, those expecting luxury might find the tour more focused on authentic experiences than plush comforts, but that’s exactly what makes it special.

Who would best enjoy this? Wellness seekers, food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Korea’s traditional healing arts will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: The tour combines culinary, medicinal, and market visits for a well-rounded look at Korean traditions.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable guides, including a Buddhist monk and local market experts.
• Value for Money: At $77, the tour includes cooking, museum visits, market tastings, and transportation—offering a comprehensive experience.
• Delicious Food & Beverages: From temple cuisine to street snacks and herbal drinks, there’s plenty of tasty treats.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a cap of 20 participants, the experience feels personal and engaging.
• Primarily Educational: It’s ideal for those genuinely interested in traditional Korean medicine, food, and culture.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: The Temple Food Experience

The tour kicks off at the Korean Temple Food Center, where you’ll get a hands-on cooking lesson with a Buddhist monk. This isn’t just a demonstration; it’s an interactive experience where you’ll learn the secrets behind simple, nourishing, plant-based dishes inspired by Buddhist philosophy. One reviewer mentioned that Jade, their guide, was “kind and patient,” making the experience both educational and relaxed. The focus on plant-based temple cuisine showcases a different side of Korean food—more mindful, pure, and often surprisingly flavorful.

The cooking class lasts about two hours and includes all ingredients and utensils, making it a practical and meaningful way to understand Korea’s approach to healthful eating. Expect to gather some new recipes and insight into the philosophy of mindful eating—something that sticks with many participants.

Visiting Seoul Yangnyeongsi Market

Next, the tour takes you to Seoul’s oldest and most renowned medicinal herb market. This is an authentic slice of Korean health traditions, recognizing herbal remedies as a core part of Korean life. You’ll get a quick but fascinating 15-minute glimpse into herbal medicine’s enduring role, with free admission. Travelers often find this market visually striking—stalls bursting with roots, medicinal herbs, and traditional remedies.

Korean Medicine Museum and Experience

The Korean Medicine Development Center offers a deeper look into Korea’s traditional health sciences. Here, you can visit a museum to understand the history and significance of Korean medicine, experience a traditional massage, and enjoy a healthy beverage at the local café. One reviewer called the massage “great,” highlighting its traditional technique, which is a nice contrast to the machine massages some might expect. The three experiences—museum, massage, and tea—contribute to the holistic feel of the tour.

Exploring Gyeongdong Market and Vintage Seoul

A highlight for many is the visit to the Gyeongdong Market, including the unique Gyeongdong Market Underground City. This subterranean shopping area feels like a time capsule, with a vibe reminiscent of Seoul’s 1980s modernization. Here, you’ll see vintage electronics at Gold Star Radio LG and sip coffee in Starbucks Gyeongdong 1960, housed in an old theater. This blend of old and new perfectly captures Seoul’s evolving character.

Sampling Street Food and Local Fruits

The tour wraps up with a stroll through Cheongnyangni’s vibrant fruit and vegetable market. This is where you can taste some of Korea’s seasonal fruits and learn about traditional remedies through food. A reviewer mentioned enjoying healthy drinks like omija, a traditional berry juice, which highlights the focus on health even in simple market snacks.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Duration, Cost, and Logistics

At just about four hours, this tour balances depth and convenience. Priced at $77 per person, it _offers good value_ considering the variety of experiences packed into it—cooking, museum visits, market tastings, and cultural sights. The tour is guided by a professional licensed English guide, ensuring you get insightful commentary throughout.

Transportation costs are included, but hotel pick-up/drop-off isn’t offered, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the meeting point at Artist Bakery in Jongno. Most travelers find the meeting point easy to access via Seoul’s public transport, which is near many neighborhoods.

Group Size and Communication

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience feels intimate enough for questions and personalized attention. A key note from a reviewer was that detailed communication is sent via WhatsApp the day before, which is useful for clarifying logistics.

Accessibility and Other Details

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. The experience is weather-dependent, so check the forecast if you’re planning outdoor market visits.

Authenticity and Unique Touches

What sets this tour apart is the combination of culinary, medical, and cultural insights. Unlike typical food tours, this experience emphasizes wellness and traditional healing practices, making it especially appealing if you’re interested in holistic health or Korean culture beyond the tourist clichés.

The presence of a Buddhist monk guiding the cooking class guarantees authenticity, while the visits to markets and museums provide genuine, local perspectives. The inclusion of street foods and market snacks gives you a real taste of everyday Seoul life—something many travelers miss when sticking to tourist hotspots.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $77, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Korea’s culinary and health traditions. It’s best suited for those who value learning through experience, whether that’s cooking, exploring markets, or understanding herbal medicine. The focus on authentic, local practices makes it a meaningful cultural activity rather than just a sightseeing tour.

If you’re curious about plant-based temple cuisine, traditional medicine, or Seoul’s evolving mix of old and new, you’ll likely find this tour both educational and enjoyable. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a break from busy city sightseeing and prefer a more mindful, health-oriented approach.

However, if you’re looking for a luxurious experience or have limited time, you might want to consider whether the pace and style suit your travel style. But for those eager to connect with Korea’s wellness roots and enjoy some delicious, simple foods, this tour is a quietly rewarding choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the transportation fee is included, but you’ll need to get yourself to the starting point at Artist Bakery, as hotel pickup isn’t offered.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking through markets and possibly brief waits between stops, but overall it’s manageable for most travelers.

Can I join if I don’t speak Korean?
Absolutely. The guide is a licensed English speaker, and the experience is designed to be accessible for non-Korean speakers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothes suitable for walking and sitting. If you plan to join the cooking class, consider wearing an outfit you don’t mind getting a little flour or sauce on.

Are meals or snacks included?
Yes, the tour includes tastings of street foods, fruits, and healthy beverages, plus a drink at the herbal medicine café.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the focus on temple vegan cuisine makes it ideal for vegetarians and vegans.

How long is the tour?
Approximately four hours from start to finish.

Can I book last minute?
Most travelers book about a month in advance, but last-minute availability depends on the season and group size.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically geared toward kids, most teenagers interested in Korean culture or cooking should enjoy it. Check with the provider if you have younger children.

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of food, health, and culture—perfect for travelers eager to experience Seoul in a more meaningful way. Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast, foodie, or cultural explorer, it’s a chance to see Korea through a different lens, one filled with flavors, traditions, and stories that continue to shape modern Seoul.