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Korean Temple

14-Day South Korea Art and Culinary Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Korea, where ancient traditions meet modern marvels. This curated tour will immerse you in vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, breathtaking landscapes, and the artistic wonders of the PLAS Art Fair. 

​$8,432.00

per person

*based on double occupancy

Dates

Postponed

Host

Lyle Truden

Destinations

South Korea

Tour Theme

Food, Art, and Culture

Tour Itinerary
POSTPONED

Day 1: Welcome to Seoul!
  • Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, your friendly English-speaking guide will greet you and transfer you to the Novotel Ambassador.

  • Settle in and prepare for an incredible adventure.

  • Enjoy a delightful welcome dinner featuring Korean royal cuisine and local drinks at Jihwaja.

Jihwaja: Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Korean royal cuisine at this renowned restaurant, where traditional recipes and elegant presentation create a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Seoul: The capital of South Korea, is a harmonious blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge innovation. As a sprawling metropolis, it boasts historic palaces, bustling markets, futuristic architecture, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a cultural, technological, and historical hub in East Asia.

Day 2: Dive into Seoul's Culture and History

  • Morning: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Embark on a guided tour of the National Museum of Korea, one of the largest museums in South Korea, showcasing Korea's rich cultural heritage.

  • Afternoon: After enjoying a local lunch featuring Korean stews, visit the majestic Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful Secret Garden. Continue to Naksan Park, offering panoramic views of the city.

  • Evening: Explore the vibrant Insadong Arts and Crafts Street and the bustling Myeongdong shopping district.

Changdeokgung Palace: Step back in time as you wander through the halls and gardens of this stunning palace, a masterpiece of Korean architecture and a testament to the country's rich history.

Night of Seoul
Image by Y K
Image by Timothy Ries
Image by Yu Kato
Day 3: Tradition & Culture
  • Morning: Dress in a colorful Hanbok, the traditional Korean attire, and visit the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard.

  • Afternoon: After a delicious lunch of Samgyetang (Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup), immerse yourself in Korean art at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

  • Evening: Experience the charm of Bukchon Hanok Village and enjoy a private traditional music performance, even trying your hand at playing some unique instruments. Conclude the day with a savory Korean Pork BBQ dinner.

Cultural Experience: Wearing a Hanbok is not just about dressing up; it's about connecting with Korean culture and feeling the elegance and grace of traditional attire.

Day 4: Artistic Delights at PLAS Art Fair

  • Morning: Embark on a hands-on culinary journey with a Korean cooking class, learning to prepare authentic dishes and enjoying a farm-to-table lunch.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at the PLAS Art Fair, experiencing how artists explore and transform their ideas.

PLAS Art Fair: Discover a world of creativity and inspiration at this premier art fair, showcasing a diverse range of contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.

Day 5: Choose Your Own Adventure

  • Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Seoul at your own pace OR explore PLAS art fair on your own.

  • Evening: Be captivated by "The Painters," a unique live performance that blends art, music, and comedy, creating an unforgettable spectacle of creativity and entertainment.

"The Painters": Prepare to be amazed as talented artists bring their canvases to life with vibrant colors, dynamic movements, and a touch of humor.

Couple Wearing Hanbok
Image by Soyoung Han
Image by Jakub Kapusnak
Image by Gabriela Starzec

Day 6: Journey to Gyeongju

  • Morning: After breakfast, check out and take a high-speed train to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a local lunch featuring Ssambap (cooked rice with various vegetable leaves and meats) and visit the Gyeongju National Museum, showcasing the art, culture, and history of the Silla dynasty.

  • Evening: Take a scenic evening walk to the picturesque Woljeong Bridge and the historic Wolji Pond.

Gyeongju: Renowned for its historical sites, including ancient temples, royal tombs, and Buddhist statues. It offers a glimpse into Korea's rich past and cultural heritage.

Day 7: Temple Stay & Traditions

  • Morning: Visit the Daereungwon tomb complex and Cheonmachong Tomb, paying respects to the Silla rulers. Admire the ancient Cheomseongdae observatory and the historic Family Choi’s House.

  • Afternoon: Transfer to Golgulsa Temple for a unique temple stay experience, immersing yourself in the simple yet rewarding lifestyle of Korean Buddhist monks. Participate in activities such as archery and meditation, and observe Sunmudo, a traditional Korean form of moving meditation.

  • Evening: Enjoy a vegetarian dinner at the temple.

Golgulsa Temple Stay: Experience the tranquility and serenity of temple life, gaining insights into Buddhist practices and Korean traditions.

Day 8: Busan Beckons

  • Morning: After breakfast, check out and travel by private car to Busan, a vibrant port city known for its beautiful beaches and modern architecture.

  • Afternoon: Visit the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the East Sea. Enjoy a local lunch of Bibimbap (Korean rice salad with vegetables and meat).

  • Evening: Take a scenic ride on the Busan Sky Capsule, offering stunning views of the coastline. Explore the surrounding areas, including the Daritdol Skywalk and lighthouses. Continue to Dongbaekseom Island and take a walk along the elevated coastal trail.

Busan: South Korea's second-largest city, offers a mix of urban energy and coastal charm.

Day 9: Busan's Flavors & Culture

  • Morning: Embark on a makgeolli brewing experience, learning about Korean alcohol culture and tasting various craft brews.

  • Afternoon: Explore the colorful Gamcheon Cultural Village, known for its unique hillside houses. Visit the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) Square and the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, South Korea's largest seafood market.

  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Igidae Coastal Walk, enjoying views of the rocky cliffs, the sea, and the Busan skyline.​

Makgeolli Brewing: Discover the art of making this traditional Korean rice wine, and savour its unique flavours during a tasting session.

Day 10: Jeju Island Awaits

  • Morning: After breakfast, check out and transfer to Busan airport for your flight to Jeju Island, a volcanic paradise known for its natural beauty.

  • Afternoon: Upon arrival, enjoy a local lunch featuring Jeju black pork BBQ. Visit the Jeju Haenyeo Museum, learning about the legendary women divers and witnessing a Haenyeo demonstration performance (weather permitting).

  • Evening: Hike up the unique Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, also known as Sunrise Peak, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and volcanic terrain.

Jeju Island: A volcanic island off the southern coast of South Korea, is known for its stunning beaches, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Image by Domenico Gentile
Image by Valentin
Fresh Fish for Sale
Image by Jo Quinn

Day 11: Jeju's Natural Wonders

  • Morning: Relax on the pristine Hyeopjae Beach, known for its clear blue waters and white sand.

  • Afternoon: Explore the geological wonders of Ssangyonggul Cave (Twin Dragon Cave) and immerse yourself in tea culture at the O’sulloc Tea Museum.

  • Evening: Marvel at the Jusangjeollidae Seaside Cliff and the Jeongbang Waterfall, one of the few waterfalls in Asia to flow directly into the sea. Enjoy a special Haenyeo dinner, sampling fresh seafood and experiencing the local culture.

Haenyeo Dinner: Savor a unique dining experience prepared by the legendary Haenyeo women divers, featuring the freshest seafood caught using their traditional methods.

Day 12: Jeju at Leisure

  • Enjoy a free day to explore Jeju's beauty at your own pace, unwind at your hotel, or spend the day at the beach.

Day 13: Return to Seoul & Farewell

  • Morning: After breakfast, check out and transfer to Jeju airport for your flight back to Seoul.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy free time for shopping or exploring in Seoul.

  • Evening: Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner at the renowned Jungsik restaurant, offering a contemporary take on Korean cuisine.

Jungsik: Indulge in a culinary masterpiece at this Michelin-starred restaurant, where innovative techniques and artistic presentation elevate Korean cuisine to new heights.

Day 14: Departure

  • Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your transfer to Incheon airport for your onward departure flight.

Accommodation List

  • Seoul: Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun (5 stars)

  • Gyeongju: Lahan Select Gyeongju (5 stars)

  • Busan: Shilla Stay Haeundae (4 stars)

  • Jeju: Maison Glad Hotel (5 stars)

Inclusions List

● EXCLUSIVE tickets to PLAS Art Fair 
● Breakfast  Daily,  6 Lunches, 5 Dinners
● Airport and train station transfers with English speaking guide
● Touring with English speaking guide
● Welcome set dinner at Michelin starred Jihwaja restaurant with 3 bottles of local beer, soju, soft drinks or 3 glasses
of local wine.
● Private Korean traditional music performance on day 3
● Private cooking class on day 4

● The Painters Show on day 5
● All domestic Airfare within South Korea
● Separate luggage truck for Seoul - Gyeongju transfer
● Korean temple experience on day 7
● Sky capsule and beach train on day 8
● Makgeolli brewing experience on day 9
● Haenyeo story telling and dinner on day 12

● And a few Truden Travel-exclusive surprises!

Tour Total: $8,432.00
per person

*based on double occupancy

The Truden Travel Club is your passport to unforgettable experiences. 

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