- Why Korea
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- Transit Tours
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Are you searching for a new country to explore? Or are you simply itching to go on a holiday?
South Korea is an emerging popular destination for Aussie and Kiwi travellers. Whether it’s discovering new sights or trying local authentic food, South Korea offers unique experiences for all types of travellers.
HERE ARE FIVE THINGS WHY WE ARE EXCITED ABOUT TRAVELLING TO SOUTH KOREA
TRAVEL BACK IN TIME
#History #Traditional #Cultural
South Korea is a country with 5,000 years of history, bursting of traditional culture. Alongside its speedy developments, you can enjoy immersive activities and unique architecture. Visit ancient palaces and watch the Royal Guards Changing Ceremony. Wear a colorful hanbok and stroll along Bukchon Hanok Village. Go further to explore Andong Hahoe Folk Village and experience a traditional tea ceremony.
EAT, RELAX AND WANDER
#Food #Wellness #Nature #Templestay
From bibimbap to Korean bbq, Korea is a destination for flavourful culinary delights. What are other ways to pamper yourself other than food? Serene, breathtaking landscapes. So, go and enjoy a street food spectacle or fill your stomach with Hanjeongsik, a Korean full course meal. Hike or ride a cable car to reach the peak of Mount Seoraksan. Relax and meditate with monks inside a temple.
APPRECIATE KOREAN POP CULTURE
#Hallyu #Kpop #Beauty #Shopping
The contemporary pop culture is the biggest drawcard for many visitors in South Korea. Hundreds of thousands of k-pop and Hallyu fans visit Korea reliving scenes from their favorite dramas or hoping to get a glimpse of their idols, Korean artists. Needless to say, Korea is a hub for beauty and skincare essentials. Apart from teaching us how to get glass skin, Koreans have led the fashion walkway. Sing your heart out at hologram k-pop concerts. Explore popular movie sets. Shop til you drop in 24 hour retail stores!
CELEBRATE ALL YEAR – ROUND
#Festivals #SeasonalActivities #CherryBlossoms
South Korea is packed with tons of festivals celebrating life, seasons, and even popular culture all year round. You can participate in cultural practices passed down from generations such as the Jeju Fire Festival, where you will witness the locals ablaze a bonfire as grand as a mountain. You can also choose to see Korea differently in every season - feel the thrill of exploring dream-like landscapes at Jinhae Cherry Blossoms Festival or catching trouts in the middle of a frozen river at Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival. If you’re looking for something bizarre, Boryeong Mud Festival will surely make you feel young, metaphorically and literally (as mud masks are believed to make your skin better!). Finally, music and dance are the life of a festival - and South Korea is abundant of it. Add color and fun in your trip by checking our calendar of festivals.
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES AND DMZ
How would you like to stroll in a museum without walls? You will see an ancient observatory or royal tombs, enter grand palaces - these and other remnants scattered across the city of Gyeongju, Korea’s ancient capital way back 57BC, for your travel pleasure. If you’re up for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, head over to Jeju Island. Challenge yourself by hiking Mount Hallasan, the highest mountain of South Korea or diving without oxygen or gears with Haenyeo women divers. If you think that’s exciting, spare some time to visit DMZ (Demilitarized Zone).
South Korea values history, tradition, culture, and nature. Without a doubt, this country holds 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 1 Natural Heritage, and 20 Intangible Cultural Heritages. Now is a great time to discover it, before everyone does.
- For Friends
- For Families
- More Suggested Tours
For those who are travelling with friends, we would like to recommend visits to Seoul and Busan. Seoul is the capital of Korea and is the heart of Korea’s culture and education as well as politics and economy. Busan is the second largest city in the nation just after Seoul and is a city of delicious foods and modern buildings standing tall beside the beautiful ocean.
Day 1 Morning
SEOUL
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Gwanghwamun Square
- Gwanghwamun Square is a street of culture that was redesigned in the heart of the city to create a global spot that restores the sights of old Seoul with its 600-year history. At the square, make sure to take photos in front of these statues of the most well-known influential figures in Korean history – Admiral Yi Sun-shin and King Sejong the Great (fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty and the creator of Korean alphabets).
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Gyeongbokgung Palace (Royal Guard Changing Ceremony)
- It is the largest royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty and an attraction not to be missed for anyone travelling in Seoul. Gyeongbokgung Palace is most notably characterized by the extensive palace grounds and an orderly arrangement of the palace buildings. The greatest highlight of Gyeongbokgung Palace is the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. It takes place twice a day, every day at 10:00 and 14:00, except on Tuesdays.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
- It is the largest royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty and an attraction not to be missed for anyone travelling in Seoul. Gyeongbokgung Palace is most notably characterized by the extensive palace grounds and an orderly arrangement of the palace buildings. The greatest highlight of Gyeongbokgung Palace is the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony. It takes place twice a day, every day at 10:00 and 14:00, except on Tuesdays.
Day 1 Afternoon
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Tongin Traditional Market (Dosirak Café)
- After the Korean War, a rapid population growth took place in Seochon near Gyeongbokgung Palace; as a result, an increasing number of vendors and stores formed in the area. These vendors and stores developed into a busy marketplace now known as Tongin Market. While you are here, make sure to try “Dosirak Café,” in which dosirak is a Korean word for lunchbox. It is a fun culinary experience unique to Tongin Market, offering visitors the opportunity to pick and enjoy a wide variety of menu items using traditional brass coins called yeopjeon. The price for lunch box is approx. 5,000 won per person (Yeopjeon coins are available for purchase from the market’s Customer Service Center 2F.)
Tongin Market More info on traditional markets
- After the Korean War, a rapid population growth took place in Seochon near Gyeongbokgung Palace; as a result, an increasing number of vendors and stores formed in the area. These vendors and stores developed into a busy marketplace now known as Tongin Market. While you are here, make sure to try “Dosirak Café,” in which dosirak is a Korean word for lunchbox. It is a fun culinary experience unique to Tongin Market, offering visitors the opportunity to pick and enjoy a wide variety of menu items using traditional brass coins called yeopjeon. The price for lunch box is approx. 5,000 won per person (Yeopjeon coins are available for purchase from the market’s Customer Service Center 2F.)
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Bukchon Hanok Village
- Bukchon Hanok Village is a major traditional Korean residential area in Seoul, as well as a beloved tourist spot that showcases traditional Korean style and living. Visitors can immerse in the beauty of traditional architecture and the fun of exploring through the alleys.
Guided Walking Tour of Bukchon Hanok Village
- Bukchon Hanok Village is a major traditional Korean residential area in Seoul, as well as a beloved tourist spot that showcases traditional Korean style and living. Visitors can immerse in the beauty of traditional architecture and the fun of exploring through the alleys.
Day 1 Night
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Namsan Seoul Tower
- Finish your day at Namsan Seoul Tower, Seoul’s number one attraction to take in the city’s nightscape. Namsan Seoul Tower is a major landmark itself, but the premise offers much more to see and do, namely the Roof Terrace, where padlocks symbolizing unfailing love cover the terrace fences, and the Digital Observation Deck that unfolds a panoramic view of Seoul. Several restaurants can also be found within the area that doubles the enchanting ambience.
Namsan Seoul Tower
- Finish your day at Namsan Seoul Tower, Seoul’s number one attraction to take in the city’s nightscape. Namsan Seoul Tower is a major landmark itself, but the premise offers much more to see and do, namely the Roof Terrace, where padlocks symbolizing unfailing love cover the terrace fences, and the Digital Observation Deck that unfolds a panoramic view of Seoul. Several restaurants can also be found within the area that doubles the enchanting ambience.
Day 2 Morning
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Lotte World Tower’s Seoul Sky
- Tourists walking around the Gangnam area will easily notice a single building standing taller than the rest; this silver monolith is none other than Lotte World Tower. With the construction of Lotte World Tower & Mall, the area has become a paradise for all things entertainment and culture. The 123-story tower includes shops, theaters, offices, and a hotel, as well as the 555 meter-high observatory Seoul Sky, opened on 3 April 2017. Take the ride up in the Sky Shuttle to enjoy the outstanding views of the city and the feeling of walking on clouds.
Lotte World Tower’s Seoul Sky
- Tourists walking around the Gangnam area will easily notice a single building standing taller than the rest; this silver monolith is none other than Lotte World Tower. With the construction of Lotte World Tower & Mall, the area has become a paradise for all things entertainment and culture. The 123-story tower includes shops, theaters, offices, and a hotel, as well as the 555 meter-high observatory Seoul Sky, opened on 3 April 2017. Take the ride up in the Sky Shuttle to enjoy the outstanding views of the city and the feeling of walking on clouds.
Day 2 Afternoon
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Myeongdong
- Voted as the #1 area among tourists, this is a shopping haven home to major department stores. The more than 100 cosmetic stores are very popular among hallyu (Korean Wave) fans, and alleys are lined with delicious food carts. Majority of the visitors consist of international tourists and young adults in their twenties and thirties.
Recommended Restaurants in Myeongdong
- Voted as the #1 area among tourists, this is a shopping haven home to major department stores. The more than 100 cosmetic stores are very popular among hallyu (Korean Wave) fans, and alleys are lined with delicious food carts. Majority of the visitors consist of international tourists and young adults in their twenties and thirties.
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Nanta Non-verbal Performance
- Nanta is a world-famous show that combines rhythms of samulnori (traditional percussion performance) with a cosmic storyline. Audiences of all ages and nationalities can enjoy as it is a totally universal non-verbal performance.
Nanta at Myeongdong Theater
- Nanta is a world-famous show that combines rhythms of samulnori (traditional percussion performance) with a cosmic storyline. Audiences of all ages and nationalities can enjoy as it is a totally universal non-verbal performance.
Day 2 Night
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Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
- Attracting attention at first sight of its exterior alone, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) offers one of Seoul’s most vibrant night views. Built with large, curving lines over a wide area, when the sun sets, the silver plating takes in and reflects back all the colorful lights of the surrounding shopping centers. The plaza regularly hosts fashion shows from international designers, artist exhibitions, and other cultural activities, and has many famous restaurants and designer shops.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
- Attracting attention at first sight of its exterior alone, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) offers one of Seoul’s most vibrant night views. Built with large, curving lines over a wide area, when the sun sets, the silver plating takes in and reflects back all the colorful lights of the surrounding shopping centers. The plaza regularly hosts fashion shows from international designers, artist exhibitions, and other cultural activities, and has many famous restaurants and designer shops.
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Some Sevit
- Some Sevit is well-known for appearing in the blockbuster hit "The Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)." Some Sevit consists of three man-made structures located just south of Banpodaegyo Bridge. The name of these unique buildings means "three islands of light." In addition to the beautiful lights, the unique architecture of the islands also draws the eye. Built atop floating platforms, the islands were the world's first ever attempt at floating architecture.
Some Sevit
- Some Sevit is well-known for appearing in the blockbuster hit "The Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)." Some Sevit consists of three man-made structures located just south of Banpodaegyo Bridge. The name of these unique buildings means "three islands of light." In addition to the beautiful lights, the unique architecture of the islands also draws the eye. Built atop floating platforms, the islands were the world's first ever attempt at floating architecture.
Day 3 Morning
SEOUL - BUSAN
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Move to Busan by KTX
- One of the most convenient ways to travel between cities in Korea is by train. By express train KTX, you will reach Busan in less than 3 ½ hours. The train will travel at around 305 km/h speed.
More info on trains
- One of the most convenient ways to travel between cities in Korea is by train. By express train KTX, you will reach Busan in less than 3 ½ hours. The train will travel at around 305 km/h speed.
Day 3 Afternoon
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Gamcheon Culture Village
- Gamcheon Culture Village started in the 1950s as a settlement of refugees fleeing from the Korean war. This community spread up the steep hillside, following the natural curves of the mountain to build houses atop houses with narrow streets winding between them. The area underwent an art project to decorate the houses in bright murals, creating a village straight out of a child’s story book. The stacks of houses have also earned the village the nickname “the Santorini of Busan.” The village is dotted with interesting things to see. The narrow alleys offer craft experiences in addition to the colorful murals. Visitors to the village can also enjoy a multitude of street foods and snacks.
Gamcheon Culture Village
- Gamcheon Culture Village started in the 1950s as a settlement of refugees fleeing from the Korean war. This community spread up the steep hillside, following the natural curves of the mountain to build houses atop houses with narrow streets winding between them. The area underwent an art project to decorate the houses in bright murals, creating a village straight out of a child’s story book. The stacks of houses have also earned the village the nickname “the Santorini of Busan.” The village is dotted with interesting things to see. The narrow alleys offer craft experiences in addition to the colorful murals. Visitors to the village can also enjoy a multitude of street foods and snacks.
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Oryukdo Island / Oryukdo Skywalk
- Oryukdo Island is named for its changing appearance, seeming to be a grouping of five or six (o and yuk being “five” and “six” in Korean, respectively) islands depending on from where they are seen. The best place to see the islands is Oryukdo Skywalk, built high on a cliff, with nothing but a transparent floor between you and the ocean waters below. The skywalk is a great place to take photos.
Oryukdo Island
Oryukdo Skywalk
- Oryukdo Island is named for its changing appearance, seeming to be a grouping of five or six (o and yuk being “five” and “six” in Korean, respectively) islands depending on from where they are seen. The best place to see the islands is Oryukdo Skywalk, built high on a cliff, with nothing but a transparent floor between you and the ocean waters below. The skywalk is a great place to take photos.
Day 3 Night
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Kkangtong Market
- Kkangtong Market opens in the day, but more people visit in the evening, leading some to call this a night market. The market is famous for selling unique, delicious street foods at inexpensive prices. Some of the more unusual street foods for Korea include Scotch eggs, hardboiled eggs wrapped in sausage and bacon before frying; French fries covered in a cheesy sausage sauce; soup served in a bread bowl similar to pane pasta; and steamed corn so addictive it’s earned the nickname “narcotic corn.” All these foods are sold for just 3,000 to 5,000 won.
Kkangtong Market
- Kkangtong Market opens in the day, but more people visit in the evening, leading some to call this a night market. The market is famous for selling unique, delicious street foods at inexpensive prices. Some of the more unusual street foods for Korea include Scotch eggs, hardboiled eggs wrapped in sausage and bacon before frying; French fries covered in a cheesy sausage sauce; soup served in a bread bowl similar to pane pasta; and steamed corn so addictive it’s earned the nickname “narcotic corn.” All these foods are sold for just 3,000 to 5,000 won.
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BIFF Square
- Just a short walk away from Kkangtong Market is BIFF Square Culture Street, a gathering of movie theaters in the center of Busan’s Nampo-dong. In the past, it was the venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), and the Star Street is dotted with the handprints of world-famous film directors, producers, and actors. The festival has since moved all film-showings to Busan Cinema Center at Haeundae, but the square is still popular among tourists and crowded with street food vendors both day and night.
BIFF Square
- Just a short walk away from Kkangtong Market is BIFF Square Culture Street, a gathering of movie theaters in the center of Busan’s Nampo-dong. In the past, it was the venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), and the Star Street is dotted with the handprints of world-famous film directors, producers, and actors. The festival has since moved all film-showings to Busan Cinema Center at Haeundae, but the square is still popular among tourists and crowded with street food vendors both day and night.
Day 4 Morning
BUSAN
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Taejongdae Resort Park
- At Taejongdae Resort Park, the harmony of lush forest, rocky cliffs, and the vast ocean unfolds a breathtaking scenic beauty. There are three ways for travellers to enjoy Taejongdae Park: walking along the road, taking a ride on Taejongdae Danubi Train, and boarding the Taejongdae Gonpo Cruise Boat. Any of the three methods offer the opportunity to absorb in the natural wonders of Taejongdae, but we recommend taking the Danubi Train to save time and money. With a single ticket, you can conveniently hop on and off the train at any stop you want, giving you a greater freedom to explore this scenic place.
Taejongdae Resort Park
- At Taejongdae Resort Park, the harmony of lush forest, rocky cliffs, and the vast ocean unfolds a breathtaking scenic beauty. There are three ways for travellers to enjoy Taejongdae Park: walking along the road, taking a ride on Taejongdae Danubi Train, and boarding the Taejongdae Gonpo Cruise Boat. Any of the three methods offer the opportunity to absorb in the natural wonders of Taejongdae, but we recommend taking the Danubi Train to save time and money. With a single ticket, you can conveniently hop on and off the train at any stop you want, giving you a greater freedom to explore this scenic place.
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Jagalchi Market
- Jagalchi Market is one of Korea’s foremost seafood markets, where visitors can vividly soak up the fishing village atmosphere in the urban center. The market is located inside a large building. The first floor of the building is the main fish market selling a huge selection of sea products, while the second floor contains spaces where you can eat the fresh seafood purchased from the market. In addition, the area behind the market building has a variety of sculptures and it is an ideal spot to watch the sight of fishing boats entering the market dock.
Jagalchi Market
- Jagalchi Market is one of Korea’s foremost seafood markets, where visitors can vividly soak up the fishing village atmosphere in the urban center. The market is located inside a large building. The first floor of the building is the main fish market selling a huge selection of sea products, while the second floor contains spaces where you can eat the fresh seafood purchased from the market. In addition, the area behind the market building has a variety of sculptures and it is an ideal spot to watch the sight of fishing boats entering the market dock.
Day 4 Afternoon
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Centum City
- As the world’s largest department store, Busan’s Shinsegae Centum City features various brands, including luxury products. Visitors can also enjoy the delicious tastes of some of Korea’s most famous restaurants. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy all aspects of entertainment, from a movie theater to a large bookstore, an indoor ice skating rink and even a jimjilbang, a Korean-style spa. The nearby Busan Cinema Center, the venue of Busan International Film Festival, is also worth a visit.
Centum City
- As the world’s largest department store, Busan’s Shinsegae Centum City features various brands, including luxury products. Visitors can also enjoy the delicious tastes of some of Korea’s most famous restaurants. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy all aspects of entertainment, from a movie theater to a large bookstore, an indoor ice skating rink and even a jimjilbang, a Korean-style spa. The nearby Busan Cinema Center, the venue of Busan International Film Festival, is also worth a visit.
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Haeundae Beach
- A major attraction of Busan, Haeundae is more than just Haeundae Beach! The area also encompasses the multipurpose Marine City and other skyscrapers, Dongbaekseom Island that bursts with red camellia blossoms in late winter, and Gwangandaegyo Bridge, crossing the ocean landscape like a second horizon line. Marine City serves as a great background for souvenir photographs, and Dongbaekseom Island is perfect for a leisure stroll.
Haeundae Beach
- A major attraction of Busan, Haeundae is more than just Haeundae Beach! The area also encompasses the multipurpose Marine City and other skyscrapers, Dongbaekseom Island that bursts with red camellia blossoms in late winter, and Gwangandaegyo Bridge, crossing the ocean landscape like a second horizon line. Marine City serves as a great background for souvenir photographs, and Dongbaekseom Island is perfect for a leisure stroll.
Day 4 Night
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The Bay 101
- Frequented by dating couples at late night hours, The Bay 101 is the new up-and-coming hot spot in Busan. Also a yacht club equipped with a gallery and gourmet restaurants, it is an ideal place to enjoy cultural and leisure activities or to dine with spectacular views. Near the yacht club, an array of street food vendors invite visitors to taste fresh seafood while looking out on the night sea.
The Bay 101
- Frequented by dating couples at late night hours, The Bay 101 is the new up-and-coming hot spot in Busan. Also a yacht club equipped with a gallery and gourmet restaurants, it is an ideal place to enjoy cultural and leisure activities or to dine with spectacular views. Near the yacht club, an array of street food vendors invite visitors to taste fresh seafood while looking out on the night sea.
Day 5 Morning
BUSAN - SEOUL
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Move to Seoul by KTX
- One of the most convenient ways to travel between cities in Korea is by train. By express train KTX, you will reach Seoul in less than 3 ½ hours. The train will travel at around 305 km/h speed.
More info on trains
- One of the most convenient ways to travel between cities in Korea is by train. By express train KTX, you will reach Seoul in less than 3 ½ hours. The train will travel at around 305 km/h speed.
Families will enjoy the plethora of delightful attractions and activities in South Korea that are kid-friendly. The country has so much to offer from amusement parks packed with exciting rides and beautiful flower parks to interactive educational museums. Most importantly, major tourist spots, including malls, and transport stations are wheel-chair or stroller friendly and have a dedicated nursing room, which makes travel with kids or grandparents even more convenient and stress-free.
Day 1
SEOUL
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Lotte World
- Lotte World is one of the must-go places when you are in Seoul! Known to be one of the world’s largest indoor amusement parks, Lotte World features both indoor and outdoor facilities, referred to as Adventure Park and Magic Island respectively. More than anything, the largest draw of this amusement park lies in the fact that it is located in Seoul, easily accessible via public transportation!
Lotte World
Useful tips for visiting Lotte World
- Lotte World is one of the must-go places when you are in Seoul! Known to be one of the world’s largest indoor amusement parks, Lotte World features both indoor and outdoor facilities, referred to as Adventure Park and Magic Island respectively. More than anything, the largest draw of this amusement park lies in the fact that it is located in Seoul, easily accessible via public transportation!
Day 2
YONGIN, GYEONGGI-DO
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Korean Folk Village
- The Korean Folk Village reproduces typical scenes and daily lifestyles of people in the Joseon Dynasty. The traditional houses and items in a natural environment can easily make anyone feel as if they have just traveled back in time!
Nongak (farmer’s music), a traditional dance parade, traditional wedding ceremony and other interesting performances are offered for visitors to enjoy.
Korean Folk Village
- The Korean Folk Village reproduces typical scenes and daily lifestyles of people in the Joseon Dynasty. The traditional houses and items in a natural environment can easily make anyone feel as if they have just traveled back in time!
Day 3
YONGIN, GYEONGGI-DO
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Everland
- Everland is Korea's representative theme park, offering up attractions galore along with a variety of animals, a mix of an amusement park and zoo. The thrilling rollercoasters draw in students and those young at heart, while the cute animals and colorful parades delight children and seniors. The garden, beautiful with seasonal blossoms throughout the year, is a popular photo attraction for couples. Let's head to Everland, where everyone can have fun, regardless of age or stage in life!
Everland
Useful tips for visiting Everland
- Everland is Korea's representative theme park, offering up attractions galore along with a variety of animals, a mix of an amusement park and zoo. The thrilling rollercoasters draw in students and those young at heart, while the cute animals and colorful parades delight children and seniors. The garden, beautiful with seasonal blossoms throughout the year, is a popular photo attraction for couples. Let's head to Everland, where everyone can have fun, regardless of age or stage in life!
Day 4
HONGCHEON, GANGWON-DO
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Vivaldi Park Ocean World
- Vivaldi Park Ocean World is situated among the beautiful ancient forests of Hongcheon in Gangwon-do. The water park has an Egyptian theme throughout, and contains replicas of the Sphinx, pyramids, obelisks, and other decorative touches. The park is divided into Indoor Zone, Wave Pool Zone, Extreme Zone, Dynamic Zone, and the Mega Slide Zone with each section offering amusement of its own. The Indoor Zone has various pools and slides, a jjimjilbang, and a therapy center. At Surfing Mountain in the Extreme Zone, people can experience exciting thrills with waves as high as 2.4 meters.
Vivaldi Park Ocean World
- Vivaldi Park Ocean World is situated among the beautiful ancient forests of Hongcheon in Gangwon-do. The water park has an Egyptian theme throughout, and contains replicas of the Sphinx, pyramids, obelisks, and other decorative touches. The park is divided into Indoor Zone, Wave Pool Zone, Extreme Zone, Dynamic Zone, and the Mega Slide Zone with each section offering amusement of its own. The Indoor Zone has various pools and slides, a jjimjilbang, and a therapy center. At Surfing Mountain in the Extreme Zone, people can experience exciting thrills with waves as high as 2.4 meters.
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Shoestring Budget Travel! Enjoy Seoul on 10 Dollars!
- Traveling overseas may seem expensive, but it's also possible to enjoy a full vacation on a limited budget. Seoul, in particular, is a popular city to visit, thanks to the multitude of free or nearly free attractions, as well as the plethora of good eats and the unique harmony of traditional and modern styles.
More Information
- Traveling overseas may seem expensive, but it's also possible to enjoy a full vacation on a limited budget. Seoul, in particular, is a popular city to visit, thanks to the multitude of free or nearly free attractions, as well as the plethora of good eats and the unique harmony of traditional and modern styles.
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Enjoy Busan on a 10 Dollar Budget!
- The second largest city in the nation just after Seoul, Busan is a city of delicious foods and modern buildings standing tall beside the beautiful ocean. Within this coastal city are dozens of fun ways to enjoy a budget-friendly vacation. Follow our guide to explore all Busan has to offer for just 10 dollars!
More Information
- The second largest city in the nation just after Seoul, Busan is a city of delicious foods and modern buildings standing tall beside the beautiful ocean. Within this coastal city are dozens of fun ways to enjoy a budget-friendly vacation. Follow our guide to explore all Busan has to offer for just 10 dollars!
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Day-trip around Busan by Subway
- Busan is a city of beautiful beaches, glamorous night scenes, and modern history. As the second largest metropolitan area in Korea, it was announced as Lonely Planet’s number 1 destination in “10 Best places to visit in Asia in 2018."
More Information
- Busan is a city of beautiful beaches, glamorous night scenes, and modern history. As the second largest metropolitan area in Korea, it was announced as Lonely Planet’s number 1 destination in “10 Best places to visit in Asia in 2018."
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Subway Ride to Incheon’s Top 5 Attractions
- You can enjoy a dreamlike tour of Incheon and explore the narrow alleyways of traditional markets just by taking this easily accessible public transportation.
More Information
- You can enjoy a dreamlike tour of Incheon and explore the narrow alleyways of traditional markets just by taking this easily accessible public transportation.
Design your travel to Korea with your special interests! As Korea is a destination abundant in unique and diverse tourism assets, you can tailor the tours to meet your needs. Here are some of the themed travels that can be made in Korea.
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Ski Tour
- Korea is a great place to enjoy skiing and snowboarding! With multiple ski resorts all offering slopes of varying skill levels, it’s easy to find one to enjoy, especially in Gangwon-do. Some of the resorts even served as official venues for the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics. Ski seasons are December, January and February in Korea.
- Spend an Exciting Winter at Korea’s Ski Resorts
Suggested itinerary for Ski Tour in Korea
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Walking Tour
- See the beauty of Korea along walking trails! Surrounded by the sea on three sides, Korea has four very distinct seasons that offer beautiful views and landscapes. The mountains, oceans, historic relics and much more will create a pleasant and memorable walking experience. Well-known trails are the Seoul City Wall Trail and Jeju Olle Trail.
- Seoul City Wall Trail
Jeju Olle Trail
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Cycling Tour
- Explore Korea by bicycle! South Korea has amazing cycling infrastructure with well-maintained paths. These bike routes have beautiful trail environments including lakes, mountains, rivers, forests and more. ‘Korean Cycle Tour Passport’ book is also available to stamp at bicycle certification points along the trail.
- Suggested Itinerary for Cycling Tour in Korea
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Trails Difficulty Distance Duration Location Han River Trail Easy 80 km 5 hrs Seoul Four Rivers Trail Moderate 630 km 12∽15 days Incheon/Seoul ∽ Busan Jeju Bike Path Easy 244 km 4∽5 days Jeju East Coast Cycling Route Moderate 720 km 10∽14 days Sokcho, Gangwondo ∽ Busan
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Arts & Culture Tour
- The people of Korea have developed a distinctive culture based on their unique artistic sensibility. Korea’s vibrant cultural legacy, comprising music, art, literature, dance, architecture, clothing and cuisine, offers a delightful combination of tradition and modernity. Visit specialized museums and join classes to experience Korean culture and the art!
- Suggested Itinerary for Arts and Culture Tour in Korea
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DMZ Tour
- Bearing the pain of a divided nation and hope for peace, the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a neutral zone created by the Korean War Armistice Agreement signed on 27 July 1953. It expands 2km south and north of the Military Demarcation Line across the center of the Korean peninsula. While travel within the region still remains extremely limited, with some spots only open to special tours, there are many areas which are open to the general public. Visit for yourself to feel the peace of the DMZ. Half day or all day tours can be arranged.
- Panmunjeom (Joint Security Area)
DMZ, a Symbol of Peace and Culture
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Hallyu (Korean Wave) Tour
- If you are a fan of Korean dramas, K-pops and celebrities, embark on an exciting Hallyu tour in Seoul. There are numerous places in Seoul that have frequently been used as filming sites for dramas and variety programs, not to mention tour attractions solely dedicated to Hallyu.
- K-Star Road
If you have a long layover at Incheon International Airport, join one of free transit tours, ranging from entertainment to lifestyle to business, temples, shopping, and tradition. Travellers can choose among the different tours available: 1-hour, 2-hour, 4-hour, and 5-hour tour courses. Each transit tour is led by an English-speaking tour guide and can be signed up for in advance online or upon arrival in the case of available seats. All tours in the transit tour program are provided for free. However, tourist site admission fees and meals are excluded and must be paid individually.
The passenger who is eligible to enter to Korea and who has connecting flight from third countries to other third countries within 24 hours can join the tour.
(4H) Gwangmyeong Cave Tour
(4H) Ganghwa Jeondeungsa Temple Tour
With sea on three sides and a number of major ports, South Korea is fast emerging as Asia’s must visit destination for cruise travellers. The main ports used by international cruise lines are Incheon (near Seoul), Busan and Jeju Island.
Port of Busan
Busan Port is included in the major cruise lines operating from Australia to Asia. Busan is South Korea’s largest port city and second largest city after Seoul. Busan is the gateway to a fascinating land whose culture is a unique amalgam of old and new. During the one-day stop at Busan (usually from 9am to 7pm), visitors can enjoy various tourist attractions and cultural experiences of Busan.
There are two terminals at the Port of Busan - Busan International Passenger Terminal and Busan International Cruise Terminal.
Recommended Tourist Attractions in Busan
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Gamcheon Culture Village
- Gamcheon Culture Village started in the 1950s as a settlement of refugees fleeing from the Korean war. This community spread up the steep hillside, following the natural curves of the mountain to build houses atop houses with narrow streets winding between them. The area underwent an art project to decorate the houses in bright murals, creating a village straight out of a child’s story book. The stacks of houses have also earned the village the nickname “the Santorini of Busan.” The village is dotted with interesting things to see. The narrow alleys offer craft experiences in addition to the colorful murals. Visitors to the village can also enjoy a multitude of street foods and snacks.
Gamcheon Culture Village
- Gamcheon Culture Village started in the 1950s as a settlement of refugees fleeing from the Korean war. This community spread up the steep hillside, following the natural curves of the mountain to build houses atop houses with narrow streets winding between them. The area underwent an art project to decorate the houses in bright murals, creating a village straight out of a child’s story book. The stacks of houses have also earned the village the nickname “the Santorini of Busan.” The village is dotted with interesting things to see. The narrow alleys offer craft experiences in addition to the colorful murals. Visitors to the village can also enjoy a multitude of street foods and snacks.
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Oryukdo Island / Oryukdo Skywalk
- Oryukdo Island is named for its changing appearance, seeming to be a grouping of five or six (o and yuk being “five” and “six” in Korean, respectively) islands depending on from where they are seen. The best place to see the islands is Oryukdo Skywalk, built high on a cliff, with nothing but a transparent floor between you and the ocean waters below. The skywalk is a great place to take photos.
Oryukdo Island
Oryukdo Skywalk
- Oryukdo Island is named for its changing appearance, seeming to be a grouping of five or six (o and yuk being “five” and “six” in Korean, respectively) islands depending on from where they are seen. The best place to see the islands is Oryukdo Skywalk, built high on a cliff, with nothing but a transparent floor between you and the ocean waters below. The skywalk is a great place to take photos.
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Taejongdae Resort Park
- At Taejongdae Resort Park, the harmony of lush forest, rocky cliffs, and the vast ocean unfolds a breathtaking scenic beauty. There are three ways for travellers to enjoy Taejongdae Park: walking along the road, taking a ride on Taejongdae Danubi Train, and boarding the Taejongdae Gonpo Cruise Boat. Any of the three methods offer the opportunity to absorb in the natural wonders of Taejongdae, but we recommend taking the Danubi Train to save time and money. With a single ticket, you can conveniently hop on and off the train at any stop you want, giving you a greater freedom to explore this scenic place.
Taejongdae Resort Park
- At Taejongdae Resort Park, the harmony of lush forest, rocky cliffs, and the vast ocean unfolds a breathtaking scenic beauty. There are three ways for travellers to enjoy Taejongdae Park: walking along the road, taking a ride on Taejongdae Danubi Train, and boarding the Taejongdae Gonpo Cruise Boat. Any of the three methods offer the opportunity to absorb in the natural wonders of Taejongdae, but we recommend taking the Danubi Train to save time and money. With a single ticket, you can conveniently hop on and off the train at any stop you want, giving you a greater freedom to explore this scenic place.
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Jagalchi Market
- Jagalchi Market is one of Korea’s foremost seafood markets, where visitors can vividly soak up the fishing village atmosphere in the urban center. The market is located inside a large building. The first floor of the building is the main fish market selling a huge selection of sea products, while the second floor contains spaces where you can eat the fresh seafood purchased from the market. In addition, the area behind the market building has a variety of sculptures and it is an ideal spot to watch the sight of fishing boats entering the market dock.
Jagalchi Market
- Jagalchi Market is one of Korea’s foremost seafood markets, where visitors can vividly soak up the fishing village atmosphere in the urban center. The market is located inside a large building. The first floor of the building is the main fish market selling a huge selection of sea products, while the second floor contains spaces where you can eat the fresh seafood purchased from the market. In addition, the area behind the market building has a variety of sculptures and it is an ideal spot to watch the sight of fishing boats entering the market dock.
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Kkangtong Market
- Kkangtong Market opens in the day, but more people visit in the evening, leading some to call this a night market. The market is famous for selling unique, delicious street foods at inexpensive prices. Some of the more unusual street foods for Korea include Scotch eggs, hardboiled eggs wrapped in sausage and bacon before frying; French fries covered in a cheesy sausage sauce; soup served in a bread bowl similar to pane pasta; and steamed corn so addictive it’s earned the nickname “narcotic corn.” All these foods are sold for just 3,000 to 5,000 won
Kkangtong Market
- Kkangtong Market opens in the day, but more people visit in the evening, leading some to call this a night market. The market is famous for selling unique, delicious street foods at inexpensive prices. Some of the more unusual street foods for Korea include Scotch eggs, hardboiled eggs wrapped in sausage and bacon before frying; French fries covered in a cheesy sausage sauce; soup served in a bread bowl similar to pane pasta; and steamed corn so addictive it’s earned the nickname “narcotic corn.” All these foods are sold for just 3,000 to 5,000 won
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BIFF Square
- Just a short walk away from Kkangtong Market is BIFF Square Culture Street, a gathering of movie theaters in the center of Busan’s Nampo-dong. In the past, it was the venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), and the Star Street is dotted with the handprints of world-famous film directors, producers, and actors. The festival has since moved all film-showings to Busan Cinema Center at Haeundae, but the square is still popular among tourists and crowded with street food vendors both day and night.
BIFF Square
- Just a short walk away from Kkangtong Market is BIFF Square Culture Street, a gathering of movie theaters in the center of Busan’s Nampo-dong. In the past, it was the venue of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), and the Star Street is dotted with the handprints of world-famous film directors, producers, and actors. The festival has since moved all film-showings to Busan Cinema Center at Haeundae, but the square is still popular among tourists and crowded with street food vendors both day and night.
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Centum City
- As the world’s largest department store, Busan’s Shinsegae Centum City features various brands, including luxury products. Visitors can also enjoy the delicious tastes of some of Korea’s most famous restaurants. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy all aspects of entertainment, from a movie theater to a large bookstore, an indoor ice skating rink and even a jimjilbang, a Korean-style spa. The nearby Busan Cinema Center, the venue of Busan International Film Festival, is also worth a visit.
Centum City
- As the world’s largest department store, Busan’s Shinsegae Centum City features various brands, including luxury products. Visitors can also enjoy the delicious tastes of some of Korea’s most famous restaurants. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy all aspects of entertainment, from a movie theater to a large bookstore, an indoor ice skating rink and even a jimjilbang, a Korean-style spa. The nearby Busan Cinema Center, the venue of Busan International Film Festival, is also worth a visit.
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Haeundae Beach
- A major attraction of Busan, Haeundae is more than just Haeundae Beach! The area also encompasses the multipurpose Marine City and other skyscrapers, Dongbaekseom Island that bursts with red camellia blossoms in late winter, and Gwangandaegyo Bridge, crossing the ocean landscape like a second horizon line. Marine City serves as a great background for souvenir photographs, and Dongbaekseom Island is perfect for a leisure stroll.
Haeundae Beach
- A major attraction of Busan, Haeundae is more than just Haeundae Beach! The area also encompasses the multipurpose Marine City and other skyscrapers, Dongbaekseom Island that bursts with red camellia blossoms in late winter, and Gwangandaegyo Bridge, crossing the ocean landscape like a second horizon line. Marine City serves as a great background for souvenir photographs, and Dongbaekseom Island is perfect for a leisure stroll.
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The Bay 101
- Frequented by dating couples at late night hours, The Bay 101 is the new up-and-coming hot spot in Busan. Also a yacht club equipped with a gallery and gourmet restaurants, it is an ideal place to enjoy cultural and leisure activities or to dine with spectacular views. Near the yacht club, an array of street food vendors invite visitors to taste fresh seafood while looking out on the night sea.
The Bay 101
- Frequented by dating couples at late night hours, The Bay 101 is the new up-and-coming hot spot in Busan. Also a yacht club equipped with a gallery and gourmet restaurants, it is an ideal place to enjoy cultural and leisure activities or to dine with spectacular views. Near the yacht club, an array of street food vendors invite visitors to taste fresh seafood while looking out on the night sea.