South Korea: Food Journey to the Soul of Seoul and Beyond

Seoul - Jeonju - Gwanju

Photography, Videography, Exploration, Food

Activity Level: 2

Embark on a captivating 7-day journey through the heart of South Korea, starting in Seoul and venturing to Jeonju and Gwangju. In Seoul, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Gwangjang Market, savoring diverse street foods. Take a Kimchi Making Class to delve into the art of crafting this iconic Korean dish and explore historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace. Then, head to Jeonju for a cultural feast in its Hanok Village and a serene visit to Juknokwon Bamboo Forest. The culinary adventure continues with the city's renowned Bibimbap. Transition to Gwangju, where the Asian Culture Complex and a stroll through Yangnim-dong offer contemporary art and vibrant nightlife. Conclude your journey by indulging in a Chocopie Making Class, exploring the Gwangju Biennale, and savoring local cuisine amidst the city's historical and cultural landmarks.

7 days
8 - 26 spots
Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
6 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches and 3 Dinners

Activities Included

Gyeongbokgung Palace
Insadong Antique Street
Gwangjang Market
Kimchi Making Class
Yongin Korean Folk Village
Hanok Village and Street Food Tour
Moju Brewing Experience
Sunchang Gochujang Village & Museum Visit
Juknokwon Bamboo Visit
Han River Cruise

Other Inclusions

Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
Local Guide throughout trip
All city transfers

Exclusions

International flights
Food & alcohol (except as noted)
Visas & travel insurance
Airport transfers
Tips for Guides

Itinerary

Day 1

info

Day 1

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Incheon International Airport (ICN).

meal

dinner

Toast to an exciting adventure ahead! Your welcome dinner will be included at a local restaurant. Your dinner will typically be a set menu of Korean BBQ. Additional drinks and food may be purchased at your own expense. Restaurants are subject to change based on availability.

accommodation

Standford Hotel Seoul, or similar

Overnight in Seoul

Day 2

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Day 2

Today, you'll embark on a captivating city tour of Seoul, beginning with a short transfer to visit the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, where the rich history of the Joseon Dynasty comes to life. Afterwards, you'll head to the vibrant Insadong street, filled with traditional tea houses, antique shops, and cultural delights. For your next stop, you'll dive into the bustling Gwangjang Market, a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of street foods and local treats. Then, hop on a transfer to a kimchi making class, gaining hands-on experience in crafting this iconic Korean dish before transferring back to the hotel. For today's activities, you'll want to wear comfortable walking shoes, as well as pack some extra cash with you if you want to purchase any additional food, beverages, or souvenirs at Gwangjang Market.

meal

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet-style. Breakfast items are usually a combination of Korean and Intercontinental breakfast. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Gyeongbokgung Palace

After breakfast, you'll take a 20-minute private transfer from the hotel to Gyeongbokgung Palace to explore and learn about the history of the palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace is a majestic architectural masterpiece that served as the main royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1395, it boasts an impressive array of ornate halls, pavilions, and courtyards surrounded by picturesque mountains. The iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace remains a symbol of Korean history and culture.

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Insadong Antique Street

Take a 15-minute transfer to Insadong Antique Street to wander around the charming district renowned for its antique shops, traditional tea houses, and cultural treasures. Strolling along its narrow alleys, you'll encounter a delightful blend of historic artifacts, calligraphy supplies, and unique crafts, providing a captivating glimpse into Korea's artistic heritage. The street's nostalgic ambiance, combined with its vibrant array of shops, makes Insadong Antique Street a cultural haven for those seeking a taste of traditional Korean aesthetics.

activity

APPROX. 30 MIN

Gwangjang Market

From Insadong Antique Street, take a brief transfer to the famous Gwangjang Market. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of stalls, Gwangjang Market offers a sensory feast with its street food vendors, textiles, and traditional Korean goods. The bottom floor serves as a labyrinth of vendors and food stalls. Here you will sample some of the city’s iconic street food staples like bindaetteok, tteokbokki, mayak kimbap, and san-nakji. Be sure to pack some extra cash with you if you want to purchase any additional food, beverages, or souvenirs!

meal

lunch

Enjoy an included lunch at a restaurant in the Gwangjang Market. Typically, your meal will include 4-5 dishes, shared family-style. Additional food and beverages may be purchased at your own expense.

activity

APPROX. 2 HOURS

Kimchi Making Class

After lunch, take a 30-minute private transfer to a kimchi making class! Your journey into traditional Korean culture continues as you take part in a kimchi-making class. Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish of salted and fermented vegetables, such as napa cabbage and Korean radish. In the end, you will be served a snack of Korean pancakes to pair with your kimchi. Guided by expert instructors, you'll learn the art of preparing this iconic fermented dish, from how to select fresh ingredients, to mastering the intricate seasoning process. The instructor will demonstrate, and you'll have the chance to roll up your sleeves and make some kimchi on your own. At the end of the class, you will be served a snack of Korean pancakes to pair with your kimchi. Afterwards, you will take a 30-minute transfer back to your hotel.

accommodation

Standford Hotel Seoul, or similar

Overnight in Seoul

Day 3

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Day 3

Today, you'll start the morning with a transfer out to Yongin. Experience a journey through Korea's rich cultural history with a visit to the Korean Folk Village -- a living museum showcasing traditional homes, crafts, and performances of the Joseon Dynasty era. Witness artisans at work, partake in traditional activities, and savor the charm of this open-air museum, creating lasting memories of Korea's cultural heritage. You'll have time to wander around the village on your own, and then the group will have lunch before transferring back to the hotel in Seoul for an evening at leisure.

meal

breakfast

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Hotel to Yongin Korean Folk Village

Depart the hotel this morning and take a private transfer to Yongin Korean Folk Village. Restroom breaks will be made as needed.

activity

APPROX. 2 HOURS

Yongin Korean Folk Village

Experience a journey through Korea's rich cultural history with a visit to the Yongin Korean Folk Village -- a living museum showcasing traditional homes, crafts, and performances. Enjoy the convenience of a private transfer to and from the village, allowing you to immerse yourself in the authenticity of the Joseon Dynasty era. Witness artisans at work, partake in traditional activities, and savor the charm of this open-air museum, creating lasting memories of Korea's cultural heritage.

meal

lunch

Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant. You will be enjoying a Hanjeongsik meal, a traditional Korean full-course meal, consisting of a diverse array of dishes including rice, soup, and a variety of banchan (side dishes). Beverages are not included, but may be purchased at your own expense.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Lunch to Hotel

After lunch, take a private transfer back to the hotel in Seoul. Restroom breaks will be made as needed.

accommodation

Standford Hotel Seoul, or similar

Overnight in Seoul

Day 4

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Day 4

Today, you'll say goodbye to Seoul for now and take a 4-hour transfer to Jeonju. Enjoy a delicious bibimbap lunch at a local restaurant in Jeonju before diving into the enchanting Hanok Village for a guided tour, exploring traditional Korean hanok houses and savoring various street foods. The adventure continues with a Moju brewing experience, where you will learn about the brewing process of this traditional alcoholic drink from the Jeonju area. Conclude the day with a short transfer to the hotel in Jeonju.

meal

breakfast

transfer

APPROX. 4 HOURS

Seoul to Jeonju

Depart the hotel this morning and take a private transfer from Seoul to Jeonju. Restroom breaks will be made as needed.

meal

lunch

Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant in Jeonju. For lunch, you will be having bibimbap! Bibimbap is a popular Korean dish featuring a colorful and nutritious medley of vegetables, meat (often beef), a fried egg, and spicy gochujang (red chili paste) served over a bed of rice. Additional food and drinks may be purchased at your own expense.

activity

APPROX. 2 HOURS

Hanok Village and Street Food Tour

From lunch, take a 15-minute transfer to start your Hanok Village tour. Jeonju Hanok Village is a charming district renowned for its well-preserved traditional Korean hanok houses, offering glimpses into the country's architectural and cultural heritage. The village is celebrated for its picturesque alleys, historic structures, and vibrant atmosphere. The local guide will show you around the neighborhood as well as allow you some free time to explore on your own. Then, you'll try a variety of street foods, such as Jeonju-style Hotteok, Kimbap, Bungeoppang, Gukbap, Tteokbokki, and Odeng (exact dishes may vary and will be determined on the spot).

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR 20 MIN

Moju Brewing Experience

As you explore Jeonju Hanok Village, you will make a stop to learn more about Moju. Moju refers to makgeolli (unrefined rice wine) with ginger, jujube, cinnamon, and the like. Its production process, which involves makgeolli boiled with medicinal herbs, results in a beverage with almost no alcohol content. On this tour, you will begin with a brief introduction to learn more about the drink, and then be shown the boiling and cooling of the ingredients. Then, you'll be able to sample the Makgeolli before its bottling. In Jeonju, moju is often served alongside the bean sprout and rice soup, so one can find moju quite readily across restaurants in Jeonju. The beverage is sweet, with a healthy, cinnamon-laced flavor. Please note that Moju contains about 1% alcohol, and travelers under 19 years of age, the legal drinking age in South Korea, will not be able to participate in this activity.

accommodation

Best Western Jeonju, or similar

Overnight in Jeonju

Day 5

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Day 5

Today you'll transfer to the Sunchang Gochujang Village. Immerse yourself in the art of gochujang production, complemented by tastings and interactive experiences. After a Korean Hanjeongsik lunch, embark on a short transfer to Juknokwon Bamboo Forest in Damyang, where a serene loop offers a tranquil stroll amidst picturesque bamboo groves. Conclude the day with another dinner before a transfer back to the hotel, capturing the essence of Korean cuisine, culture, and natural beauty.

meal

breakfast

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Hotel to Sunchang Gochujang Village

Depart the hotel and take a private transfer to the Sunchang Gochujang Village.

activity

APPROX. 2 HOURS

Sunchang Gochujang Village & Museum Visit

Sunchang Gochujang Village is a captivating destination in South Korea, celebrated for its rich tradition of producing gochujang, a fermented red chili paste widely used in Korean cuisine. The tiny village of 149 people specializes in one thing, gochujang paste. As you enter the village, you will notice rows and rows of hang-a-ri or clay pots used to ferment the chili paste. This village offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the entire process of making gochujang, from the cultivation of red peppers to the fermentation and aging stages. In addition to the educational aspects, the village features interactive experiences, tastings, and a variety of gochujang-infused products. The guide will give you some background and history into the area and you will have the opportunity to explore freely. You'll then head to the Sunchang Traditional Paste Museum, which offers a look at different traditional paste cultures from gochujang (pepper paste) to doenjang (soybean paste). Located across from the Sunchang Gochujang Village, a robot gochujang grandmother greets the visitors by telling the history of Sunchang pepper paste. The exhibition halls inside display the history of various traditional pastes and you'll even have a chance to experience the process of making different pastes.

meal

lunch

Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant. Lunch will typically be Korean Hanjeongsik, featuring Ddeokgalbi (marinated beef ribs). Drinks and additional food may be purchased at your own expense.

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Juknokwon Bamboo Visit

From lunch, you'll take a 10-minute private transfer to Juknokwon Bamboo Forest for a stroll. Juknokwon Bamboo Forest is a tranquil and enchanting destination located in Damyang, South Korea. This sprawling bamboo grove is renowned for its picturesque walking paths, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to explore. Amidst the bamboo, you'll find charming pavilions, bridges, and artistic installations, making Juknokwon not only a peaceful retreat but also a cultural and natural haven that celebrates the beauty of bamboo and makes for a wonderful photo opportunity. The path is an easy 1.7 mile loop that is mostly flat.

meal

dinner

Enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant. Dinner will typically be Korean Hanjeongsik. Drinks and additional food may be purchased at your own expense. After dinner, take a 40-minute transfer back to the hotel in Gwanju.

accommodation

Ramada Gwangju, or similar

Overnight in Gwanju.

Day 6

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Day 6

This morning, you will be taking a lengthy journey back to Seoul from Gwangju. Upon your arrival in Seoul, you'll enjoy a delightful cruise on the Han River, taking in breathtaking views of the city's skyline and landmarks. Conclude your day with a memorable farewell dinner picnic at Yeouido Hangang Park, featuring Korean fried chicken and pizza. Revel in the scenic beauty and culinary delights, savoring your last evening in Seoul with a quintessential local experience.

meal

breakfast

transfer

APPROX. 5 HOURS 30 MIN

Gwangju to Seoul

Depart the hotel this morning and take a private transfer from Gwanju to the Seoul Han River Cruise. Restroom breaks will be made as needed.

activity

APPROX. 40 MIN

Han River Cruise

A Han River Cruise is a delightful experience in Seoul, offering panoramic views of the city's iconic skyline and landmarks. Passengers can enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Han River, taking in the illuminated bridges and skyscrapers that create a mesmerizing backdrop. Please note that no food or drinks are included on the cruise.

meal

dinner

Cheers to an amazing adventure with new friends! Take a 10-minute transfer to Yeouido Hangang Park for a farewell dinner picnic, a staple activity of the locals. Dinner will typically be Korean fried chicken and pizza.

accommodation

Standford Hotel Seoul, or similar

Overnight in Seoul

Day 7

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Day 7

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of Incheon International Airport (ICN).

meal

breakfast

Itinerary Details

Itineraries may change throughout the year due to several factors including logistical issues, Traveler feedback, or operational changes. The provided itinerary, including estimated times, serve as guidelines only. As your date of travel approaches, our Operators will amend the itinerary to include more details, adjust activities and provide updated information.

TrovaTrip and our Operators reserve the right to alter itineraries as we deem necessary before and during your experience in-destination.

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$2260+ USD

per traveler