Home » Group Trips » Spring in South Korea
Spring in South Korea
Price: From $5,450*
duration: 13 Days
* price for a group of 20 people or more
Recommended months:
March – April
Added value:
Timed for the cherry blossom festival period in Korea.
Authentic encounters with the local population
Unique sites that hardly see Western tourism
Improved and pampering conditions
Recommended months
Recommended group size
tour type
Notes
March - April
8 - 24 people
Culture in-depth
Customizable (On Request)
Intro
Between Japan and China, Korea is the jewel of Northeast Asia. An advanced industrial powerhouse, which is open to embracing its rich tradition. In a special journey, we will go beyond the familiar and the touristic, to hidden villages, artisans, and traditional and modern cultural centers. We will visit the busy markets and those that are less known, we will climb to the top of the mountains and watch from them a breathtaking view. All this is in the best tradition of Dragon Path’s travel conditions. And all this during the cherry blossom festival of Korea. We will learn about the different (and sometimes strange) lifestyles of Korea. We will crack the code for your understanding. We will leave some myths behind, and experience exciting surprises of direct encounters with residents.
Days 1-2 | Seoul
We will depart from Ben Gurion Airport on a direct flight to the capital of Korea, Seoul, where we will arrive the next day. Upon arrival in Seoul, we will be welcomed by local staff who will take us on a long journey to our hotel. After refreshing at the hotel, we will head out for dinner and explore the area. We will visit Cheonggyecheon Stream Park, where we’ll hear the fascinating story that essentially reflects the history of the entire city of Seoul. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel for rest.
Overnight stay in Seoul
Day 3 | Seoul
After breakfast, we will explore various sites in the city, starting with the main palace, Gyeongbok Palace, to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. We’ll visit the “Folklore Museum,” gaining insights into different aspects of Korean culture. Next, we’ll explore Jogye-sa Temple, the main temple of Korean Buddhism, followed by a visit to a traditional neighborhood (Hanok Village) overlooking modern Seoul. We’ll continue to Jogye Sa Temple, the main headquarters of Korean Buddhism, and then take the Namsan Cablecar to Seoul Tower for another panoramic view of the city. We’ll visit Namdaemun Market, one of Seoul’s beautiful markets, before returning to the hotel.
Overnight stay in Seoul
Day 4 | Seoul
After breakfast, we’ll explore modern Seoul, representing South Korea’s economic prowess. We’ll visit the Gangnam district, known for songs and TV series, starting with a visit to the cherry blossom sites. We’ll begin at Seokchon Lake and visit the Lotte World Tower, the fifth-tallest building in the world. The day will continue with a tour of the K-pop culture, including a visit to the COEX convention center with its special library. We’ll then explore Yeouido, known for its cherry blossom trees and a magnificent park. Afterward, we’ll head to Gwanjang Market, featured in a TV show, and then explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza, designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. In the evening, we’ll visit Insadong, known for its traditional shops and arts.
Overnight stay in Seoul
Day 5 | Seoul to Jeonju
After breakfast, we’ll leave Seoul to experience Korea’s natural landscapes. We’ll first ascend Mount Daedunsan, one of the most beautiful scenic sites in Korea, followed by a visit to Jeonju. In Jeonju, we’ll tour the Hanok Village, a neighborhood of well-preserved traditional houses. We’ll stroll among the ancient houses, learning about Korean life before modernization.
Overnight stay in Jeonju
Day 6 | Jeonju to Jeju Island
After breakfast, we will travel towards Mount Maisan, where we’ll visit a unique site, a temple entirely made of small stones without any adhesive! Afterward, we’ll visit traditional artisans’ workshops, starting with the home of an Onggi (earthenware) maker. From there, we’ll head to the nearby airport and board a flight to our next destination, Jeju Island. Upon arrival, we’ll embark on our first tour of the island, visiting Cheonjiyeon Waterfall and enjoying views of the volcanic landscape. We’ll then proceed along the coast, stopping at viewpoints overlooking the volcanic scenery emerging from the sea. We’ll reach the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight stay in Jeju
Day 7 | Jeju Island to Busan
Jeju Island, known as the “Island of the Gods,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll have two full days to explore the unique island, visiting sites such as Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Jusangjeolli Cliff, and Jeju Stone Park. We’ll also explore traditional villages on the island, combining them with visits to Jeju’s beautiful forested, tropical, and maritime areas to experience the diverse nature the island offers. In the evening, after a full day of tours, we’ll head to the airport for a short flight to Busan, the largest and most important city in southern South Korea. Upon arrival in Busan, we’ll head to the hotel.
Overnight stay in Busan
Day 8| Busan
Busan, the second-largest city in Korea and a major industrial center, combines old and new, tradition, and modernity. We’ll start the day by visiting the Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, situated on a cliff by the sea. We’ll then take the Songdo Cable Car over the sea and proceed to Gamcheon Culture Village. This village, on the outskirts of Busan, is a hub for artists, art students, and creators who gathered to give the place its unique charm. Next, we’ll visit the impressive Jagalchi Fish Market, the vast and marvelous seafood market of Busan, followed by an evening visit to the Busan Cinema Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Coop Himmelb(l)au. We’ll return to the hotel afterward.
Overnight stay in Busan
Day 9 | From Busan to Jinhae and Gyeongju
The morning of this day will be dedicated to the most significant cherry blossom festival in Korea, celebrated in grandeur at Jinhae. We’ll immerse ourselves in the festival until the afternoon, then travel to Ulsan, one of Korea’s major industrial centers. In Ulsan, we’ll tour the Hyundai car manufacturing plant (subject to approval). From there, we’ll continue to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, known as the “Museum without Walls” for its impressive collection of historical and contemporary sites, gardens, and parks. Upon arrival in Gyeongju, we’ll embark on a tour of Anapji Pond, a beautiful pond surrounded by ancient palace buildings. We’ll return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight stay in Gyeongju
Day 10 | Gyeongju
After breakfast, we’ll continue our exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites around Gyeongju. We’ll first visit Bulguksa Temple, another UNESCO site. From there, we’ll head to Seokguram Grotto, home to Buddhist sculptures, and then visit the ancient tomb complex of Daereungwon. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Cheomseongdae, the oldest astronomical observatory in East Asia. Later, we’ll visit the bustling Dongseongro Shopping District and explore the Gyeongju National Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a stroll around the beautiful Banwolseong Fortress.
Overnight stay in Gyeongju
Day 11 | Gyeongju to Andong
Our journey continues to Andong, known for its well-preserved traditional homes. We’ll visit the Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, that provides a glimpse into the traditional architecture and way of life of the Joseon Dynasty. We’ll explore the village, including the Mask Museum, which displays various masks used in traditional Korean mask dances. Afterward, we’ll head to the Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy, another UNESCO site, and then explore the Andong Folk Museum. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a traditional Korean meal in the village before heading to the hotel.
Overnight stay in Andong
Day 12 | Andong to Seoul
In the morning, we’ll visit the Dosanseowon Confucian Academy, a Confucian academy built during the 10th Century. Next, we’ll explore the Woryeonggyo Bridge, a wooden pedestrian bridge over the Nakdong River, and the Imcheonggak Pavilion. Afterward, we’ll head back to Seoul, where we’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or individual exploration. In the evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating the end of our journey through South Korea.
Overnight stay in Seoul
Day 13 | Seoul and back home
Depending on flight schedules, you may have some free time in the morning for additional exploration or last-minute shopping. We’ll arrange transfers to Incheon International Airport for departure flights.
The Price Include:
- Accommodation in hotels as specified in the program on a bed-and-breakfast basis
- Half board based on full dinners and light lunches
- All the sites and shows that are written in the program, including entrance fees
- Travel in an air-conditioned bus
- English/French-speaking local guides accompany the trip
- Mineral water on the bus
The Price does not Include:
- International Flight
- Tips for service providers
- Meals that are not included in the itinerary
- Drinks during meals
- Personal expenses (shopping, etc.)
- personal insurance
- Everything that is not under the section “The Price Include”