Beyond Seoul: Starfield Library, Hwaseong Fortress & Cave Quest
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the architectural marvel of Starfield Library
- Discover the historical significance of Hwaseong Fortress
- Experience the unique ambiance of Gwangmyeong Cave
- Enjoy a comfortable round-trip from Seoul
- Benefit from an expert English-speaking guide
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip transportation from Seoul
- Guided tour of Starfield Library and Hwaseong Fortress
- Admission to Gwangmyeong Cave
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
Pass by: Meeting Location 1: Myeongdong Subway Station Exit 9 at 08:50 am.
Pass by: Meeting Location 2: Seoul City Hall Subway Station Exit 6
Pass by: Enjoy a day's escape from the capital Seoul City's hustle and bustle and explore a little more of what Korea has to offer on our day tour to Suwon and Gwangmyeong. Our exciting itinerary is a good balance of indoor and outdoor adventure, history, culture, and sightseeing. Enjoy beautiful architecture and mesmerising, magical scenes together with us. Charge your camera and make sure you are logged in and ready to post to Instagram.
Step into a bibliophile's dream at Suwon Starfield Library, a free architectural marvel inside Starfield Suwon mall. Marvel at towering 22m-high bookshelves stocked with 50,000 volumes across four floors, cozy nooks for hidden reads, and a vibrant Vinyl Cafe for tunes and treats. Capture Instagram-worthy shots in this serene haven. Your perfect escape from the ordinary.
Descend into the enchanting depths of Gwangmyeong Cave, a reborn 1912 mine transformed into a 7.8km underground wonderland. Wander a 2km trail through 50 magical attractions like shimmering Light Space and cascading Gold Falls, plus an aquarium, a winery for sips amid crystals, and themed zones that spark adventure. Unearth hidden thrills that will leave you spellbound.
Conquer the majestic Hwaseong Fortress, Suwon's UNESCO-listed Joseon Dynasty gem encircling the city in a 5.74km stone-and-brick embrace. Built by King Jeongjo to honor his father, stride panoramic walls for epic views, secret passages, and living history reenactments. This 1997 heritage icon promises timeless tales and triumphant vibes. Book now to claim your crown.
Pass by: We have two drop-off locations. Both are central downtown areas with excellent onward public transport links and interesting areas to explore and soak up the atmosphere. Dropoff location 1 (Myeongdong Shopping Street): Get off here for a lively, bustling street stalls overflowing with spicy tteokbokki, sweet hotteok, and other Korean street eats. Surrounding shops brim with top global brands, beauty gems, and chic outfits, as well as plenty of nearby upmarket department stores. Take a wander to the tranquil Myeongdong Cathedral amid all the hustle. Dropoff location 2 (Seoul City Hall): Jump off here for a historic hub famed for its Joseon-era palaces like Deoksugung, lush Cheonggyecheon Stream walks, and the towering vertical garden of City Hall itself. Savor hearty jokbal at nearby eateries or browse the vibrant stalls at Namdaemun Market. Wander the serene Jeongdong Observatory amid the urban pulse.
Meeting point
Start Location
Seoul City Hall, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour operates in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
- Meals and personal expenses are not included; plan accordingly.
- The tour involves walking; consider your comfort with physical activity.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes.
- Carry a light jacket, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
Traveler reviews
Three stops, Cave, Temporary Palace, library stop and shops
Max was amazing, he was able to explain to us in good english about the History of Korea. Each stop was just the right abount of time without feeling rushes. The driver was polite and class act driving being mindful of childrens need stopping safely when an emergency stop was needed. Not only on tourists pictures site it was meaningful to know the rich history behind each stop. If given the opportunity we will book. To learn more and see sites with a respectful eye book with Max, 5 stars! 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Great rainy day exploring
Had a great experience exploring the caves and fortress. The tour was appropriately paced and we were given ample time for pictures.
Great tour!
Wonderful day spent exploring outside of Seoul. Max is the perfect tour very friendly, knowledgeable, and the best with kids. Thanks for the memories!
Seeing City Area Tour
This tour was awesome, showcasing culture and history outside Seoul City. Enough time was spent at each site. Coco's knowledge included great trivia, and she adapted the pace to the group's interests. Tom was always on time and smoothly navigated traffic. We had a great tour and great day with Coco and Tom.
Seoul Tour
Even though we were only two people in the group, the experience was amazing. The tour guide, Ivy, was very good at explaining the places we visited and we also talked about ourselves too. We appreciate Ivy's and Charlie's, our driver, efforts for this tour.