Seoul Half-Day Tour: Gyeongbokgung Palace & Jogyesa Temple

Name: Seoul Half-Day Tour: Gyeongbokgung Palace & Jogyesa Temple
Brand: VIP Travel Co. Ltd (VIP Travel)
Price: 29.00 KRW
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.648351648351649 (364 reviews)

From₩29

4 hours

Seoul, South Korea

About this activity

Discover Seoul's rich history and culture in a half-day tour featuring Gyeongbokgung Palace and Jogyesa Temple, complete with hotel transfers.

Highlights

Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace's grandeur
Witness the traditional Guard Changing Ceremony
Visit Jogyesa Temple's serene grounds
Learn about Korea's rich history
Enjoy convenient hotel transfers

Full description

Dive into Seoul's rich history and culture with this engaging half-day tour. Begin at the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you'll witness the traditional Guard Changing Ceremony—a vibrant display of Korean heritage. Then, visit the serene Jogyesa Temple, the heart of Korean Buddhism, to experience its tranquil ambiance. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, this tour offers a seamless and enriching experience of Seoul's iconic landmarks.

Included / Excluded

Guided tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Visit to Jogyesa Temple
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meals and beverages

Itinerary

The Jogyesa Buddhist Temple is one of the most important landmarks of Korean Buddhism, first established all the way back in 1935. The temple is located in downtown Seoul and is graced by an ancient white pine tree. There are a few important steps to entering the temple. First, you must go through “Iljum”, which is the one pillar gate. The “Iljumun” symbolizes the division between the world of the living and that of the holy Buddha world. You will have a beautiful spiritual experience and be able to admire the splendid, golden statues.

Duration: 40 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Changing of the Guard Ceremony – witness a spectacular Korean tradition You will see the meticulously choreographed ceremony that takes place in front of Gwanghwamun Gate. This tradition originated during the Joseon Dynasty and the city decided to bring it back for reenactment in 1996. The soldiers wear colorful blue and red uniforms and gracefully patrol the gates of the palace in protection of the king. The tradition is very elegant and simply beautiful to watch! Gyeongbok Palace (Except Tuesdays) – live like a royal Next up on our Seoul City Tour is Gyeongbokgung Palace. This was the main home of the Joseon Dynasty constructed in 1395. This is a stunning building with 7,700 rooms! The palace did take a few hits over the years, which makes it all the more interesting to see today! Some of the highlights here are Gangnyeongjeon, the king’s main quarters, Geunjeongjeon where the king accepted formal visits, Gyeonghoeru – the special banquet hall, and more!

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES

The National Palace Museum of Korea was initially established as the “Korean Imperial Museum” in 1908; however, it was renamed and relocated many times throughout its history. Today the museum holds approximately 45,000 artefacts and royal treasures from Joseon Dynasty palaces and the Korean Empire. In addition, you can find 14 of South Korea’s National Treasures located here. With 500 years of history on display, you can get a real sense of the past and discover what it was like to live as a Joseon King and Queen.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: YES

Ginseng Museum & Shopping

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

Tour operates in English; ensure you understand the language.
Confirm your hotel pickup details at least 24 hours in advance.
Be aware that the Guard Changing Ceremony schedule may vary; check the latest timings.

Know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and ceremonies.
Be prepared for potential weather changes; check the forecast before departure.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

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

4.6

364 reviews

278

Full day and fun

K was very informative, letting us know what our next step was ,what to look for. Very clear when we were resuming our tour where to meet gave pictures displayed the time so there was no misunderstanding. I’m very adaptable due to activities in the city. Make sure everything is clear that there was no misunderstandings. Kept the group moving so that we could accomplish the full day tour

susanaL6114ZVMay 16, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Short Korean trip with Chua Boys

Tour guide Coco was very entertaining and friendly. 1 of the tourist spot we went are the kwangjang market, palace where we watched the guard changing ceremony. Really enjoyed the group tour much!

EthanC331May 4, 2026TRIPADVISOR