Seoul Half-Day Tour: Gyeongbokgung Palace & Jogyesa Temple
About this activity
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
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.
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!
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.
Ginseng Museum & Shopping
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
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
Loved our tour with Judy!
Judy is a phenomenal tour guide and we had a great time even in the rain! We learned so much and would definitely recommend it!
It was an informative experience guided efficiently by our guide Crystal.
Crystal was our guide. She is efficient and proficient in the history of the places visited.
Seoul Is a Bustling City With A Rich History
Our guide (Alice) was amazing, and she showed us some interesting sites. I really loved the changing of the guard ceremony, the palace grounds, and the ginseng museum (bring your wallet if you want to buy premium quality ginseng products). The driver was also great, because he had to deal with crazy traffic and street closures due to a protest going on that day. We did the half day tour, but there were others who did the full day tour, so we did not return to our meeting point.
Amazing half-day tour
We had a super fun and relaxed half-day tour, our guide Max was extremely informative and we would book any tour again with him! Thank you so much
My First Introduction to Korea 🇰🇷
Great half-day tour covering some of Seoul’s most important landmarks, including Jogyesa Temple, Gyeongbokgung Palace, the National Folk Museum and the Changing of the Guard Ceremony. Everything was well organized, and our guide Eva was friendly, knowledgeable and made the experience very enjoyable. Highly recommended!