Eclecticism

Changdeokgung - "Palace of Flourishing Virtue", built between 1405 and 1412, was the home for the kings of Joseon throughout most of the kingdom's 500-year history (1392-1897). It was also the residence of the last ruler of the Korean Empire.

The palace was destroyed during the Imjin War (1592-1598) and was restored in 1609. From 1623 to 1868, it served as the official residence of Korean kings. Since 1997, the Palace of Flourishing Virtue has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The main palace of the Joseon dynasty — rebuilt more than once, but never lost its grandeur.

Its perfect symmetry, royal guard ceremony, and the chance to wear a hanbok turn your visit into a journey through time.

A blend of nature and urban design, this stream winds through downtown Seoul — though entirely man-made today.
Once a natural river, it was buried after the Korean War and revived in 2005 as a tranquil walkway.
Fountains, illuminated bridges, and the Palgakdam weir make it one of the city’s most beloved evening spots.

N-Tower, also known as Seoul Tower, Namsan Tower, was built in 1969. Opened to the public October 15, 1980.

If you haven't been to N-Tower, you haven't been to Seoul! The tower offers a magnificent view of the capital of South Korea. During the day, you can see in detail the famous areas of Myeongdong, Gangnam, Itaewon, Mapo, Jamsil; and in the evening, enjoy the streams of cars that envelop Seoul like a web of fire...

The height of the tower is 236.7 m from the foot to the end of the spire (and taking into account Namsan Mountain, on which it is located, it is 479.7 m above sea level).

The tower received its modern name N-Tower after the reconstruction in 2005. The cost of reconstruction is estimated at 15 billion won (about $15 million).

Now the tower positions itself as a place for romantic couples: at the foot of the tower there is a whole park of "trees" hung with locks (it is advisable to throw out the key); special "couple benches" are popular with tower guests.

In the evening, a multimedia laser show is held on the tower, in which the tower itself becomes a kind of screen.

For some reason, the "heavenly toilet" also enjoys great attention of visitors ... Perhaps this is the highest toilet in all of Korea? ..

Attention! Private vehicles are not allowed to enter Mount Namsan, where the N-Tower is located. For groups of 1-3 people, we offer a choice: use the funicular (extra charge: 13 USD, 10 USD for a child; on foot; by public bus (ticket costs approx. 1 USD per person). Or we can climb one of the mountains surrounding the center of Seoul by private vehicle ("Bugak Skyway" on Mount Bugaksan or "Camel Mountain" (Naksan).

In the heart of Seoul stands Jogyesa — the head temple of Korea’s largest Buddhist order.
Small in scale but rich in atmosphere, it changes with the seasons: lotus lanterns in spring, bright chrysanthemums in fall, and peaceful stillness in winter.
No matter the time of year, it’s a place of quiet reflection.

In the city of Chungcheong, we will have a master class for making traditional cold buckwheat noodles "makguksu". They did what they ate! The noodles prepared by us will be our dinner. Delicious sauce of your choice (spicy and slightly spicy, or salty, based on soy sauce, attached).

There is a gondola in the park, which we will use to get almost to the top of one of the peaks of Seoraksan, on which the ruins of the ancient Kwonggeum Fortress (lit., "Kwon Geum Fortress") are located. We get to the peak on foot - it's about 20-30 minutes. From this peak, a magnificent panorama of the East Sea, the resort town of Sokcho and the mountain range of the park opens.

Not far from the lower gondola station is Sineungsa Temple (originally built in the 6th century, but later rebuilt many times). The temple complex includes a statue of the Buddha of Unification (Thonil Buddha), the name of which reflects the desire of Koreans to unite the country.

A picturesque route leads us to Hyndyl Pawi ("swinging rock"). A huge rock will sway at the touch of one person.

Optional, if everybody is in: hiking to the top of Mount Ulsan Pawi; you will have to strain a little - the height of the rock is 873 m.

The cave, located in the heart of the "spine" of Korea - Taebaek, impresses with its size. Even is remenicent of the "Palace of the Mountain King." and, by the way, lighted accordingly!

The total length of the passages of the cave - 6.5 km. The cave is situated at an altitude of approx. 800 m. above the sea level.

The park and sanctuary of the goddess who patronizes fishermen - Hesindan - is amazing: according to legend, it was the images of the phalluses that propitiated the spirit of a virgin who for a long time did not give rest to the surrounding fishermen, and later became their patroness.

Literally, "three rock-leaves in deep water" - a place sung in poems and paintings by famous Korean poets, thinkers and artists - Lee Hwan, Kim Chong-hee, Kim Hongdong, and Panun.

Here, for example, are the poems of the great Yi Hwan, depicted on the one thousandth bill:

山明楓葉水明沙

三島斜陽帶晩霞

爲泊仙橫翠壁

待看星月湧金波

Red maples - the mountains are light, sand is visible at the bottom

Three rocks that stand in the river, the light of the evening sun ...

The raft of the hermit over the emerald of waters froze motionless, waiting

The stars and the moon run towards me like a golden path

Yi Hwang (Thwege)

A legend about Jeon Dojon, one of the founders of the Joseon state who was born in Danyang, is associated with this place.

Seokmun - 석문/石門 literally means "stone gate". It is a large natural stone arch located on the banks of the South Hangang River.

Oksunbong - 옥순봉/玉筍峰 - Literally, "Jade Bamboo Shoot Peak". Actually, Oksunbong is located in Jecheon, not Dangyang; at one time, Yi Hwang (see 1000 won bill) asked to be taken to the county Tanyan; but was refused...

Kudambong - 구담봉/龜潭峰 - literally, "Turtle rock in deep water". Shall we try to find the monstrous size of the Turtle in this wonderful mountain that has crawled into the South Hangang River?

Lake (reservoir) Chungjuho was formed on the South Hangang River as a result of the construction of the Chungju Dam. About 66 square kilometers sank under the water.

A pleasant ride on a pleasure boat will allow us to enjoy the magnificent views of the lake and the famous beauties of the "Eight Beauties of Tanyang", such as "Turtle Mountain", "Nferite Bamboo Shoot Mountain"

The first and largest Korean folk village in terms of area and exposition.

There are more than 260 buildings in the village, including houses of representatives of different classes, government agencies, pharmacies and mills, and craftsmen's workshops.

The village recreates in detail the atmosphere of rural life of the Joseon era. Buildings were brought from all regions of Korea: here you will also find houses made of volcanic tuff from about. Jeju (and the famous black pigs from there, by the way!), And thatched houses from the southern provinces of Korea, and the house of the provincial governor, and the Confucian village school. You can taste traditional Korean dishes at the village market.

The journey begins with a fascinating walk through the narrow streets surrounded by traditional Korean houses - hanoks. Each house is a living museum that reflects the unique style and architecture of ancient times.

Travelers hungry for knowledge can discover the craftsmanship of folk artisans.

But that's not all! This wonderful complex offers unique shows and concerts featuring traditional Korean dances, music and rituals.

Each show and concert is organized with love for details and leaves a unique impression. You will be delighted with beautiful costumes, incendiary rhythms and incredible talents of artists. The atmosphere will be filled with energy and delight, and you will find yourself a real witness to the beauty and splendor of Korean culture.

Hwaseong is more than just a fortress — it’s a royal dream set in stone. In the late 18th century, King Jeongjo envisioned building a new capital of the Joseon Dynasty here: modern, fortified, and meticulously planned.

The project was designed by the brilliant reformer Jeong Yakyong, one of the leading figures of the “Practical Learning” movement. For the first time in Korean history, both Korean and European engineering techniques were used in construction.

👉 By the way, why did the king never move to his new capital?

Thanks to detailed blueprints from 1800, the fortress has been faithfully restored — and today, it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During such serious campaigns of the ruling king, as, say, visiting the graves of his ancestors, the king had to stop somewhere on the way. In the Hwaseong fortress, such a travel palace has been preserved. Charming and small by the standards of Seoul, however, it is a real intricate maze, which we will dive into to get to know the history of King Jeongjo, his parents and grandfather, as well as the famous banquet he hosted in honor of the anniversary of his mother , Queen Hongyeong.

The Starfield Library in Suwon is not only a paradise for book enthusiasts but also one of the most popular photography spots in the area. With its impressive bookshelves stretching from floor to ceiling, the library provides a unique backdrop for your photos, making each capture special. This visually stunning cultural hub will be a highlight of your trip to Suwon.