Treasures of Seoul and Beyond: Cultural Immersion and Scenic Landscapes

Garden of Morning Calm was founded by Mr. Han Sangkyeon in 1996. This private garden is rightfully recognized as one of the most beautiful in South Korea. The name comes from the poetic name of Korea - "Land of the Morning Calm". The founder and his team tried to introduce the natural beauty of Korea, the oriental mystique and the spirit of the Korean people to visitors.

The design of the garden focuses on curved lines, space, balance and asymmetry, unique natural beauty, classic elegance and the uniqueness of Korea.

During each of the four seasons - winter, spring, summer, autumn - you will find in the garden echoes of a particular "theme" of that season...

According to legend, the fortress, in which the famous temple of Jeonyn-sa is located, was built by the children of Tangun, the ancestor of all Koreans! We get acquainted with its history, as well as with the history of Ganghwa-do, at the Ganghwa-do History Museum.

During the dynasty (kingdom) of Goryeo, the island was often used by Korean kings as a temporary refuge when attacking the country by external enemies; this happened in the 13th century. during the military campaigns in Korea of ​​the Mongols, when for a short time the island of Ganghwado became the capital of Korea. In the 17th century, the royal court was evacuated to about. Ganghwado fleeing from the Manchus. A royal palace was built on the island, which, unfortunately, has not survived to the present day; now you can see only a partially restored copy of this palace, as well as the remains of military fortifications (forts) designed to protect the island from intruders.

In the 19th century on about. Ganghwado signed a historic treaty that "opened" Korea to foreign states ("Kanghwa Treaty" between Japan and Korea, 1876). From that moment begins the tragic story of the "discovery" and subsequent subjugation of Korea to foreigners, primarily Japan.

We will visit 2 of the many forts preserved on the island.

Ganghwa Peace Observatory is a symbol of the divided Korean Peninsula — an observation facility located just 2.3 kilometers from the North Korean border. From the third floor, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the Han River estuary, the Gaepung Plain, and the sacred Mount Songaksan in Kaesong.

Don’t speak Korean? No problem — inside, you’ll find a quirky exhibit that teaches you “North Korean language” (that is, the vocabulary differences between North and South Koreans).

Ganghwa-do is a real "open-air museum".

The Dolmens of Ganghwa Island, these Bronze Age relics, are now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Burial and ritual monuments made of massive stones were created in the 2nd and 3rd millennia BC.

Ganghwa-do Island is proud of more than 120 dolmens, which surprise with their grandeur and significance. A visit to the "Dolmen Park" will allow you not only to get acquainted with authentic Korean dolmens, but also to see dolmens from other countries. Here you can discover the diversity of megalithic culture and feel the spirit of antiquity that still lives in these stone monuments.

Ganghwa is a place where the past and the present merge, where you can see the world heritage that represents the cultural richness of Ganghwa-do and all of Korea.

When you go to Ganghwa-do Island, you will find not only ancient dolmens, but also other amazing cultural sites that are closely associated with religion. For example, the oldest known Buddhist monastery on the Korean Peninsula is Chongdeunsa, which was founded by the monk Ado Hwasan back in 381.

Chondynsa Monastery attracts with its atmosphere of antiquity and spiritual significance. It is located on the land that in the past served as the site of the ancient fortress of Samnanseong, which was first mentioned in 1259, during the Goryeo era.

Walking through the territory of the Chongdeunsa monastery, you will plunge into the centuries-old history and be able to feel the deep spiritual heritage of Korea. Graceful architecture, surrounded by beautiful nature, creates an atmosphere of peace and inner peace.

Here you can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the modern world and feel the energy and spirituality of this place. Jeongdeunsa Monastery on Ganghwa-do Island is a holy retreat where Buddhism, Korean culture and history meet.

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.

A bustling hub of shopping, street food, and K-beauty.
Amid the trendsetting stores stands Korea’s main Catholic cathedral — a striking symbol of faith and history.
Style meets soul in this lively part of Seoul.

A futuristic glass wave rises above the old City Hall, blending past and future in one bold design.
Powered by nature and home to the world’s largest indoor vertical garden, it’s one of Seoul’s greenest landmarks.
Open to visitors — step inside and see the living wall for yourself.

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 heart of Seoul stands a hidden architectural gem — a cathedral first envisioned in the 1920s.
A British design, built with Korean devotion, but left unfinished during colonial rule. Then came the miracle: in 1993, the original blueprints were found in an English library.
Finally completed in 1996, the cathedral now stands in its full, intended glory — a story of faith, time, and perseverance.

Insadong is famous for the abundance of souvenir shops, traditional restaurants and tea houses, boutiques.

Insadong-kil Pedestrian Street is the central street of the area.

Often you can see street performances - traditional Korean samul-nori percussion quartet or martial arts tekkyon, taekwon-do or performances of youth groups in the fusion style, etc.

One of the central streets of Seoul, Jongno (literally "Bell Avenue") is named after the pavilion of the same name, which houses the main bell of the country. It is this bell that the best people of the country beat on New Year's Eve.

However, even mere mortals can hit it for good luck: at 12:00 noon, the pavilion is usually opened for visitors. However, a limited number of guests are allowed.

The complex of the central Gwanghwamun Square in front of the Gyeongbokgung Royal Palace, which is the compositional center of the capital of Korea, offers amazing views of Seoul: on one side is the main residence of the kings of the Joseon state (now a museum). But along the  Sejong-daero Avenue, departing from the square, there are high-rise modern buildings: government, embassies, Kyobo - the largest bookstore in Korea. Further down the avenue we can see the Seoul City Hall and still further - the Great South Gate of Namdaemun (National Treasure No. 1).

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.

The tallest building in Korea is Lotte World Tower. 123 floors and 555 meters high. And on the highest floors is Seoul Sky - an observation deck.

Floor with transparent floor; the floor where you can go outside, the floor with cafes and souvenirs. Even the elevator that takes you to Seoul Sky is a separate attraction with Guinness records to boot.

Winding lanes, wooden hanoks, hidden cafés — this is where time slows down.
Samcheong-dong charms with its hills and galleries, while Bukchon preserves the everyday beauty of Joseon-era homes.
Together, they offer a quiet, romantic escape — a walk through history lined with soft light and gentle stories.

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.

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.

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.

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.