7.

Historical Korea

Jeonju Hanok Village

Day 1-2: Seoul

For a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the shopping districts and nightlife, plan your trip to
Seoul around learning about the country’s ancient culture. Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and the
nearby National Folk Museum. See a traditional music concert or dance at one of the many
performance venues. And of course—eat as much Korean food as possible!

Day 3: Suwon

The largest city in Gyeonggi-do province, Suwon almost became the capital of Korea during the reign
of King Jeongjo in 1794. Take a trip to this historic city and spend the day walking through Hwaseong
Fortress, a remainder from the Joseon era. Return to Seoul for the night.

Day 4: DMZ

Propel yourself into modern history by signing up for a tour of the De-Militarized Zone (DMZ) and Joint
Security Area (JSA), which have separated North and South Korea since the 1960s. Visit Imjingak
Park, the Unification Bridge, the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel, and Dorasan Station, while reflecting on how
the division affects Korea today. At the end of the tour, head back to Seoul for the night.

Day 5: Jeonju
On Day 5, take a morning bus to the historic city of Jeonju. Visit Jeonju’s traditional Hanok Village, try
on a hanbok (Korean dress), watch how hanji (traditional Korean paper) is made. You can also visit
DeokJin Park or one of the many museums in the city to learn more about traditional Korean culture.
At the end of the day, take a bus east to Gyeongju.

Day 6: Gyeongju

Gyeongju is another historical city like Jeonju and Suwon. Once here, hike Tomhansan Mountain to
reach Seokguram Grotto and its famous Buddha statue, then visit Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju
National Museum, and Donggung Palace and Anapji Pond. Spring and fall are the best times to visit
so you can appreciate the flowers or changing leaves, but Gyeongju is a pleasant place year-round.

Day 7: Busan

Briefly the capital city of Korea, Busan is steeped in history new and ancient. Haedong Yonggungsa
Temple was constructed in the fourteenth century and is one of the most photographed Buddhist
temples in the country. The even older Beomeosa Temple offers temple stay programs for travellers
interested in Buddhism and monastic culture. Fast forward several hundred years and visit Gamcheon
Cultural Village, originally a shanty town after the Korean War that has since blossomed into a mecca
for the arts. At the end of the day, depart from Gimhae International Airport.