Korean and Chinese Wonders Discovery Tour

Welcome to Korea! Upon your arrival in Seoul, we will facilitate your transfer to the hotel, where you can settle in and enjoy some leisure time. Later in the afternoon, you'll receive essential information regarding the commencement of your tour, ensuring you're well-prepared for the exciting journey ahead. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On our second day, we delve deep into the vibrant city of Seoul with an immersive five-hour tour. Our journey starts with a visit to the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exquisite architecture and sprawling gardens. Next, we wander through Bukchon Hanok Village, a charming area known for its traditional Korean houses, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.Our tour continues at the War Memorial, an expansive museum that chronicles Korea's historical conflicts, including detailed exhibits on the Korean War, in which international forces stood alongside the United Nations. We then enjoy a lunch featuring local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Following our meal, we explore the dynamic Gangnam District, famous for its diverse shopping and entertainment options. The day draws to a close at the Lotte World Tower, a remarkable 550-metre skyscraper. Here, you have the opportunity to either ascend the tower for breathtaking views (admission is not included) or to explore the luxury mall and park at its base.In the evening, we journey by high-speed train to Busan – a city known for its stunning beaches and bustling port. Upon arrival in Busan, we transfer to our hotel for a restful overnight stay, ready to explore the city the next day.

We set off in the morning from Busan to admire the Haedong Yonggung, a stunning 14th-century Buddhist temple perched dramatically by the sea. Returning to Busan, we venture to the UN Memorial Cemetery, a sacred resting place for soldiers from numerous countries. Our next stop is Korea’s largest fish market at Nampo Port, where we explore the vibrant stalls before enjoying lunch, which is included in your day. Afterwards, we visit Yongdusan Park, home to a prominent 120-metre pagoda, offering a panoramic view of the city. Our journey then takes us to Songdo Beach, where you can take a ride on South Korea’s first marine cable car, included in your activities, to soak in the breathtaking vistas of the bay, weather permitting. We continue to Gamcheon Culture Village, renowned for its brightly coloured houses, intricate alleyways, art galleries, pottery workshops, and quaint cafes. We conclude our day back in Busan, where we will spend the night.

Our journey begins as we depart from Busan to explore the Seokguram Grotto, an exquisite Buddhist site from the 8th century nestled on the slopes of Mount Tohamsan. Following this, we will visit the Bulguksa Temple, celebrated as one of South Korea's most beautiful temples. Our adventure continues in Gyeongju, a city known as Korea’s most enduring capital, with a history spanning 992 years under 56 kings. Here, you'll have the opportunity to capture the picturesque Woljeonggyo Bridge, a stunning wooden structure along the Namcheon River. Lunch will be provided. We’ll then explore Tumuli Park, famed for its royal burial mounds from the ancient Silla Kingdom, over 1,500 years in age. A visit to one of the tombs is included, followed by a short walk to the Cheomsongdae Astronomical Observatory, East Asia's oldest observatory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our day concludes in Daegu, Korea’s fourth-largest city, where we will explore Dongsan Cheongna Hill, a historic area once inhabited by Christian missionaries. You’ll also experience the vibrant Dongseong-ro, Daegu's most dynamic street filled with trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. An overnight stay in Daegu awaits.

Our day begins in Daegu with a visit to the Yangnyeongsi Museum of Oriental Medicine, renowned for its extensive history in medicinal herbs. We will then explore the nearby Herbal Medicine Market, famed for its vast selection of herbal shops offering high-quality products, especially ginseng. Our journey continues north to Andong, where we will explore the outskirts of Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into Korea’s past with its preserved atmosphere. You'll have the opportunity to wander through the village, which feels untouched by time, before visiting the Hahoe Mask Museum. Here, you can admire an array of masks from around the globe, used in dances, medical rituals, religious ceremonies, and theatre. A local restaurant will provide our lunch. Our day will then take us to the 16th-century Byeongsan Seowon Confucian Academy, set in a serene landscape by a river, reflecting its peaceful academic past. We plan to return to Seoul in the evening, where, weather permitting, we aim to stop at the Banpo Bridge. This bridge is famous for its spectacular rainbow fountain, creating a water-and-light display along its expanse. We will stay overnight in Seoul, keeping in mind the visit to Banpo Bridge is subject to weather conditions.

We will set off early to explore the Cheorwon region, home to a segment of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) dividing the two Koreas. Our first stop is at the Second Tunnel, a clandestine passageway constructed by North Korea and discovered in 1975. Following this, we will make our way to the Cheorwon Peace Observatory, where you can enjoy sweeping views over the DMZ and catch a glimpse of the first settlements in North Korea. The observatory also features a small museum focusing on the Korean War. Our journey continues to the deserted Woljeong-ri railway station, before paying a visit to the Baek Ma Battle Memorial, honouring the contributions of a French UN battalion during the conflict. Lunch will be provided. In the afternoon, we will visit a local producer of Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice liquor. We will return to Seoul as evening falls. Please ensure you have your passport ready, as it is necessary for entry into the DMZ, which remains an active military area and may be closed without notice. If so, an alternative itinerary will be arranged.In the evening, our guide will take us to City Hall to admire its striking architecture, reminiscent of a wave. Directly across lies Deoksugung Palace, which is spectacularly illuminated at night, offering a perfect blend of past and present Korean aesthetics. Our exploration continues with a walk to the Myeongdong district, known as "bright town," South Korea’s bustling hub for shopping and entertainment. Dinner will be served at a local eatery. We will conclude the day with a ride on the modern and efficient metro back to our hotel. Accommodations for the night have been arranged.

We will arrange your transfer to the airport from Seoul for your included flight to Beijing, where your China adventure begins. Upon arrival, a transfer will whisk you to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, we start our exploration of this vibrant city with a visit to Wangfujing Street. This bustling pedestrian thoroughfare is renowned for its lively atmosphere, packed with a plethora of shops and diverse dining options. You can indulge in a delicious dinner here as part of the included programme. After an eventful start in Beijing, we will return you to your hotel for the evening, allowing you to unwind and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

An exhilarating day in Beijing awaits as we delve into the dynamic capital of China. Our exploration begins with a full-day tour of the city's iconic landmarks, first taking us to the Forbidden City. Known as the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, it stands as China’s most awe-inspiring architectural complex where 24 emperors presided for nearly five centuries. We'll proceed to Jingshan Park, famed for Coal Hill, one of the city's best-preserved imperial gardens, offering stunning views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. A leisurely walk through Tiananmen Square, one of the globe's largest public squares, allows us to admire the architectural splendour of the Great National Theatre, also known as the Beijing Opera House. A delightful lunch is included during our journey.In the afternoon, we visit the Summer Palace, the Qing Dynasty’s exquisite imperial retreat, celebrated for its tranquil gardens and serene lakes. Our cultural immersion continues with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong alleyways, providing a glimpse into traditional Beijing life. We explore authentic shops and visit a Siheyuan courtyard house, showcasing the city’s architectural heritage. We return to the hotel for an overnight stay. Please be aware that due to heritage regulations, entry to the Forbidden City is not guaranteed. Should it be inaccessible, we will explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple instead, both of which are vital to Chinese history and culture.

Our day begins with an excursion to the Great Wall of China, focusing on the picturesque Mutianyu section. This remarkable feat of human endeavour, with over 2,000 years of history, promises breathtaking views. We'll access the Wall via cable car, with tickets included for your convenience. After exploring this monumental structure, we bid farewell to Beijing over a delightful lunch featuring the renowned Peking duck—a true local delicacy. In the afternoon, we'll make our way to the train station to board a high-speed train bound for Shanghai, ensuring a swift and comfortable journey. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel for check-in and an overnight stay.

Our exploration of Shanghai begins today, showcasing its most emblematic sights. We'll start in Pudong, the modern financial district, renowned for its soaring skyscrapers, including the distinctive Pearl Tower. A scenic ferry ride across the Huangpu River will offer us stunning views of the city’s evolving skyline. Our next stop is the Old City, where we will visit the tranquil Yuyuan Garden, a gem from the Ming Dynasty, known for its exquisite pavilions and rockeries. Here, you'll have the chance to partake in a traditional tea ceremony, a cornerstone of Chinese culture.Our tour continues through Xintiandi, a chic, bustling neighbourhood celebrated for its stylish boutiques and vibrant cafes. We'll enjoy an included lunch before heading to Tianzifang, a revitalised residential area now famed for its maze of alleys adorned with craft shops and art galleries.As the day winds down, we'll stroll along The Bund, where grand colonial architecture mirrors Shanghai’s rich history of European trade influences. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. For a truly memorable evening, consider a boat trip along the river to witness the city illuminated at night.

After enjoying breakfast in the vibrant city of Shanghai, our remarkable journey concludes, leaving you with a treasure trove of unforgettable memories from your time exploring the marvellous destinations we've visited. As you prepare for your onward travel or journey home, we hope the experiences and insights gained on this tour will linger with you, inspiring future adventures. Safe travels!