Seoul City Full Day Tour – Changdeok Palace (wearing Hanbok)

Exploring Seoul in a Day: A Deep Dive into the Cultural Heart of South Korea

Looking to get a comprehensive taste of Seoul without feeling rushed? This Seoul City Full Day Tour offers just that — a well-rounded experience blending history, culture, and shopping in about seven hours. For a reasonable $99 per person, you get to see some of the most iconic spots in the city, all while wearing traditional Hanbok, which makes for memorable photos and culture.

What I love about this tour is its balance — you’re not just ticking off landmarks but genuinely engaging with Korean culture through experiences like donning a Hanbok and walking through historic neighborhoods. One thing to keep in mind: it’s quite a packed itinerary, so expect to be on your feet most of the day. If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit intense, but for those wanting a full immersion, it’s ideal.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see Seoul’s highlights, culture buffs, and anyone curious about traditional Korean attire. It’s also a good choice if you’re short on time but want a meaningful overview of the city’s history and modern-day charm.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion with Hanbok dressing and visits to historic sites
• Visit top landmarks like Changdeokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
• Market shopping at Insadong and Kwangjang Market, perfect for souvenirs
• Guided experience with a professional, knowledgeable guide
• Convenient logistics including hotel pickup and transportation
• Authentic experiences that combine history, art, and local flavor

A Complete Breakdown of the Seoul Full Day Tour

Starting Out: Wearing a Hanbok in Bukchon Hanok Village

The tour kicks off with a chance to wear a traditional Hanbok at the Bukchon Hanok Village, a highlight for many. This colorful, elegant attire, reminiscent of the Joseon Dynasty, instantly transports you back in time. The Hanboks available come in vibrant shades—blue, purple, red, and gold—and are designed without pockets, emphasizing simplicity and grace. Having the chance to wear a Hanbok and even a queen’s hairstyle (for women) makes the experience special, according to several reviews. One traveler noted, “Wearing the hanbok as a queen while walking through the palace and Hanok village was a lovely experience.”

This part of the tour is more than just a photo op; it’s about feeling part of Korea’s cultural fabric. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get some memorable shots, which will likely become your favorite photos from the trip.

Exploring Changdeokgung Palace

Next, we visit Changdeok Palace, one of the Five Grand Palaces of Seoul and a personal favorite of the Joseon kings. The palace is uniquely situated within a natural setting—surrounded by a tranquil lake and lush trees—making it incredibly photogenic. Walking through the Donhwamun Gate, rebuilt after being burned down in 1592, you immediately sense the grandeur of Korea’s royal past.

The Injeongjeon Hall is the highlight, where significant state banquets and events took place. The architecture is impressive, with intricate wooden details and beautiful grounds. Our guide explained that this palace was favored by the Joseon kings because of its harmony with nature, which adds a layer of appreciation for its design.

Visitors often comment on how well-preserved the palace is and how it offers a glimpse into Korea’s royal lifestyle. The guided tour, which lasts about an hour, provides insight into history while giving you enough time to snap photos of the stunning surroundings.

Roaming Bukchon Hanok Village

A stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village is like stepping into a living museum. This 600-year-old neighborhood is home to hundreds of traditional Hanok houses, many dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Historically, high-ranking officials and nobles resided here, and today, it’s still a residential area, so visitors are asked to be respectful.

What makes Bukchon special is its authenticity—locals still live in these houses, and you can explore narrow alleyways full of cafes, craft shops, and art galleries. Several reviews highlight that this is a genuine neighborhood, not just a tourist attraction, which adds to its charm. One reviewer mentioned, “Many of the Hanok are still inhabited, so it feels like you’re walking through a real community.” It’s not just sightseeing but also a chance to observe traditional Korean architecture and craftsmanship.

Art and Souvenirs in Insadong

After soaking up history, the tour transitions to Insadong, Seoul’s arts and crafts hub. This street is lined with shops selling handcrafted ceramics, calligraphy, souvenirs, and traditional Korean snacks. It’s an arts lover’s paradise; many stalls are run by friendly locals happy to chat and share stories about their crafts.

Here, you can also indulge in treats like matcha waffles and plum tea. The street’s lively atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time. Travelers often mention the quirky cafes, like the famous poo-themed café, which adds a humorous touch to the experience.

Short Shopping Stops and Cultural Highlights

The itinerary includes a brief stop at a shopping center—perfect for last-minute souvenir shopping or just browsing local goods. The next highlight is Jogyesa Temple, Seoul’s primary Buddhist temple. First established in 1935, it’s notable for its ancient white pine tree and impressive statues. Walking through the Iljumun gate, which symbolizes the transition from the mundane to the spiritual, offers a calming break in the day’s busy schedule.

Many visitors comment on the tranquility of Jogyesa, and reviews reflect a sense of spiritual connection. One reviewer said, “You can admire the golden statues and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, a nice contrast to the bustling city.”

Market Finale at Gwangjang Market

The tour wraps up at Gwangjang Market, Korea’s oldest traditional market, established in 1905. This lively marketplace is renowned for its authentic food stalls and textiles. You’ll find vendors selling bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak gimbap (small seaweed rice rolls), and a variety of fabrics and hanbok.

For many, visiting Gwangjang Market is a highlight — the chance to taste traditional snacks and see generations of vendors keeping local craftsmanship alive. Reviewers rave about the market’s atmosphere, with one noting that many stores have been in operation for three generations, adding a sense of continuity and authenticity.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Pickup: The tour includes convenient hotel pickup from select areas, making logistics smoother, especially after a long day of walking. The guide speaks both English and Chinese, ensuring clear explanations and engaging commentary.

Duration & Pacing: Lasting about 7 hours, the tour covers multiple sites, so expect to be on your feet most of the time. It’s a well-structured day with enough breaks to enjoy the sites fully but not too leisurely.

Group Size & Comfort: The maximum group size is around 100 travelers, so it’s a comfortable balance between social atmosphere and personal attention. The guide, described as knowledgeable, makes a real difference, sharing insights that bring each stop alive.

Cost & Value: At $99, the tour offers excellent value—covering transportation, entry fees, a professional guide, and the unforgettable experience of wearing Hanbok. When considering the number of sites visited and the depth of culture, this price feels reasonable.

Additional Considerations: Lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or explore local eateries during free time. The tour ends in Myeong-dong, making it easy to continue exploring Seoul afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience shines for first-time visitors wanting a broad, immersive introduction to Seoul’s history, culture, and markets. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided tours, want to wear traditional attire, and appreciate cultural stories told by passionate guides like GoGo, who many reviews mention for his knowledge.

If you’re keen on shopping for Korean souvenirs, exploring historic palaces, and enjoying authentic food, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s also suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups, especially those who want a structured day without the hassle of planning.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or have mobility issues, the busy schedule might be a bit challenging. Also, since the tour involves a lot of walking, comfortable shoes are a must.

The Sum Up

This Seoul City Full Day Tour manages to pack in a lot of culture, history, and fun into just over half a day of sightseeing. With professional guides, a well-balanced itinerary, and the chance to wear a Hanbok, it offers a glimpse into Korea’s royal past and lively present. The markets, palaces, and temples are more than just photo ops—they’re windows into the city’s soul.

For travelers eager to tick off Seoul’s top spots without the stress of organizing multiple visits, this tour offers fantastic value. It’s especially ideal if you want to learn about Korea’s traditions, explore historic sites, and come away with authentic souvenirs and great photos.

While it’s a full day, the experience is designed to be engaging and educational, with friendly guides making everything accessible. Whether it’s your first time in Seoul or you’re eager to deepen your understanding of Korean culture, this tour hits the sweet spot between fun and informative.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from select areas, mainly around main subway stations or hotels in downtown Seoul, making it easy to start your day smoothly.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to see multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance tickets?
No, entrance fees for Changdeokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Jogyesa Temple are included. The market visits are free to browse.

Can I wear the Hanbok all day?
While you’ll be dressed in Hanbok during the palace and village visits, you can keep it on for photos and walking around, but it’s best to change back afterward if you prefer comfort.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to try local eateries during your free time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the full day involves a good amount of walking, so young children should be prepared.

What is the group size?
The tour typically accommodates up to 100 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group dynamic.

This tour is a well-rounded way to experience Seoul’s essence — combining historical grandeur, vibrant markets, and cultural authenticity in one memorable day.