KOREAN AUTUMN WALKING TOUR 2024

• Depart Seoul and drive north to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which marks the border between South and North Korea.
• Explore the 38th parallel, one of the world's most heavily fortified borders, symbolizing the division of the Korean peninsula.
• Witness the DMZ as a powerful symbol of the stark contrast and potential reconciliation between South and North Korea.
• Visit iconic sites along the border, showcasing the ongoing tensions and the lingering remnants of the Cold War.
• Gain insights into the efforts made through occasional talks to bridge the divide and aim for eventual reunification.
• In the late evening, proceed to Sokcho, located on South Korea's northernmost shoreline.

• Spend the entire day discovering Seoraksan Nature Reserve, renowned as Korea's most famous natural preserve.
• Experience the reserve's breathtaking beauty, accentuated by vibrant autumn colors.
• Begin with a cable car ride to Gwongeumseong Fortress (now non-existent), offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Descend via cable car and choose from various trails that traverse the reserve.
• Opt for a leisurely stroll to Byirong Waterfall or challenge yourself with a hike to Ulsanbawi Rock, providing stunning ocean vistas from its summit.
• Late afternoon, return to Sokcho to visit a scenic pavilion overlooking the sea.
• Explore Sokcho's lively fish market, where locals gather to enjoy fresh seafood in traditional eateries.
• Conclude the day by returning to the hotel in Sokcho for a second night's stay.

• Depart from Sokcho and drive along the shoreline towards Hwanseon Cave, one of Asia's largest limestone caves.
• Explore this expansive cave system, with over 6.2 km of discovered passages and an estimated total length exceeding 8 km.
• Discover unique geological formations shaped by water flow, including underground rivers, water ponds, and cascading waterfalls.
• Continue the journey through scenic backroads to Dosan Seowon Confucian School, founded by one of Korea's most esteemed educators.
• Learn about the founder's distinctive interpretation of Confucianism and his contributions to astronomy and philosophy, commemorated on the 1000 Won bill.
• Wander through the serene forest setting of Dosan Seowon, nestled beside a riverbank.
• Proceed to Hahoe Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing traditional Korean architecture.
• Stroll along narrow lanes past vegetable plots and orchards, admiring well-preserved historic houses.
• Finally, head to Andong and settle into the hotel.
• If time allows, explore Andong's lively night market, a hub for local cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

• Depart from Andong and drive to Haein Temple, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore Haein Temple, a significant center of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and one of Korea's Three Gem-Temples.
• Learn about the temple's focus on preserving the Dharma (Buddha's teachings) through the Tripitaka Koreana, a collection of wooden printing blocks containing Buddhist scriptures from the 13th century.
• After the temple visit, journey to a village situated at the foot of Jiri Mountain, characterized by peaceful rural landscapes and small villages.
• Arrive at a simple homestay for the night, offering a traditional Korean sleeping experience on mattresses laid on the floor.
• Note: If you prefer alternative accommodation, such as a hotel, please inform us in advance to make suitable arrangements.

Note: Korean homestays involve sleeping on traditional mattresses on the floor. If you prefer alternative accommodations, please let us know, and we can arrange a hotel stay instead.

• Rise early before dawn and depart for the trailhead of today's challenging hike, the highlight of this Korean private tour.
• Ascend to the mountain summit to witness a spectacular sunrise above a sea of clouds, a beloved sight among Koreans.
• Continue the hike through dense forests adorned with vibrant autumn colors.
• Follow a trail alongside a rushing stream, leading to a picturesque mountain village.
• Return to the village by vehicle and head back to the simple homestay for a second night's stay.

Note: This homestay offers basic accommodations. If you prefer different lodging arrangements, please inform us in advance for alternative options.

• Depart from the base of Jirisan and drive to Boseong Tea Plantation, a significant site reflecting Korea's deep connection with tea culture.
• Explore the picturesque terraced fields and learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and drying processes of tea leaves.
• Gain insights into the symbolic significance of tea in Korean culture, traditions, and religious practices, often expressed through intricate tea ceremonies.
• Continue the journey to Suncheon Bay Ecological Park, renowned for its expansive reed beds that bloom vibrantly during autumn, known locally as "Silver Grass."
• Discover the unique ecosystem of the park, with mudflats forming an 'S' shaped outflow to the sea, providing nesting grounds for diverse and rare waterfowl.
• Take a leisurely walk through the reed bed and enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the waterway, ideally timed to witness a breathtaking sunset over the bay.
• Conclude the day with a stroll through the beautifully landscaped Suncheon National Garden.
• Check-in at the hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Note: Hotel accommodations provide modern amenities for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.

• Depart from Busan and journey to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom, which reigned for an impressive 960 years - one of the longest-ruling dynasties in history.
• Explore Gyeongju, often referred to as a "museum without walls" due to its abundant historical relics and sites.
• En route to Gyeongju, visit Seokuram Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 750 meters above sea level. Admire the Buddhist sculptures crafted between 742 and 774, among the finest and best-preserved in the world.
• Take a leisurely walk along a winding forest trail descending to Bulguksa Temple, an 8th-century temple complex and main temple of the Jogye Order.
• Discover the cultural treasures of Bulguksa Temple, including stone pagodas, the Blue and White Cloud Bridges, and gilded Buddha figures.
• Conclude the day with a visit to Anap Pond, once the centerpiece of a royal garden, now illuminated to evoke the grandeur of Gyeongju's past glory.

Note: Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Gyeongju, exploring ancient temples, sculptures, and landscapes that reflect the glory of the Silla Kingdom.

• Depart from Gyeongju and travel north along Korea's impressive highway network back to Seoul, the capital city.
• Upon arrival in Seoul, embark on a walking tour of Bukchon, a former residential area for royal court officials and clerks that has transformed into a trendy district with art galleries, coffee shops, and stylish restaurants.
• Explore the fusion of modern culture and traditional architecture along the charming lanes of Bukchon.
• Continue to Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a striking architectural landmark in the city center designed by the late Zaha Hadid.
• Take a walking tour around this expansive complex, appreciating its innovative design and modern aesthetic.
• Conclude the day with an evening stroll through Dongdaemun Night Market, immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of street vendors, local food, and vibrant nightlife.

Note: Experience the vibrant contrasts of Seoul, from historic neighborhoods blending with contemporary culture to cutting-edge architecture and lively night markets.