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9-day Tasty Journey around Korea
This 9-day tour takes you through charming fishing villages, peaceful mountain towns, and historic cities such as Busan, Gyeongju, and Jeonju—each with centuries of culture and history.
Korea offers a remarkable blend of mountains and coastlines, where historic sites and stunning landscapes can be found not only in small seaside communities but also deep in forested mountain regions.
This 9-day culinary journey is crafted to introduce you to the unique flavors and specialties that define each region, reflecting local lifestyles and the strong connection between food, culture, and place.
Experience South Korea through breathtaking nature, dynamic and trendy cities, tranquil countryside, and delicious regional cuisine.
Day 1 Seoul - Geumsan - Mt. Daedunsan - Gunsan / Overnight in Gunsan
Geumsan ginseng market - Mt Daedunsan Suspension Bridge
Meet your guide at your place in Seoul and move to Geumsan by spacious van. Geumsan is widely known as the largest ginseng market in Korea, holding 80% of the nation’s ginseng trade. Along with its enormous ginseng industry, Geumsan is also rising as the largest herbal medicine market in the country. The Geumsan Ginseng & Herbal Medicine Market is a traditional market with a long-standing history, offering a variety of health products.
Daedunsan Mountain is defined by the grandiose rock peaks of Macheondae Summit, Janggunbong, and Ambong Peaks, as well as surrounding strange rocks and lush trees that fill the area. Daedunsan Provincial Park has served as a scenic site equipped with recreational facilities including cable cars and suspension bridge. A 5-minute cable car ride followed by a walk up the steep stairs leads to a suspension, stretching 50 meters from Imgeumbawi Rock to Ipseokdae Pedestal.
Ginseng chicken soup and deep-fried ginseng-The ginseng chicken soup and deep-fried ginseng are the most popular menu items in this town. The ginseng chicken consists primarily of a whole young chicken (poussin) - filled with garlic, rice, jujube, and ginseng, while the deep-fried ginseng is eaten in a dip of red ginseng extract and tastes delicious. This is what ‘food like medicine’ is all about.
Day 2 Gunsan - Gogunsan Islands - Jeonju / Overnight in Jeonju
Gogunsan islands tour - Saemangeum sea wall and its Exhibition Hall
Your day begins with a visit to the Gogunsan Islands, a group of picturesque islands known for their calm seas, fishing villages, and unspoiled natural landscapes. Enjoy leisurely walks and scenic viewpoints while experiencing the peaceful rhythm of island life along Korea’s western shore.
Continue to the Saemangeum Seawall, one of the world’s longest man-made sea walls, symbolizing Korea’s remarkable engineering and vision for the future. At the Saemangeum Exhibition Hall, learn about the history, purpose, and environmental transformation of the region through informative displays and panoramic views of the vast reclaimed land and sea.
Jeonju is considered as the home of bibimbap, the famous Korean dish of rice with vegetables and beef. Bean sprouts, a key ingredient in Jeonju bibimbap, are usually cooked in the last stage of rice cooking, and Jeonju bibimbap is usually served with clear bean sprout soup. Other vegetables like spinach, balloon roots, drop water and shiitake mushrooms are also included along with beef and red pepper paste. This makes the dish healthy food, providing all the key nutrients in one bowl.
The journey then leads to Jeonju Hanok Village, the cultural heart of traditional Korea. Stroll through narrow lanes lined with hundreds of well-preserved hanok houses, discover traditional crafts, and experience Jeonju’s rich culinary heritage, widely known as the birthplace of bibimbap.
This tour is a perfect blend of nature, history, innovation, and local culture, offering travelers a deeper understanding of Korea beyond its major cities.
Jeonju Hanok Village
Bibimbab
Day 3 Jeonju - Gurye - Suncheon / Overnight in Suncheon
Gurye Saseongam Hermitage
Saseongam Hermitage is a small Buddhist hermitage dramatically built on a steep cliff overlooking the Seomjin River. Its name means “Hermitage of the Four Sages,” referring to four great monks who are believed to have practiced here. From the cliffside platforms, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Gurye and the surrounding mountains. The site is also known for its peaceful atmosphere and unique rock-cut prayer halls.
Suncheon Naganeupseong Village
Naganeupseong Village is a well-preserved walled town from the Joseon Dynasty, originally built to protect the local administrative center. Unlike many historical sites, it is still inhabited today, with residents living in traditional thatched-roof houses. Walking along the stone walls and narrow alleys offers a glimpse into everyday life during the Joseon period, including traditional customs, farming tools, and village culture.
Suncheon bay Wetland Reserve
Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve is one of Korea’s most important coastal wetlands and a protected natural ecosystem. It is famous for its vast reed fields, tidal flats, and scenic walking trails. The wetland is home to many migratory birds, especially in winter, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature photography. From the observatory, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the bay, where nature changes beautifully with the seasons.
Suncheon Soy Sauce Duck Bulgogi
Suncheon Soy Sauce Duck Bulgogi is a local specialty made with tender slices of duck marinated in a savory soy sauce–based seasoning with garlic, vegetables, and mild spices. The duck is grilled or stir-fried at the table, creating a rich aroma and deep flavor. It is known for being flavorful yet not spicy, and is often enjoyed as a healthy dish, as duck meat is lean and rich in nutrients.
Day 4 Suncheon - Tongyoung - Busan / Overnight in Busan
Mt. Mireuksan by Cable car
You will arrive in Tongyeong, a beautiful little port city, after a two-and-a-half-hour journey from Jeonju. Hallyeo Waterway Observation Cable Car is the longest (1.975m) cable car in Korea installed on Tongyeong Mt. Mireuksan (461m above the sea), one of the 100 celebrated mountains (the Office of Forestry) in Korea. Visitors can reach the top of Mt. Mireuksan in this Gondola and there waits for jewelry-like islands of Hallyeo Waterway, Tongyeong Harbor.
Dongpirang Mural Village & Jungang amrket
Dongpirang is a historic hill in Tongyeong that was once a military site with podae (cannon emplacements) used to defend the coastal city during the Joseon Dynasty. Today, the old fortress site remains at the top of the hill, offering panoramic views of Tongyeong Harbor and the surrounding islands.
Below the fortress, Dongpirang Mural Village is a colorful residential area famous for its wall paintings created by artists and local residents. The murals transformed a once-declining neighborhood into a lively cultural village, where visitors can enjoy art-filled alleys while walking through a place that blends history, daily life, and creativity.
Busan Hwangneyongsan Observatory
Hwangnyeongsan Mountain rises in the center of Busan, reaching an elevation of about 427 meters. During the Joseon Dynasty, it served as a beacon-fire station that sent warning signals along the coastal defense line. Today, the summit offers panoramic views of the city, including Gwangan Bridge, Haeundae, and Busan Harbor.
Because it’s easy to access from downtown, many locals come here for hiking, driving, or simply enjoying the night view. It is considered one of the best spots in Busan to appreciate the sparkling urban skyline and the sea beyond.
Jagalchi Fish Market - seafood
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For dinner, we’ll head to Jagalchi Fish Market, the largest seafood market in Busan.
It’s famous for its lively atmosphere and fresh, live seafood. You can choose a snow crab or select fish directly from the tanks, and a nearby restaurant will cook it for you—steamed, grilled, or in a spicy soup.
This is the best place to enjoy a fresh seafood dinner in Busan, especially snow crab and grilled fish.
It’s a great opportunity to experience the authentic local flavors of Busan.
Day 5 Busan / Overnight in Busan
Haewundae beach and Dongbaekseom - Haedongyonggungsa temple - UN memorial park
Explore Busan with your private guide to see thriving metropolis and experience the vibrant local neighborhood. Haeundae Beach is the most popular beach in South Korea, with 1 million visitors a day during the summer season. Offering various water sports activities, festivals, concerts, and parties, Haeundae Beach is a destination worth visiting for an exciting getaway. There is Dongbaek Island at the western end of Haeundae beach. Dongbaek is translated into Camellia which is growing in islands of southern provinces of Korea, blossoming around March. There is Nurimaru APEC house in the island, around three-story building exclusively built for the final summit meeting for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in the island.
Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is situated on the coast of the north-eastern portion of Busan. This superb attraction offers visitors the rare find of a temple along the shoreline; most temples in Korea are located in the mountains. UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea is a memorial park established to glorify the help & sacrifice by UN Forces soldiers who fought in the Korean War.
Among Busan’s famous locales is a magical place called Gamcheon Culture Village. During the height of the Korean War in the 1950s, this area was where refugees from all over the country made their home.
Tombstones village - The stairs and the walls in this village are different from what you normally see. They are all tombstones. That's why the village is called Tombstone culture village. People began living here in tents since 1951. When it became more settled, the tents became too small, so people began building on top of Japanese graves.
Trying Korean pork bbq is a must-do activity on any visit to South Korea, whether it’s a casual dinner after a long day of sightseeing or lunch on the town. Our guide will take you to the best restaurants in Busan to grill up tasty pork bbq dishes such as galbi and samgyeopsal.
Day 6 Gyeongju / Overnight in Gyeongju
Gyeongju Bulguksa temple and Sukgulam grotto
Today, on a tour to the two-thousand-year-old ancient city, you will first tour temple and grotto constructed during the mid-7th century. Bulguksa Temple is the most famous Buddhist temple in Korea and the home to a number of important relics from the Silla period, including most obviously the two stone pagodas Dabotap and Soekgatap. It also dates from the 8th century but has been rebuilt on a number of occasions.
Seokguram Grotto is a hermitage that is part of the Bulguksa temple complex. The grotto overlooks the East Sea and rests 750 meters above sea level. It holds some of the best Buddhist sculptures in the world, including the main Buddha. Construction lasted from 742 to 774.
Inside the round-shaped main hall are the Bonjon Statue, Bodhi-sattva, and his disciples. The Bonjon figure wearing a generous smile is seated on the stage engraved with a lotus flower design.
Gyeongju National Museum - Anapji palace site - Cheomseongdae observatory - Tumuli Park
Arguably the best history museum in Korea, the Gyeongju National Museum is where you can appreciate the significance of this ancient city in one fell swoop. The main archaeological hall has dazzling displays of jewellery, weaponry and other ceremonial items from the Shilla dynasty, including a 5th-century gold crown
Visit the Tumuli Park. It has more than 20 large and small tombs from the Shilla period. The tombs are presumed to be those of kings and court officials. As those excavated were all found to be stone-pilled wood-lined chamber type, most of the tombs here are presumed to be of the same type. During the excavations of chenmachong and Hwangnamchong , numerous artifacts were uncovered.
Anapji Pond was built in 674 after the unification of the Korean Peninsula. Small mountains were created inside the palace walls, beautiful trees, and flowers, as well as rare birds and animals were brought from all over to the islands and hills surrounding the pond. Also, a number of pavilions were constructed around it and used for state festivals and banquets and as a prince’s palace.
Hanjeongsik is served with many side dishes using local produce, and dishes harmonized in different recipes, seasonings, temperatures, and colors come out at once on a table. These requirements fully reflect local food characteristics of Gyeongju.
Day 7 Andong - Hahoe Village / Overnight in Andong
Andong Hahoe village - Andong traditional market
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Today, you will visit two traditional Korean villages, leaving behind the thousand-year-old city.
These villages offer a glimpse into Korea’s Confucian traditions, village life, and cultural heritage.
First, you will visit Hahoe Village, a village with over 500 years of history.
Hahoe is the village where members of the Ryu family, who originated from Hahoe Village, have lived together for about 600 years.
It is a representative clan village where both tile-roofed houses and thatched-roof houses have been well preserved for a long time.
The Korean Hahoe Mask Show takes place in the village.
Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori is a traditional Korean mask dance that combines ritual, humor, and satire.
The ritual was intended to please the local goddess and to ward off evil spirits.
Villagers prayed for an abundant harvest, peace, and prosperity, while enjoying the satirical stories revealed through the performance.
Next, you will visit Museom Village, a traditional village located in Yeongju, North Gyeongsang Province.
Surrounded by a gently flowing river, the village appears like an island.
The village dates back to the Joseon Dynasty and has long been home to Confucian scholar families.
Many traditional hanok houses remain well preserved, reflecting the Confucian values, lifestyle, and architectural traditions of the period.
Museom Village is known for its harmony with nature and its traditional wooden bridge connecting the village to the outside. Today, it offers visitors a quiet and authentic atmosphere to experience Korea’s traditional village life and cultural heritage.
There is one popular dish that everyone visiting the city of Andong is guaranteed to taste! Andong Jjim-dak, a seasoned and simmered chicken, is a combination of sweet and mild flavor of sensation with plump meat, potatoes and glass noodles in all good balance. The best part of this delicious dish is probably the sauce, where you can mix it with rice and enjoy the dish to the very last bit.
Day 8 Mountain Range Canyon Train(V-Train) - Taebaek - Sokcho / Overnight in Skcho
Mountain Range Canyon Train - Taebeck
You will leave for Youngju from Andong to take V-train in the morning. The ‘V’ in V-Train stands for "valley," as it travels through the beautiful valley of Cheoram in Gangwon-do as well as Buncheon in Gyeongsangbuk-do. Riding on the V-Train is especially refreshing as the windows can be opened to feel the breeze. Traveling at a leisurely speed that is slower than regular trains, passengers can easily enjoy the changing views of the mountains and valley. After an hour's train trip, you move to Taebaek city, which was famous for the coal industry in the past.
The town of Taebaek is a unique mountain paradise. It is part closed mine area, part ski town, and a relaxing place to getaway. The area has so much! From caves and hiking to museums and scenic drives; Taebaek is a wonderful place. While coal has declined in use due to the growing use of clean energy, the resource served an important role in the modernization of the nation. You can see the flourishing traces of the past in a small city in the closed mine area. For your lunch, you will taste the famous hanwoo-Korean beef roast in this area for lunch.
Sokcho Central Tourist Market & Gaetbae Boat
Sokcho Central Tourist Market is a lively traditional market offering fresh seafood, local specialties, and popular street foods such as squid sausage and dakgangjeong. It is one of Sokcho’s must-visit spots for experiencing local flavors and culture.
The Gaetbae Boat is a traditional hand-pulled ferry that slowly crosses a narrow waterway. It offers a simple but unique experience and a glimpse into Sokcho’s old coastal way of life.
Day 9 Sokcho - Mt. Seorak - Seoul
Jujeongol valley at Mt Seoraksan
On the last day of your nine-day tour, you will trek along the beautiful valley and go up one of the peaks by cable car in Mt. Seorak. Jujeongol got its name from the fact that bandits made counterfeit coins at this valley. Jujeon in Korean means coin minting and gol means valley. An easy hiking course even for children and senior. The valley is filled with wildflowers in spring. In summer, the heat is washed away by the clean and cold water of the valley. In the fall, the changing colors of the leaves make a fantastic scenery. Also during this hike, you will stop at Yongso waterfall. A short, wide waterfall surrounded by greenery.
Shinheungsa temple at Mt Seoraksan - Gweongumseong peak by cable car
Upon arrival, you will ride the Seorak cable car to Gweongumsung peak(670m above sea level), which provides bird's eye view of Mt. Seorak, Ulsnbawi rock, and the East Sea. Located about 5 minutes from the entrance is the cable car ride. The ride itself is ten minutes long and displays heavenly views of the park and mountains.
You can view beautiful Buddhist temples hidden with the mountain, most notably Sinheungsa.
Sinheungsa is a short 10min walk away from the entrance to Sogongwon. In fact, many visits because of its close proximity to Sogongwon. You also can see a local landmark such as the 33-foot-high bronze Buddha statue at shinheungsa temple.
For your lunch, Donghae Makguksu and Suyuk is the place for proper makguksu (buckwheat noodles) at Sokcho. Donghae Makguksu's menu is filled with buckwheat-focused foods, including makguksu, suyuk (boiled pork slices) with buckwheat sprouts and buckwheat makgeolli (rice wine).
Noodles here are made in-house and carefully placed among dong-chimi (water-based radish kimchi) broth and garnished with buckwheat sprouts before serving. The marriage of dongchimi and broth provides an excellently-balanced sweet and sour combination. Chilli powder can be added to individual taste.
Experience extraordinary culinary, you’ll want to share it with your friends
Tour Condition
Inclusions
- Local English-speaking tour guide & Vehicle
- All Entrance charges
- Accommodation (8nights) 3 or 4 star Hotel or similar Hotel, 8N/ double, twin, Triple sharing room based)
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Lunch 9 times (the foods on the itinerary)
Exclusions
- Dinner
- Seonyudo Skyline Zipline ticket
- Travel insurance
- International airfare
Terms of Condition
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All your tours must be paid the deposit 20% of Deposit to confirm your tour.
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Payment Option - PayPal or Bank Transfer
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All the tours are based on USD Currency.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation charge will be automatically applied like below.
- 15 ~ 29 days : 20%
- 8 ~ 14 days : 50%
- 1 ~ 7 days : 80%
- No show : 100%
Tour rate
Number of Guest / Price per Person
- 2Persons / USD3,637
- 3Persons / USD2,922
- 4Persons / USD2,471
- 5Persons / USD2,238
- 6Persons / Inquiry
Note
The cost of the tour can vary based on several factors, such as the type of accommodation (such as the level of the hotel), the length of the tour, the number of days you want to spend with a private guide, and the season in which you plan to travel.
If you'd like to receive an accurate quote, please feel free to contact us. Our tour consultants will work with you to create a customized plan that fits your specific preferences and budget. We'll provide you with a detailed breakdown of the costs involved and answer any questions you may have.
