Seoul's Secret: Walking Tour

Book this tour to see glimpses of what Seoul used to look like before urbanization. Your private, guided tour starts when the driver comes to pick you up at your hotel in the morning and drives you to the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a project directed by the famous architect Zaha Hadid that was inaugurated in 2014 and comprises multiple undulating levels that house a gallery, museums, an exhibition hall, design workshops and an event hall.

Jangchungdan Park is on the itinerary next. Before becoming a park, it was a shrine built in the memory of the Korean soldiers who died trying to protect Gyeongbok Palace from the Japanese invasion. The shrine was removed by the Japanese occupation, only to be renovated and turned into a park in 1919.

Have a traditional Korean lunch after that and visit the Seoul City Wall and its museum. Formerly a wall protecting the capital of the Joseon dynasty, this wall was built in 1396 and has been rebuilt several times ever since. The museum displays historical artefacts related to the city and showcases the changes the city has undergone throughout ages.

After the fortress, it is time to travel to the Ihwa Mural Village, known for its street art. Ten years ago, the government wanted to demolish the neighborhood, which was considered unattractive, poor and ageing. But street art has provided a new lease of life to it. Visit the Secret Valley located in Seoul. A natural and historical site that has remained untouched, this is an excellent place to enjoy Korea’s natural beauty and learn more about its culture.

End your day tour with a cup of tea at Suyeonsanbang, a traditional tea house. The tea house was originally the workshop of the famous Korean author Lee Tae-Jun. Drive back to your hotel at approximately 5:00 pm.