Seoul(Gwanak-gu)

At 629 meters in x_height, Gwanaksan Mountain is the symbol and pride of Gwanak-gu district in Seoul. Most of the cultural heritages of the district originate from Gwanaksan Mountain. Since it was designated as a city natural park in 1968, it has continued to serve as a favorite place for relaxation and excursion for Seoul citizens. The various rocky peaks and the deep valleys give the mountain a rugged feel. The mountain's size and close proximity to Seoul make it easy for Seoul residents to visit in a single day. In the spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom near the entrance to the mountain, and a Rhododendron Festival is held when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. At the mountain's summit are Wongaksa Temple and Yeonjuam Hermitage, which were built by Taejo Yi Seong-gye (the founder of the Joseon Dynasty) to ward off misfortune when he decided to move the capital to Seoul. There are also other temples and hermitages, and a ground radar observation post. Yeonjudae Hermitage, located atop a cliff, is where all the hiking trails of Mount Gwanaksan meet.


Seoul(Yeongdeungpo-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo

The 63 City in Yeouido stands 264 meters above sea level and is considered one of Seoul’s most well known landmarks. The 60th floor ‘Sky Deck’ of the 63 City Building has been newly remodeled into the ‘Sky Art Museum’, offering a place for art exhibitions, magic shows, and various cultural experiences. Visitors will also be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Hangang River through the observatory’s large windows.To get to the 63 Building, take Subway Line 1 to Daebang Station Exity #6 or take Subway Line 5 to either Yeouido Station Exit #5 or Yeouinaru Station Exit #4. The Sky Art Museum is located on the 60th floor and tickets are available at the museum ticket booth.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Seoul City Hall・Gwanghwamun

The King Sejong Statue was erected at the center of Gwanghawmun Square on Hangeul Day (October 9) of 2009. Sitting with a gentle smile on his face and a book in his hand, the bronze statue of 9.5m in x_height celebrates the King and his great achievements.In front of the statue lie a celestial globe, a rain gauge, and a sundial, all of which King Sejong invented himself during his reign. Behind the statue, there are six columns with golden carvings depicting the King's major accomplishments, as well as an underground passage to the 'Sejong's Story' exhibition hall. Surrounding the statue, on the edges of the Square, is the 'Waterway of History,' a stream flowing on tiles with inscriptions of Korean history.King Sejong (1392-1910)King Sejong is best remembered as the inventor of Hangeul, the Korean alphabet. During his reign, he consolidated the basis for ruling the Joseon Dynasty by incorporating Confucian philosophy of politics. Furthermore, he led the nation's great strides in agriculture, literature, science and technology.


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Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Rakkojae is a traditional Korean-style guesthouse offering Korean food, Korean folk music and Korean folk dance. Visitors can experience the tasteful life of a nobleman of old Korea. The tiled roves, pavilions, ponds and jar stand as well as pine trees and bamboo plants harmonize well with the Korean-style house. Tea- making and watching Korean folk music performances are available here. The lodging fee is similar to five-star hotels.  



Seoul(Yongsan-gu) , Itaewon・Yongsan

Situated in the heart of Itaewon (a popular shopping town in Seoul), this stylish hotel was opened in March 2010 after remodeling the former Itaewon Hotel. It offers unique designs and chic spaces full of urban sensibilities.Consisting of 17 floors, the hotel offers over 133 exquisite rooms, each of which showcases artistic interior designs with unique concepts. It is also full of excellent amenities: the graceful café Amiga, a members-only Private Club, and beautiful banquet rooms. Itaewon itself is a wildly popular tourist destination among international tourists in Seoul, rendering the hotel an even more attractive place to stay.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

The Seoul National Science Museum first opened its doors to the public in 1945. It was destroyed during the Korean War (1950-1953) and was later rebuilt at its current location in 1972. The museum features a range of exhibition halls and hands-on programs offering visitors an opportunity to experience the principles of science. In addition, the programs focus on nurturing the creativity of children and helping children better understand science.


Seoul(Gwangjin-gu) , The Eastern Part of the Seoul

W Seoul Walkerhill, the first-ever W Hotel in Asia, is a luxurious and chic hotel run by Starwood & Resort Worldwide, one of the largest hotel companies in the world. The hotel offers a total of 253 rooms that strike the perfect balance of cutting-edge technology and supreme comfort. There are a variety of amenities including upscale restaurants offering gourmet dishes by world-renowned chefs, a trendy bar, meeting & event rooms, the Walkerhill Duty-Free shops, and more. The hotel’s spa, "Away Spa" provides the ultimate urban resort experience of true wellness and refreshment. Spa facilities include a swimming pool, fitness center, couples spa & massage center, bathing pools, and over 50 kinds of body and facial spa treatments. W Seoul Walkerhill is located at the foot of Achasan Mountain overlooking the beautiful Hangang River, one of the most popular spot’s for both tourists and business travelers.



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Seoul(Yeongdeungpo-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo

63 Buffet Pavilion is the largest buffet restaurant in Korea, seating 500 people. It serves 200 dishes including Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Western foods, as well as salads and made-to-order items. The atmosphere is luxurious but comfortable, attracting many customers. This restaurant is well-known among gourmets for its massive spread of delicious dishes.All the chefs are winners of international cooking contests, and only fresh ingredients are used for the dishes. Special events are held throughout the year. In particular, the special grilled clam cognac flambé event held in May serves fresh clams cooked on site, allowing diners to savor the taste of the sea.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Dongdaemun

As one of the largest markets in Asia, Dongdaemun Shopping Complex boasts huge hanbok shops. Most of the hanbok in Korea are distributed there. It offers a wide array of hanbok from traditional hanbok to modernized hanbok in addition to accessories and clothing materials. Dongdaemun Shopping Complex is a popular spot among international tourists who want to experience traditional Korean culture and purchase various souvenirs.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Samcheongdong・The Northern Part of the Seoul

Boasting over 600 years of history, The Bukchon Cultural Center is situated inside the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village, a narrow series of roads between Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo.The Bukchon Cultural Center immerses visitors in a traditional Korean atmosphere as it is centered between two of Seoul’s main royal palaces. A traditional experience hall and hanok-style restaurant were recently built inside the complex, presenting a more enjoyable experience for all visitors.The Bukchon Cultural Center is a traditional Korean-style building called Hanok Gaok and not only provides a genuine traditional Korean atmosphere, but also offers cultural programs that educate visitors on Korea’s history and traditions. Classes are also available with lectures lead by specialists covering a host of topics, and special extended lecture programs that last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. Registration can be made over the phone after selecting the lecture of your choice. However, be aware that all classes are conducted in Korean only, so you may need to bring a guide or someone who will be able to translate for you.