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Maestro Jrnys

Secrets of Korea

Seoulful Stories with Wayfarer Anki

LED BY

Ankitha Rajendaran

TRIP DATES

17 Oct 26 - 24 Oct 26

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 2,650

HISTORY

CULTURE

Join This Jrny

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Join This Jrny

Secrets of Korea: Seoulful Stories with Wayfarer Anki

TRIP DATES

17 Oct 26-24 Oct 26

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 2,650

Join This Jrny

About this Jrny

South Korea bursts into life with a thrilling mix of tradition, trend, and taste, and this journey drops you right into the action. You begin in Seoul, where the city greets you with neon energy and royal grandeur, then leads you along the Inwangsan Mountain Trail, through Gwanghwamun Plaza, into the stately Gyeongbokgung Palace, and past the calm flow of Cheonggyecheon, ending with colourful lanes and crafty finds in Insadong.

The story deepens in Gyeongju, where ancient Korea takes centre stage. You savour local flavours, explore Golgulsa Temple, and wander among stone Buddhas, royal tombs, historic museums, and UNESCO treasures like Seokguram Grotto and Bulguksa, feeling history unfold at every turn.

Busan shifts the mood with coastal flair and urban buzz. You move from poignant memorials to lively markets, film-famous streets, seafood feasts, colourful houses in Gamcheon, and a breezy cable car ride above the sea at Songdo.

In Jeonju, tradition tastes delicious. You try iconic bibimbap, stroll past gates, shrines, and churches, and soak up hanok charm with sweeping views from Omokdae. Returning to Seoul, the journey comes full circle.

This Jrny is led by Ankitha, a fearless traveller and storyteller with a passion for going where few others have gone. Journeying through 106 countries across all seven continents, she immerses herself in the world’s most remote, overlooked, and complex corners. Her travels and curated itineraries are about unearthing stories and the beauty of cultures that are often misunderstood or unseen. Join this adventure and experience Korea at its most playful and profound.

Highlights

Discover Seoul’s magic as you wander from the scenic trails of Inwangsan to glittering streams, grand palaces, and the artisan streets of Insadong.
Step into Gyeongju’s ancient world, exploring Golgusa’s cliffside temple, the elegance of Bulguksa and Seokguram, royal tombs, immersive museums, and layers of living history.
Feel Busan’s coastal energy through bustling markets, poignant memorials, colourful villages, and a thrilling cable-car ride above the sea.
Savour Jeonju’s culinary soul, from iconic bibimbap to tranquil shrines, historic gates, and charming hanok village strolls.

Inclusions

Meals as per itinerary

Premium Stays

Airport Transfers

Internal Transport

Entrance Fees and Permits

English Speaking Guides

Maestro's Expertise

Inclusions

What's Included

7 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches & 1 Dinner

Stay in Premium 4-5 star hotels (specified in the itinerary or similar)

Arrival and departure airport transfers

Comfortable minivan bus for transfers,
Train tickets by KTX in economy class

Entrance Fees and permits for all included activities as per itinerary

Professional English speaking local guides

Ankitha's expertise and company guarantees a memorable trip experience

What's Excluded

Additional meals not mentioned in itinerary

Alcoholic beverages

Camera/Video charges during sightseeing

International Flights to & from the trip's start and end point

Personal expenses (Drinks, Laundry etc.)

Tips for guides and drivers

Travel Insurance

Visa Fees (if applicable)

Led by Jrny Maestro

Ankitha Rajendaran

A fearless traveller and storyteller, with journeys across over 100 countries and 7 continents

21 Jrnys

26 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

17/10/26 - 24/10/26

Suggested Ages

Min 12

Duration

8 Days

Activity level

Moderate

Price per person

$ 2,650

Travel Style

comfort

Maximum Group size

Itinerary

Sat 17 Oct

Arrival in Seoul

Sun 18 Oct

A Day in Seoul

Mon 19 Oct

Seoul - Gyeongju

Tue 20 Oct

Gyeongju - Busan

Wed 21 Oct

A Day in Busan

Thu 22 Oct

Busan - Jeonju

Fri 23 Oct

Jeonju - Seoul

Sat 24 Oct

Seoul Departure

Stay

CHECK IN 17 Oct

2 N

CHECK OUT 19 Oct

Hotel The Botanik Sewoon

Seoul

CHECK IN 19 Oct

1 N

CHECK OUT 20 Oct

Lahan Select Gyeongju

Gyeongju

CHECK IN 20 Oct

2 N

CHECK OUT 22 Oct

Grab the Ocean Songdo

Busan

CHECK IN 22 Oct

1 N

CHECK OUT 23 Oct

Best Western Plus Jeonju Hotel

Jeonju

CHECK IN 23 Oct

1 N

CHECK OUT 24 Oct

Hotel The Botanik Sewoon

Seoul

Your Daily Itinerary

Sat 17 Oct

Arrival in Seoul

Arrive in Seoul, a dynamic city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modern life. Touch down at Incheon International Airport and enjoy a smooth meet and greet before a comfortable transfer into the heart of the city. Watch the skyline shift from wide boulevards to neighbourhoods buzzing with character as Seoul begins to reveal itself.

Settle into your hotel and meet your Jrny Maestro Ankitha. The rest of the day remains open, inviting you to ease into the rhythm of the city at your own pace. Step out for a gentle stroll, discover a nearby café, or simply relax and recharge.

You may choose to explore local streets filled with neon signs, hidden temples, and late-night eateries, or stay in and soak in the anticipation of the days ahead. Let Seoul make its first impression—unhurried, exciting, and full of promise.

Meals Included: None

Activities

Meet & Greet at Incheon Airport

15:00 - 16:00

Arrive at the Incheon International Airport (Code: ICN) in Seoul. Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs, please look for JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name. Proceed to your hotel in a pre-arranged transfer vehicle.

Duration: 60 minutes
Distance: 49 km/ 30 miles

Sun 18 Oct

A Day in Seoul

Begin the day with breakfast before stepping into Seoul’s striking blend of nature, history, and modern life. Tackle the Inwangsan Mountain Trail and enjoy refreshing forest paths with rewarding views over the city skyline; you feel Seoul slow down as nature takes over. Descend towards Gwanghwamun Plaza, a vast civic space framed by statues, museums, and sweeping city vistas.

Step into the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, where elegant pavilions, tranquil courtyards, and mountain backdrops reveal the heart of Korea’s royal past. Pause to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard at Gwanghwamun Gate, a colourful ritual steeped in tradition and precision. Continue to Cheonggyecheon Stream, a peaceful ribbon of water flowing through the city, inviting an unhurried stroll alongside art installations and shaded walkways.

End the day in Insadong, where traditional teahouses, antique shops, and contemporary galleries create a lively cultural hub. Wander, browse, and soak in the creative spirit that defines Seoul.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Inwangsan Mountain Trail

09:00 - 11:30

Walk the Inwangsan Mountain Trail in Seoul, where granite peaks frame the city. Follow forest paths, pause at fortress walls, and you enjoy sweeping views, quiet temples, and a calm escape from urban bustle.

Gwanghwamun Plaza

11:30 - 12:30

Step into Gwanghwamun Plaza, Seoul’s civic heart. Walk between statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi, pause by flowing fountains, and you feel history, protest, and modern city life meeting here.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

12:30 - 14:00

Built in 1935, Gyeongbokgung Palace was the royal palace of the Joseon dynasty and the largest of the Five Grand Palaces. Destroyed during the Imjin War and later by Imperial Japan, it was restored in the 19th century and beyond. Today, it houses the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum of Korea.

Gwanghwamun Gate

14:00 - 15:00

Step into Joseon tradition at Gwanghwamun Gate. Watch the colourful changing of the guard unfold with drums, banners, and precise rituals. You stand amid royal history as Seoul’s past comes vividly alive.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

15:00 - 16:00

Wander along Cheonggyecheon Stream as water flows through the city’s heart. Pause by stone bridges, admire public art, and feel Seoul slow down around you amid greenery, lanterns, and gentle sounds.

Insadong

16:00 - 18:00

Insadong is a a vibrant cultural district located in central Seoul and is well-known for displaying the “culture of the past and the present.”. This traditional street used to be the largest market in the country for unique crafts, antiques and artworks and continues to host close to forty percent of the country’s antique shops and art galleries.

Mon 19 Oct

Seoul - Gyeongju

Begin the day in Seoul and board the sleek KTX train bound for Gyeongju, gliding past changing landscapes as modern Korea gives way to its ancient soul. Arrive in a city often called the museum without walls, where history feels alive at every corner. Settle in over lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavours that reflect Gyeongju’s deep-rooted culinary traditions.

Continue onwards to Golgulsa Temple, dramatically set against forested hills and rocky cliffs. This revered Buddhist temple is famed for its Seon meditation practices and serene mountain setting. Wander through peaceful temple grounds, breathe in the quiet rhythm of monastic life, and let the calm surroundings slow your pace.

Observe stone reliefs carved into the rock face, a reminder of centuries of spiritual devotion. As evening approaches, gather for dinner and savour a simple, nourishing meal inspired by temple cuisine. End the day immersed in stillness, reflection, and the timeless spirit of Korea’s ancient capital.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

KTX train to Gyeongju

08:30 - 10:00

Board the KTX and glide through South Korea’s changing landscapes. Settle into sleek comfort, watch cities soften into countryside, and feel the pace shift as you arrive in historic Gyeongju, refreshed and ready to explore.
Duration: 2 hrs

Golgulsa Temple

12:50 - 16:00

Glide through scenic countryside as you head to Golgulsa Temple. Pause, breathe, and take in the calm surroundings. You arrive at a serene sanctuary where ancient stonework, forested hills, and quiet devotion set the tone.

Tue 20 Oct

Gyeongju - Busan

Start the day with breakfast before setting out from Gyeongju towards Busan, where Korea’s ancient heritage takes centre stage. Ascend to the serene Seokguram Grotto, a UNESCO-listed sanctuary carved in stone, and admire the exquisite Buddha statue gazing calmly over the East Sea.

Continue to the magnificent Bulguksa Temple complex, where elegant pagodas, stone bridges, and timber halls reflect the spiritual heart of the Silla Kingdom. Return to Gyeongju and dive deeper into its rich past at the Gyeongju National Museum, home to royal crowns, Buddhist art, and artefacts that bring centuries of history to life.

Wander through the expansive Daereungwon tomb complex, also known as Tumuli Park, where grassy burial mounds rise quietly across the landscape. Step inside the Cheonmachong Tomb and discover treasures found within, including the famous Heavenly Horse painting. Absorb the harmony between nature, history, and architecture as the day unfolds, revealing why Gyeongju remains one of Korea’s most captivating cultural capitals.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Seokguram Grotto

09:00 - 10:30

Perched on Mount Toham, Seokguram Grotto reveals serene Buddhist artistry. Admire the granite Buddha, intricate carvings, and sweeping views as you experience a masterpiece of spiritual harmony and ancient Korean craftsmanship.

Bulguksa Temple Complex

10:30 - 11:30

Step into Bulguksa Temple Complex, a UNESCO jewel of Korea. Stone terraces, pagodas and calm courtyards express Buddhist ideals. Wander sacred paths, admire ancient craft, and you feel harmony shaped in stone.

Transfer back to Gyeongju

11:30 - 13:00

Leave the city behind as the drive returns to Gyeongju. Settle into the journey, watch landscapes shift, and you arrive refreshed, ready to step back into the city’s calm streets and historic charm.

Gyeongju National Museum

13:00 - 15:00

Step into Korea’s ancient capital at Gyeongju National Museum. Explore Silla-era crowns, sculptures, and artefacts as you wander elegant galleries. You gain deep insight into a kingdom that shaped Korean history.

Daereungwon tomb complex (Tumuli Park)

15:00 - 16:30

Walk among ancient burial mounds at Daereungwon Tomb Complex, where Silla kings rest beneath grassy tumuli. You explore quiet paths, uncover royal artefacts, and feel history alive in Gyeongju’s serene parkland.

Cheonmachong Tomb

16:30 - 18:00

Step into Cheonmachong Tomb, a royal Silla burial mound. You explore artefacts revealed beneath the earth, admire the famed Heavenly Horse painting, and sense the quiet power of Korea’s ancient kings.

Wed 21 Oct

A Day in Busan

Begin the day in Busan with a reflective visit to the United Nations Memorial Cemetery, a serene space honouring the soldiers who served during the Korean War. Shift gears as you dive into the lively energy of Gukje Market, where narrow lanes brim with street food aromas, local chatter, and colourful stalls selling everything from textiles to souvenirs.

Wander along BIFF Square, the heart of Busan’s film culture, dotted with handprints of Korean cinema icons and buzzing with youthful flair. Head to Jagalchi Fish Market and experience Korea’s largest seafood hub, alive with shouting vendors, gleaming displays, and the unmistakable scent of the sea.

Continue to Gamcheon Cultural Village, a hillside maze of pastel houses, street art, and creative corners offering sweeping coastal views. Conclude with a scenic cable car ride to Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, gliding above the water as cliffs and ocean stretch out below, wrapping up a day that blends history, culture, and Busan’s unmistakable seaside spirit.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

The United Nations Memorial Cemetery

09:00 - 10:30

Walk among serene headstones at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery. Reflect on sacrifice and solidarity, honour fallen soldiers, and you sense quiet dignity within peaceful, landscaped grounds.

BIFF Busan International Film Festival street

10:30 - 11:30

Step into BIFF Street in Busan, where cinema buzz fills the air. Neon lights, film memorabilia and street snacks surround you. Stroll past theatres, catch pop-up performances, and soak in Korea’s vibrant film culture.

Jagalchi Fish Market

11:30 - 13:00

It is the largest seafood market in South Korea, and sells both live and dried seafood. Fresh seafood is brought in to the port daily.

Gamcheon Cultural Village

13:00 - 16:00

Gamcheon Cultural Village in Busan is a colorful hillside community with vibrant murals, narrow alleys, and quirky art installations. Known as the “Machu Picchu of Busan,” it’s a must-visit for stunning views and creative charm.

Cable car ride to Songdo Yonggung Bridge

16:00 - 18:00

Glide above Busan’s coast by cable car, waves sparkling below. Step onto Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, feel the sea breeze, and pause as you take in sweeping ocean views and dramatic cliffs.

Thu 22 Oct

Busan - Jeonju

Begin with a comfortable journey from the coastal energy of Busan to the cultural heartland of Jeonju. Arrive in a city celebrated for tradition, flavour, and timeless charm. Savour Jeonju’s most famous dish with a bibimbap lunch at a local restaurant, where fresh ingredients and balanced flavours reflect the region’s culinary heritage.

Step back in time at Pungnammun Gate, the historic southern entrance to the old city walls, standing as a proud symbol of Jeonju’s past. Explore the elegant Jeondong Catholic Church, its Western-style architecture creating a striking contrast against the traditional surroundings. Continue to Gyeonggijeon Shrine, home to royal portraits and peaceful courtyards steeped in Joseon Dynasty history.

Wander through Jeonju Hanok Village, where hundreds of beautifully preserved hanok houses line quiet lanes filled with craft shops, teahouses, and local life. Climb up to Omokdae Viewpoint and take in sweeping views over tiled rooftops and distant hills. Feel the calm rhythm of Jeonju as history, culture, and everyday life blend seamlessly around you.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Activities

Drive Busan to Jeonju

09:00 - 12:30

Leave Busan behind and travel inland to Jeonju. Watch the coast fade into rolling countryside as you settle in. Enjoy a smooth drive and arrive ready to explore Korea’s cultural heartland.

Jeonju Bibimbap

12:30 - 13:00

Settle into a local Jeonju restaurant and savour authentic bibimbap, the city’s signature dish. Fresh vegetables, seasoned rice and gochujang come together as you mix, taste, and enjoy a true Korean comfort classic.

Pungnammun Gate

13:00 - 14:00

Stand before Pungnammun Gate, a proud remnant of Joseon defences. Walk beneath its timbered pavilion, trace weathered stone walls, and you sense centuries of city life flowing through this historic southern entrance.

Jeondong Catholic Church

14:00 - 15:00

Step into Jeondong Catholic Church, a striking Romanesque landmark. Admire red-brick façades, stained glass, and peaceful interiors, as you pause to reflect on its history and you soak in the quiet reverence.

Gyeonggijeon Shrine

15:00 - 16:00

Step into Gyeonggijeon Shrine, a tranquil haven honouring King Taejo. Wander shaded paths, admire Joseon architecture, and you sense history breathing through portraits and quiet courtyards.

Visit Jeonju Hanok Village

16:00 - 17:00

Step into Jeonju Hanok Village, where tiled roofs line lantern-lit lanes. Wander courtyards, watch artisans at work, and taste bibimbap. You feel tradition alive in every wooden doorway.

Omokdae Viewpoint

17:00 - 18:00

Stand at Omokdae Viewpoint and take in sweeping city vistas. You look across tiled rooftops and rolling hills, where history feels close. Pause, breathe, and let the calm perspective linger.

Fri 23 Oct

Jeonju - Seoul

Travel from Jeonju to Seoul by train, watching the landscape shift from relaxed provincial scenes to the pulse of South Korea’s capital. Arrive in Seoul and ease into a day designed for unhurried discovery. Take your time and choose your rhythm as the city opens up around you. Wander through neighbourhood streets lined with cafés and boutiques, or retreat into one of Seoul’s expansive parks for a quiet pause amid urban energy.

You might explore contemporary galleries, browse local markets, or settle into a teahouse and simply observe daily life unfolding. The city rewards curiosity, whether through food, fashion, history, or design. Let instinct guide the day and enjoy the freedom to shape your own experience. As evening approaches, Seoul’s vibrant atmosphere continues to evolve, offering endless options to relax, indulge, or explore further, before settling in for an overnight stay in this dynamic metropolis.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Train Jeonju to Seoul

09:00 - 12:00

Board the train from Jeonju to Seoul and watch the countryside unfold outside your window. Settle into your seat, relax, and you arrive refreshed in South Korea’s dynamic capital.

Train Duration: 2.5 hours

Sat 24 Oct

Seoul Departure

Begin the day with a smooth check-out as Seoul’s vibrant energy lingers in the background. Take a final moment to soak in the city’s contrasts—sleek skylines, quiet temples, and neighbourhoods that hum with life from dawn to dusk. Settle into a comfortable transfer towards Incheon International Airport, passing familiar streets that now feel part of your journey. You reflect on moments shaped by culture, cuisine, and discovery, from lively markets to serene corners tucked away from the rush. The road offers a calm pause, a chance to gather memories and savour the rhythm of travel one last time. Arrive at the airport with time to spare, navigate departure formalities with ease, and prepare to head onward. Seoul stays with you, not just as a destination visited, but as a story experienced—layered, dynamic, and quietly unforgettable.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Depart Seoul

09:00 - 12:00

You will be transferred to the Incheon International Airport in Seoul (Airport code: ICN), for your return flight home. Until we meet again, farewell, and may your journey through life be filled with endless discoveries and boundless happiness.

Duration: 50 minutes
Distance: 49 kms / 30 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

- You want to experience South Korea’s cultural depth, history, and modern life in one journey.

- You enjoy walking through royal palaces, historic temples, and traditional neighbourhoods.

- You love a mix of gentle nature trails, vibrant cities, and meaningful cultural landmarks.

- You’re curious about Korean heritage, from ancient kingdoms in Gyeongju to contemporary Busan.

- You enjoy food experiences, local markets, and regional specialities.

- You prefer a well-paced itinerary with immersive sightseeing rather than strenuous activity.

- International and Domestic flights

- Visa fees (if applicable)

- Alcoholic beverages

- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, laundry, tips for guides and drivers)

- Camera/video charges during sightseeing

- Tips for guides and drivers

- Additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary

Yes, Ankitha aka Wayfarer Anki will be travelling on this trip

Absolutely! Solo travellers are more than welcome on this trip. Many of your fellow travellers will be travelling solo, making it a brilliant opportunity to meet like-minded people while discovering destinations together.

The trip begins and ends in Seoul. You should arrive at and depart from Incheon International Airport, Seoul (airport code: ICN).

All foreign travellers will require a valid passport. The passport should have a validity for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. All travellers will require a visa for entry into South Korea. Indian citizens must obtain a visa in advance to visit South Korea. Apply through the South Korean embassy/consulate or VFS. It is recommended to check the latest requirements on the official Embassy website. Each passenger must be personally responsible for ensuring she/he possesses valid travel documentation. If you would like assistance with your visa, please write to [email protected]

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor in case you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. These transfers will be shared with you before your travel.

There are activities planned on Day 1. It is recommended to arrive by early afternoon. Standard hotel check-in time is around 14:00 hrs.

You can depart anytime. Generally, there are no inclusions on the tour on the last day. The hotel check-out time is usually 1100 hours or 1200 hours.

Children under 12 are not allowed on this Jrny. Children above 12 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. There are some long walks scheduled. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal.

No long road journeys are involved. Travel between Seoul and Gyeongju is by high-speed KTX train, and Jeonju to Seoul is also by train. The drive from Busan to Jeonju is comfortable and broken with sightseeing.

Absolutely, a variety of vegetarian meal options will be available. Vegan options may be limited but available.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

October is one of the best times to visit South Korea. Expect pleasant autumn weather with mild days and cooler mornings and evenings. Temperatures vary by region, especially in coastal Busan and during early starts. Light layers and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. For updated forecasts, please check weather.com before departure.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking.

The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 60 days before the date of travel

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour:

65 days or less from the date of travel: 35% cancellation charges will be levied (as per the total trip cost), the rest will be refunded to you.

35 days or less from the date of travel: 100% cancellation charges will be levied.

Interested in Specific Dates or a Private Jrny?

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