Korea [email protected] www.packyabags.com Map of South Korea

North Korea

Gyeonggi

Gangwon Incheon Seoul

North Chungcheong

South Sejong Chungcheong North Gyeongsang Daejeon

North Daegu Jeolla Ulsan South Gyeongsang Busan Gwangju

South Jeolla

Jeju Japan Not to Scale 2 Thanks and acknowledgements: We would like to thank and acknowledge KTO (Korean Tourist Office) provinces, cities and all the products, and services, hotels, resorts and tour companies for photographic use and the contributers to articles within this publication.

We have tried to be a little different with this brochure, as not only have we included many facts about South Korea, but also included a number of articles and opinions by people who know South Korea or have enjoyed being there. We have shown the country and what you can do rather than hotels and resorts. However, we have the full range of products available. Prices can be viewed on a separate booklet by print and is downloadable. This brochure is also downloadable from Pack Ya Bags site or through your travel agent.

Throughout this publication we have used words such as North and South for the provinces instead of ‘Buk’ meaning north and ‘Nam’ meaning south. As an example North Chungcheong would be Chuncheongbuk and South Chuncheongnam.

what’s inside 2 Map 4 Need to know 5 Useful information 6 Seoul 8 Seoul 10 Incheon 12 Gangwon 14 Gangwon 16 North Chungcheong 18 South Chungcheong 20 North Joella 22 South Joella 24 North Gyeongsang 26 South Gyeongsang 28 Busan 30 Jeju Island 32 Jeju Island 34 Daejeon 36 Daegu 38 Ulsan 40 The Arts 42 Korean Culture 44 K-Pop and K-Drama 45 Festival Time 46 Playtime in Korea 48 Food 49 Shopping 50 Package suggestions

3 What you need to know

Getting Around South Korean rail is excellent, with the KTX trains providing very fast, frequent and inexpensive travel. Rail passes can be purchased prior to entering South Korea and are available for 3, to10 days. Buses throughout Korea are cheap, and rapid. Often the intercity buses have business class type seats and are very comfortable. The DIY Seoul Card uses a pre-loaded transit card, valid on buses and the subway throughout Seoul and extended to other areas now including Busan. We can arrange this for you.

On Arrival Languages The main international airport arrivals are in Seoul and Busan with feeder Korean is the national language. transport to other cities English is used a little in major centres and cities A meet, greet and transfer service is but can be sparce throughout the country. recommended on arrival. Although When leaving your hotel or resort make sure arriving at these airports is quite easy, you have a written description of where you with clear signs on what to do and are staying to give to the taxi or bus driver. where to go. Currency Pack Ya Bags however, does The Korean Won (KRW) is the local currency recommend on your first visit to have in South Korea. This is available from your local someone meet you with a sign bank prior to departure, or is available from the especially in your own language. ATMs once in Korea. KRW 1,000 is approximately NZ$1.34

Airport Codes Airports Seoul (Incheon) (ICN) Busan (Gimhae) (PUS) Incheon Airport (Seoul) and Daegu (TAE) Gimhae (Busan) are the Cheongju (CJJ) international gateways to Korea. Seoul (Gimpo) (GMP) Incheon is approximately 1 hour Gangneung (KAG) and 20 mins from downtown Gunsan (KUV) Gwangju (KWJ) Seoul, depending on the traffic Jeju (CJU) conditions. A direct subway Jeonju (CHN) connection into Seoul and Busan Jinhae (CHF) is now available together with Mokpo (MPK) airport limousine coaches, taxis Osan (OSN) Pohang (KPO) and private transfers. Jinju (Sacheon) (HIN) Samcheok (SUK) The domestic airport in Seoul is Sokcho (Seolak) (SHO) Gimpo Airport and is a 30 minute Suwon (SWU) transfer by coach from Incheon. Ulsan (USN) Wonju (WJU) Frequent subway connections are Yangyang (YNY) now available. Yecheon (YEC) Taxis throughout Korea are good Yeosu (RSU) value. 4 This is worth a read

A bit about Korea The huge amount of places to visit and experience in Korea has been known to the domestic holiday maker for many years, as local people do enjoy their own country. During the last decade the international visitor has warmed to Korea not just as a stopover to another destination, but as a country offering an amazing variety of exciting destinations throughout the provinces. The local people throughout Korea will welcome you and are proud to show you their How to say it in Korean country, sometimes trying out their English. Throughout the brochure we will describe the many places and things to experience, including small articles by Visitors to Korea are welcome and the local locals themselves. people are friendly and open to helping you out on where to go and what to do. Speaking slowly and clearly will help with understanding you. Try a little Korean, it will go along way to getting a new friend. Use some of these simple phrases: Its not as hard as you might think.

Hello : an-nyeong-ha-se-yo Thank you : gam-sa-ham-ni-da Yes : ye or ne No : a-ni-yo Nice to meet you-: bahn-gap-seup-ni-da How are you? - uh-dduh-keh ji-neh-seh-yo? I am good - jal-ji-neh-yo My name is - jeh ee-reum-un Excuse me - shil-leh-hap-nee-da I’m lost - gil-eul ilh-uht-suh-yo Do you know where _____ is? - _____ uh-di- eehn-ji ah-seh-yo? I don’t understand - jal mo-reu-geht-neh-yo) A few more things of interest I don’t speak Korean well - hahn-guhk-mal jal moht-heh-yo Tipping in South Korea is not expected and in certain cases considered rude to Do you speak English? - yung-uh hal su-eet- offer. A polite thank you is welcome though. suh-yo People in the country are very friendly and often go out of their way to help you. Where is the bathroom? - hwa-jang-shil-ee uh- A big smile goes a long way to brake barriers down and you will feel the reward di-eh-yo? coming back. South Korea has fantastic restaurants, bars and cafes throughout Menu, please - meh-nyu ju-seh-yo the country. Bill, please - keh-san-suh ju-seh-yo Shopping is easy and bartering in the markets is OK, but it is not aggressive. How much is it? - uhl-mah-eh-yo Help! - doh-oah-ju-seh-yo! Emergency police number 112 Ambulance is 119 5 Seoul

Seokchon Lake &Lotte World Tower

Drum Cat Show Namsan Seoul Tower

Yeon Deung Hoe lantern Festival 6 Bukhan Dobong National Park Nowon Gangbuk

Eunpyeong

Han River To Incheon Seongbuk International Airport Jungnang Jongno Seodaemun Han River Dongdaemun Gyeongbokgung palace Gimpo Airport Insadong Mapo-gu Myeongdong Gangseo Hongik Seoul Station Namdaemun Markets Seongdong Gangdong Seoul Tower Gwangjin Itaewon Yongsan Electronic market Myeongdong Yangcheong Yeoulo Lotte World Yeongdeungpo COEX

Seoul: Dongjak Gangnam Songpa Seoul is a huge, vibrant, safe and fascinating city Guro with so many natural, historical and manmade Seocho attractions to explore. With so many markets, shopping districts, fantastic restaurants, cafes and Geumcheon Gwanak street vendors, it can keep you busy for many weeks. Although a big city it is so easy to get around on the subway which is colour coded and numbered. By using your T-Card fares are Seoul City incredibly cheap. You can get from one end of the city to the other for just a few dollars. Once Palaces: To visit in Seoul: arrived at your destination, walking is safe and Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest with There are so many places to visit but a couple not stressful. Locals will certainly help you but more than 300 buildings and perhaps the of them are a must such as to the Bukchon make sure you carry the name and address of grandest of the Five Grand Palaces built Hanok Village. This is an area with the largest the hotel where you are staying. by the Joseon dynasty. It includes, the collection of privately owned hanoks Seoul is surrounded by 8 mountains with the National Folk Museum, and the National (traditional homes.) With roughly 900 homes river Han dividing the city into north and south. Palace Museum. Changdeokgung Palace this is a great photo opportunity. Although is second Royal Palace and recognised as many are private houses some have been All styles and levels of accommodation from a cultural heritage site by UNESCO. The converted into tea houses, coffee shops, cafes, budget through to luxurious internationally other 3 Royal Palaces are called Chang- art galleries, inns and museums. branded hotels, apartments, and boutique gyeonggung Palace, Deoksugung Palace A visit to the Seoul Tower is well worth it for a properties. and Gyeonghuigung Palace. great view of Seoul.

Lantern Festival 7 Seoul

Namdaemun Market

Coex Library Cheopjjong

8 Ceremony King Sejong Shopping: The restaurants and nightlife: Gangnam and COEX South side: Seoul is renowned for fantastic shopping Get out into places like Myeongdong, The Gangnam district is on the south side of with famous markets such as Insadong, Coex Centre and Gwangjang for the river Han and is becoming a tourist area Namdaemun Market: not only great shopping but a vibrant night as visitors have all now heard of Gangnam You can buy almost anything here. You could out. There are so many entertaining things through the song (and dance) The huge walk around the alleyways for weeks and still happening all the time, as the night comes convention and transit centre is called COEX not see it all. Good bargains to be had. Not alive. Korean people love eating out so you with a massive underground shopping com- only selling most things but very good for will have plenty of company. plex with a huge amount of small shops and second hand camera equipment While in Seoul you have to take in a show arcades it has become one of the lively place Dongdaemun: whether a traditional show, a classical one or to go. One new addition which you should This shopping area is home to thousands of one of the many nonverbal shows around. check out is the very different Starfield Library small manufacturers. The market sells all types These shows are very funny and now tour the with its three 13 metre high circular shelves. of goods but notably silks and fabric, clothes, world. Shows such as Nanta cooking show You have to check that one out when you shoes and leather goods, sporting goods, has also opened now in other countries. are looking around the shops plumbing and electronics, office supplies, Painters and Jump together with one of my Museums: fortune tellers, toys and food areas favourites, Drumcats. There are more than 115 museums in the specialising in Korean cuisine. Seoul is one of the world’s friendliest and fun City including the Folk Museum, the Trickeye Before you go we will make sure we point cities to visit and often surprises the first time Museum (a one of a kind) for heaps of you in the right direction for whatever visitor. Stay a few days before or after your interactive fun, War Museum, and the shopping is your interest. tour of the rest of the country. National Museum. All great!

Changdeokgung Palace Hourglass Drum Dance

9 Incheon & Gyeonggi Gyeonggi-Do

Incheon: Nami Island: DMZ (Demilitarised Zone): As well as being the major gateway to Seoul Namiseom Island is 63 km from Seoul and The DMZ is a small strip of land, 4 km wide and South Korea, Incheon has a number of is famous for its beautiful tree lined roads separating North Korea from South Korea. interesting places to visit, such as Bupyeong, in all seasons. The island is popular with This area is where negotiations take place. with one of the largest underground local families, with attractions such as Petite Due to recent events both countries are now shopping malls in Korea. It is well worth a France, with its fun and colourful buildings talking with each other to change the visit. Maybe a visit to Chinatown, which is the (see photo) and a great puppet show for situation on the Korean Peninsular. only official Chinatown in Korea. The land the whole family. Other places to visit are Visitors can visit the DMZ on a guided tour near the airport and Incheon itself is being the Sunkan Gardens of Morning Calm with to places such as Panmunjeon. (where the transformed and well developed. 26 themed gardens, and the many varied blue huts are) This is a real zone between colours depending on the season, which two countries and rules have to be observed Folk Village: Not too far from Seoul is the Korean Folk have been designed to look fantastic all year while on the tour. There are a variety of tours Village and if time is limited in Korea, this is a around. including, visiting the four tunnels dug by great place to learn about the culture of Korean Dramas are filmed here with the North Korea, the Yeolsoe Observatory, Korea. Performances such as Nongak famous ‘Winter Sonata’ being one of them. Unification Hill, Cheorwon Peace (farmer’s music), martial arts on horseback, There is a rail park on Nami Island and very Observatory, Woljeong-ri Station and traditional wedding ceremonies, and other popular throughout Korea. They are great perhaps the Peace Dam. special events are to be experienced, fun and you should try it out. With street There is a range of half and full day tours together with ice sledding (in winter), and performers helping create the atmosphere, which depart for the 60km journey from markets. Lots of great local food to try with get the camera ready as there are lots of Seoul most days of the week. famous Korean dishes on offer. photo.opportunities.

Sorae Wetlands Windmills

10 Incheon Street performer Nami

Petite France Nami

Bukhansan Mountain DMZ Cycling Tour

11 Gangwon Gangwon-Do

Lets go: Mindungsan Mountain: Samtan Art Mine: Many of you would already know about This unusual mountain is about growing wild This art complex has been transformed from this province either knowingly or unknow- herbs and the blooming of silver grass. The an old coal mine now housing more than ingly due to the 2018 winter olympics at locals burn the fields each year to encourage 100,000 art works from around the world. It Pyeongchang, Gangneung, and Jeongseon. the growth and the result is quite spectacu- is a living art complex also running sponsor- The mountains and national parks of lar as the Silver Grass blooms in September, ship art programmes. The atmosphere inside Seoraksan with it’s mountain side Temples. October and November. Hiking at this time is quite unique as the writer can testify. A Chiaksan offers steeper trails for those with of the year will give you the most amazing must visit. a little more fitness, and Odaesan offering a photo opportunities to witness the breath- Caves: little gentler slopes winding down to a stone taking colours. Walking the trails offers to Because of the many limestone areas in the seated buddhaand all levels of fitness. The Silver Grass Festival is mountains there are number of spectacular held every October. Sokcho: caves to visit such as the Cheongok Cave in Great sandy beaches and close to many Taebaek: Donghae with its stalactite curtains, traver- hiking trails. Enjoy fresh seafood and even go If you want to visit South Korea’s highest tine terraces, and stalactite cascades. The fishing if this is your interest. City this is it. From here a visit to the Mang- Hwanseongul Cave is the largest limestone Gyeongpo is the largest city and beach on gyeongsa Temple is on the cards. The temple cave in Asia. There have been 47 new breeds the East Coast. A wild and beautiful city sits 1460 metres high to enshrine the statue of animals discovered in this Cave, with four according to Sun Man Kang. The winding of Bodhisattva of Wisdom. of these being found only. There are many Donggang River where you can white water others within the region to explore. raft or kayak or follow the river by trekking the many walks and paths in the region.

Ojukheon House

Ski Resort Mount Seoraksan

12 Gangwon Coast

Bangtaesan Recreational Forest Cheongok Cave

Yongpyong

13 Gangwon Gangwon-Do

Byeongbangchi Skywalk

Alpensia Ski Resort Pyeongchang one of Samcheok Ocean Railbike: Skiing: And now for something different! This great Winter in Gangwon-do is a great place for the hosts of the winter olympics offers six trip follows a 5.4km beautiful shoreline winter sports enthusiasts, as the province slopes with various courses for beginner, complete with a tunnel along its way which gets a lot of snow which is why it was picked intermediate and advanced skiers. includes a luminarie and laser show, and for the 2018 Winter Olympics. There are a Snowboarding slopes and a long-distance underwater tunnel. This is fun. number of great resorts including: sledding slope are specially designed for Yongpyong Ski Resort Pyeongchang. snowboarders and visitors with families Jeongdongjin Beach and Sunglass Park: Others include: Many visitors come here to watch the Yongpyong gets excellent snow throughout Chuncheon - Elysian Gangchon Ski Resort spectacular sunrise and swim in the the winter, so has become very popular. Jeongseon - High1 Ski Resort swimming spots along the sandy beach or It has 28 slopes and 14 lifts, including the Wonju - Oak Valley Snow Park. from the. 2.8km walk along the rocky shore longest slope in the nation. Taebaek - 02 Ski Resort. First winter snow between Jeongdong and Simgok. From here Phoenix Park Ski Resort has a unique there is also a trek up Mt Goseong. slope design and is known for spectacular panoramic views with 500 meter-wide ski If you want full details of these various ski and Ojukheon House: slope, offering 21 ski courses so that you can winter holidays just let us know. One of Korea’s oldest preserved wooden enjoy the dynamic and exciting speed of houses showing life from the Joseon Suggestions: skiing. Take the high speed Seorak Cable Car (not period. Close by a visit to the Chamsori Hongcheon - Vivaldi Park Ski World at peak times) to see. At the top take a 30 museum is well worth it to see around 1600 is a favourite with young skiers and minute walk where you will be rewarded phonographs from Edison to the modern snowboarders. with the most fantastic views of the region day. Hoengseong - Welli Hilli Park Snow Park with and Seoaksan Mountain. No question this Byeongbangchi Skywalk: its world class and recognised snowboard area is spectacular. Soak the views up or take A thrilling experience if you dare! facilities. a walk.

14 Samcheok Railbikes

Yongpyong Ski Resort Janghohang

Jumunjin Fish Market 15 North Chungcheong Chungcheongbuk-Do

Manui Cultural Heritage Complex

North Chungcheong: Danyang: This is the only province without a shoreline Danyang is perhaps one of the most but does have the major manmade lake of picturesque towns in Korea with its fantastic Chungju. Take a boat ride on this lake as it location as seen in the photograph. Much stops at many of the attractions. of the old town was submerged during the An early print museum shows where the making of the dam and lake. world’s oldest book was printed using Cycles are available and a great way to look moveable type in 1377 at the lake and surrounding mountains. A number of trails for hiking are found throughout especially in the Sobaeksan and Guinsa: The interesting fact about this very attractive Woraksan National Parks. temple is that it was rebuilt in 1966 so all the The rivers offer White water rafting and building are a great example of Korean old paragliding if they are your sports. temple building but in pristine condition. The Yeongdong: Buddism school of Cheontae was reformed This area produces really good quality wines in 1945. The temple is sandwiched between and wine tasting is now on the agenda, two mountains through a narrow valley. together with aromatic chocolates. You can learn how to make and play Gosu Cave: This is one of Korea’s famous caves which traditional Korean instruments as Yeongdong stretch for around 1.7km through winding is the hometown of Park Yeon who wrote passageways with attractive lighting ‘Gugak’ Korea’s old classical music. The throughout. The cave is certainly known for Nangye Music Museum hosts regular gugak its beauty. performances, every Saturday usually in the afternoon. Suanbo Hot Springs: What can you say about this? Take a dip Chungju World Martial Arts Festival: in the hot pools and relax from the days Every October sees the Taekwondo and walking. other martial arts organised.

16 Munui Cultural Complex: Overlooking the Daecheongho Lake this complex shows local history, arts and culture. It is set in a traditional village atmosphere with various houses museum and even a tavern. The complex even has a movie village. The famous restored stone bridge was perhaps built in the Goryeo period. Ice climbing: Here is something different!. Artificial Ice Climbing at the Yeongdong Ice climbing venue. Normal mountain climbing is popular throughout Korea due to the many mountains available. Danyang City Bikes on Lake

Wollyubong Peak Winding Road in Autumn Roaring Ice Cliff Climbing

Danyang 17 South Chungcheong Chungcheongnam-Do

Mountains in Korea

South Chungcheong: Oeam Folk Village: Mud Festival: This province is now thought to be the A living folk village by the descendants of the Although the mud festival has become richest and fastest growing in Korea with original settlers going back 500 years. You famous throughout the world attracting massive investment and industrial growth. can see many traditional straw houses, with many thousands of people to wallow in the One reason is that it is within easy reach of the atmosphere being authentic and feeling ‘cosmetic properties’ of the mud, Boryeong Seoul and is serviced by the subway, which like a living museum. also has many great beaches and lots of small passes through Cheonan and Asan. The KTX islands which can be explored with various Shinjeong Lake: fast train takes less than 30 minutes. A very romantic place especially in the spring ferries. The West Coast is full of mud flats and small with the fabulous colours. Boat rides can be Ganworam Hermitage: inlets with excellent beaches and wonderful had on the lake as well as bike hire. As you see in the photo the island becomes gardens and farms. cut of from the mainland at hightide but at The Taean region is home to 12 seaside Independence Hall of Korea: The largest museum in Korea with seven lowtide it is a natural walkway. It was created villages. A number of festivals are organised by a monk to meditate under the moonlight here throughout the year including the exhibition halls showing the struggle for independence. and to this day creates wonderful moonlight interesting and unusual ‘garlic digging reflections. festival’ Gongsan Fortress: This is a 1500 year old fortress situated on a Brewing: Onyangoncheon Traditional Market: Korea is a big brewing country and many The markets came about with people visiting mountain top. The area includes the Lotus Pond and changing of the guard Saturday areas and families still make their own the local hot springs with a good mix of local traditional alcohol. Although you may have and tourists visiting. With around 500 stores and Sunday during April, May and June, then September and October. heard of or even tasted Soju rice wine, there and 300 market stalls the traditional markets is also a revival of craft beers. Much of the are always good to visit. While here, a short walk will take you to the Songsan Buriel Mounds. process by adding ingredients we are not used to make the flavours very different.

18 Ganworam Herimitage Mud Festival

Taean Flower Festival Oeam Ri Village

Myeongjae House Gagwonsa Temple

19 North Jeolla Jeollabuk-Do

Daedunsan Mountain Tapsa Temple North Jeolla: Temples: Iksan: North Jeolla has a huge amount of cultural There are many temples where you can This City is known as ‘The City of Jewels’ and historical sites to explore, as well as being visit of even experience the temple stay. as it is the centre of jewelry making and a beautiful geographical province. Even a ski The Tapsa Temple famous for it’s 80 stone metal crafts, together with jewelry museum area at Muju. pagodas (shown in the photo.) The Temple showing works from the Baekje Kingdom, is stunning through all the seasons and one of the three kingdoms ruling ancient Namwon The City of Love: A couple of points to mention, is that this is when covered in snow is spectacular. Korea from the first century BC. The Naejangsan Temple is surrounded by the area famous for classical literature such Daedunsan Provincial Park: as the Pansori (story to music played by a magnificent peaks. Certainly a sight to see. Great rocky peaks with facilities including singer and drum) Chunhyangjeon. This Jeonju, Bibimbap and Hanok Village: cable cars and the Geumgang Gureumdari love story is well known and loved in Korea. Jeonju Bibimbap is often considered the (hanging bridge, shown in the photo.) The lovers first met at the Gwanghalluwon home of this national dish. Different as the Historic Temples and good walks in the park. Garden where a festival is held every year rice is cooked in beef broth rather than Used a number of times as a film location. to celebrate their deep and everlasting love. water. Get a recipe for this by typing in Birding: In the Chunhyang Theme Park the story is Jeonju Bibinbap. Worth it!. This is also an area full of migratory birds illustrated and performed. It is often used as a While in Jeonju a must visit is to the Hanok using the mudflats and other areas. Many film location. Well worth a visit. Traditional Village with its 800 odd houses. It bird species stop over here on their way to The other interesting area is known as the is very interactive and you can try a number other destinations, Due to climate change Gochang Dolmen (tomb) site, a UNESCO site of things such as feeling the warm floors as this can now change from year to year, of stone graves built during the prehistoric the houses have underfloor heating and but bird watchers come from all over the era. It is often compared to Stonehenge in you can try some of the fabulous traditional world to witness some of the birds in the England. clothes, such as the beautiful Hanbok. thousands.

20 Jeonju Hanok Village Go Jae Seon’s Old House

Fermenting underground Pretty in the snow

Flock of Baikal Teals

21 SouthJeollanam-Do Jeolla

Suncheonman Bay

Korean Dance

Taepyeong Yeomsaeng Botanical Gardens Garden Suncheonman

22 Parting of the Sea Naganeupseong Folk Village

Saseongam Hermitage, Gurye Tea Plantation

South Jeolla: Suncheon Nationa Gardens: Suncheon Film Location: This region is so diverse to what it offers to This is a huge area transformed into the This film set is located in Jorye-dong, the visitor, from the tens of thousands of most amazing conservation gardens, with Suncheon. There are three villages built for migrating birds in the Suncheonman Bay, to more than a million trees and flowers. It different historical time from the 1950s to the the tea growing plantations and the many includes a wetland centre with the fabulous 1970s. The set has around 200 houses and is temples, forts and museums. As you can see ‘Dream Bridge’ decorated with thousands of the largest film set in Korea. on a map, (on page 2) the area has many drawings by children from around the world. Naganeupseong: islands dotted around it’s coastline with Jindo The actual wetland zone has a walking This folk village is really very interactive. From Island being the third largest in Korea and trail to see firsthand the wetland ecology the photo above you can see how large the the famous for the ‘miracle’ parting of the in action, and The World Garden includes village is. sea. This happens near the end of February plants, trees and flowers from 11 countries. Experience Gayageum (instrument), and mid June. The waters parts for around Tea is a huge part of Korean culture and Blacksmith’s Workshop, Silk-farming, Seodang an hour and a dry road is created around 40 you can see a number of tea ceremonies Village School, International and Traditional metres wide and nearly 3 km long. There is a throughout the country. There are tea Customs, Folk Movie Theater, Filming Site of lovely story legend to go with this event. plantations to visit as well as the Suncheon Daejanggeum, Traditional Musical Center, Popular in a number of places, there is a ‘Wils Tea House’ located near the thousand Natural Dyeing, Weaving, Traditional Musical Ocean Railbike tour following the rocky year old Sunamsa Temple.. You can Instrument, Writing a wish-paper and coastline for 3.5km. Lots of fun. experience a number of interaction learnings, post card, Straw Experience, Hanji (Korean Birding is also a big part of this area due to such as how to do the tea ceremony or how Traditional Paper) and lots more! the mass of birds landing here as a half way to make a flower pancakes. After all this you While in the district take in some of the point to and from their migratory pathway. might need a little meditation. wonderful cultural performances. Well worth The area has great seaside villages to explore. the time to see and hear the dance and song of Korea.

23 North Gyeongsang Gyeongsangbuk-Do

Let’s Explore: Places to visit such as Yeongju with it’s fabulous North Gyeongsang has so many attractions to panaramic mountain views and wooden What People Say: Ray A explore you could spend weeks here, taking in structure of the Buseoksa Temple. This place is so special. Not only for the the many magnificent temples, the mountains, fabulous temples and historical places to visit sandy beaches and the fabulous ancient arts. Take a 3 hour ferry ride from Pohang to a but my partner and I had the opportunity to While Gyeongju and Andong are the region’s remote island called Ulleungdo, a beautiful have a lesson in pottery with a national most famous cultural areas, you will find many unspoilt island even many locals have not treasure potter. My partner is very good at it areas to explore throughout this province. been to. The port of Pohang is surrounded but myself struggled a little, although had so by very attractive coastline with picturesque much fun making my bowl. North Gyeongsang is the homeland to the for- beaches and villages. mer Silla Kingdom, with Gyeongju being in the Suggestions: world’s top ten listed UNESCO cultural cities. There are a number of ways to get involved in Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond was used The famous Bulguksa Temple is situated here art lessons and temple stays for the palace of the Crown Prince. After the and is a must visit, together with the Seokuram fall of Silla, the site was abandoned and Grotto, one of the world’s finest shrines to Located in Songgeum-ri, Namseong-hyeon, forgotten. In the 1980s, pottery fragment with Buddha. Cheongdo-gun, Wine Tunnel is famous for letters “Wolji” carved onto it was found, Andong is recognised for its culture and the wine made with Cheongdo’s specialty prod- revealing the true name of the pond. A night arts and is home to the Maskdance Festival uct, bansi (persimmon), in the train tunnel to tour is spectacular. among others. The Hahoe Folk Village is to age wines. Part of the tunnel has been turned be found here and again is a must on your into a café, and bar with fabulous lighting. itinerary.

Woryeonggyo Bridge Bulguksa Temple

24 Film Set in the mountains Ulleungdo Island

Drying Squid Cheomseongdae Observatory

Yangdong Village Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond

25 South Gyeongsang Gyeongsangnam-Do

Tongyeong Islands

Tongyeong Port. Turtle Ship Haeinsa Temple Village

Haeinsa Temple Changwon Station

26 South Gyeongsang: Haeinsa Temple: Geojedo Island: This province is at the bottom of the Korean Perhaps one of the most important temples The second largest island in Korea and with peninsular. With an extensive and beautiful to visit as this is where the ‘Tripitaka Koreana’ the most spectacular scenery and with the coastline scattered with many islands. was made as a wish to overcome the areas such as Haegeumgang, with it’s mag- Mongolia Invasion. The printing blocks are nificent rock formations, Mongdol Beach and Gangwon: This is a city that was originally built to 68cm wide, 24.5cm long, 3 cm thick with Oedo Island this is a must place to visit. says become the Capital City of Korea should wood fixed at each end to maintain balance. Tasha Kang who went there with her family anything happen to Seoul in years gone Silver magnolias were cut down, soaked in as a little girl. She remebers the by. It has the longest straight road in Korea, sea water for several years and then dried to fantastic beaches and fresh seafood. We around 12km long. It was designed to be make these printing blocks. There are more have all seen sunrises and sunsets but they used as a landing runway if required. The city than 81,000 blocks as seen in the photo. are worth seeing again over this fabulous is surrounded by mountains and is a good (another favourite of Pack Ya Bags). Needless island. Oedo island has a botanical garden base to explore from. Learn how to paint to say this is a UNESCO designated site. and marine park, as well as one of the pots here (as one of the directors of Pack Ya The Jinjuseong Fortress is a must as is the favourite film locations for filming dramas Bags does) and explore the old town with Lantern festival at Jinju every October for a Another cave called the ‘Shipjagui Cave’ is artist outlets through small lanes. 10 day period. well worth a vist as it is huge and high, and shaped like a cross

Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival

Treasure Island Art Cafe

27 Busan

Busan

Busan Lights Haedong Yonggung Temple

Musician Haeparanggil Trail

28 Busan throughout the day. The water falls from 4 Busan: Jagalchi Fish Market: At the Bottom of the Korean Peninsular, The market is famous throughout Korea. It is floors up and displays pictures and words. Busan is the second largest city in Korea huge and you can see mainly women called Well worth a visit and lots of fun. If you have and very attractive, standing on a huge port ‘ajumma’ selling both live and dried fish. You the children with you they will love it with some very well known beaches such as will certainly see the local way of life here in Hiking: Haeundae Beach, which at the end of July Busan. Because of the geographical nature of Busan and August are very popular with local surrounded by mountains, there are many Places to explore: Korean people. The whole of Busan offers Theme Street depicts life in the 1950s and hiking trails such as the Geumjeong Fortress such a huge amount of activities to see and 60s. There are many museums in and around reached by a cable car and then around a get involved in. The city has a far more lay the city for many varied tastes, modern and 9km walk. A little more remote is the back attitude than Seoul. old, art and culture. Seokbulsa Temple which takes around 90 The district of Nampodong Street is where all The mouth of the Nakdong River is one of minutes from the cable car. Once there you the theatres and entertainment is, with live the spots for migratory birds between will have magnificent views over the city. On shows and the film festival during October. October and March with more than 150 the way down call into Namman Village for a Also close by is one of the largest markets in species observed including cranes, spoonbills tea or coffee. Korea the ’Gukje Markets’ It is connected by and eagles. Get great views by taking a boat As in much of Korea you will find many small alleyways full of bustling stalls and even trip. temples and folk villages to visit. A hop on connects to other markets. Lots of fun and The fun Lotte Aquatique Show is a 10 minute hop off bus is a good way to explore the city different goods than what you are used to. musical fountain show shown 11 times and surrounds.

Busan Air Cruise Gijang Market

29 Jeju Rock Salt Farm Jeju island

Haenyeo Femal Divers

30 Jeju Gimnyeong Maze Park Ulleungdo Island Soesokkak Jeju Island: Theme Parks: The different: Jeju Island is the premier holiday island of There are so many theme parks on the island Do something different and experience the Korea and is very popular with both domestic so really enough entertainment to satisfy underwater world and take the underwater and international visitor. Because of this there every taste. submarine tour. is a huge amount of natural and manmade Eco Land with lots of virgin forest with the A good way to see the island is to do a 4 day attractions. The island sits off the southern hand built steam locomotive built in the UK in cycling tour and cycling around 243 km. You tip of the peninsular about an hours flight the 1800s. need to be moderately fit but at the end you from Seoul or even a ferry from places such The Teddy Bear Museum features works certainly would be! as Mokpo, Wando, Goheung Nokdong, from 100 artists from 10 countries. This has Horse riding is another great way to Haename, Yeosu, and Busan. Ferries take become one of the must visit sites in Jeju. experience this island, as Jeju is big on horses anything from 3 hours to 12 hours Drama World, Loveland and Soingook where with such place to visit as the horse depending on which port you depart from. more than 100 miniature famous buildings pastureland, a huge area of grassland and Jeju is home to the tallest mountain in South are displayed including building such as the one of the most visited sites on the island. The Korea, the Hallasan Volcano. It is dormant Eiffel Tower and Tower Bridge. Raon Ma Park has horse riding performances. and a great days walking to the top. A long day but well worth it if you have that moderate fitness. Women Divers (Haenyo): Local traditions are very different to the mainland, with the women being very strong. as shown in the famous “haenyo” or “woman diver”. These fantastic women divers can be seen around the island. The story goes that in the 17th century when the men were at sea for a long time the women had to do all the hard work on the land, but growing was difficult so they dived instead for seafood. Today the average age is 65 years old! and they can hold their breath for 2 minutes and can dive to 20 metres. Check out the Haenyo Museum. The Mysterious Road: If you park a car on this steep road, the car does not roll down but appears to go up, defying gravity! Needless to say this is an optical illusion but great fun to see. Seongsan IIchulbong Peak 31 Jeju island

Marado Island Culture: Lava Tubes in Geomum Oreum: Beaches, Farms and Gardens: A number of folk villages exist on Jeju, such The Manjanggul Lava-tube has a There are many beautiful natural places to as the Jeju Folk Village which really does reputation as being one of the best lava visit on the island, such as the Yeomiji Botanic show and symbolise the culture of the tubes in the world and is a UNESCO site. It is Indoor Garden. A three acre large glass people on Jeju Island as passed down and around 7Km long although only 1km is open greenhouse together with a 38 metre preserved by each generation. to the public. The tube is 23 metres high with observation tower or a farm visit to the Jeju various cave formations, such as stalactites, Rural Life Experience, a real favourite with the Walking Trails: The Jeju Olli Trail is a series of pathways stalagmites, flowstones, lava tubes, lava children, as the can interact with the animals. stretching around the whole island, so you shelves, and lava rafts. The tubes are in the Lots of really good beaches are all around can do a little or all of it if you have the time. area called Geomum Oreum, Oreum mean- the island. ing volcano formations in simple terms. The It is on this walk where many of the Dramas Marado Island: have been filmed such as the well known area stands on a ridge 456 meters high, sur- Located 8 km of the tip of Jeju. An island of ‘Jewel of the Palace’ 26 routes make up this rounded by forests and a breeding ground unusual rock formations and now trail. The scenery is spectacular throughout for many birds. Lots of really good hiking trails becoming popular for visits from tourists. and the route offers plenty of are available in the reserve. Reached by ferry so these days easy to get to. accommodation each night. Hallasan Mountain: Beauty spots such as the Cheonjeyeon This mountain is a must to visit. Enough said! waterfalls are found throughout the island.

Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls Fire Festival

32 Theme Park

Innisfree House Train Ride on Jeju

Seongeup Folk Village Sculpture Park

33 Gyejoksan Mountain Red Clay Trail: Something very different, with the first eco healing barefoot walking trail. Many people walk or even run along the 14 km trail and apparently it soothes the body and mind. Daejeon Along the route you will come across the Gyejoksanseong Fortress built at the time of the three kingdoms. About Daejeon: Expo Science Park: Daejeon is a city of Education and Science Developed into a science and technology Daecheongho Lake: and is a transport crossroads in the middle complex. It has a number of attractions A manmade lake but gives great of Korea with 4 railways crossing to various including a simulation theatre, where the opportunities to both walk and cycle. parts of the country. It has 18 Universities and chairs move with the movie, and electrical more than 200 research institutions. It is little energy pavilion. Hanbit Tower is a cone Juwangsan Mountain: Juwangsan Mountain features deep valleys wonder it is nicknamed ‘Asia’s Silicon Valley’. shaped tower you can climb to overlook the and sheer rocky cliffs. It includes four The city was host to a world expo in 1993 city. waterfalls, caves, the Daejeonsa Temple. Try with 108 countries participating. With 14 Daejeon O World: the canopy walk. million people visiting the Expo Daejeon was Is a theme park for all the family with fantastic well and truly on the science and technology gardens, animals and fun rides. If you have Jangtaesan Mountain: Walk in this area in Autumn and experience map. the children with you this is a must place to the most amazing Autumn colours as see in Uineungjeongi Cultural Street is a real mix visit. the photo. of art and culture, including art galleries, Other places of interest is the Daejeon Art concerts, theaters, exhibitions, performances, Centre, with its unusual building, the Bomunsan Park: art supply stores, pottery studios, and antique Prehistoric Museum, the Yuseong Foot Spa Beautiful park with fantastic colours in all the stores. The street becomes even more vibrant (after that hard day walking) the Daejeon seasons. The park has mineral springs, even a in the evening and into the night with many Observatory, and the Dunsan Prehistoric roller skating rink. The Bomunsanseong For- restaurants, visual ceiling lights and huge LED Settlement from the stone age. tress, and Bomunsaji Temple are here with a screen on sky street. cable car and observatory.

Jangtaesan Mountain

Bomunsan Food Street Daejeon Arts Centre

34 Mt Jewangsan Jangtaesan Forest

Gyejoksan Red Clay Trail

35 Daegu

Donghwasa Temple

Daegu Fashion Show The Arc

Seomun Markets The Opera

36 Daegu: The Arc: Seomun Market: Daegu has a couple of famous tag lines Another cultural complex with a water theme is one of Korea’s last remaining markets from such as ‘The City of Music’ and ‘Daegu with the building itself a piece of artwork. At the Joseon Dynasty, and is one of the best Fashion City’ both of which offer something night the building and fountains light up to traditional markets in the city to buy local different while visiting. Certainly if you have create a marvelous scene. produce. an interest in either of these industries. Fashion: Yangnyeongsi: The city has become a UNESCO music city The city promotes itself as a fashion and This is the oldest market in Korea for to foster all types of innovation and creativity textile capital and is continuing to create a medicinal herbs with a history dating back at in music. What it means for the visitor is a city to become a world leader in fashion. It least 350 years. (see photo) range of musical activities and performances holds many exhibitions and shows including, throughout the city. A visit to the Opera is a E-World and Hillcrest: annual fashion fairs with many fashion A theme park with many things for the fam- definite as the shows are outstanding. companies are based here. Starting in the springs through summer, ily including beautiful gardens, waterfalls, Dongseongno Street is a major fashion fountains, flowers and great rides. A good buskers are encouraged throughout the area with many shops selling clothes and parks and streets. The Pongdang Concert day out if you just want to play. accessories. Hillcrest is another theme park to explore is held every Friday at 5pm in spring and Talking of streets, go for a meal at one of the summer with diverse entertainment from and enjoy. Close to Deuran-gil food town a Bulgogi Tents. The atmosphere is so good favourite with locals. classical to K-Pop. and vibrant. Coffee houses are some of the A body painting festival is held in late best in the country. Culture: summer with artists from around the world Buddhism is still strong here so has many Jjimiilbang: temples to explore and maybe have a Robots!: If you have never tried one do so here in The city is getting to be known as a mecca temple stay. There is an academy of Daegu. It means the bathhouse where you Confucianism in the city. The well known for the robotic industry and is attracting can get that hot tub, sauna and a massage. robotic companies from around the world. Stone Buddha called Gatbawi is here and is These days they are very sophisticated visited by people from all over the country The Daegu Culture and Art Centre: and offer all facilities for the whole family. and from countries overseas. There are a This concert venue sees a constant stream Jjimjilbang are found throughout Korea. The number of fabulous folk villages in the area of performances across all music and drama best way to relax! also to visit. art forms.

Oriental Medicine Market

37 Ulsan

Grand Park

Ulsan: Jinha Beach: Adventure: Ulsan can boast a couple of really big This beach is worth mentioning although The area offers a number of adventurous operating industrial plants in the city, Hyundai the area has many good beaches, but this activities such as rock climbing with around is the world’s largest assembly plant in the is where the annual Ulsan Professional 100 various climbs. world and the world’s largest shipyard. For Windsurfing takes place due to the reliable Hiking in the Yeongnam Alps offer a huge something different both offer industrial tours trade winds at this time of the year in May. range of walks and hikes especially starting with the car plant taking around an hour. The beach is known for its clear water with a at the Gajisan Provincial Park. Lots of rocky They produce around 330 cars an hour! great sandy beach. The whole area has been peaks. There is of course a temple on one of It is amazing just how big it actually is. The and still is being bought up to a standard for the trails with only Buddhist nuns remaining Hyundai shipbuilding yard tour takes around everyone to enjoy. Throughout the year lots in residence. 40 minutes. of festivals and events are performed. Ulsan is surrounded by seven mountains over Stone Age Petroglyphs: Jangseungpo Whale Cultural Village: Something quite different is to visit the 1000metres all showing fantastic colours When whaling was banned in 1986 this area where you can see Petroglyphs of during every season especially the silver grass. centre of the whaling industry turned from Cheonjeon-ri, Ulju (rock paintings) from the Ulsan Grand Park: the old whaling traditions to an interactive stoneage and bronze age. This area stretches The park is a huge space in downtown and whale conservation centre. The centre for around 3 kilometres so has a huge Ulsan. A wide variety of shows, festivals and offers education, and the history into the past amount to see. events are held here throughout the year whaling industry and marine ecosystems. and perhaps the most colourful is the ‘Rose Daewangam Park: Oegosan Onggi Village: A seaside park that is accessible through a Festival’ held every June. Next door is the This is the largest folk Onggi (earthenware) 100 year old pine forest, Lots of interesting Bamboo grove although more like a small village. You can see how these impressive shapes to the rocks which give way to the forest. This whole area has over the years pots are made including the workshops and Ulgi Lighthouse and Daewangam Island. been restored and is now a must visit area. the kilns. A must visit. when in Ulsan.

38 Daewangam Park Mt Wolchulsan

Cycling around Lake

Rose Garden Ulsan at night

39 The Arts, Korea

Street Performers

Street Artist B-Boy Concert

40 Art in Korea: Fabric Making and Design: Music and Dance: Art in Korea encompasses music, dance, Fabric art goes back a long way including ‘Gugak’ means national music (apart from theatre, calligraphy, painting, pottery, embroidery, which is used for colourful foreign music) and includes art forms such lacquerware, visual arts and many other costumes and screenwork used in everyday as song, dance and movement, from the doctrines. The country has a wealth of lives as well as performances and festivals. As traditional shows and ceremonies to the very talent in all the arts both traditional and in the you see from the number of festivals, modern. Dances including the great drum modern era. costumes become very much part of the dances and are performed as part of the focus. many annual festivals and celebrations with Calligraphy: many involving traditional costumes, music, Korean calligraphy is said to reveal the artists Pottery: personality and is a beautiful written From the everyday pots, such as the songs and special instruments. brushstrokes. storage pots for kimchi to the beautiful white The range of music and drama in Korea is porcelain originating from the Joseon period. astonishing with modern shows, operas Paper: and Korean musicals. Many of these shows Go into one of the paper shops and you The Celadon is the Korean stoneware and is marked with the Jade blue with the unique are seen throughout the world from shows would think you are looking at bolts of fabric originating from Korea. but in fact thousands of rolls of handmade inlay. There are some very interesting kilns around the country and various potteries. Go to a live performance when in Korea. paper in fantastic colours, textures and Story telling is performed throughout the designs. Take a lesson in making, glazing and painting pots. country.

Pottery Studio

Samtan Art Mine Drum Maker

41 Korea Culture

Janggu Drum Dance

Sunchang Paste Museum

Dressing in Hanbok walking on the Seobdari 42 Tapsa Temple Go Jae Seon’s Old House

Gegukji Tea Ceremony

Culture in Korea: Dress in History: Ceremonies: Social customs are still very important to life in The traditional dress known as ‘hanbok’ has Ceremonies such as a Tea Ceremony is still Korea. Many of the old ways are been worn since ancient times. The hanbok practiced throughout the country. It was and disappearing, but many still exist in today’s consists of a shirt (jeogori) and a skirt (chima). is used for either a ceremony and or as a modern society. Here are few facts: Clothing was an important mark of social traditional herbal medicine. There are 5 South Korea supports religious freedom with rank. Impressive, with very colourful distinct tastes including sweet, sour, salty, Buddhism and Christianity being the main ‘costumes’ The upper classes also used bitter and pungent and can be made from religions although in many parts jewelry to distance themselves from the fruit, leaves seeds or roots. When in Korea go Confucianism is still prevalent. ordinary people. A traditional item of jewelry to at least one of these ceremonies. Bowing is still a tradition throughout the was made of a precious gemstones, to which Not to miss while in Seoul is the Royal Guards country with a handshake also by the men, a tassel of silk was connected. The common Changing Ceremony in front of the Deoksu usually supported with the left hand on the people were often restricted to plain Palace when the new unit arrives to relieve right forearm. Usually women do not shake colourless clothes. the ones watching the gates. Verbal orders, hands although this now happens more The Hanbok is classified according to flags, and musical instruments are used. This often in business. occasion such as everyday dress, ceremonial is in the afternoon except Mondays. Gifts are a big tradition and the people do dress and special dress and is still worn today When you start to travel around the country enjoy giving. Always take the gift with two especially for weddings and special it becomes apparent that the huge amount hands and do not open the gift in front of occasions. of temples to witness is incredible with every the person giving it to you. If you are invited In Korea you will find tradition and culture on village and town blessed with one or many. to someone’s house always take a small gift. show in everyday life. The Korean people will For the visitors who enjoy these fabulous As you will read in the food page, food has be proud to show you and try to talk with buildings and traditions they are a wonderful a special place in the culture and history of you in English. Some are shy to try but they sight to see and experience. Likewise the folk Korea placing a huge emphasize on health will try to communicate and ask if you need villages are not just for the tourist but with and wellbeing. help. It’s in their nature. many of them living villages. 43 Wanna One

K-Pop Korean K-Pop boys band K-Pop and K-Drama

Korean Odyssey Sdqueen K-Pop: K-Drama: Started in the 90’s, K-pop has become a truly global phenomenon Again Korean Drama and films has taken the world by storm with due to its very different blend of addictive melodies, clever their TV dramas shown throughout Asia and the world. This has choreograph and professional production numbers. created in turn a tourism route in Korea visiting the various All of us have of course heard of Gangnam Style which made locations throughout the country. All subjects are dealt with both history by having more than a billion views on YouTube and got old and new. There are too many to mention, but get a chance us all doing the Gangnam dance! This in turn created incredible look at the Jewel of the Palace a historical drama with 50 episodes exposure to other K-pop artists and groups. This music is always and Korean Odyssey a new 20 episode take on journey to the fun to listen to and to watch the videos. west. Very good and funny.

44 Festivals: Well where do we start? Korea has so many festivals, as this is a really important way to express their lives, nature and culture. With more than 700 of them, as a visitor, whatever time of the year you travel to Korea a festival will be on somewhere whether it be sum- mer, autumn, winter or spring. There are some very famous ones such as the Boryeong Mud Festival, the Jeonju International Film Festival, Busan International Rock Festival and one at Incheon also, the Jindo Miracle Sea Road Festival, the Daegu Music Festival, the Taean Tulip Festival, the Tug of War Festival called the Gijisi Juldarigi, and the Jeonju International Sori Festival, showing global and local music, This is just a few of them. We have mentioned other festivals on the various destination pages throughout this brochure. If you want to know more please ask us. Shows and performances: Many of the cities and towns have performances with Seoul offering not only cultural shows but dynamic fantastic shows such as the very funny Nanta Cooking show (hilarious), the Painters a painting show with special effects, Jump which includes martial art and the fantastic Drumcats, a group of world class drummers, a real wow show. More cultural shows such as at the Korea House and at the many folk villages offer cultural shows from the past and present.

Festivals and Show Time

Jump

Nanta

Korea House

Jeonju Sori

Pohang Fireworks Festival

45 Playtime in Korea

Adventure: Hiking and Walking: Diving: Adventure means different things to different Walking and Hiking in Korea is for everybody Although not known for diving Korea has a people, and being in Korea will make your depending on your interests and fitness level. number of diving areas particularly down the own interest happen. Adventure might mean From a 30 minute stroll to extended day, east coast and onto Jeju Island. The Buddha climbing mountains or riding a cycle, or there are many thousands of trails dive on Pohong shows a statue of Buddha kayaking down waterfalls. But it also may throughout the country. This is a big pastime sitting in a rock at a depth of 17 meters. mean visiting drama sites or the K-pop scene, with local Koreans so they have many shops Other areas include a good night dive at or attending a temple stay. It might mean a selling the correct gear. Some of the walks Taejongdae for sea horse and octopus. family holiday to all the entertainment are easy some are extreme but a great way Munson offers a great wall dive with lots of facilities or theme parks dotted around the to see and experience the country. Hiking in fish and soft coral and Supsom for country. Visiting the DMZ is certainly an Spring and Autumn are ablaze with fantastic nudibranchs and maybe the odd dolphin or adventure. The many traditional folk villages colours but anytime is good. From the flat two. to involve yourself in culture of the arts and pretty walks to hiking up the hundreds of Golf tours: of course it can be an adventure trying all the mountains this is well worth doing wherever Korea has some excellent gold courses both food. you are in the country. championship and local. A number of Whatever your interest and taste you will find Beaches and Nightlife: courses have accommodation attached to it in Korea. The mix of tradition in the country Adventure can also mean relaxing on a them or close by. As you would know the together with the modern attractions and beach or getting into the night scene which Korean women golfers have taken the entertainment will keep you occupied for as is very good throughout as described in professional circuit by storm and are top long as you want to stay in the country. If other parts of this brochure. Ah Enjoy! golfers. you cannot find it ask! We will find it for you. Whatever you interest you will find it in Korea

Mt Daedunsan Lookout Underwater Buddha at Pohang

Hanul Reed trail Namsan Hanok Village 46 White Water Rafting

Flying

Golf

Cycling

47 food in Korea

Korean Food: Here are a few national dishes to try: Bibimbap: Korean food is very healthy coming from the Kimchi: This is a basic rice dish with seasoned sauteed Royal Cuisine with it’s emphasis on many We have to start with Kimchi as most Koreans vegetables, mushrooms, soy sauce, and chili shared side dishes. The traditional meal eat it with every meal. For a non Korean it is paste (although there are many recipes) includes rice or noodles and soup together an acquired taste, as it is fermented cabbage. All mixed together sometimes with an egg with meat or fish or a variety. The food Korean BBQ: added to the top. A simple meal but very ef- history places much importance on food as a You cannot go wrong with this very popular fective and tasty. medicine. Korea also has the fast food outlets dish. All meats and fish can be cooked by Samgyeopsal (pork strips): and street vendors selling everything from yourself at the table. Comes with all the side One of the most popular dishes cooked with pancakes to spicy fried chicken. There is such dishes. (see photo) seasoned pork belly strips. Try this with a a variety of food to try when you visit Korea Bulgogi: couple drinks of the local Soju. you will find many unusual food items that Normally this dish is grilled marinated beef, Haemul Pajeon (seafood vegetable pancake): you will really enjoy and when back home pork or chicken and is perhaps the most Seafood in a pancake. Yum! go to a korean restaurant with a fresh way of famous dish. Eat it like the locals wrapped in Ddukbokki (spicy rice cake) sampling new food. a lettuce leaf and a few spices. Popular from the street vendor stalls. 48 Shopping in Korea

Shopping in Korea: Myeongdong: Yongsan Electronic Market: Shopping is big in Korea with a huge variety We like to call this area downtown Seoul. This is just one of a number of electronic of goods for the tourist and the business Situated in Central Seoul it is easy access markets in Seoul. Around 3000 stores selling traveller. to many other attractions, shopping areas, everything electronic including computers, We will concentrate here on the two main shows, concerts and palaces. The great part cameras, audio equipment. Even spare parts. cities of Seoul and Busan. However excel- is the vibrant fun of the streets with thou- Expect to pay around 30% cheaper than at lent shopping is to be found throughout the sands of shops, street sellers and food stalls. It retail shops. ‘A big boys toy paradise’. country, with access to everything you could comes alive in the evening and a great place Samcheongdong: possible want from clothes to souvenirs from to spend your night to enjoy Seoul. This a little different as it is famous for electronic to art. Insadong: traditional Korean houses craft and art shops Seoul: Insadong is also situated in downtown Seoul Goto Mall: Many of the shopping areas in Seoul are very The street is around 700 metres long and You will all of heard of Gangnam well well known as Seoul is most definitely a is packed with antique shops, antiquarian this shopping centre stretched for nearly shopping mecca throughout all the booksellers, art galleries, scroll mounters, craft a kilometre underground. It is situated on individual shops, department stores and the workshops, brush shops, traditional teahous- the south side of the river Han and is very fantastic local markets. Where do you start! es, restaurants and bars. popular with local people. Prices are usually Busan: Dongdaemun: cheaper than even some of the markets. One of the largest markets in Korea is the Another huge area selling both retail and Hongdae: ’Gukje Markets’ It is connected by small wholesale. This area has around 26 buildings Another underground shopping area which alleyways full of bustling stalls and even and malls to house 30,000 shops From up has become a culture in it’s own right with connects to other markets market to stalls selling buttons and fixings and a great atmosphere, live performances and Namdaemun Market: so on. Not just one but many stalls with many festivals make it a definitely place to visit. Situated around the Sungnyemun Gate of the goods made on site. You can buy any- Getting around to the shopping areas: (shown in photo) this famous market is open thing here! This will certainly open your eyes Getting around to all these areas is very sim- 24 hours a day and has more than 10,000 to what you can actually buy here. ple by the subway as each station is clearly stores!. This is a lot of shopping area and is Gwangjang Market: marked with spelling you can understand very vibrant. The market is both retail and A retro market specialising in wedding and numbers of each station. When you ar- wholesale. Traders come from all over the dresses (Hanbok). Heaps of local fabrics, rive at the station it is announced throughout world to buy from here. Bargains galore! lacquerware and great food. the train. 49 YoursPackage to explore Suggestions

Ray Aucott: 1, 2 and 3 day tours 5 Day (Seoul, Jeonju, Yongin) We have many tours to various places in If time is limited these are a great way to Day 1: Transfer to Hotel upon arrival. Korea for many reasons. Many tours are quickly have a look around with the hope Day 2: (B/L) Blue House, Gyeongbok Palace what are termed ’Private Tours’ which usually one day you will go back to Korea to explore and Folklore Museum, Jogyesa Temple, mean a minimum of 2 people. Transport is in depth. Ginseng Center. Lunch Korea Folk Village. matched to how many people are in the You can either do these tours yourself (with Day 3: (B) Jeonju, Paper Museum, Rent group. The larger the group the cheaper the our help) with intercity buses or KTX trains Hanbok (Korean Traditional Cloth) for 2 hours cost. With these type of tours anything can and take local tours from the destination or to explore Jeonju Hanok Village, Nambu be organised for any reason. These tours are if you want to be spoiled we can organise Traditional Market. very safe and you will be well looked after a tour for you. such as days out in Seoul, Day 4: (B) Yongin, Everland Theme Park, and shown the best places to visit. Busan, Gyeongju or DMZ. Maybe it’s that 3 Myeongdong Downtown Seoul, Nanta The Seat in Coach Tours (SIC) are set tours day winter ski trip you want or the temple Show or Dongdaemun Market. and start on a particular day of the week. stay for a couple of days. Day 5: (B) Transfer to Incheon. These are now available in Korea and go to 1 day tours to Nami Island, shopping in 3 Day Winter Ski Tour: all districts of the country. Seoul, folk villages, palaces and theme parks There are number of ski tours but this one Following is a few suggestions but there is a can all be organised, plus great nights out to includes Nami Island and 2 days skiing, but wide range to choose from. The more you visit shows and restaurants. with skiing in the mountains any amount of tell us or your travel agents your interests, 2 and 3 day tours to Mt Seorak, Gyeongju days can be organised, either in conjunction likes and dislikes we will make sure we give and/or other destinations. Even fly to Jeju! with other attractions or just skiing. you the tour you will love.

50 5 Day (including Nami Island and Mt Seorak) 7 Days (including, Busan, Gyeongju and Jeju) 12 Days (including, Busan, Gyeongju and Jeju) Day 1: Transfer to Hotel upon arrival. Day 1: Transfer to Hotel upon arrival. Day 1: You will be met and transferred to Day 2: (B/L) Blue House, Gyeongbok Palace Day 2: (B/L) Blue House, Gyeongbok Palace your Hotel. and Folklore Museum, Insadong, Jogyesa and Folklore Museum, Jogyesa temple, Day 2: Seoul Full Day Tour. Temple, Namdaemun Market. Ginseng Center. Lunch Korea Folk Village. Day 3: DMZ Tour and Seoul Tower. Day 3: (B/L) Nami Island, Sokcho, Day 3: (B) Gyeongju, Seogguram Grotto, Day 4: Suwon and Yongin Tour. Dongmyeong Port and Yeonggeumjeong Bulguksa Temple, Gyeongju Museum. Day 5: Seoul to Busan on KTX fast train. Pavilion, Joongang Fish Market. Day 4: (B) Busan, Yongdusan Park, Jagalchi Day 6: Busan City Tour. Day 4: (B/L) Mt. Seorak National Park, Cable Fish Market, Kukje Market, Haedong Temple Day 7: Gyeongju Tour. Car Ride to Gwongeumseong Fotress, Day 5: (B/L) Lunch at Wellbeing Buffet. Day 8: Busan market tour and cultural village. Shinheungsa Temple. Transfer back to Seoul Flight to Jeju Island. Hallim Park, Suweolbong Day 9: Transfer to Jeju Island. and visit Myeongdong Street, Nanta Show in Trekking, Spirited Garden, Mt. Sanbang, Day 10: Jeju East Tour. the evening or Dongdaemun Market. Cheonjeyeon Waterfall. Day 11: Transfer fro Jeju to Incheon then Day 5: Depart and transfered to Incheon: Day 6: (B/L) BBQ Lunch, Seongeup Folk Incheon Tour. Village, Manjang Cave, Trick Art Museum, Day 12: Transfer to Incheon Airport then ALL TOURS ARE VERY FLEXIBLE: (Sangumburi Crater in Autumn season), Departure. Jeju Island 2 nights to 10 nights. Women Diver Show, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, The discover Korea tour will show you a The unknown beautiful South of Korea for Day 7: (B) Transfer to Jeju airport to board a good overview of the country. A 22 page private tours to areas the locals know about. flight to Gimpo airport. online brochure is available for this tour. It’s well worth it!

51 Your Travel Agent’s Contact [email protected] www.packyabags.com