Bongeunsa Temple

This little gem is situated in the middle of Seoul and is an easy one to overlook. Bongeunsa Temple was founded in 794 during the Shilla King Weongseong’s reign. There is a special 2-hour program designed for visitors, which includes meditation and a tea ceremony. Do not miss the huge Buddha statue in the back.

• Web:

  www.bongeunsa.org

• E-mail:

  bongeunsa@templestay.com

• Address:

  73 Samsung-dong, Gangnam District, Seoul

• Phone:

  +82 2 3218 4895

Bukhansan Mountain National Park

Escape the bustle of the city and retreat to the tranquillity of the mountains. Bukhansan National Park has several gorges, granite peaks and more than 1,300 species of flora and fauna. There are also many historical and cultural sites including Bukhansanseong Fortress, Buddhist temples and monk’s cells. Bukhansan National Park Office:

• Web:

  english.knps.or.kr

• E-mail:

  pukhan@knps.or.kr

• Address:

  San 1-1, Jeongneung-dong, Seongbuk District, Seoul

• Phone:

  +82 2 909 0497

Changdeokgung

Changdeokgung is a grand palace from the last Korean dynasty. This is a great place to learn about Korean history but be sure to have some comfortable shoes on since the place is big. Enjoy the guided tour in English that lasts for one hour and be sure not to miss the guard changing ceremony.

• Web:

  www.cdg.go.kr

• Address:

  99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno District, Seoul

• Phone:

  +82 2 762 8261

Cheonggyecheon

The Cheonggyecheon was originally a creek that flowed through downtown Seoul -- in the wake of rapid post-war economic development, it was buried under concrete to facilitate urban expansion. Today, however, the over 10 km-long creek and its banks have been uncovered and remodelled into an exciting recreational area for locals and tourists, with clean water and natural habitats bordering on residential and office buildings.

• Web:

  english.visitseoul.net/walking-tour/Cheonggyecheon-1_/636

Coex Aquarium

Coex Aquarium is a great stop for families with children - the little ones will no doubt enjoy the massive display of live marine creatures from waters in and around Korea and all over the world. The aquarium contains an incredible 40,000 animals altogether.

• Web:

  www.coexaqua.com

• E-mail:

  aquazigi@coexaqua.com

• Address:

  513 Yeongdong-daero, Gangnam District, Seoul

• Phone:

  +82 2 6002 6200

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri & Sun 10am–8pm, Sat 10am–9pm

Deoksugung Palace

Set amidst high-rise modern buildings, the Deoksugung Palace is an oasis of traditional Korea in the very heart of Seoul's downtown. Historically, it served for various administrative purposes and was inhabited by Korean royalty. Today, the palace and premises are open to visitors (guided tours available).

• Web:

  www.deoksugung.go.kr

• Address:

  99 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul

• Phone:

  +82 2 771 9951

• Opening hours:

  Tue–Sun 9am–9pm, Mon Closed