The Soul of Korea: Spring Heritage Tour
Spring Awaits in the Heart of Korea
Discover South Korea in full bloom on a journey through tradition, renewal, and springtime beauty. From grand palaces and folk villages to hands-on workshops and blossom-lined roads, this tour invites you to experience the gentle rhythm of Korea’s cultural heart. With a balance of meaningful encounters, seasonal charm, and wellness touches, it’s perfect for those seeking more than just a city tour—this is Korea, soul first.
🌸 Highlights of the Journey
Where Blossoms Bloom and Culture Breathes.
- Royal palaces, folk villages & UNESCO heritage sites
- Cherry blossom festivals, hanok strolls & scenic lake drives
- Hanbok experience, bibimbap cooking class & lantern making
- Ginseng spa retreat, jjimjilbang wellness & seasonal cuisine
- Cultural workshops, temple visits & Korea’s springtime charm
What is a Hanok Village?
Step into a living storybook where tiled rooftops, wooden beams, and stone pathways echo centuries of Korean tradition. A hanok village is a preserved neighborhood of traditional Korean houses (hanok), offering a rare glimpse into the architecture, values, and daily life of the past.
photos courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization
In places like Jeonju Hanok Village and Bukchon in Seoul, these homes are lovingly maintained or restored, some still inhabited, others turned into teahouses, artisan shops, or cultural centers. Their design—built with natural materials and aligned with harmony and balance—reflects the deep connection between Korean life and nature.
Wandering these quiet alleys, you’ll hear the creak of wooden floors, catch the scent of pine or ink from calligraphy workshops, and maybe even spot someone in hanbok posing for a photo under a blooming cherry tree. It’s more than a postcard-perfect scene—it’s an invitation to slow down, observe, and feel the timeless spirit of Korea all around you.
🌸 Spring Itinerary: Discover Korea Day by Day
🌸 See why this is more than a tour—it’s an experience for the soul. 🌸
Day 0 – March 29, 2024 (Tuesday): Departure from Honolulu
- Your journey begins as you meet your tour leader and fellow travelers at Honolulu Airport. With cherry blossoms on the horizon, board your nonstop flight to Korea and prepare for a springtime adventure filled with heritage, warmth, and cultural discovery.
Day 1 – March 30, 2026 (Wednesday): Arrival in Seoul
- Step into Korea’s vibrant past with a hanbok experience at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Wander through Bukchon Hanok Village, take in modern and traditional culture at Insadong, and stroll along the old city wall trail at Namsan Park.
- Hotel: Voco Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
Day 2 – March 31, 2026 (Thursday): Palaces, Petals & Wellness
- Enjoy spring at its peak—from the blossoms of Seokchon Lake to Changdeokgung Palace’s secret garden. Wind down with a cozy jjimjilbang experience, Korea’s beloved wellness ritual.
- Hotel: Voco Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – April 1, 2026 (Friday): Andong Traditions & Gyeongju by Night
- Travel to Andong and discover Korea’s deeply rooted heritage through its folk village, temple sites, and cultural performances. As night falls, soak in the peaceful glow of Gyeongju’s historic Anapji Pond.
- Hotel: Gyeongju Commodore Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – April 2, 2026 (Saturday): Temples, Tombs & Blossoms
- Explore Gyeongju’s UNESCO treasures, from ancient temples to royal tombs. Visit serene Seokguram Grotto, then enjoy a scenic ride along Bomun Lake, where cherry trees bloom in full.
- Hotel: Gyeongju Commodore Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – April 3, 2026 (Sunday): Spring Festivals & Spa Retreat
- Celebrate the season at the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival and Hadong’s countryside bloom. End your day in peaceful rejuvenation at a red ginseng spa tucked away in the mountains.
- Hotel: Jeonju Best Western Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – April 4, 2026 (Monday): Jeonju’s Flavor & Craft
- Stroll through Jeonju Hanok Village, learn to make Korea’s iconic bibimbap, and immerse yourself in traditional music and crafts. Create your own lantern, then enjoy a gentle moonlight walk.
- Hotel: Jeonju Best Western Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – April 5, 2026 (Tuesday): Blossoms & History in Gongju
- Travel through spring-lined roads in Gongju. Visit the Royal Tomb of King Muryeong and climb the historic walls of Gongsanseong Fortress before returning to Seoul in the evening.
- Hotel: Voco Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 – April 6, 2026 (Wednesday): Seoul’s Royal Charm
- Step into Korea’s vibrant past with a hanbok experience at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Wander through Bukchon Hanok Village, take in modern and traditional culture at Insadong, and stroll along the old city wall trail at Namsan Park.
- Hotel: Voco Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 – April 7, 2026 (Thursday): Free Day in Seoul
- Take the day to explore at your own pace. Whether it’s shopping, revisiting favorite sights, or relaxing at a café, today is yours.
- Hotel: Voco Hotel Seoul Myeongdong
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 – April 8, 2026 (Friday): Farewell Korea
- Spend your final morning browsing Namdaemun Market for last-minute treats and keepsakes. After a farewell dinner, transfer to the airport for your journey home.
- Hotel: Voco Hotel Seoul Myeongdong (Day Use)
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Pricing
Full Package
$4,690
Land Package
$3,690
Single Add
$900
Early Bird Special: Save $100 when you’re one of the first 10 to sign up!
Discover Korea Together, with a Group That Feels Just Right
With a smaller group size, you’ll experience Korea more personally—whether you’re walking beneath cherry blossoms, creating lanterns side by side, or pausing in the quiet of a historic palace. Enjoy smoother travel, richer moments, and the space to take it all in—at your own rhythm.
🌸 What’s Covered in Your Experience
- Accommodation: Handpicked 4–4.5★ hotels, including a centrally located stay in Seoul
- Meals: Daily breakfast and select lunches and dinners, as noted in the itinerary (24 meals total)
- English-Speaking Guide: English-speaking tour guide for cultural insight and on-the-ground support
- Transportation: Comfortable private vehicle throughout the tour
- Cultural Experiences: Hanbok wearing, cooking class, lantern making, and more
- Wellness & Relaxation: Jjimjilbang spa experience, herbal foot soak, and ginseng spa visit
🌸 This Journey Is Perfect For
- Travelers seeking a gentler, more meaningful way to explore Korea
- Lovers of culture, history, and seasonal beauty
- Friends, couples, and solo explorers looking to connect—both outward and inward
- Those curious about Korean traditions, cuisine, and wellness in one curated experience
🌸 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌸 What is the group size for this tour?
- This tour is capped at 30 guests to ensure a more relaxed pace, smoother logistics, and a more personal experience.
🌸 When is the best time to book?
- We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your spot—especially with cherry blossom season being one of Korea’s busiest travel periods.
🌸 What kind of accommodations are included?
- We’ve selected 4–4.5★ hotels that offer comfort, central locations, and modern amenities, including a well-rated hotel in Seoul’s Myeongdong district.
🌸 Are flights from Honolulu included?
- Airfare is included in the full package tour price.
🌸 Are meals included?
- Yes. The tour includes 24 meals: daily breakfasts, most lunches and dinners, featuring traditional Korean cuisine and local specialties.
🌸 How physically demanding is this tour?
- This is a moderate-paced tour. There will be some walking on uneven surfaces (e.g., hanok villages, palace grounds), but plenty of breaks and gentle pacing are built in.
🌸 What if I’m traveling solo?
- Solo travelers are welcome! You may opt to room alone (single supplement applies).
🌸 Will I need to bring or wear anything specific?
- Comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket are ideal for spring. We’ll also guide you through experiences like hanbok-wearing or jjimjilbang visits—no prior prep needed!
🌸 Is there free time on the itinerary?
- Yes. You’ll have a full free day in Seoul, plus flexible time on arrival and departure days to explore or rest at your own pace. Speak with a travel consultant for assistance!
🌸 Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Korea?
- Absolutely! It’s thoughtfully designed for both first-time travelers and returning visitors who want to experience Korea’s cultural heart in a deeper, slower way.
🌸 Ready to Feel the Soul of Korea?
Take a step into spring. This is your invitation to travel gently—through cherry blossom-lined paths, timeless villages, and moments of quiet reflection. Let Korea’s cultural heart unfold before you, in a season made for slowing down and taking it all in.
