Seoul | Encounter the dream city where Korean wave and ancient charm interweave

Seoul, this vibrant city, is the heart of Korean culture and a place rich in historical charm. Stepping into Seoul is like embarking on a wonderful adventure, with bustling shopping districts, solemn historical palaces, and delicious food. Are you ready to explore Seoul with me? 1. Travel methods Airplane✈️: Incheon International Airport is the main aviation gateway of Seoul, with routes covering the world. The airport is well-equipped. Upon arrival, you can take the Airport Express (AREX), which takes about 40 minutes to get to downtown Seoul. You can also take the airport bus, which has many stops and goes directly to popular hotels and attractions. If you are in a hurry, taking a taxi is also very convenient, but the cost is higher. Urban transportation 🚌🚇 - Subway: Seoul's subway network is extremely developed, and can take you almost anywhere you want to go. There are Lines 1-9 and many new lines, with clear signs and convenient transfers. You can buy T-Money cards at convenience stores or subway stations. It is not only convenient but also offers certain discounts. - Bus: The bus routes are complex but cover a wide area. They are distinguished by different colors. Red is the long-distance trunk line, blue is the urban trunk line, green is the branch line, and yellow is the circular line, which can take you to appreciate the streets and alleys of the city. - Taxis: There are regular taxis, deluxe taxis and jumbo taxis. Model taxis have good service but relatively higher prices; ordinary taxis are cost-effective and a good choice for daily travel. 2. Classic attractions Gyeongbokgung Palace🏯 - As one of the largest and oldest palaces in Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is full of historical charm. The architectural style of the Joseon Dynasty is preserved here, with red walls, green tiles, flying eaves and brackets, which is solemn and grand. You can wear Korean traditional costumes and take photos, as if you were traveling back to ancient times. You can also watch the goalkeeper handover ceremony every hour and feel the charm of traditional culture. - Admission: 3,000 KRW for adults, free for children (free admission on the last Wednesday of every month). Myeongdong🛍️ - Seoul’s shopping paradise, where all kinds of trendy brands, beauty stores, and gourmet food stores gather. From international brands to local niche brands, we have everything. There are crowds of people here all year round, and it is very lively. You can satisfy your desire to shop, and you can also taste Korean snacks such as fish cakes, fried rice cakes, etc. - Admission: Free. Bukchon Hanok Village🏘️ - A place with dense traditional Hanok houses, it has well preserved the village style of the Joseon era. While strolling through the streets, you can see the Korean houses with blue tiles and white walls, experience traditional Korean life, and sit in a Korean house cafe to enjoy a leisurely time. - Admission: Free. N Seoul Tower🗼 - A landmark building in Seoul, the observation deck offers a magnificent view of the entire city. When the lights come on at night, the night view of Seoul is like a dream. Couples can also hang love locks under the tower and make good wishes. - Tickets: The viewing platform is about 16,000 won for adults, including round-trip cable car fees. 3. Food Recommendations BBQ🥩 - How can you not eat BBQ when you come to Seoul? Tender pork belly, beef tenderloin, etc. sizzle on the grill. After being baked, they are wrapped in lettuce and topped with garlic slices, chili peppers and Korean sauce. It is super satisfying to take one bite. Army Hot Pot🍲 - A variety of ingredients are gathered in one pot, including ramen, sausages, rice cakes, kimchi, etc. The rich soup blends the flavors of various ingredients. It is warm and delicious while cooking. Korean bibimbap🍱 - Vegetables, meat, eggs and rice are mixed with special Korean hot sauce, mixed evenly, rich in taste and balanced in nutrition. Korean fried chicken🍗 - Crispy skin, tender and juicy chicken, perfect with beer. There are many flavors to choose from, including original, sweet and spicy, and soy sauce. 4. Accommodation suggestions Near Myeongdong: Shopping, food, and transportation are all very convenient. There are many hotels and B&Bs around, ranging from affordable to high-end, suitable for tourists who like shopping and convenient travel. Near Hongdae: full of youthful vitality, there are many unique shops and bars, rich accommodation options, and you can experience the nightlife of young people in Seoul. 5. Notes Language: Most Koreans have average English proficiency. Simply learning some Korean daily expressions, such as greetings, thanks, and ordering, will make communication more convenient. You can also use translation software. Etiquette: Korea has a rich etiquette culture, and people often bow when meeting others. When eating in a restaurant, pay attention to the etiquette of using tableware and don't make loud noises. Shopping: In shopping areas such as Myeongdong, some stores accept UnionPay cards, Alipay and WeChat Pay, but some small shops only accept cash. It is safer to prepare Korean won cash. Weather: Seoul has four distinct seasons. Summer is hot and rainy, so remember to bring rain gear and sun protection. Winter is cold, so keep warm and bring thick cotton clothes, scarves, etc.