Seoul Palace & Bukchon Walking Tour: Local Guide, Small Group

Summary

Walk Seoul’s royal palace & hanok village with a local expert

You’ll wander through Gyeongbokgung Palace with a local guide who brings history to life, catch the royal guard ceremony up close, explore hidden corners of Bukchon Hanok Village, and end your walk surrounded by both ancient rooftops and modern city energy. It’s an experience that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

"Is that really the king’s gate?" I asked, squinting up at Gwanghwamun as our guide, Minji, grinned and nodded. We’d just stepped out of the subway — still shaking off the smell of roasted chestnuts from the street vendors — and suddenly there it was, stone lions and all. The morning was cool but not cold, and Minji had this way of weaving little stories into every stop. She pointed out how the guards’ uniforms matched the old Joseon colors, which I’d never have noticed on my own.

The royal guard changing ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace was louder than I expected — drums echoing off the walls, tourists shuffling for photos. Minji explained why the guards stomped their feet so hard (something about scaring away evil spirits), and I tried to catch every detail but honestly kept getting distracted by the bright red tassels bobbing around. The palace itself felt huge, but somehow peaceful too. You could smell pine needles in some corners if you paid attention. At one point we ducked into a quieter courtyard where an old man swept leaves; he nodded at us like we were regulars.

Bukchon Hanok Village was next — all sloping roofs and narrow alleys, with laundry flapping above our heads. There’s this weird hush there even though you’re right in Seoul. Minji showed us how to spot real hanoks versus newer ones (hint: look at the roof tiles). We passed a tiny shop selling rice cakes; I bought one out of curiosity, chewy and sweet with a hint of sesame oil that lingered on my fingers longer than I expected. Someone’s cat watched us from a windowsill like we were intruding on its kingdom.

We ended near Seoul City Hall, where glass towers lean over old stone walls — past and present smashed together in that very Korean way. My legs were tired but my head was buzzing with all these new details about palace architecture and daily life here. I still think about that quiet moment in Bukchon when everything just slowed down for a second, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Gyeongbok Palace and Bukchon Village

• Watch royal guard changing ceremony
• See King Sejong Statue
• Walk through Bukchon Hanok Village
• Pass by Seoul City Hall

Top questions

How long is the walking tour from Gyeongbokgung Palace to Bukchon?

The tour lasts about 3 hours total, including both sites.

Is admission to Gyeongbokgung Palace included?

Yes, entry fees are included in your booking.

How many people are on this walking tour?

The group size is up to 5 people for a semi-private feel.

Does this tour include a local guide?

Yes, you’ll be led by a knowledgeable local guide throughout.

Are public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transport is available close to all meeting points.

Is this walking tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

No, it’s not recommended for those with difficulty on steps or uphills.

What’s included

Your day includes entry fees for Gyeongbokgung Palace plus guiding throughout by a professional local expert; you’ll travel between sites on foot in a small group setting for more personal attention.