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| from: "Seoul tourism achive" |
Seoul is a city where 600 years of history meets cutting-edge modernity. While it's easy to enjoy the city through shopping and food, truly understanding the stories behind the palaces, hidden alleys, and ancient walls is a different experience altogether.
If you want to go beyond just taking photos and actually immerse yourself in the culture, I highly recommend the Seoul City Walking Tour. The best part? It is completely free.
1. What is the "Seoul City Walking Tour"?
The Seoul City Walking Tour is a professional guided program provided by the city to help visitors explore major landmarks on foot. You are accompanied by a Cultural Tourism Volunteer Guide who provides deep insights into the history and lifestyle of Seoul.
Meet Your Guides
The guides are dedicated local volunteers. They are experts in Seoul’s history, culture, and nature, and they offer their services for free to ensure international visitors have an unforgettable experience.
2. Program Highlights & Themes
With over 40 different courses, there is something for every type of traveler:
Traditional Heritage: Palaces (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung), Royal Tombs, and Bukchon Hanok Village.
Modern & Urban: City regeneration projects, architecture, and art-themed walks.
Nature & Walls: The Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong) and various trekking trails.
Pilgrimage Routes: Historical religious and spiritual paths.
Inclusive Tours for All (Accessible Tourism)
Seoul offers specialized programs for visitors with disabilities:
For the Visually Impaired: Deoksugung Palace course.
For the Hearing Impaired: Deoksugung, Jeongdong-Gyeonghuigung, and Seoullo 7017 courses.
For Wheelchair Users: Barrier-free Gyeongbokgung Palace course.
Note: For accessible tours, please book at least one week in advance via phone (+82-2-6925-0777).
3. Key Information for Booking
| Item | Details |
| Operating Hours | Weekdays: 10:00, 14:00 / Weekends: 10:00, 14:00, 15:00 |
| Languages | English, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay/Indonesian, and Sign Language |
| Cost | FREE (Admission fees to palaces or transport costs are paid individually) |
| Max Capacity | Individuals (up to 10), Palaces (up to 20), Groups (11+) |
4. How to Make a Reservation
Reservations can be made through the official Visit Seoul website or mobile app (m.visitseoul.net).
Individual Booking: Must be made at least 3 days before the tour.
Group Booking: Must be made at least 5 days before the tour.
Large Groups (50+): Must be made at least 2 weeks before the tour.
⚠️ Important Rules to Remember:
The "Power of Two": A tour is only confirmed if there are at least 2 people booked. If you are the only one registered 2 days before the tour, it will be automatically canceled (you will be notified via email/SMS).
No-Show Penalty: If you cancel within 4 hours of the tour time more than twice, your future booking rights may be restricted.
Peak Seasons: During April–May and September–October, tours book up very fast. Book as early as possible!
5. Meeting Point
Each course has a designated meeting spot. Once your tour is confirmed, you will receive the exact location via SMS and Email.