Founders' Tour – Cherry Blossoms in North & South Korea

Welcome to South Korea! You will be met upon arrival at Incheon International Airport and transferred to your hotel. (Early check-in not included).

Prepare to be impressed by Seoul, South Korea's shiny, yet often underrated capital city. Enveloped by mountains, this giant metropolis is an exciting jumble of futuristic skyscrapers, castles and temples, with the ever-present backdrop of the many surrounding peaks. From young and funky districts where progressive art and cutting-edge fashion are to be found on every street, to historic areas where cobbled streets lead to ancient temples, Seoul has one foot planted in the past, and the other stretched eagerly into the future.

This is a city that comes alive at night, with its incredible food scene, dazzling neon lights, and a social “bang” (room) to suit every taste, from quirky karaoke bars to a thriving café scene.

This afternoon, your journey begins with a visit to Yoido Yunjungro Road, one of South Korea's most beloved cherry blossom viewing spots. As you stroll along this picturesque avenue during the blooming season, you'll be engulfed by the enchanting beauty of countless cherry blossoms in full bloom. The vibrant pink and white hues create a breathtaking canopy, making it the perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk, photography, or a serene moment of contemplation. Revel in the ephemeral magic of these delicate blossoms as you explore this renowned site.

Following your cherry blossom immersion, continue to Lake Seokchon, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Seoul. Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful gardens, this lake is a serene escape from the bustling city. Enjoy a leisurely lakeside walk, where you can appreciate the peaceful ambience and captivating scenery. The lake's central island features the whimsical Lotte World Magic Island, offering a fairytale-like atmosphere with its own cherry blossom trees. It's a place where nature and modernity harmoniously coexist. This evening, you will meet for a welcome dinner to meet your fellow travellers. Stay: Ryse Hotel or similar (D)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing and go visit Gyeongbok Palace. During the Joseon Dynasty which ruled for over five centuries from 1392, this elegant building was the primary royal palace. You will witness the changing of the guard ceremony, a re-enactment which is performed exactly as it has been for centuries, including the use of traditional instruments and uniforms.

Continue to Bukchon Hanok Village, which has a 600-year history and contains hundreds of traditional Korean houses (hanoks). This atmospheric village is full of teahouse-lined alleys, quaint houses and small guesthouses. Its pretty architecture and peaceful environment make it a wonderful place to explore.

It will be getting close to lunchtime now. Head to Gwangjang Market, one of Seoul's oldest and most vibrant traditional markets. Begin your exploration with a guided tour of the market, which is bustling with energy and a variety of sights, sounds, and smells. Sample local food as you stroll through the markets such as Bindaetteok: Mung bean pancakes, Mayak Gimbap: Addictive mini seaweed rice rolls, Hotteok: Sweet Korean pancakes, Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes and Sundae: Korean blood sausage.

Travel to Namsan Mountain Park, a serene escape in the heart of Seoul, known for its scenic walking trails and stunning views, especially during the cherry blossom season. Embark on a walking tour along the Namsan Mountain Park trail. The trail offers a peaceful and picturesque walk with cherry blossoms in full bloom (seasonal), providing a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

The last stop of the day is Namsan Seoul Tower, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the 360-degree views of Seoul. Return to your hotel. Stay: Ryse Hotel or similar (B)

Today you will venture to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in South Korea which is quite an eye-opening experience, blending historical significance with a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict on the Korean Peninsula. With an early departure from Seoul, your first stop is at Imjingak Park, where you will see various war memorials and the Freedom Bridge.

Your journey continues to the Third Infiltration Tunnel, an underground passage built by North Korea for a potential invasion, where guests can walk part of the tunnel while learning about its history. Depending on current restrictions at the DMZ, it may be possible to visit the Dora Observatory, providing a rare glimpse into North Korean territory and key landmarks through binoculars.

Another highlight is the Dorasan Station, the last railway station before the border, symbolising hopes for future reunification. The experience is deeply enriched by expert guides who share detailed insights and stories, making the DMZ tour not only an educational excursion but also a poignant reflection on peace and division.

Return to Seoul where you will visit Jogyesa Temple which is the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism – Jogyesa is a spiritual oasis amidst the bustling city. The temple grounds are adorned with vibrant lotus lanterns, beautiful gardens, and centuries-old trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere that invites contemplation and relaxation. The main hall, Daeungjeon, houses an impressive Buddha statue and is a focal point for worship and meditation. You may participate in traditional Buddhist rituals, such as lighting incense or offering prayers.

From here, your dinner this evening is at the amazing Balwoo Gongyang Restaurant which offers a unique and exquisite dining experience in Seoul, celebrated for its authentic Korean temple cuisine.

Operated by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, the restaurant is named after the traditional monastic meal ritual, “gongyang,” emphasising mindful eating and the spiritual aspects of food. Each dish at Balwoo Gongyang is meticulously prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients, adhering to Buddhist principles of simplicity, balance, and respect for nature.

The menu features a variety of plant-based dishes that are both nutritious and delicious, including delicacies like lotus root, wild greens, and fermented soybean paste. The serene ambience of the restaurant, with its minimalist décor and tranquil setting, enhances the overall experience, making it a perfect place for those seeking a peaceful and healthful meal.

Balwoo Gongyang not only offers a taste of traditional Korean cuisine but also provides a profound cultural and philosophical experience, highlighting the harmony between food, health, and spirituality. Stay: Ryse Hotel or similar (B/D)

This morning you will transfer to Gyeongju by KTX train (approx 2 hours and 15min). Gyeongju often called the “Museum Without Walls,” is a city in South Korea known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju boasts ancient temples, palaces, burial mounds, and artefacts. Today, you focus on the best locations for cherry blossom viewing.

Visit Bulguksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Silla Dynasty architecture. Built in the 8th century, it houses significant Buddhist relics, including the Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas. Next is Tumuli Park features ancient royal burial mounds from the Silla Dynasty. Also known as Daereungwon, it houses notable tombs, including Cheonmachong, revealing artefacts and insights into Silla's royal life.

Cheomseongdae Observatory is your next stop. An ancient astronomical observatory dating back to the Silla Dynasty. Believed to be one of the oldest surviving observatories in East Asia, Cheomseongdae consists of carefully arranged stones. It served as a tool for observing celestial events, reflecting the advanced scientific knowledge of the Silla people.

This evening, you will visit Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond. Illuminated by soft lights, the historic palace and its reflective pond create a picturesque scene. The tranquil waters mirror the surrounding beauty, enhancing the ambience and offering visitors a magical experience of the ancient site under the night sky. Stay: Lahan Select Gyeongju or similar (B)

This morning enjoy a stroll along the cherry blossom tree-lined trail around Bomun Lake before continuing to Tongdosa Temple en route to Busan. Tongdosa is one of the country's most significant Buddhist temples, renowned for its ancient relics and beautiful natural surroundings. Unlike other temples, Tongdosa lacks a traditional Buddha statue in its main hall, instead housing relics of the Buddha himself, making it a particularly sacred site for devotees.

The temple complex features numerous halls, pagodas, and stone lanterns, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Mount Yeongchuk. Stroll along tranquil forest paths, participate in meditation sessions, and observe traditional Buddhist rituals, gaining insight into Korean spiritual practices.

This afternoon in Busan, visit Haeundae Blue Line Park with its beach train. Whilst it is a little touristy, this train runs along Haeundae Beach, the most beautiful beach in Korea. Enjoy a walking tour along the scenic coastal trail from Dongbaekseom Island to Nurimaru APEC House. Stay: Avani Central Busan or similar (B)

Begin your day exploring the vibrant Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colourful houses, narrow alleyways, and street art. Discover unique art installations, visit galleries, and immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere of this hillside community. Head to Songdo Beach to experience the scenic Songdo Cable Car. Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline as you ride to Amnam Park. Then, walk along the Songdo Skywalk, a winding pathway with glass floors suspended over the sea, providing a thrilling perspective of the ocean below.

After taking in the views, make your way to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea's largest seafood market. Explore the bustling market stalls offering a vast array of fresh seafood. You can even enjoy a meal at one of the market's seafood restaurants, where you can have your selection of fish prepared on the spot. You then have time to explore BIFF Square where you can enjoy street food sampling and wandering through the Nampo-dong shopping district. Stay: Avani Central Busan or similar (B)

This morning you will transfer to Gimhae Airport for your flight to Beijing. Welcome to China! On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. At 3.30 pm, meet in your hotel lobby where you will be transferred to attend our mandatory briefing at 4 pm held in our partner office in Beijing. At this meeting, you will be handed your visas and your e-tickets. You will NOT be sent a copy of your e-tickets beforehand and a double entry visa for China is required. 144 visas ARE NOT accepted for travel going via DPRK.

Return to your hotel to drop off your paperwork and then get ready to head out and eat your way through Beijing! Join us as you meet your fellow travellers in a more relaxed environment as you head into local hutong homes, hidden breweries and restaurants known only by the locals. Return to your hotel. Stay: Beijing Unified Courtyard Hotel or similar (B/D)

This morning, you will transfer to Beijing Capital Airport for your flight to Pyongyang. Flying with Air Koryo is a great introduction to this country. Be sure to ask for a local newspaper as you board! Just don't fold it in half if the leader is on the cover! No photos are allowed on the aircraft.

Upon arrival in Pyongyang, clear immigration and collect your luggage. You will be asked to hand over any mobile phones, laptops and books for inspection. Once you have collected these items, proceed to the arrivals hall where your guides will be waiting for you.

Your first glimpses of North Korea will be stunning rice paddies and small farmers' villages. The skyline is dominated by the broadcasting tower where the country's TV stations are run. Your first stop will be the Arch of Triumph. The 60m high arch was built to commemorate the Dear Leader's triumphant return from defeating the Japanese and giving the people of North Korea a new life and a more promising future.

Continue on to Kim Il Sung Square, the city's main square where the military parade takes place. At one end is the impressive People's Study House and at the other, across the river, is the Juche Tower. Be sure to take note of the white marks on the ground for where the people stand to create the incredible formations at the military parades.

Walking through Pyongyang is a great way to witness the locals going about their daily life. As you walk through central Pyongyang, you will visit The Grand Theatre, an impressive structure seating 2500 people.

From here, transfer to your hotel for check-in. Your hotel is located on its own islet and offers incredible views over both sides of Pyongyang. Sit down with your guides for a tour briefing where your guides will run through your program over the next week. Please take note that your guides may re-order the itinerary to better work around local events or weather. Enjoy dinner in your hotel this evening. Stay: Yanggakdo Hotel or similar (B/D)

This morning you will drive approximately 3 hours towards South Korea, the destination today is the DMZ. On arrival at Panmunjom, you will join with other travellers as you are escorted by the military through the DMZ. Visit the significant sights including the location where the armistice was signed and of course, overlook Freedom House and the famed blue buildings. Wave to the tourists on the South Korean side from across the border.

From here, visit the Koryo Museum in the city of Kaesong which was one of the first universities in North Korea (Confucian University). You will also visit a stamp shop where a variety of books and colourful postage stamp collections depicting the people, feats and countryside of North Korea can be purchased. Lunch today is in a local restaurant – there is the option for you to try dog soup, a local delicacy for those interested, but this must be advised at the time of booking. A supplement of $11AUD is payable.

Following lunch, you will drive out of Kaesong and through the countryside to the lookout bunker over the DMZ which looks at the Concrete Wall separating North and South Korea. The North Koreans believe there is a wall dividing the two Koreas across the peninsula, 247km long, 5-8m high and 2m underground. From the South Korean side, the wall cannot be seen as it is slanted and overgrown with fauna. The North Koreans believe they face a concrete wall. Have a look through the binoculars and decide for yourself what you believe you are seeing.

Heading back towards Pyongyang, stop at the Tomb of King Kongmin, the country's only double tomb. As you return to the city, pass the impressive granite monument signifying the reunification of the two Koreas. This evening, weather and time permitting, walk on Mirae Scientists Street or take an evening cruise on the Taedonggang Pleasure Boat. Stay: Yanggakdo Hotel or similar (B/L/D)

This morning following breakfast in your hotel, depart for the Grand People's Study House. This is one of the most recognised buildings in Pyongyang and is also the largest library in the country. Spanning 10 storeys and over 100,000 sqm, this impressive structure is bursting with over 30 million books and can accommodate over 10,000 people a day.

The library was opened as the ‘centre for the project of intellectualising the whole of society and a sanctuary of learning for the entire people' and was built to honour Kim Il Sung's 70th birthday.

Be guided by a local guide through many of the rooms of this grand building. You will have some time to explore the shelves and see what sorts of books you can discover! There are many lecture rooms, and you may have the chance to speak to the students in one if the class is in. Head to the 6th-floor balcony where you can set foot where the Leader has stood and take in impressive 180-degree views over the river and beyond.

Continuing on, you will have a stop at the Foreign Language Book Store where you can purchase books on the Leader's works and various North Korean folk stories and history.

If the weather is clear, head to Ryonggak Mountain for views over the city. A gentle walk is required here on a paved path. Weather dependent, you may either have a picnic lunch on the mountaintop or venture back into town for a hotpot lunch. You certainly will not go hungry in North Korea!

Following lunch, with full bellies, it's time to walk it off through beautiful parklands as you visit Mangyongdae Native House. This is the original home of the Dear Leader, Kim Il Sung. Learn of his family's history and shortcomings.

Continuing on you will visit Mansudae Art Studio, North Korea's top artistic studio. It is tasked with designing all of North Korea's large monuments, as well as the portraits, statues, paintings, and murals featuring its leaders, which this studio alone has permission to produce. The artists here also create all kinds of other art and even produce works for the international market.

Now it's time for some fun as you head onto Pyongyang's mysterious yet beautiful metro system – the deepest in the world at 110m underground, it was also designed to double as a bunker. One of the most restricted transitways in the world, the stations are incredibly beautiful with intricate mosaic designs, elaborate chandeliers and gilded statues. Each station has a theme of goals and achievements and revolutionary history to share with commuters. Jump on the metro and travel with the locals as you experience this underground world.

Resurface to street level and take a stroll along the Taedong River embankment in central Pyongyang and make your way towards the local bowling alley. Grab a ball, slip on some flat shoes and play a round of bowling alongside the locals!

Enjoy dinner this evening in a local restaurant. Return to your hotel. Stay: Yanggakdo Hotel or similar (B/L/D)

Leave Pyongyang behind as you exit the city towards the country's second-largest city, the coastal town of Wonson. Pass farmers and fields, quaint houses and cows pulling rickety carts. Drive time approx 4hrs with breaks and a visit to the beautiful Ulim Waterfall.

Break for lunch before walking through the city and along the docks. Take a stroll along Fisherman's pier where you can see the locals fishing from a suspension bridge. Follow the path out to the lighthouse for great views looking back towards the city. Stay: Dongmyong Hotel or similar (B/L/D)

Follow the coastal road from Wonson to Mt Kumgang. Pass fishing towns, deserted beaches with crystal water and local fisherman in their wooden boats bobbing in the water. The scenery will continue to change as you edge closer to the national park. Mt Kungang area was originally constructed by Mr Hyundai from South Korea and up until 2008, South Koreans were able to holiday at this stunning location where the mountains meet the sea.

Visit Samil Lagoon, a popular, tranquil place for locals in the summer to come for picnics and row out to the small pavilion in the centre. Towering boulders loom overhead amongst the pines and the quietness of the lagoon makes you feel a world away.

Following lunch, enjoy a hike on a sealed path through the national park to Nine Dragons Waterfall. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and soak in the untouched beauty. The colour and clarity of the water is impressive. The sheer mountainscape provides some shade for solace from the sun. The hike is approx 1.5 hours each way.

On your way back to your hotel, visit the Singye Buddhist Temple. This temple was completely destroyed in the Korean War. It was restored in 2004 as part of an inter-Korea cultural project. Stay: Kumgangsan Hotel or similar (B/L/D)

Today you will make your way back towards Pyongyang. En route, you will stop at Masikryong Ski Resort. Even though it is not skiing season, this impressive resort is open to foreigners and locals in the winter and is certainly worth seeing, perhaps for a return ski trip. Lunch today will be in a local restaurant. The drive back to Pyongyang is approx 3 hours.

On arrival back into the city, you will visit a local supermarket. This is the only place in North Korea where foreigners can use local currency. With three stories of brimming shelves, walk amongst the locals as they purchase both local and foreign goods, shopping for clothes, furniture beauty products.

Then it is time to head with your guides to a local beer bar. Dinner this evening will be in your hotel's revolving restaurant. Stay: Yanggakdo Hotel or similar (B/L/D)

Today, being the Day of the Sun, your sightseeing may be a little out of order to make the most of the local celebrations and festivities. This morning, visit Fountain Park which acts as a recreation and relaxation zone for the locals. It will be busy today being a public holiday!

From here, you will visit Mansudae Grand Monument. Larger than life, here stand the famed bronze statues of the Dear Leader, Kim Il Sung and the Great Leader, Kim Jong Il. Lay your fresh flowers at the feet of the leader and follow your guide for how to bow to the Leaders. Be blown away by the sheer size of these statues. Photos are certainly permitted but you must ensure both leaders are in the frame and none of their body parts are cropped. The bronze statues are the most respected site in any city – cars driving by slow down to 30km/hr as a sign of respect.

It is the time to visit Juche Tower. The tower was built to support the Juche ideology which was introduced by the country's first leader Kim Il Sung. The torch at the top is always lit (by LED lights) and at the base are three statues signifying the Workers Party (the only party in the North Korean Government). Juche, or self-reliance, created by Dear Leader Kim Il Sung, is a revolutionary thought process. It means that man is the master of his destiny so as a nation that follows Juche, it elaborates to being a master of revolution, this means that by being self-reliant and a strong nation, the country can achieve true socialism.

Lunch today is in a local restaurant before continuing on to Moranbong Park where you will go for a stroll with your guides. This is a park where locals hang out for picnics and to relax with friends and family. Some remains of the former walls which formally surrounded Pyongyang can also be seen here. There will be lots of celebrations as the locals celebrate Dear Leader's birthday.

The Monument to Party Foundation is up next. Erected in 1995, at a height of 50m, this monument conveys the proud history of the Workers' Party of North Korea comprised of workers, farmers and intellectuals. The monument depicts the hammer, sickle and brush seized by a worker, a farmer and an intellectual. The round belt signifies the single-hearted unity of the Leader, Party and people.

Continue on to visit the Kimilsungia & Kimjongillia Flower Exhibition. This hall hosts the International Kimilsungia and Kimjongilia Festivals which focus exclusively on two flowers; the Kimilsungia and the Kimjongilia, named after Kim Il Sung and Kim Jong Il respectively. The latter was bred by an Indonesian botanist and the latter by a Japanese one then presented as gifts to the DPRK.

Today is your chance to experience a mass dance as part of the Day of the Sun celebrations. There will be other rarely-seen activities performed throughout the day as the nation celebrates the birthday of its first leader, Kim Il Sung. This experience will be unlike anything else.

Your farewell dinner this evening is a traditional duck BBQ dinner known locally as Bulgogi. Stay: Yanggakdo Hotel or similar (B/L/D)

Enjoy your last breakfast before transferring to the airport for your flight back to Beijing where services end on arrival. Bid farewell to your guides after what has been an incredible insight into a fascinating country and culture. (B)