Silversea Luxury Cruises A Incheon (Seoul)

Experience the local landmarks and culture of Seoul during a memorable, full-day sightseeing excursion to this historic city and its environs.

Jongmyo Shrine [UNESCO World Heritage]

Jongmyo Shrine was a primary place of worship for kings throughout Joseon Dynasty. The memorial service, called Jongmyo Jaerye, is said to be the oldest complete ceremony in the world, and was carried out in obedience to the king's order. The ceremony was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in December 9, 1995, for its well-preserved ancient customs, such as memorial services and traditional music, which is National Intangible Cultural Asset No.56.

During the Joseon Dynasty, it was held when the season changes and the twelfth month of the lunar year, but was stopped during the Japanese colonial period. Now, it is annually reenacted on the first Sunday of May. Jongmyo Jaeryeak, the musical part of the ceremony, is produced by instruments, songs, and dances that originated over 500 years ago.

Lunch and Hwaseong Fortress

Next, proceed to a local restaurant for a Korean buffet lunch. After lunch, re-board your coach and continue on to the late-18th-century Hwaseong Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fortress features an approximately 3.4-mile (about 5.52-kilometre) wall, several gates in every direction, the Hwahongmun Pavilion, an archery exhibit, and a variety of military facilities that cannot be found at other fortresses. At the conclusion of your guided visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 80-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour sequence may vary.

Experience the storied past of a nation divided by civil war for nearly 60 years during this memorable visit to the DMZ and the 3rd Tunnel.

Unification Road and the Freedom Bridge

Depart the pier for the approximately 70-minute drive to the DMZ area. Along the way, travel along Unification Road and see the Freedom Bridge. This narrow wooden structure crosses the Injin River, and served as the path to freedom for the many North Koreans that were able to cross to the south at the end of the Korean War.

Imjingak and the DMZ

Upon arrival at Imgingak Park, you are near the area known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The DMZ, which separates the countries of North and South Korea, winds 155 miles (243 kilometres) across the Korean Peninsula from the Han River estuary in the west to just below the 39th parallel on the east coast. Down the centre of the 2.5 mile-wide (four-kilometre-wide) strip, largely undeveloped in the years since the truce was signed, runs the Military Demarcation Line. It bisects the Joint Security Area in Panmunjom, where meetings and conferences are held between north and south.

Third Tunnel and Exhibition Hall

Next, climb down 230 feet (70 metres) into this tunnel, which was designed to facilitate a surprise attack on Seoul. The tunnel measures a mile (1.6 kilometres) in length and 240 feet (73 metres) below ground. It is approximately six feet (about 1.8 metres) wide and high in many places. After exploring the area, climb back out of the tunnel and make your way to the exhibition hall for a unique insight into the Korean War and DMZ. Exhibits depict the typical lifestyle of North Koreans, jets and tanks used in the Korean War, and memorials that represent the wishes for unification and the pain the war caused to Korea's people.

Dora Observatory

Your tour continues with a visit to the Dora Observatory, situated on top of Mount Dora, or 'Dorasan'. The observatory offers panoramic views of both North and South Korea across the Demilitarized Zone.

From here, proceed for lunch at a Korean-style barbecue lunch at a local restaurant before commencing the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier. En route, pass through downtown Incheon City to see China Town, the area's oldest Catholic Church and other historic landmarks.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, and is only recommended for guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for guests who suffer from claustrophobia, those with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guest are required to bring their passports on this tour. Entering the tunnel is at the discretion of each guest; the tunnel is cool and can be wet. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with closed-toe, non-slip walking shoes, and bring a jacket, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and their passport from the ship. Photography is not permitted in the DMZ. If the monorail leading down to the tunnel is not working, guests can walk down or remain outside the tunnel. Due to the premium charged for alcohol in this port, tea and soft drinks only are included with lunch. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is limited. The coach portion of the tour at the DMZ may not be exclusive to Silversea guests. This tour is unable to operate on Mondays or National Holidays; additionally, military drills may be conducted at any point, causing a last-minute cancellation without prior notice.

Discover an eclectic blend of modern and Old World architecture, cultures and traditions during this full-day sightseeing excursion to Seoul.

Seoul City Tour

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour ride through Seoul. Along the way, see the city's modern and historic sights, and pass by the Presidential House, or 'Blue House', home of the Korean president. After a photo stop, a visit is made to the splendid Gyeongbokgung palace.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also commonly referred to as the Northern Palace because its location is furthest north when compared to the neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeonghuigung (Western Palace) Palace. Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful, and remains the largest of all five palaces.

The premises were once destroyed by fire during the Imjin War (Japanese Invasions, 1592-1598). However, all of the palace buildings were later restored under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun during the reign of King Gojong (1852-1919).

Remarkably, the most representative edifices of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond have remained relatively intact. Woldae and the sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) represent past sculptures of contemporary art.

Insadong

Next, proceed for a traditional Korean lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, re-board your coach for the drive to Insadong, the centre of Korean culture from 1392 to 1910 and former location of the Ministry of Art. Insadong is today home to over forty percent of the nation's antique stores, and renowned for its main art collection, fine porcelain and high-quality ceramics. Its famous shops have attracted patrons that include Queen Elizabeth II. Some time is made available here to browse for souvenirs.

National Museum

Your last stop is at the National Museum of Korea, home to approximately 150,000 works of art. Upon arrival, view permanent collections of rare artwork and ancient, cultural, and historical artifacts. This spacious museum also hosts social, educational, cultural, and entertainment events. The lovely garden outside the museum offers an exhibition of stone pagodas and a variety of historic stone relics.

Following your guided walking tour, re-board your coach for the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. Due to the premium charged for alcohol in this port, tea and soft drinks only are included with lunch. The tour sequence may vary. The drive between Incheon and Seoul is generally over one hour in each direction.

Explore Incheon at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 3-4 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Selling price of private cars and vans are based for touring within Incheon,to Seoul or other cities there will be additional fee. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to know the exact cost.

Explore Incheon at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 3-4 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Selling price of private cars and vans are based for touring within Incheon,to Seoul or other cities there will be additional fee. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to know the exact cost.

Explore Incheon at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Selling price of private cars and vans are based for touring within Incheon,to Seoul or other cities there will be additional fee. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to know the exact cost.

Explore Incheon at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary. Selling price of private cars and vans are based for touring within Incheon,to Seoul or other cities there will be additional fee. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to know the exact cost.

Experience the local lifestyle, landmarks and culture of Incheon during a scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion to this historic city and its environs.

Landing Memorial Hall

Depart the pier for the brief transfer to Incheon's Landing Memorial Hall, built to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the opening of Incheon Port in 1984.The museum's theme centres on the successful Incheon Landing Operation led by General Douglas MacArthur in 1950. Inside, see some of the military equipment used by the North and South Korean military during the war, and photos depicting daily life at the time. Outside, there is a 59-foot-long (18- metre-long) Memorial Tower and the national flags of 16 countries that participated in the Korean War.

Wolmido Traditional Garden

One of the most popular tourist spots near metropolitan Seoul, Wolmido is home to a 1,000-yard (one-kilometre) Wolmido Street of Culture. After Wolmido Island was zoned for development as a tourist attraction in 1918, seawater baths, beaches, entertainment centres, botanical gardens, and other facilities were built to attract visitors from all over during the summer months. A visit is made to the beautiful Wolmido Traditional Garden, which depicts the history of Wolmido Island.

China Town and Sinpo Market

Next, proceed for a visit to China Town, which embodies a unique blend of Korean and Chinese cultures. Upon arrival, visit one of the few Chinese shops that remain and stop by the Modern History Museum. Your tour concludes with a visit to the Sinop Market, a traditional market selling food, handicrafts, shoes, clothing, fruit, vegetables, consumer products, and a wide array of other goods. Some time is made available to browse the shops before commencing the brief drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over unpaved and uneven surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses from the ship. The tour sequence may vary.