Winter Travel | 2019-10-25 | 38400

Seoul-Busan Free Tour: A Tale of Two Cities (5 Days, 4 Nights) - Even Students Can Experience Korea

Preface

What can you do in one hour? For you, it might be the time it takes to have a meal. But for me, it’s a spontaneous trip.

Everyone is undoubtedly familiar with South Korea. It boasts not only romantic campuses but also mouth-watering cuisine. This trip, departing from Dalian, took just an hour's flight and cost only a few hundred yuan, allowing me to embark on an international journey. It's also affordable for university students, and South Korea has visa policies specifically designed for Chinese university students, making it a snap to travel.

Student Visa Benefits

University students only need to have an electronic certificate of academic qualifications to obtain a Korean visa.

Electronic academic certificates can be obtained at the following website: https://www.chsi.com.cn Korea

Visa consular district: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenyang, Chengdu, Xi'an, Wuhan, Qingdao, Dalian. Applicants need to apply for visas in the consular district where their household registration is located. If applying in a place other than their household registration, they need to provide a temporary residence permit/residence permit or social insurance certificate for the past three months (you can check the corresponding consular district for household registration and the designated travel agencies for visa application through the embassy's official website: http://www.hanguo-qianzheng.com/dashiguan/).

Types of tourist visas: single entry, five-year multiple entry, and ten-year multiple entry.

The information provided is:

1. Application Form (fill in with black pen)

2. Original passport + copy of first page (valid for more than 6 months)

3. Two 2-inch photos with white background (size 3.5*4.5)

4. Copy of the front and back of your ID card

5. Bank statements must be signed within five working days

Such an easy visa, isn’t it awesome!

South Koreacheck the details

South Korea, our neighbor, boasts a culture that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Here, you can discover traditional architecture and palaces, try on traditional Korean clothing for photos, or witness traditional song and dance performances. You can also experience cutting-edge Asian fashion, dazzling entertainment stars, and captivating modern art. South Korea boasts a captivating culinary scene, offering a wide range of affordable options to delight travelers. Local food markets and innovative, trendy cafes create a vibrant culinary scene. From the bustling international metropolis of Seoul to the tranquil, breezy island of Jeju, South Korea offers a city that suits every traveler. Step through a magnificent portal through time, traversing the past and present, and experience the brilliance of Korean oriental civilization.

Recommended months: Spring and autumn are the best

8118 recommendations, 8480 visits

Seoul

【Fun】Hanbok Experience

I have watched many Korean movies and TV series, and the gorgeousness of Hanbok still leaves a deep impression on me. When I come to Korea, how can I miss the Hanbok experience?

This hanbok shop called "HANBOKNAM" located on Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, helped me realize my first dream of coming to Korea.

When you come in, you will find a wide variety of Korean clothes in various styles. According to your needs, you can choose traditional Korean clothes or gorgeous Korean clothes, and the prices are slightly different.

For ladies, the shop can also arrange your hair for you when you want to try Hanbok. For men, just a hat is enough!

The Hanbok experience lasts for one hour, and you can wear Hanbok, wander around the streets, and take beautiful photos. You can also choose a rickshaw like me to get to your destination faster.

Address: 17, Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

The shop is located on the lower floor with an entrance facing the street. You need to look carefully for it, but it is relatively close and easy to find if you follow the map navigation.

Transportation: Anguk Station, Subway Line 3, Exit 1

Opening hours: 09:30-20:30

Rental instructions: The duration is 1.5/2/4/8 hours respectively. The price of traditional Hanfu and themed Hanfu is also different. You can choose according to your needs.

Tips: Choose a well-fitting hanbok to take beautiful photos. It is recommended to wear a light-colored base layer.

[Fun] Artee Rickshaw Club

As mentioned earlier in the Hanbok experience, you can ride a rickshaw while wearing Hanbok. Rickshaw tours are available for tourists to explore scenic spots like Bukchon and Seochon. Rickshaw drivers provide interpretive guides as they navigate the streets and alleys. Not only can they communicate in English, but some drivers also speak Chinese, making communication seamless.

The entire rickshaw tour is divided into several routes. You can choose the bustling route or the slightly more secluded and unpopular route like us. On this route, you can avoid the crowds and take more pictures of the scenery.

Address: 43 Bukchon-ro 5-gil (Hwadong), Jongno-gu, Seoul

Number of people: A three-wheeled rickshaw can accommodate up to 2 adults and 1 child under 4 years old (free of charge)

Experience duration: 1-2 hours, depending on the route

Reservation method:

Online reservation: http://rideartee.com

Reservations by phone: +82-1666-1693 (9:30 AM - 9:00 PM)

Notice:

1. A deposit is required to successfully make an appointment - After submitting the appointment application, the remittance method will be notified via email or SMS

2. Cancellation and Refund Policy - Cancellation 2 days before or on the day of departure due to rain; Full refund - Cancellation 1 day before departure; 50% refund - Cancellation on the day of departure; No refund

Price route reference:

Bukchon-Seomyeon Romantic Tour, 60 minutes (basic) / 30,000 won per person

Bukchon-Dongbukchon Historical Tour, 60 minutes (basic) / 30,000 won per person

Bukchon VIP Tour, 120 minutes / 50,000 KRW per person

VIP Bukchon Tour in English, Chinese, and Japanese, 120 minutes / 80,000 KRW per person

Blue House VIP Tour, 120 minutes / 50,000 KRW per person

VIP Blue House Tour in English, Chinese, and Japanese, 120 minutes / KRW 80,000 per person

Bukchon Basic Tour in English, Chinese, and Japanese, 60 minutes / 45,000 KRW per person

[Fun] Yeouido Hangang Park

If you want to experience the cozy life of Seoul residents, don't miss Yeouido Hangang Park. Every weekend, many people gather here to camp and picnic. It is also a great place to enjoy the night view of the Hangang River.

Address: 330 Yeouido-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Youido-dong)

Transportation: Yeouinaru Station, Subway Line 5, Exit 3

Night Market Hours: 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM

【Fun】Songpa Naru Park (Seokchon Lake)

The 556-meter Lotte World Tower has become a landmark in South Korea. Ascending to SEOUL SKY, one of the world's top three observation decks, from 117th to 123rd floors, and gazing down at the city is a true delight.

Below the Lotte World Tower is LOTTE WORLD MALL, which is also a world-class shopping destination where you can buy big brands from all over the world.

Just across the street from Lotte World Tower is Songpa Naru Park. Compared to the bustling scene at Lotte World, it's a much more tranquil spot. It's a popular spot for Seoul residents to relax, and you'll see many people exercising and relaxing in the park.

Address: 136 Sambakshi-ro (Jamsil-dong), Songpa-gu, Seoul

Transportation: Get off at Jamsil Station (잠실역) on Subway Line 2 or 8 and take Exit 3 or 4

[Fun] COEX STARFIELD L

When college students go on trips, they often visit popular check-in spots. One such spot is the Starfield Library in COEX Mall in Gangnam District.

Located in the heart of COEX Mall's Central Plaza, the library boasts a 2,800-square-meter duplex structure. Its four-sided, fully open design allows for a wall of books to stretch from floor to ceiling. Wandering amidst a sea of ​​books creates a sense of well-being.

This library in Seoul is a highlight for its grandeur and romantic atmosphere. For locals, it's a gateway to knowledge. On the second floor, there are many quiet areas perfect for reading. For us, however, we were more interested in taking photos and checking in.

The Starry Sky Library offers cultural and creative activities each week on a variety of themes, including poetry, travel, classical music, and children's literature. Check the website for previews before your visit. You might even find something you'd like to see.

Location: 159 Starfield COEX Mall, Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 513

Transportation: Take Subway Line 2 to Samseong-dong Station, Exit 6

Opening hours: 10:30 AM - 10:00 PM, 365 days a year

[Delicious] Seoulism Café

This cafe has a fantastic viewing platform, overlooking the Lotte World Tower. Many of the photos that have gone viral on social media were actually taken here. Located on the top floor of the building, it functions as a cafe during the day and a bar at night. It's always a popular spot, day or night.

Grab a drink and enjoy a relaxing time in Seoul. It's also a great place to snap a photo with the Lotte World Tower. It's definitely the perfect spot to check in at the tower without even climbing it. If time permits, come at sunset to witness the city transform from night to day.

Address: 435, 6th floor, YES Building, 48-7 Songpa-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul

Transportation: Take Metro Line 8, get off at Exit 2 of Seokchon Station and walk directly to the destination

Afternoon tea and coffee time: 13:00-17:50

Bar hours: 18:00~24:00

Tips: Each person needs to order at least one drink before entering

【Entertainment】Ikseon-dong

This area, home to 110 traditional Korean houses, bears the vestiges of the Japanese occupation. This period of history has imbued the area with a rich history. Today, Ikseon-dong has shed its vestiges of time and become a vibrant new destination for Seoul nightlife.

Many young Koreans choose this place to enjoy Seoul's nightlife. Although it's not as famous as Myeongdong or Itaewon, it's also less crowded. There are fewer tourists here, and more locals choose to come here. It seems more like a place with a sense of fireworks, rather than a commercial atmosphere.

The entire block is not very large, and various coffee shops, restaurants, galleries, flower shops and other small shops are hidden in the alleys. Walking in the alleys, there are surprises everywhere, and turning a corner may reveal a different scenery.

You must choose to visit Ikseon-dong at night. Ikseon-dong is even more charming under the cover of night. In addition, many shops are open only at night.

You can try the internet celebrity bread, or experience the taste of Korean barbecue at the Korean "roadside stall".

Address: 서울특별시종로구익선동, Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Transportation: Exit 4 of Jongno 3-ga Station on Subway Lines 1, 3, and 5, not far from Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong, and Namsan Tower

[Delicious] Gangnam Laundry Pizza

Having visited many popular photo spots in Seoul, as young people, we absolutely can't skimp on food. So, I found myself at a popular restaurant. It's an American laundry-themed pizza place with a very cool decor. There are even posters on the wall, suggesting Korean girl groups have dined there. It's also the location where the album cover for BTS' DNA was filmed.

LAUNDRY PIZZA specializes in thin, slightly firm pizzas. Compared to the more common pizzas in China, the pizzas here have a slightly different texture. The interior is still relatively soft, but the edges are very crispy. Especially when eaten hot, it has a very nice stringy texture.

The flavors are quite rich. I personally prefer sausage pizza and potato pizza. Although the pizzas look big, you can order different flavors separately.

Location: 22, Bongeunsa-ro 4-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul Price: 6,800 KRW (approximately 41 RMB)

Transportation: Take Subway Line 2, Gangnam Station, Exit 11, and walk for about 10 minutes.

Opening Hours:

Sunday to Thursday 11:30-22:30

Friday-Saturday 11:30-23:00

【Delicious】Tosu Village Ginseng Chicken Soup

Another must-try delicacy in Korea is ginseng chicken soup. This Tosokchon Ginseng Chicken Soup is a famous and popular ginseng chicken soup restaurant in Seoul, with long lines most of the time.

Ginseng chicken soup, as the name suggests, is chicken soup with ginseng added. More specifically, it's made by stewing a one-month-old young chicken with ginseng, red dates, chestnuts, and other nourishing ingredients. The chicken's stomach is stuffed with these herbs and glutinous rice, and one sip of the soup is a satisfying feast.

Each bowl of ginseng chicken soup comes with a glass of ginseng wine, which is a great way to nourish yourself while you eat. Korean wines are not very strong, so it is not a big problem for female friends to drink a glass.

Location: 330 Yeouido-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (Youido-dong)

Price: 18,000 Korean won (approximately 109 RMB)

Transportation: Take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 2, and walk for 3 minutes.

Opening hours: 10:00-22:00

Busan

The movie "Train to Busan" once awed countless people. However, that was just a movie scene; the real Train to Busan was nothing like that. Lonely Planet, the renowned global travel guide, named Busan, South Korea, the top destination in Asia for 2018.

Some people may say that Seoul is more popular than Busan, but in fact Busan is also a very popular travel destination in South Korea.

Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, is approximately 550 kilometers from Seoul. The KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station is a quick way to get there in just over two hours. Flying takes just under an hour.

Busan is located in the south of South Korea. The blue sea brings a different kind of vitality to the city. It is also the open gateway of South Korea. The Busan Film Festival is also held here.

The first thing you need to do upon arriving at Busan Station is to check in your luggage. You can leave your luggage at Exit 2, or you can have it shipped directly to your hotel for the night. This way, you won't have to worry about your daytime itinerary or lose any time; you can start exploring as soon as you exit the train station!

[Entertainment] Caoliang Story Road

A road in Busan, South Korea is gradually attracting people's attention. Walking on this road, you can see the buildings that carry the history of Busan and the 168 steps called "Horror Steps" by Busan people. You can also see the appearance of Busan City Center on the west side of Busan at the end of the steps. This is the "Choryang Story Road" located in the East District of Busan.

Choryang was once a notorious slum in Busan, its mountainous terrain limiting its development. Now, however, Choryang has become one of Busan's most beautiful mountainsides, offering a unique view of Busan without even climbing a single step. A free cable car now provides convenient access for tourists, adding to Choryang's scenic beauty.

The houses in Choryang are as colorful as life today. Local villagers live comfortably, running small businesses in their homes. Further up the road, you'll find a small gallery showcasing the history of Choryang in Busan. This gallery hosts special exhibitions every two months and is closed on Sundays, making it a great place to relax. Admission is free and the air conditioning is on.

Address: 49, Choryangsang-ro, Dong-gu, Busan

Transportation: Busan Station, Exit 7, Busan Subway Line 1

Cable car operating hours: 7:00-20:00 (open all year round)

【Fun】Busan Fish Cake Experience Center

The Busan National Maritime Museum, nestled by the sea, is not overly crowded, making it a perfect spot for those who prefer a less noisy environment. The museum's ground floor features an introduction to marine fish and a library. Upstairs, there's a historical exhibition hall, and the top floor houses a small oceanarium. All of these exhibits are free. The tunnels in the upstairs oceanarium are particularly photogenic.

The Fish Cake Experience Hall within the Busan National Maritime Museum was another interesting experience. Here, you can experience the fish cake making process firsthand. It's perfect for family outings and is also a great experience for young people who love hands-on activities.

Location: 301번길45 (동삼동1125), 45-gil, 301 Haeang-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan

Price: 11,000 Korean won (about 67 RMB)

Transportation: Take Busan Subway Line 1, Exit 10 at Busan Station, and take Bus No. 66. Get off at the National Maritime Museum.

Museum visiting hours:

Monday to Friday: 09:00~18:00

Saturday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

[Fun] Haeundae Night Cruise

Haeundae is Busan's most beautiful beach. The water temperature remains between 45 and 50 degrees Celsius year-round, making it a natural bathing spot. The entire Haeundae area is dotted with high-rise buildings, making it more prosperous than other areas. Strolling along the beach, you'll see crowds of people enjoying the leisurely atmosphere of Busan.

After nightfall, you can also experience the Haeundae Night Cruise at the pier. Busan under the night sky fades away the hustle and bustle of the day and becomes more peaceful.

Location: 84, Haeundae-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan Price: 25,000 KRW (approximately 152 RMB)

Transportation: Take Subway Line 2 to Dongbaek Station Exit 3, then walk about 13 minutes to the pier

Registration method: Just register at the pier

Price: 25,000 KRW per person

【Delicious】Grandma's Gaya Wheat Cold Noodles

I was walking along Busan Cinema Street when I found this little shop. Actually, you can eat cold noodles quite often in China, but when you come to Korea, you absolutely have to try the authentic Korean cold noodles.

This shop is in a small alley and is not easy to find. When I opened the door, I found that there were really a lot of people, which proved that the food must be very good.

Their cold noodles come in two flavors: water-cold noodles and dry noodles. The water-cold noodles are particularly refreshing and ice-cold, making them a perfect way to cool down during the hot summer months. Besides cold noodles, they also offer steamed buns, similar to Chinese baozi (stuffed buns), which you can order to try.

Location: 56-14 Gwangbok-ro, Jung-gu, Busan Metropolitan City

Price: 7000 won (about 42 RMB)

Transportation: Exit 3 of Nampo Station and walk towards Guangfu Road. Enter the alley between Innisfree and U+ SQUARE.

Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM

[Delicious] Dongbaekdo Sashimi Restaurant (near Haeundae)

When visiting Korea, you can't miss out on authentic sashimi. Korean sashimi prioritizes taste and quality over presentation. The most important aspect of sashimi is the ingredients, and each fish platter is perfectly matched, making it look incredibly appetizing.

There are also live squid tentacles, which are still wriggling when served. They are served with a secret dipping sauce and paired with vegetable salad. One bite of it will give you a full sense of happiness.

Location: 209나-gil 17, Haeundaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan

Price: 40,000 Korean won (approximately 242 RMB)

Business hours: Monday to Sunday 11:00-22:30, closed on holidays

【Entertainment】Jiutoushan Forest

The Gudusan Forest, Busan's back garden, is a newly developed scenic area that was previously a protected forest. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a blanket of greenery. It's also known as Busan's green lung.

Address: 37-1, Mi-dong Street, Cheema-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan Metropolitan City

Ticket price: 5,000 won (about 30 yuan)

Transportation: The location is relatively remote, it is recommended to charter a car or take a taxi

Opening hours: 09:00-18:00 every day, closed on Mondays

【Fun】Ananti Cove

Ananti is a five-star high-end resort hotel. However, the outside of the hotel is open to the public for free. You can stroll around the beach and have some fun.

Address: 268-31 Gijanghae-ro, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun, Busan

Transportation: It is recommended to take a taxi or charter a car

【Delicious】HAYDEN COFFEE

HAYDEN COFFEE is a solitary coffee shop. It's surrounded by a few buildings, and the building itself stands on the seashore, offering a great view. The interior has three floors, each with a different design and a different view.

Location: 449 Dongbaek-ri, Ilgwang-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan Metropolitan City 449

【Delicious】MAYROOF CAFÉ

MAYROOF CAFÉ is a bit smaller and not very noticeable among the other buildings. However, it is right on the beach, so you can sit outside and enjoy the sea view while sipping coffee.

Location: 143-9 Samseong-ri, Ilgwang-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan Metropolitan City

Price: 20,000 Korean won (approximately 121 RMB)

【Fun】New World Centumcity

Shinsegae, located in Busan, is the world's largest department store, certified by Guinness World Records. Here, you can shop from all corners of the globe, from top international brands to local Korean brands. For university students, a visit to such a fascinating place is a must.

Address: 1495 Woo-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan Metropolitan City

Transportation: Busan Subway Line 2, Centum City Station underground entrance, Exit 12 ground entrance

Business hours: 10:30-20:00 (Monday to Thursday), 10:30-20:30 (Friday to Sunday)

The Bay101

This is a great place to enjoy the night view of Busan, and it is also a popular spot for internet celebrities. It takes only a few minutes to take a photo that will go viral on social media.

Address: 52 Dongbaek-ro (Woo-dong), Haeundae-gu, Busan City

Transportation: Take Busan Subway Line 2 and get off at Dongbaek Station

[Delicious] Busan Gijang Market Crab Street

As the saying goes, "live by the mountain, eat by the mountain; live by the sea, eat by the sea." In Busan, you must taste the fresh seafood products, avoid the highly violent markets, and listen to the locals' introduction. You can't go wrong by visiting the Big Crab Street in Busan Gijang Market.

After buying your seafood, head upstairs next to the market where the seafood processing facility is located. Enjoy a seafood feast on a traditional Korean floor table. The processing fee is quite affordable, and the restaurant also provides a few side dishes to keep you full!

Location: 104-gil, Gijang-eupnae-ro, Gijang-gun, Busan Metropolitan City 104번길16

Price: 50,000 Korean won (approximately 303 RMB)

Transportation: Donghae Line Gijang Station (K123), Exit 1, less than 10 minutes walk

【Delicious】Ippin Korean Beef

When visiting Korea, you can't miss out on authentic Korean beef. Whether grilled or served in seaweed and beef broth, you'll fall in love with it. The Korean beef restaurant I ate at today is right next to my hotel in Haeundae. It's a place with a long history and a great reputation.

Upon entering, you'll be greeted by photos of the owner and Korean people from all walks of life, a testament to her restaurant's immense popularity. Order a portion of Korean beef, and the staff will grill it for you with their own children. The process is quite quick. Grabbing a piece of beef and tasting it, you'll find it incredibly tender. True to its Korean origin, it's incredibly flavorful.

The kelp beef soup and beef patties are also a speciality here. They bring out the flavor of Korean beef to its fullest. Eating meat and drinking wine is a relaxing experience.

Location: 49 부산해운대구해운대로570번길49, Haeundae-ro 570, Haeundae-gu, Busan

Price: 50,000 Korean won (approximately 303 RMB)

Transportation: 5-minute walk from Exit 5 of Haeundae Subway Line 2

Business hours: 11:30 AM - 0:00 AM the next day

【Fun】Gamcheon Culture Village

If you've ever visited Busan's Gamcheon Culture Village, you'll discover how truly chic and refreshing Busan can be. Gamcheon Culture Village, often called Korea's "Machu Picchu," is famous for the artists who once lived there, transforming the drab houses into vibrant colors. Even in the corners of the streets, you can feel the artists' meticulous attention to detail.

Gamcheon Culture Village has become a must-see destination for many young artists visiting Busan. Besides its many unique shops, there are also many hidden alleys worth checking out.

You can come to the Little Prince statue and take a photo with him while overlooking the cultural village. Or you can find a favorite coffee shop and quietly enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Walking down the alley into the village, you'll find many fish-shaped road signs hanging on the walls. After asking people walking with me, I learned that these fish-shaped signs are actually directions. Follow the direction of the fish's mouth to find the way out.

Address: 203 Gannae 2-ro (Gamcheon-dong), Saha-gu, Busan Metropolitan City

Transportation: Take Subway Line 1, Tuchengdong Exit 6, turn right and walk 100 meters, then take Community Bus No. 2 to the entrance of Culture Village.

Facility opening hours: March to October, 09:00 - 18:00 daily; November to February, 09:00 - 17:00 daily

Accommodation

Seoul

In Seoul, I stayed at Fraser Place Central Seoul (Seoul Station). The hotel is only about a 10-minute walk from Seoul Station, so it is very convenient to stay here.

The hotel is also close to popular landmarks such as Myeongdong and City Hall, and taxi fares are all at the starting price. You can also use Alipay to take a taxi in Korea!

The hotel is an apartment-style hotel with a washing machine and a simple kitchen in the room. It is very suitable for short stays. There is a swimming pool and a gym on the underground first floor of the hotel.

Fraser Place Central Seoul

Address: 78 Tongil-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Reference room rate: 800-1500 RMB/night

Busan

The hotel we stayed in Busan was the Shilla Haeundae, which is right next to Haeundae Beach. It has an excellent location and is only about 5 minutes' walk to Haeundae subway station. It is the first choice for traveling to Haeundae.

The overall configuration of the hotel is about domestic 4-star, and the price is quite affordable.

The hotel's rooms are spacious and comfortable for two people. They're equipped with a desk and sofa, perfect for business travelers and students. For those who enjoy exercise, the hotel's fitness center is also available.

Shilla Stay Haeundae, Busan

Address: 570번길46, Haeundae-ro 570-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan Metropolitan City

Reference room rate: RMB 800-3000 per night

About Transportation

Incheon International Airport - Seoul City

(1) Airport Subway

The most convenient and fastest way to get from Incheon International Airport to Seoul Station is the Airport Subway. There are two types of Airport Subway: a direct train that doesn't stop, and a regular train that stops at 13 stations.

Travel time: 43 minutes by direct train from Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 to Seoul Station, 59 minutes by regular train

Ticket price: The direct train ticket price is 9,000 won for adults, while the regular train ticket price is based on mileage.

Homepage: www.arex.or.kr (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

(2) Airport shuttle

You can take the airport bus directly to Myeongdong, Hongdae, Apgujeong and other most prosperous districts in Seoul.

Travel time: 30-90 minutes, depending on the journey. Fare: 9,000-15,000 KRW, depending on the journey (surcharge applies for late-night buses).

Homepage: www.airportlimousine.co.kr (Korean/English/Chinese)

Long-distance transportation

(1) Express bus & intercity bus

Whether you're looking for a large city or a small town, you can easily reach it by express bus or intercity bus. Most bus terminals are located in the heart of a region or in busy areas, making travel convenient. Foreigners can easily book tickets for express and intercity buses on these websites.

Express bus ticket booking website: www.kobus.co.kr (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

Intercity bus ticket booking website: txbus.t-money.co.kr (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

(2) Trains & High-Speed ​​Trains (KTX & SRT)

Traveling between major cities is easy with trains or high-speed trains. Compared to express buses and intercity buses, trains offer the greatest advantage of punctuality in both departure and arrival times. High-speed trains like the KTX and SRT significantly reduce travel time.

On the Korail homepage, foreigners can not only book tickets in advance, but also make reservations for various themed tourist trains.

Homepage: www.letskorail.com (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

3) If you are going to places far from Seoul such as Busan or Jeju Island, you can take a plane.

According to statistics, the Gimpo-Jeju route is the single largest route in terms of annual passenger volume. During normal times, airfares are more expensive than express bus, intercity bus, and train tickets. However, during off-season discounts, airfares can sometimes be even cheaper.

Incheon International Airport: www.airport.kr (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

Gimpo International Airport: www.airport.co.kr/gimpo/main.do (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

Jeju International Airport: www.airport.co.kr/jeju/main.do (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

Gimhae (Busan) International Airport: www.airport.co.kr/gimhae/main.do (Korean/English/Chinese/Japanese)

Practical tourist information

1330 Tourism Consultation and Translation Hotline

This is a travel consultation and interpretation hotline specifically for foreign tourists visiting Korea. Calling this hotline not only provides information on Korean tourism but also offers travel interpretation services.

Service hours: 24 hours a day, all year round (free service)

Services: Travel consultation, travel translation, travel complaints, Benikea hotel reservations, and transfers to the tourism police

How to call: If you are in Korea, dial 1330 without the area code, and select the Chinese service number 4 after the call is connected. If you are not in Korea, dial 82-2-1330, and select the Chinese service number 4 after the call is connected.

K-Style Hub

This is a tourist information center run by the Korea Tourism Organization and also serves as a Korean cultural experience center. Visitors can get a wealth of Korean travel information at the information center on the second floor, and participate in various Korean cultural activities at the Korean Food Culture Exhibition Hall on the third floor, the Korean Food Culture Hall on the fourth floor, and the Cultural Experience Hall on the fifth floor.

Contact: 02-729-94967-9499 (Tourist Information Center) 02-6053-7177-79 (Korean Food Culture Center)

Address: 2nd-5th Floor, Korea Tourism Organization, 40 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Opening hours: 09:00-20:00, open all year round

Medical Tourism

Medical tourism refers to visiting Korea while enjoying high-quality medical services. Many medical tourism packages offer not only examinations and treatments at major Korean hospitals but also accommodation, meals, and travel, providing peace of mind for travelers.

Homepage: visitmedicalkorea.com (Korean/Chinese/English/Japanese)

Tax refund system

Foreign tourists staying in Korea for no more than six months can enjoy a tax refund system. Tourists can purchase goods at government-designated tax refund shops and receive a refund equivalent to the value-added tax and individual consumption tax.

*Since the implementation of the "On-site Tax Refund System at Tax Refund Shops" on January 1, 2016, some shops have been able to provide on-site tax refunds. For details, please see the following homepage: http://chinese.visitkorea.or.kr/chs/SHP/SH_CHA_5.jsp

Toshin Airport Terminal

Visitors can complete check-in, immigration procedures, and baggage check-in in advance in downtown Seoul, and then proceed to the airport with ease.

<Airport Subway City Center Airport Terminal> Tel: 1599-7788 (Korean/Chinese/English/Japanese)

Location: Basement 2, Seoul Station, Airport Subway Station

Main services: Check-in, baggage check-in, immigration clearance, airport subway, and dedicated exit channel

Homepage: www.arex.or.kr (Korean/Chinese/English/Japanese)

<Korea City Airport (Samseong-dong Coex)>

Tel: 02-551-0077~8 (Korean/English)

Location: Get off at Samseong Station on Subway Line 2, Exit 5 or 6

Main services: Check-in, baggage check-in, exit inspection, luxury airport shuttle, and dedicated exit channel

Homepage: www.arex.or.kr (Korean/Chinese/English/Japanese)

Luggage delivery and luggage storage services

Visitors can arrange for their personal luggage to be transported from the airport to their hotel or vice versa, either online or on-site. Besides Incheon International Airport, designated locations such as Seoul Station and Hongik University Station also offer luggage storage and transportation.

The luggage delivery service relies on the logistics system from Seoul to Incheon and uses the airport subway for transportation, ensuring safe and on-time delivery.

Tel: 02-752-0211 (Chinese/English/Japanese)

Address: 92, Mapo-daero, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Dohwa-dong, Gongdeok Station, Airport Subway Station), inside Gongdeok Station

Location: Incheon International Airport, Seoul Station, Hongik University Station

Main services: Storage and delivery of carry-on luggage (*Delivery must be booked online in advance)

Fees: Luggage storage: 3,000 won (4 hours) ~ 12,000 won (1 day) Luggage delivery: Seoul Station/Hongik University Station/Hotel ↔ Gimpo International Airport/Incheon International Airport Terminal 1/Incheon International Airport Terminal 2, 14,000 ~ 26,000 won

Homepage: safex.kr / cs@e-itrip.com

About Currency

When traveling in South Korea, UnionPay cards are accepted almost everywhere, except for some small shops. Large shopping malls and duty-free shops also accept Alipay, offering many discounts! It's recommended to exchange some Korean won in Korea, or you can easily find an exchange point once you arrive in Korea.

Conclusion

For college students, these two cities are truly perfect for first-time travel destinations. With tons of popular check-in spots, great attractions, and delicious food, the trip is definitely worthwhile.