Seoul is the modern capital of a fast changing and dynamic nation. Not long ago however, during the Korean War, the city was almost devastated and has succeeded in rising up from the rubble and dust as one of the fastest growing cities in the world. The signs of enterprise are everywhere with multi-lane highways, neon lights, skyscrapers and 24 hour shopping. Seoul nevertheless offers visitors a wealth of historical and cultural sights including five royal palaces and several Unecso World Heritage sites.

Gyeongbokgung Palace was built in 1394 as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty who ruled Korea between 1392 and 1910. With its graceful architecture and lovely gardens, it is the grandest of Seoul’s palaces and contains the National Folklore Museum, showcasing the lifestyle of the Korean people from the prehistoric age to the Joseon Dynasty. Jongmyo Royal Shrine is a Unesco World Heritage site, containing the royal ancestral tablets of the Joseon Dynasty and elaborate ceremonies are held here every year. Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden is another beautiful Joseon era palace with extensive grounds. There are also several temples one can visit such as the Jogyesa Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Seoul.

Shopping is undoubtedly one of the favourite pastimes in Seoul with shops and stalls open 24 hours in the East Gate and South Gate Markets. Itaewon is one of the most famous shopping areas with over 2000 shops while Insadong Antiques Alley, lined with antique shops, art galleries and Korean tea houses has a more traditional atmosphere.

Very near Seoul are the Bukhansan National Park with its granite peaks and deep valleys, the Korean Folk Village, Incheon Ceramic Village and some theme parks such as Everland. In the evening you might like to visit Korea House for a typical Korean dinner and folklore show or see a Nanta performance, a fun modern show featuring music and percussion with comedy elements.