12 Days | 14 – 26 Oct, 202.
Joining and ending in Seoul.
We often admire the skilled crafts of Japan, yet we overlook the same level of artistry, precision, and cultural depth found in Korea. While there are undeniable similarities, Korea possesses a distinct and profound heritage of craftsmanship, making it an essential destination for those who appreciate fine artisanal traditions – whether in fabric, wood, clay, and jewelry. Beyond its exquisite handcrafts, Korea offers a vibrant culinary scene. The country’s landscapes, from the serene beauty of ancient temples nestled in the mountains to the urban energy of Seoul, provide a striking backdrop for this exploration. Coupled with the warmth and hospitality of the Korean people, whose deep cultural pride and generosity shine through in every encounter, this journey promises a truly immersive experience in one of Asia’s most intriguing destinations. We hope you can join us.
Delve into Korea’s rich culture of craft, textile and artistic tradition
Programme Overview –
Our journey begins in Seoul and unfolds over 12 days, tracing a thoughtfully designed itineray southward. Along the way, we’ll experience Korea’s diverse landscapes, from the mountains and coastal villages to farmland and forests. This program blends natural beauty, cultural exploration, and hands-on experiences.
We’ll visit major galleries and museums while engaging in workshops on mother-of-pearl inlay, black ceramics, furniture-making, and ramie weaving. A highlight is a day at the renowned Gwangju Biennale, and we’ll also explore Korea’s rich traditions in textiles, lacquerware, papermaking, and cuisine.
Accommodations are in centrally located four-star hotels with breakfast. Group size is limited to 8-15 for a more immersive experience. Travel is by private vehicle and high-speed bullet train, with an expert English-speaking guide throughout.
Your Tour Host, Christine Pearson, was captivated by Korea’s small galleries and artisan studios on her recent visit. She looks forward to welcoming you on this enriching cultural adventure.
Dates and Cost
12 Days | 14 to 26 Oct, 2026 | $AUD TBC
(Pricing is still being finalised with our partners in Seoul – contact us to express your interest and we will revert to you shortly)
Starting and ending in Seoul. Minimum of 8 guests, maximum of 14
Highlights
- In-depth exploration of Seoul – South Korea’s dynamic and artistically rich capital
- Explore excellent and eccentric museums, galleries, cultural and religious sites
- Enjoy the celebrated Gwangju Art Biennale
- Experience numerous craft ateliers such as ceramics, silks, wood and metal working.
- Meet artisans at their workshops and ateliers
- Travel in comfortable vehicles
- Indulge in Korea’s famous cuisine
- Discover the everyday life as you wander markets, villages, and small towns
- Indulge in decent home-cooked traditional meals
- Be charmed by our guides, drivers and local hosts.
- This tour offers an expertly curated blend of cultural depth, artistic discovery, and seamless travel, designed for those who seek a deeper understanding of the world’s artistic and historical traditions.
Itinerary: 12 days travelling through urban, regional and coastal South Korea
Day 1: Arrival in Seoul (South Korea)
Upon arrival in South Korea’s captivating capital, Seoul, a group transfer transfers us to our centrally located hotel. While there are no formal activities planned today, Christine will arrange a short walk for those interested. We gather this evening for welcome drinks and a meal and get to know one another, while discussing our planned tour program for the coming days.
Days 2-3: In depth exploration of Seoul
Over the next two days our program includes a number of important sites such as Gyeongbok Palace, artisans’ private museums & ateliers, and the National Museum of Korea amongst others. We also have the opportunity of two hands-on workshops and visit a market featuring Hanbok traditional costume.
Day 4: Seoul – Seocheon – Jeonju
Leaving the urban metropolis of Seoul we travel south to the coastal town of Seocheon to meet a Ramie master weaver and visit a Ramie museum. Then, proceed to Jeonju to visit their paper museum and historic Hanok Village.
Days 5-6: Jeonju – Gwangju – Biennale visit – Boseong – Tongyeong
Visit Gwangju, home to Asia’s oldest and most influential contemporary art biennale. This internationally acclaimed event showcases groundbreaking works from both Korean and global artists, offering insight into cutting-edge trends in contemporary art. Wander through the thought-provoking exhibitions that explore themes of identity, history, and social change. A highlight will be a stroll along Art Street, where galleries, studios, and cafés create a lively creative hub, and visit a local museum to further explore the city’s artistic legacy. Later, we enjoy an authentic Korean cooking class, learning the techniques behind traditional dishes that reflect Korea’s rich culinary heritage.
The following day, travel through the lush, rolling landscapes of Boseong’s tea plantations, where the neatly terraced fields create a breathtaking panorama. Enjoy a guided tea tasting, experiencing the delicate flavors of Korea’s finest green tea. In Tongyeong, visit a renowned ‘Jagae’ (mother-of-pearl) master’s atelier to witness the meticulous craftsmanship behind this centuries-old decorative art. There’s a n opportunity to experience a cable car ride up Mireuksan for panoramic coastal views. Finally, explore Dongpirang Village, where colorful murals and street art bring colour into this charming hillside neighborhood.
Day 7: Tongyeong – Busan
Today we visit Tongyeong’s Ottchil Museum to admire exquisite lacquerware, a craft deeply rooted in Korean tradition. Then, journey to Busan, passing through picturesque rural landscapes dotted with rice paddies and traditional hanok homes. En route, we stop at Gamcheon Culture Village, a once-humble hillside community now transformed into a vibrant hub of colorful murals, whimsical sculptures, and creative street art. In Busan, explore the bustling Jagalchi Fish Market, where vendors display an astonishing variety of fresh seafood, offering a glimpse into Korea’s rich maritime culture and daily life.
Day 8: Busan – Gyeongju
We continue our journey to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom and a UNESCO-designated “museum without walls.” Begin at the Gyeongju National Museum, home to Silla-era treasures, including gold crowns and Buddhist relics. Visit Daereungwon Tumuli Park, where royal burial mounds dot the landscape. Step inside Cheonmachong Tomb to see exquisite gold artifacts and the famous Cheonmado (Heavenly Horse) painting. Stop by Cheomseongdae Observatory, East Asia’s oldest astronomical tower, and walk across the beautifully reconstructed Woljeonggyo Bridge.
Day 9: Gyeongju – Daegu – Return to Seoul
We start the day by visiting Seomun Market, one of Korea’s largest traditional markets, offering everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts and textiles. The market’s lively atmosphere is perfect for sampling traditional Korean street food. Next, we’ll explore Korea’s first textile museum, where you’ll learn about Daegu’s textile history, from traditional weaving to modern production techniques. The exhibits showcase Korea’s strong connection to fabric artistry. This afternoon, we’ll board the KTX Bullet Train back to Seoul. After a comfortable journey with scenic views, we check in to our accommodation for the next two nights.
Day 10: Seoul – exploration
Seoul is a dynamic city offering something for everyone. Today, there are no set activities, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to shop in bustling districts like Myeongdong or Insadong, or unwind in one of the city’s charming cafes, there’s plenty to discover. You might even choose to explore more cultural sites, like Gyeongbokgung Palace, home to serene gardens. Christine and our local guide will be on hand to offer tips and personalized recommendations, ensuring that your day is as enriching and exciting as you want it to be.
Day 11: Hongcheon day excursion
Our penultimate day of exploring Korea takes us to Hongcheon, a town known for its rich craft traditions. First, we visit a carpenter’s atelier, where a skilled artisan demonstrates the art of woodworking, transforming raw materials into intricate designs.
Next, we’ll head to the studio of a master of black ceramics, renowned for creating pottery with striking dark finishes. The master will guide you through their creative process, from clay selection to the firing techniques that give the ceramics their distinctive color and texture.
After an inspiring day immersed in craftsmanship, we’ll return to Seoul, with a deeper appreciation for Korea’s traditional arts. This evening we gather for a special farewell meal to reflect on our engaging visit to South Korea.
Day 12: Depart Seoul – Onward Travels
Our journey concludes in Seoul with a final breakfast together. A group transfer to the airport marks the end of our journey.
What’s Included in your South Korea Programme:
- Carefully selected 4-star hotels, offering comfort and character in prime locations. Accommodation is based on double or twin rooms; a single supplement is available (prices TBC).
- Meals – Breakfast daily, along with several lunches and two dinners, featuring regional specialties and local flavours.
- Expert-Led Experiences – Exclusive master classes with leading artisans and craftspeople, offering deep insights into traditional techniques.
- Entrance Fees & Visits – Admission to historical and religious sites, museums, and cultural landmarks as detailed in the itinerary.
- Accomplished Tour Leaders & Guides – The services of Christine Pearson, Tour Concierge from Intentionally Different Travel, alongside experienced local guides, ensuring expert commentary and seamless travel throughout.
- Group Airport Transfers – A scheduled group transfer from the airport on Day 1 and to the airport on the final day. Individual transfers on other days can be arranged at an additional cost. Ask for details.
- Private Transport – Comfortable and well-equipped private transport for the duration of the tour, plus an exciting trip on the bullet train!
- Comprehensive Tour Notes – A carefully prepared information dossier to enhance your understanding of the destinations visited.
Not included in the tour price:
- International Flights – Travel arrangements to Seoul (South Korea) at the start and finish of the tour are not included, allowing you flexibility in choosing your preferred airline, booking class and route. (From Australia, Korean Airlines as well as Asiana are both good options).
- Early Check-In & Late Check-Out – If you wish to check in before 6:00 AM, a full night’s room rate applies; check-in after 6:00 AM is charged at 50% of the room rate. For late check-outs, departures before 6:00 PM incur a 50% charge, while those after 6:00 PM are charged at 100% of the room rate.
- Gratuities – Tipping for local guides and drivers is not part of your tour price, and is collected by your Tour Concierge on Day 01. We will provide directions on suitable amounts.
- Travel Insurance – Mandatory for all travellers, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. If you have insurance through a credit card provider, we recommend confirming that your coverage is sufficient.
- Personal Expenses – Costs for phone calls, internet usage, and other communication services are not covered.
- Beverages – Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks beyond what is included in meals are at your own expense. Typically, these are inexpensive in Korea (though wine can be higher than you are used to at home, due to high import duties and taxes).
The Details
Hotel Selection for our Journey
Our selection criteria include central location, charm, cleanliness, cultural integrity, uniqueness, and standard of service. All rooms have private western-style bathrooms and comfortable beds.
Currency and Price
Prices are listed in Australian dollars, as the majority of our guests are based in Australia. However, as our partners operate in US Dollars, fluctuations in the AUD–USD exchange rate may necessitate price adjustments should they exceed our projected range.
Road Travel
We utilize comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles and strive to ensure ample seating for all guests. Road conditions throughout Korea are excellent. Some rural roads will be winding This trip also features a sector on the KTX Bullet Train – travelling at 300km/h!
International Air Travel
Convenient flight options are available into Seoul (direct from Australia), with other opportunities for enroute stopovers. International flights are not included in our program. We are well connected with experienced airfare specialists who can offer tailored options to suit your budget, style and airline preferences. They can also suggest and manage extensions to Europe, the Middle East, or stopovers in other parts of Asia. Please contact us for further details.
Our Approach and Style
We take pride in providing personalized attention and insightful, relevant information. This includes recommendations on dining options when meals are not included – ensuring guests enjoy both choice and variety – as well as guidance on purchasing textiles and local crafts. Additionally, we offer in-depth explanations on ethnic minorities and their artistic traditions, alongside thoughtful responses to the many questions our guests bring.
Beyond expert knowledge and immersive hands-on experiences, our journeys feature carefully selected accommodations, enriching sightseeing opportunities, and meaningful encounters with local communities. While we curate exceptional dining experiences, ranging from renowned restaurants to charming local cafés, we also recognize the value of independent exploration. Our itineraries incorporate well-planned periods of free time, allowing guests to rest, explore at their own pace, or simply relax with a coffee.
Past travellers have greatly appreciated our approach, and we trust that you will find it equally rewarding.
Is this Program right for you?
This journey is ideal for those with a passion for crafts and textiles, but its scope extends far beyond, making it equally enriching for anyone with a general interest in Asian history, cuisine and culture. The itinerary includes opportunities for short to moderate walks, so a reasonable level of fitness is beneficial. A useful benchmark being the ability to ascend two flights of stairs unaided. While this is not an outdoor or adventure-focused tour, a spirit of curiosity and adaptability will enhance your experience.
Additional Travel or Optional Add-On
Extra nights can be reserved, either pre or post‐tour in Seoul. Please advise us of your preferences well in advance.
Reservations
Questions? Contact us or email either robert@intenttravel.com.au, or christine@intenttravel.com.au with any questions you may have.
To secure your place, please email your intention to join our Korea exploration. You will then receive a reservation form to complete. Your option is held for seven days secured by receipt of a non-refundable deposit of $750 per person. Deposit is refunded if minimum numbers are not reached.
“The Paperwork”
Your deposit will be acknowledged. We keep you informed as to the status of bookings and advise you when minimum numbers are reached. Then, we send you a confirmation kit and invoice. Now is the time to start booking international flights and other travel arrangements. Final payment is due 60-days prior departure. When our group is complete and after final payment, travel documents will be sent out. Then it is only a short time before your wonderful journey begins!
Your Acclaimed Tour Concierge: Christine Pearson
With over 45 years of travel experience, spanning more than 70 countries, Christine knows the ins and outs of every journey. Whether it’s packing for an adventure, navigating local markets, tending to a sick guest, or unearthing a hidden café, Christine’s got it all covered. Along with her husband, Robert Fletcher, she founded Intentionally Different Travel, crafting journeys to unique destinations for those seeking something a little off the beaten path.
Christine’s passion for arts and crafts, especially textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and folk art, drives her explorations, and her extensive knowledge is shared with guests who are eager to learn. Holding a BVA from the Australian National University (ANU), her love of culture and creativity ensures that every trip is not just an adventure but an immersive experience.
Together with our fantastic local guides and drivers, Christine makes sure every aspect of your journey is seamless and tailored to your interests. She’s the expert at discovering hidden gems—those quirky cafés, back-alley markets, and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of the places you visit. With Christine, your travels are bound to be nothing short of extraordinary!