InterContinental Grand Seoul Parnas

Explore the small alley of Bukchon. Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Villge is home to hundreds of traditional houses, called hanok, that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The name Bukchon, which literally translates to "northern village" came about as the neighborhood lies north of two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural center, guesthouses, restaurants and tea houses, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse themselves in traditional korean culture.

Walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream. Cheonggyecheon is an 11km long modern stream that runs through downtown Seoul. Created as part of an urban renewal project, Cheonggyecheon is a restoration of the stream that was once there before during the Joseon Dynasty. The stream was covered with an elevated highway after the Korean War, as part of the country's post-war economic development. Then in 2003, the elevated highway was removed to restore the stream to its present form today. The stream starts from Cheonggye Plaza, a popular cultural arts venue, and passes under a total of 22 bridges before flowing into the Hangang river, with many attractions along its length.

Try the local food at Gwangjang Market in the heart of Seoul. Bindaettok is another variety of Korean pancake and is mainly made with soy beans and you may eat it together with the onion they serve and with a bowl of Korean rice wine. Walk around Gwangjang Market that is renowned for its quality silk goods, linen bedding and handmade goods. Many of the stores in the area even have their own factories supplying fabrics to the Namdaemun Market, Pyoung Hwa Market, and even to some department stores. Even though the goods are not brand name products, the wide selection of high quality goods at inexpensive prices makes it an enjoyable shopping experience.