The ship provided a shuttle service from the port to Incheon where we caught the metro to the city center.
We were surprised to see so many young people dressed in a national style costume and enjoying photo ops at the first stop on our itinerary – Gwanghwamun gate – but then learned that the costumes are rented at a nearby shop!
The palace was closed, but we walked the perimeter and to the rear of the enclosed grounds to see The Blue House, Korea’s equivalent to the White House. There appeared to be a high level of secret service types, so don’t know if some dignitary was expected?
We enjoyed strolling the narrow streets and alleys of Bukchon-Hanok – a village like atmosphere within the city, with quaint and small homes and businesses. 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. Hanok relates to the small houses.
These sweet delicacies are made by blending honey and cornstarch to make the threads and then filled with a nut mixture. Fascinating to watch!
Lunch called for traditional bulgogi (beef in a broth) and VERY spicy pork and noodles.
These were the side dishes.
Me rocking the chopsticks and Kimchee!
Cheonggyecheon Stream runs for 6 km through the city center and makes for a nice, tranquil walking space.
Tiles tell Korean history along the walkway.
