Private tour in Seoul Jay J

Explore Traditional Seoul - Highlights Full Day Tour

4.9

(55) reviews

-
Hours icon 7 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 7 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Jay J.

4.8

Guide rating

257

Reviews

Tours delivered

2 hrs

Avg. response time

I've been working with ToursByLocals since 2010 and I'm proud of first authorized guide and Koreatourplanner in Korea. I'm not only a local culture expert but also a knowledgeable tour specialist who has been worked for tourism industry for more than 30years with an English speaking guide license issued by Korea National Tourism Organization. Every tour is privately guided, customized, unique and highly personalized insights into Korea's many attractions. My fully guided and intimate experiences ensure you a worry free experience. I am willing to lead tours ranging from day trips around Seoul that can include transportation to and from Incheon airport, to extended trips to Korea's famous Mt. Seorak National Park, the East Sea, historic Gyeongju, Busan, Jeju island and off the beaten path. I believe that my tours should benefit the local people and their environments and I strive to ensure that the local culture and communities form an integral part of my trips. I am proud of being a guide in Korea so you will enjoy private tours of Korea with me. I can customize any kind of multi day tours that fit your interests. Don't hesitate to click 'Ask a question' button below. :) *To note: I'm registered general travel agency having official guide license to cover all of Korea under KNTO ( Korea National Tourism Organization ) **AVAILABILITY: I am very busy doing tours, therefore my CALENDER IS NOT UPDATED. Please contact me and I will reply within 8hours! - English tour guide license (Issued by Korea National Tourism Organization, 1993) - Official member of Korea national tour guide association (KOTGA) - Traveled over 100 countries - 30 years experience in tourism industry - Drive accident-free for 30years - Koreatourplanner since 2013

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Jay J.

Overview of your Seoul tour

Did you know the information on the internet cannot represent the reality of Seoul? For example, you may see many tours including Namdaemun Market, but Namdaemun Market has lost its original atmosphere and changed into a modern market. So, I gladly introduce our tour that is characterized by 1) Traditional Korea 2) The real life of Korean people. 3) Bring alive Seoul life 4) Yummy authentic food recommendation You can explore the essence of Seoul with a truebred Seoulite. Don't rely on your guidebook - ask a local for the best advice!

Recent Reviews

Barbara H.United States
November 2025

Jay provided an enjoyable and informative 7-hour tour that exceeded our expectations. He was attentive to our needs, proactive, and very knowledgeable. In the short time available, Jay did an excellent job of providing us with insight about the culture and people of Seoul. He is friendly, patient, and he speaks English well.

Tracy-Leigh M.United States
November 2025

This was an awesome tour. The itinerary allowed us to enjoy all the highlights of Seoul. Our guide Jay was amazing. He allowed us to personalize the experience (ie: took us to Hanbok rental before touring the palace., let us add the Gangnam district to our tour, waited patiently while the ladies shopped in Insading.) Found a delicious Korean restaurant that could accommodate the various dietary needs & allergies of our group. What a fun day exploring the highlights of Seoul. Highly recommend Jay and this tour!

Anna B.
July 2025

We spent two days with Jay, first to the DMV and Suspension Bridge and then a full day tour of Seoul. We had a great time both days. Jay was knowledgable and shared his information about Korean culture and history very well. He chose two very different restaurants for lunch and used that time to tell us about traditions around family, cooking and holidays. He also helped with tips on what to do on the final day we were on our own. In addition his vehicle was very clean and comfortable. I highly recommend Jay for your time in Seoul!

Kevin M.United States
June 2025

Jay is a master tour guide - knows everywhere (and everybody), accommodates our specific interests (mobility limitations, extra sites we wanted to check out), and drove like he had lived in Seoul his whole life (which he has). Excellent English. Maybe my favorite TBL guide yet.

Benjamin S.United States
May 2025

This day in Seoul was packed with history, culture, and vibrant experiences. Gyeongbokgung Palace was stunning, with blooming plum trees and intricate symbolism throughout the grounds. The guard-changing ceremony added a colorful and lively touch. Lunch at Tosokchon Samgyetang was a delicious cultural experience, and the visit to North Seoul Tower gave breathtaking panoramic views, enhanced by thoughtful eco-conscious touches. Gwangjang Market was a sensory delight, from Netflix-famous dumplings to unique doughnuts. Jogyesa Temple’s lanterns and coaster-making activity added a personal, spiritual touch. The peaceful protests glimpsed at day’s end reminded us of the country’s dynamic present. A truly rich and memorable day.

Caviness D.
April 2025

Jay was a fantastic tour guide for my friends and I visiting Seoul for the first time. He took us to some great sites in the city, and even got us a great seat for the Changing of the Guard ceremony. He also went out of his way to take us to an incredible Korean BBQ restaurant for some Hanwoo beef. I would definitely recommend him!

Your Seoul tour itinerary

Sample itinerary. 09:00 Pick you up at your hotel 09:30 ~ 11:00 Gyeongbokgung Palace or Changdeokgung palace (Changdeokgung is not available every Monday, Gyeongbokgung is not available every Tuesday. ) 11:00 ~ 12:00 Stroll along the alley of Bukchon Hanok Village and experience the style of Korean house and life of Korean people ( Except Sunday ) 12:30 ~ 13:30 Lunch time 13:30 ~ 14:30 Insa-dong culture street and Jogyesa Buddhist temple You may try traditional tea or buy souvenir in Insadong, pedestrian only street. 14:30 ~ 15:30 Gwangjang Market, which is one of few places where keep traditional Korean atmosphere, also well known for Nexflix street chef shooting location. 16: 00 Return to your hotel But you can go anywhere else according to your interest or weather condition (e. g. , Seoul N tower, Namsan mountain, War Memorial, Cheonggyecheon stream ~~)

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Van

Full optioned van suitable for 5adults+2children with 4 large suitcase

What's included
Other: New van, Gas , toll and parking fee Palace tickets
Private Guide
Private Transportation
Tickets: Palace
What's not included
Other: Airport pick up or drop charge ( USD150 one way )
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Seoul, Seoul, South Korea

Your hotel in Seoul

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Off The Beaten Path
Art And Culture
Layover
City Highlights
Tour reference number
17729
Languages
English
Korean
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

4.9

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Seoul best suited for?

This private tour in Seoul is perfect for travellers who want to explore the traditional aspects of the city and experience the real life of Korean people. It's ideal for those who prefer a personalized experience with a local guide, Jay J., who can offer insights beyond what's available in guidebooks. The tour is also kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

Can this private tour in Seoul be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 7 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 7 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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