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Gwangju City Tour : History and Art (Private)
Gwangju City Tour : History and Art (Private)
Gwangju City Full Day Small Group Tour
Gwangju City Tour : History and Art (Private)
Gwangju City Full Day Small Group Tour

Gwangju City Tour : History and Art (Private)

By Tasty Trails Korea
10 out of 10
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Overview

Gwangju is a vibrant tapestry of historic significance, creative art culture, and culinary delights. Known as the “City of Light,” Gwangju has been a beacon of democracy in Korea's contemporary history. Today, it has transformed into a cultural and artistic hub, with landmarks such as the Gwangju Biennale and the Asia Culture Centre celebrating the spirit of the May 18 Democratic Uprising. As you explore the city, you'll hear the stories of this pivotal event, experience the spirit of solidarity and sharing among Gwangju's citizens, and savour the local cuisine. You can also enjoy a moment of tranquility while taking in the serene view of Mt. Mudeunsan, the beloved “motherly mountain” of the Gwangju citizens. By the end of your visit, you'll gain a fresh perspective on Gwangju.

Activity location

  • Asia Culture Center
    • 38, Munhwajeondang-ro, Dong-gu
    • 61485, Gwangju, South Korea

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Asia Culture Center
    • 38, Munhwajeondang-ro, Dong-gu
    • 61485, Gwangju, South Korea

Check availability

Sorry this activity isn't available on Thu, 24 Apr
Please choose a different date

What's included, what's not

  • What's includedWhat's includedPrivate transport
  • What's includedWhat's includedCoffee or Tea in a Cafe
  • What's includedWhat's includedAll Fees and Taxes
  • What's excludedWhat's excludedLunch

Know before you book

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transport options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Asia Culture Center
  • 1h
The Asia Culture Centre (ACC) is a vibrant hub for Asian art and cultural exchange. Built on the historic site of the May 18 Democratic Uprising, the complex is designed to honour and reflect the spirit of democracy. The ACC hosts interactive exhibitions, performances, educational programmes, and various events throughout the year. Featuring a modern library and an urban park, it provides an open, relaxing space for the public to enjoy and engage with the arts.
5.18 Archives
  • 1h
The May 18 Archives, established in 2015, is dedicated to collecting and preserving historical records of the May 18 Democratic Uprising. The facility features permanent exhibition rooms that detail the events that unfolded in Gwangju from May 18 to 27, 1980. The records of the May 18 Uprising were inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register in 2011.
Jeonil Building 245
  • 45m
This site is another significant location related to the May 18 Democratic Uprising, marked by evidence of helicopter strafing. The memorial hall and the building exterior preserves 245 bullet marks as a testament to the events of that time. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the city and Mt. Mudeungsan from the rooftop garden.
Gwangju
  • 1h 20m
< Lunch Time > Gwangju is famous for its delicious food and generous portions. We recommend three popular dishes from the area. You can select your preferred dish and pay on the spot: 1. Gwangju Yukjeon – Panfried slices of beef, cooked right at your table. (36,000 won) 2. Tteokgalbi – Finely chopped pork patties served with a variety of side dishes (24,000 won) 3. Korean Temple Cuisine Buffet (Vegetarian) – A variety of vegan dishes prepared by Buddhist monks. (8,000 won)
Wonhyosa
  • 2h 10m
Wonhyosa Temple is dedicated to the teachings of Wonhyo, a revered Korean Buddhist monk and scholar from the Silla Dynasty. His contributions to Korean Buddhism are highly regarded, and the temple reflects his influence. The temple's location on Mt. Mudeungsan adds to its charm. Mudeungsan, often referred to as the "motherly mountain" by Gwangju citizens, is not only a national park but also a UNESCO Global Geopark. The pavilion at this temple offers panoramic views of Mt. Mudeungsan and provides a serene setting for visitors to appreciate the natural beauty while reflecting on the teachings of Wonhyo.
Yangnim-dong History & Culture Village
  • 30m
< Penguin Village > Following the penguin-shaped signage and entering the narrow alley, visitors will discover a village from the 1970s and 1980s that has been transformed into an outdoor exhibition space. The villagers have cleaned up burned and abandoned houses and repurposed discarded items as exhibits on the walls. One wall bears the inscription, “Let’s be thankful that we lived in those days.” As part of Yangnim-dong Modern History and Culture Village, this area also serves as an art village with murals and antique collections. Despite the name, the village has no penguins. So why is it called Penguin Village?
Yangnim-dong History & Culture Village
  • 1h 15m
With its blend of modern architectural buildings and a forest of trees over 100 years old, Yangnim-dong serves as a living museum of history, architecture, culture, and art. At the beginning of the 20th century, missionaries from the Southern Presbyterian Church in the USA settled in the area to spread Christianity and played a key role in advancing medicine and education in Gwangju. This historical influence is reflected in the neighborhood's elegant mix of Western architectural styles and traditional Korean houses. Yangnim-dong is also known for its vibrant art galleries and charming coffee shops.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIESAsia Culture Center
    • 38, Munhwajeondang-ro, Dong-gu
    • 61485, Gwangju, South Korea

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLEAsia Culture Center
    • 38, Munhwajeondang-ro, Dong-gu
    • 61485, Gwangju, South Korea

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