SEOUL PALACE TOUR

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 SEOUL PALACE TOUR

With over 500 years of Joseon Dynasty history, Seoul’s royal palaces offer a unique glimpse into Korea’s past. Each palace has its own story, beauty, and charm—from grand halls and tranquil gardens to ancient rituals still preserved today. Let’s take a peaceful stroll through time and explore these stunning historical landmarks.

 



GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE (경복궁)

  • Largest palace from the Joseon Dynasty, built in 1395
  • Explore: Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, Hyangwonjeong Pond
  • Nearby: National Palace Museum of Korea, National Folk Museum
  • Access: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5
  • Hours: 09:00–18:00 (Closed Tue)
  • Admission: ₩3,000 (Free for hanbok wearers)
  • ☎ +82-2-3700-3901 | nfm.go.kr

·         Gyeongbokgung is the first and largest royal palace built during the Joseon Dynasty, dating back to 1395. It was the heart of royal life and remains one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul. You’ll find elegant pavilions, serene ponds, and impressive architecture, including Geunjeongjeon Hall and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion. Nearby, you can also visit the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum for a deeper dive into royal culture and lifestyle.

 


DEOKSUGUNG PALACE (덕수궁)

  • Known for the Royal Changing of the Guard Ceremony
  • Only palace with Western-style building and fountain
  • Address: Sejong-daero, Jung-gu
  • Access: City Hall Station (Lines 1 & 2), Exit 2
  • Hours: 09:00–21:00 (Closed Mon)
  • Admission: ₩1,000
  • ☎ +82-2-771-9951 | deoksugung.go.kr

·         Deoksugung is a charming mix of traditional Korean architecture and Western-style buildings—a rare combination. Located in the heart of the city, it features a lovely fountain, scenic stone walls, and Korea’s only palace with a modern European-style building. Don’t miss the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, held daily at the front gate. A walk along Deoksugung’s stone wall path offers a different atmosphere in each season, making it perfect for peaceful strolls year-round.



CHANGDEOKGUNG PALACE (창덕궁)

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Secret Garden (separate ticket, guided tours only)
  • Built in 1405, one of the most original and well-preserved palaces
  • Address: Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu
  • Access: Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 3
  • Hours: 09:00–17:30 (Closed Mon)
  • Admission: ₩3,000 / Secret Garden ₩5,000 (reservation required)
  • ☎ +82-2-3668-2300 | cdg.go.kr

·         This UNESCO World Heritage Site is beloved for its natural beauty and harmony with the landscape. Built in 1405, Changdeokgung was a favorite among Joseon kings. The highlight is the Secret Garden, which requires a guided tour reservation and offers one of the most serene and picturesque spots in Seoul. It’s a place where you can feel the passage of time as you walk through quiet paths and hidden courtyards.



CHANGGYEONGGUNG PALACE (창경궁)

  • Built by King Seongjong for royal family women
  • Connected to Changdeokgung
  • Includes Korea’s first Western-style greenhouse
  • Address: Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu
  • Access: Hyehwa Station (Line 4), Exit 4
  • Hours: 09:00–21:00 (Closed Mon)
  • Admission: ₩1,000
  • ☎ +82-2-762-4868

·         Built by King Seongjong for the women of the royal family, Changgyeonggung is connected to Changdeokgung and offers a warm and peaceful atmosphere. It was home to queens, crown princesses, and royal concubines. The palace also includes Korea’s first Western-style greenhouse, built in 1909. With its delicate architecture and seasonal beauty, this palace is a hidden gem for those seeking calm and history in one place.



GYEONGHUIGUNG PALACE (경희궁)

  • The smallest of the five grand palaces
  • Built as a secondary palace, later mostly destroyed during Japanese occupation
  • Access: Seodaemun Station (Line 5), Exit 4
  • Admission: Free
  • ☎ +82-2-724-0274

·         Gyeonghuigung is the smallest of the five main palaces but carries a quiet charm. Originally built as a secondary palace for the king to retreat to, much of it was lost during the Japanese occupation. Today, some parts have been restored, allowing visitors to reflect on a less-known chapter of royal life in Korea. It's a tranquil spot to explore, away from the city crowds.



JONGMYO SHRINE (종묘)

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site, listed in 1995
  • Royal ancestral rituals held annually in May
  • Oldest royal Confucian shrine in Korea (built in 1464)
  • Address: Jongno 3-ga, Jongno-gu
  • Access: Jongno 3-ga Station (Lines 1, 3, 5), Exit 11
  • Hours: 09:00–18:00 (Closed Tue)
  • Admission: ₩1,000 (guided tours required, except Sat)
  • ☎ +82-2-765-0195 | jm.cha.go.kr

·         Jongmyo is a sacred place where memorial rites are performed for the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, it is home to the Jongmyo Jerye, a royal ancestral ritual held every May. Established in 1464, Jongmyo is considered one of Korea’s most treasured cultural sites and a masterpiece of Confucian tradition and intangible heritage.

📌 SPECIAL TIP: Hanbok Experience

  • Free admission if you wear a hanbok to any palace!
  • Hanbok rentals available near palaces — great way to enjoy tradition and take photos

·         Did you know? If you wear a hanbok—Korea’s traditional outfit—your entry to most palaces is free! There are many rental shops near the palaces, making it easy to dress up and fully enjoy the historical atmosphere. Put on a hanbok, walk through the palace gates, and feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the Joseon era.