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Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul

TOUR REVIEW

경복궁

Gyeongbokgung Palace, the first Joseon palace,
is ideal for those who are interested in Korean history,
want to experience walking around Korean palaces in a Hanbok or take pictures at local tourist spots.

Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the first destinations that comes to mind when considering historic buildings located in Seoul. The four remaining Joseon palaces in Seoul include Changdeokgung Palace, Changgyeonggung Palace, Deoksugung Palace and Gyeongbokgung Palace, which was the first historic palace that was built and it is one of the most symbolic landmarks of the Joseon Dynasty.

Gyeongbokgung Palace captivates the hearts of its visitors throughout all the different seasons starting with the first bloom of spring, on to the lush summer and clear autumn, all the way until the snowfall in winter. It is open for night-viewing during certain periods every year besides the regular viewing times so make sure to check the schedule before planning your trip.

경복궁

Important information to review before visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace!

• Questions: Tourist Information Center (Questions about Seoul tour) 02-738-9171
• Homepage: Gyeongbokgung Palace http://www.royalpalace.go.kr
• Address: 161. Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
• Closed on Tuesdays
• Admission [Foreigners]
– Adults (19~64) 3,000 won/ 2,400 won (group with 10 people or more)
– Children (7~18) 1,500 won / 1,200 won (group with 10 people or more)
※ Free: Children the age of 6 and under as well as seniors aged 65 and above, visitors who wear Hanbok, the last Wednesday of every month (Cultural day) etc.

Photo Spot 1. Gwanghwamun Gate

광화문

The gate that guards the front entrance of Gyeongbokgung Palace is called Gwanghwamun.
You can see the royal guard changing ceremony at the gate in the middle of Gwanghwamun.

Photo Spot 2. Gyeonghoeru

경회루

Gyeonghoeru is considered to be the most beautiful spot in the Gyeongbokgung Palace and it is the most popular photo spot for visitors.
Bukaksan and Inwangsan beautifully frame Gyeonghoeru, and the view from the inside is regarded as a hidden gem.
In 1412 during King Taejong’s reign, the pavilion was built by digging a pond around it to improve the wetness of the western part of Gyeongbokgung Palace and he called it “Gyeonghoeru” to represent the meeting of a king and his servants. At first, it was created to entertain foreign ambassadors, but later it was used to held banquets and military service examinations for the king and his servants thus staying true to its name.
Gyeonghoeru still sits proudly on top of its peaceful pond and welcomes all those who come to admire its beauty during various seasons such as spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Photo Spot 3. Hyangwonjeong

향원정

Hyangwonjeong is believed to have been built between 1867 and 1873 on a wide area northwest of Gyeonghoeru.
This hexagonal pavilion was built on a small island called Hyangwonji and it was used as a place where kings and their families could rest.
The six-sided space includes hexagonal foundation stones, floor plans, and a hexagonal roof that are all proportionate. It has received high praise for its historic, artistic, and architectural advances.

Tip. Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Tour

경복궁 야간투어

Hyangwonjeong is believed to have been built between 1867 and 1873 on a wide area northwest of Gyeonghoeru.
This hexagonal pavilion was built on a small island called Hyangwonji and it was used as a place where kings and their families could rest.
The six-sided space includes hexagonal foundation stones, floor plans, and a hexagonal roof that are all proportionate. It has received high praise for its historic, artistic, and architectural advances.

Nearby food

1. King’s food, Uebok Tray [Nampo Myeonok jade]
2. Visit Samcheong-dong after Gyeongbokgung Palace and get some hot Sujebi (clear soup with dumplings)! [Samcheong-dong Sujebi]

Reviews

– Must-see sight in Seoul!
– Great place for sightseeing with friends, family, or as a couple
– Historical site where you can experience traditional Korean culture.

Visit in Korea with WOULD U COOK