📍 Welcome to the Travel Korea series!
This blog series introduces must-visit
destinations across South Korea. In our first post, we’re
heading to the heart of Seoul—Gyeongbokgung
Palace, the most iconic and historically significant palace in Korea.
🏯 What
is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung
was the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Its name means “Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven.” Destroyed
and restored multiple times over the centuries, it stands today as a proud
symbol of Korea’s royal heritage.
Inside, you’ll
find:
- Majestic architecture with colorful roofs
- Tranquil lotus ponds and gardens
- National museums
- Daily Royal Guard Changing Ceremonies
It’s the perfect
blend of history, beauty, and culture.
📍
Location
161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South
Korea
🚇 How to
Get There
- Subway: Take Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung
Station → Exit 5.
- Bus: Use local buses to Gyeongbokgung or Gwanghwamun stops.
💰
Admission Fees
- Adults (ages 19–64): ₩3,000
- Youth (ages 7–18): ₩1,500
- Children (under 6) / Seniors (65+): Free
- Free Entry if you wear a
hanbok (traditional Korean dress)!
🕐
Opening Hours
- 09:00–18:00 (Last
admission: 17:00)
- Closed on Tuesdays
🎯 Top
Things to Do
- Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
Every hour from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the main gate. - Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
A lakeside banquet hall used by kings—great for photography. - Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
A peaceful garden island within the palace walls. - National Palace Museum & Folk Museum
Learn about Korean traditions, kings, and everyday life during Joseon. - Wear a Hanbok
Hanbok rentals nearby cost about ₩10,000–₩20,000, and let you enter for free!
🍽️ Where
to Eat Nearby
☀️ Breakfast Spots:
- Tartine Bakery Seoul (Gwanghwamun)
American-style café with buttery pastries and good coffee.
[5 mins walk] - Café Mamas
Known for fresh ricotta salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.
[7 mins by foot]
🍜 Lunch
Recommendations:
- Tosokchon Samgyetang
Famous ginseng chicken soup (samgyetang). Rich and hearty.
Very popular—go early to avoid lines!
[Located 3–4 mins walk from the palace] - Baeknyeon Tojong Samgyetang
A quieter alternative offering equally delicious samgyetang. - Gogung (Insadong)
Famous for traditional bibimbap—a well-balanced Korean dish.
[10 mins walk]
🍖 Dinner
Options:
- Maple Tree House
Upscale Korean BBQ with excellent beef and attentive service.
Great for groups and evening dining.
[10 mins walk] - Jinokhwa Halmae Dakkhanmari
Spicy chicken hotpot—local favorite with a communal feel.
Located in nearby Dongdaemun (15 min by taxi). - Insadong Yetchatjip (Traditional Tea House)
For dessert or a calm tea-time experience with hanok ambiance.
🏨 Hotel
Recommendations Nearby
1. Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun
- 4-star hotel with modern amenities, breakfast, and a central
location.
- Walkable to the palace (~7 mins)
- Approx. ₩120,000–₩180,000 per night
2. Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong
- Excellent value hotel with hanok-style touches, near shopping
& dining.
- Ideal for travelers who want comfort and convenience.
- Approx. ₩100,000–₩150,000 per night
📸
Photography Tips
- Arrive early (before 10 AM) for the best lighting and fewer
crowds.
- Bring a wide-angle lens for full gate and pavilion shots.
- If wearing a hanbok, consider booking a photo session for
keepsakes.
📝 Final
Tips for Visitors
- Tuesdays: Closed! Plan accordingly.
- Bring water and sun protection in warmer months.
- Restrooms and maps are available at the entrance.
- Combine this visit with Bukchon Hanok Village or Gwanghwamun
Square for a full day experience.
Thanks for joining us on our first stop in
the Travel Korea series!
Next, we’ll head to another cultural gem. Stay tuned! 🇰🇷✨
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