Gyeongbokgung
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Gyeongbokgung Palace - by Sam Dan Truong on Unsplash





Description
Gyeongbokgung (경복궁) or Gyeongbok Palace was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, construction started at the end of the 14th century but the complex was burnt 200 years later during the Japanese invasions. It was only reconstructed in 1867 but the Imperial family had to leave in 1895 and 40% of the over 300 buildings have so far been restored. The main structures include (among others) the walls and several gates such as Gwanghwamun (the largest one) and Heungnyemun, the Gyeonghoeru (Royal Banquet Hall) and Hyangwonjeong pavilions, the Throne Hall, and the Jagyeongjeon Hall.
Access & Transport
The palace is in the Jongno district and the namesake Gyeongbokgung station (line 3) is at the southeast corner of the complex with bus options along the eastern and western edges as well.
Instructions & Recommendations
There are free guided tours scheduled at various times of day in English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese or Bahasa Indonesia (info available on the website under Visitor Information section). The National Palace Museum of Korea, Cheonggyecheon, and the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History are all a few mins walk away from the palace.
Environmental & Social
Low carbon footprint. Part of the country's architectural and historical heritages
Conclusion
Gyeongbokgung is core to the history of Seoul and the country and also happens to be extremely impressive by its sheer scale. Not the height or artistic refinement but still an attraction that we would recommend be included in the itinerary of everybody's first visit to the city.
Key positive
Visually stunning gates
Enjoyable gardens and gorgeous Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
Centrally located and cheap admission fee
Key negative
Not that much to see within the buildings
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility although not every building has a ramp access
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:2h 15m
Start of Season 1:Mar, 01
MONDAY09:00 - 18:00
TUESDAY -
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY09:00 - 18:00
FRIDAY09:00 - 18:00
SATURDAY09:00 - 18:00
SUNDAY09:00 - 18:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 01
MONDAY09:00 - 17:00
TUESDAY -
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 17:00
THURSDAY09:00 - 17:00
FRIDAY09:00 - 17:00
SATURDAY09:00 - 17:00
SUNDAY09:00 - 17:00