I can still see myself mesmerizing the beautiful landscape in Oman, the infinity view of rocky mountains and pristine beaches are an ultimate travel goal that everyone needs to list it down immediately on their checklist. After the amazing journey and adventures, I had in the Middle East, I move my way North East to the 'Kimchi Land' at South Korea, Seoul.
Seoul is the heart of Seoul City which is known for its metropolitan city vibe yet preserving the rural ancient rich historical sites within the city. This wonderful city has everything you need from the vibrant city life, exotic cuisines, rural and peaceful exploration sites to the rich historical monuments make it a perfect spot for wanderlust to explore and create their own unique adventure here in Seoul.
Besides the numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Seoul like the Changdeok Palace, Shrines and etc, Seoul has more to offer. When the sun goes down, the night has just started with the lively downtown nightlife where the streets are illuminated and filled with music, pop dancing and also for the amazing cuisine you'll find here all across Seoul. With all that said, Seoul is definitely a spot that suits all ages of traveler. Regardless if you're a food lover, nature enthusiasts, or historic maniac, this city will definitely leave you in awe.
In this South Korea travel series, I am going to start by bringing on a journey with me to the World's renowned Palace in Seoul, the Gyeongbokgung Palace which is the largest remain palace in all of Seoul.
Built in about three centuries ago, this palace is located at the furthest North in Seoul comparing to the other remain palaces. With this fact, this palace is widely recognized by the World as the Northern Palace besides its original name of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Although every palace possesses its own unique charms, it is arguable that this palace is the most enthralling palace due to its alluring architecture and outlook. Also, did I mention that this palace is the biggest palace among the other first famous palaces like Deoksugung, Changdeokgung, and etc. So, you definitely don't need to squeeze among tourists to get a clear shot of the palace.
Even though this palace was restored after the Imjin War, the authentic architecture and foundation of the building are very well preserved. In this palace, you'll come across different magnificent looking gates, pavilions, crown hall and also a throne hall where it the King Chair is placed for centuries ago, untouched.
One of the main attraction here in all of the palaces are the guard changing ceremony. This is a ceremony where the royal guard's sentries and patrol around the palace with the traditional authentic Korean uniforms, weapons and flags to indicate the district and area of patrolling. This rarely seen ceremony takes place every day except on a Tuesday and when the weather is bad, at the palace to showcase some of the Korean ancient history and tradition. The vibrant colored uniforms and the majestic actions performed by the guards is totally an activity that you wouldn't want to miss when visiting this palace. As crowded as it could get, I am pretty sure you'll find yourself a good spot to catch the parade if you're there early.
As for the ticket, it is priced at three-thousand won per entry, but it's recommended for you to get a booklet ticket of all the other five palaces for ten thousand won. After passing the main gate, we now entered the Oejeon which is the outer court of the palace.
Soon, we noticed a traditional Korean Drum is being displayed. In Korean culture, these drums are heavily impacted on their traditional music especially to a royal. These drums are widely used during the ancient time and as of present to celebrate a special occasion as a part of their cultural heritage. We were actually very lucky to have come across so many interesting facts about Korea since it was a Korean traditional festival going on throughout the country.
At the courtyard, there were several cultural booths set up mainly to display the history of this palace, volunteer tour guide giving out bits of advice and free tours around this massive palace. While everything seems to be interesting, but I am so fascinated by this beautiful looking traditional door curtains that are inspired by nature.
On the West side of the Palace, you'll find the museum displaying a plethora of relics remains from the Joseon Dynasty. Within this two-hectare property, you'll discover a diversity information displayed ranging from the paintings, royal's life, ancient architectures, and sciences. If you're an explorer and lover of history, you'll definitely find yourself lost in time over here.
During the ancient times, a royal seal was used to officiate a letter or an important document. Similar to the Chinese culture, Korean has their unique royal seal that resembles the superiority of the King and its legitimacy. The reason behind the use of Jed seal in Korea is highly influenced during the Tang dynasty where Kings received these Jeds by Chinese Emporers. However, the use of these seals was then abandoned as to represent a new era of the country.
Just if you're wondering how this palace was once used by the royals, this museum definitely had you covered. A full layout of the palace from the main gates, to the courtyard to the main hall, everything is laid out in a map perfectly for you to navigate.
One of the highlights of this museum is the water clock. This museum plaid out the plan and the structure perfectly with its mechanism projected virtually and physically through a real model. The automated striking water clock has a long history in Korean culture and is widely used by recognizing the time through different sounds like drum, bell and a gong. This mechanism work in a manner where water flows at a specific speed through different vessels that create a force to trigger an impact to the instruments. If you're ever there, be sure to check it out as it's one of the best scientific remains.
This is the main focus of the whole palace, the 'Throne Hall'. If you're a Korean movies junkie, you've probably sensed a familiarity of this spot. Gyeongbokgung Palace is a filming site for many Korean dramas where it's not a surprise that this throne is looking familiar to you. After seeing this, I am more than sure you'll proudly telling your friend that you've been to the place where your favorite K-drama was filmed. Do take note that it's an extremely crowded spot where you need squeeze through the crowd to catch a glimpse of the throne chair.
It would be a lie if I tell you that this palace is just a touristy place that you need to avoid. As much as I hate going to crowded places or any other touristy places, I totally adore this palace simply because of the natural beauty. Without any excessive decorations and renovations, it's beautiful the way it is and I love the gardens the most. Every part and every corner you go, you'll definitely find your own peace despite the buzzing people wandering around to take photos with 'Hanbok'. Well, I guess that's a part of its beauty.
Also, the authorities never fail to surprise you with different Korean arts like this shiny spherical balls that you can see from far.
If you're tired from exploring around the palace, find yourself a seat by the pine trees, sniffing up the scent of butterscotch and vanilla from the trees, immerse yourself with the picturesque scenery. You'll be thankful to know the world just so perfect and beautiful the way it is without any artificial accessories.
If you like, stop by at any spot at the gardens or by the lake for some photographs for memories. Also, you'll easily enhance your photo collection to your Instagram profile. Overall, I really do love this palace as for its architectures, rich history and if it wasn't that crowded, I would have rated it to be the best palaces I ever visited.
Here are a few tips you should take note;
- Try to visit this palace during the day and be as early as possible to skip the crowd.
- If you're already wearing a Korean traditional attire (Hanbok), you do not need to purchase a ticket to enter the palace.
- The price for renting the attire for a day is about 28k Korean Won and the minimum hours to rent is at least 4 hours, but it also depends on the shop.
- Check out the shops close to the palace as there are plenty of Hanbok for rent.
Check out some of my recent posts at the links below:
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Travel Blog 41: Exploring Mud-Village, Misfat Al Abreyeen in Oman
Travel Blog 39: Explore Downtown Dubai & The Tallest Tower In The World With Me
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Travel Blog 38: Travel With Me To World's Famous Landmark in Abu Dhabi
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!steemitworldmap 37.5796 lat 126.9770 long First Time in Seoul,South Korea [ Gyeongbokgung Palace & National Palace Museum] d3scr