Tucked into the modern metropolitan there are 5 ancient palaces scattered through Seoul. Walking through the gates is a step back in time, a needed reprieve from the bustle outside the walls. Each palace has their own individual character and charm, and it’s up to the visitor to choose where to go. The dichotomy between old and new makes this a must-do on any itinerary.
Gyeongbokgung palace – The Biggest
The ‘Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven’ is a pretty big claim, but this was no let down. Spanning over 100 acers in metro Seoul, with Bukhansan national park outlining the horizon, this is the definition of impressive. Built at the end of the 14th century, this was the main residence for the royals during the Josan dynasty. Which remained a stronghold until a fire during the Imjin war (1592) destroyed it. All 7000+ rooms in Gyeongbokgung palace were restored in the 19th century by Prince Regent Heungseon, only to be partially destroyed again by the Japanese occupation. Now the palace is continuously undergoing restoration, to return to its former glory.
We entered through the main gate, which was very busy in chilly November. Then started our little adventure with nothing more than a map and our phones at the ready for any picture-perfect moment. There were sections of the Palace that were more crowded than others. But seeing as the grounds are so large, there were places where we were completely alone. Do not rush this experience. Instead, get lost within the walls to gain an appreciation for the grandiosity and the intricate details of Korean architecture. If you only have enough time to visit one of the 5, this is it!
- Train: Get off at Gyeongbokgung Station, on the Orange line.
- Opening times: Closed Tuesdays. Nov-Feb 9-5pm. Mar-May 9-6pm. Jun-Aug 9-6:30pm. Sep-Oct 9-6pm and 7-9:30pm, with last admission 1h before close.
- Cost: ₩3,000 ($3.30AUD) free for visitors in Hanbok
- Visit the government website here.
Deoksugung Palace – Small and Mighty
Deoksugung Palace was initially built as a temporary residence for the emperor in 1592, as all the other palaces were burned down during the Imjin war. Over the centuries emperors have built additions to the little palace, which resulted in its unique amalgamation of architecture styles. King Gojong was the last royal to call this palace home. His renovation left the building three times the original size, to now span over 15 acres. Gojong continued living in the palace after his abdication during the Japanese occupation in Korea in the early 20th century. The name Deoksugung honors the emperor’s virtue and longevity.
This palace is located centrally to the tourist district in Seoul and is very easy to get to. The grounds are easy to navigate and walk around, and there are interesting areas to discover throughout. If you are lucky enough to get the chance to visit in autumn like we did, the gardens are as spectacular as the buildings. There is a coffee shop within the palace grounds with seating overlooking a pond, take time to relax here and maybe chat to some friendly locals. Visiting Deoksugung is the perfect way to spend an hour or two while planning a short Seoul trip.
Note: there is a superstition that if a couple walks past the stone wall road they will break up. So stay clear! Click here to learn more.
- Train: City Hall station, green and dark blue lines.
- Opening times: Closed Mondays, 9am-9pm last admission at 8pm.
- Cost: ₩1,000 ($1.10AUD), free if you are wearing Hanbok
- Visit the government website here.