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See 명소Jongno 종로

Changdeokgung, the palace where Joseon kings actually lived

Self-paid. The blogger paid for this visit.

A UNESCO World Heritage palace in central Seoul where Joseon kings ruled for about 270 years. Wear hanbok and you get in free, and the main throne hall still has its early 1900s electric chandeliers.

이 더위의 보약같은 공간인가?

A tonic for the heat, literally.

찌요이 in the original post

Is it for you?

Go forIt feels quieter and less polished than Gyeongbokgung, with unpainted gates like Jangnakmun next to grand halls. Inside Injeongjeon, Western chandeliers from the Korean Empire era hang over the traditional throne room. The old royal pharmacy (yakbang) is now an air-conditioned rest stop with free Korean tea tasting.
Skip ifYou hate heat and sun. There is little shade in the main courtyards in summer. The Secret Garden needs a separate guided tour ticket, so plan ahead if that is why you are going.

Good to know

  • Buy the Secret Garden ticket at the same time as your palace ticket. It is a guided tour only, and you cannot enter on your own.
  • Lockers are next to the entrance, so you can leave bags or a suitcase.
  • Closed Mondays. Last entry is one hour before closing.
  • In summer, bring a hat and sun umbrella. The yakbang building is air-conditioned and a good place to cool down.
  • Changgyeonggung Palace is right next door if you want more.

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