Must-See Places in Seoul, From Historical to Modern
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a vibrant metropolis where food lovers can indulge in local treats at Gwangjang Market or stroll through the charming streets of Insadong. This city beautifully blends modern skyscrapers with ancient temples and palaces. Additionally, I have compiled a list of essential places to visit in Seoul, ranging from historical and cultural landmarks from the renowned Joseon Dynasty to Jangjongryul's and James von Klemperer's, catering to your travel needs. Continue reading for the best tips on visiting Seoul.
DESTINATION GUIDE
Gyeongbokgung Palace
'Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven,' known as Gyeongbokgung Palace, was the inaugural palace constructed by the founder of the Joseon Dynasty in 1395. Among the palaces including Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung, Gyeongbokgung stands out as the most expansive creation of the Joseon era. To reach Gyeongbokgung, located in the Jongno District and flanked by the stunning Bugaksan and Namsan mountains, you can take subway line 3 and disembark at Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5, or opt for subway line 5 and get off at Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 2. Additionally, several bus routes conveniently stop at the Gyeongbokgung Palace bus stop.
If you seek the timeless allure of Gyeongbokgung adorned with the vibrant reds and yellows of autumn foliage, then the fall months from September to November present an ideal opportunity to delve into the royal heritage, palace life, and architectural wonders of Joseon. Visiting the 'Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven' is akin to embarking on a stylistic journey back to 14th century Korea, immersing yourself in its architectural splendor. The palace's design merges ancient Chinese influences with the traditions of the Joseon dynasty, resulting in a complex and winding structure reminiscent of a labyrinth, yet naturally harmonious. The elegantly curved roofs of the palace buildings have been adapted into gently sloping forms to mitigate the impact of extreme weather conditions.
Visit the palace to discover more about the royal culture of Joseon and the traditional practice of geomancy at the National Palace Museum, as well as the historical living conditions of Koreans at the National Folk Museum of Korea. In addition to enjoying free entry to Gyeongbokgung Palace on last Wednesday of each month, you can gain insights into palace life and capture unforgettable photos at just the right moment. After exploring the royal culture, palace life, and architecture of Gyeongbokgung Palace, you can easily walk to numerous popular attractions in Seoul. There are many trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops located nearby.
Xiwoo Hanok Guesthouse is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 1.9 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Gyeongbok Palace and Gwanghwamun. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels near Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Book Budget-Friendly Hotels near Gyeongbokgung Palace
Mayplace Seoul is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 2.1 km from the city center. Places nearby within 2 km are Namsangol Hanok Village, Gyeongbok Palace and Gwanghwamun. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels near Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Aloft Seoul Myeongdong is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 584 m from the city center. Places nearby within 2 km are Namsangol Hanok Village, Gyeongbok Palace and Gwanghwamun. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels near Gyeongbok Palace.
Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace stands as the second royal villa established after the construction of Gyeongbokgung Palace in 1405. Located in Jongno District of Seoul, South Korea or east of Gyeongbokgung, the palace grounds feature a public palace area, a royal family residence, and a rear garden that is home to a giant tree over 300 years old, a small pond, and a pavilion. To reach the most well-preserved of the five remaining royal Joseon palaces, you can take Subway lines 1, 3, or 5 and get off at Jongno 3-ga Station or Line 3 for Anguk Station. The palace is only a short walk from either of these stations. Additionally, there are several top bus routes that can transport you to the Palace from around Seoul, including the Blue Bus and the Green Bus.
In the past, Changdeokgung Palace featured a modest yet remarkably elegant entrance known as Donhwamun. Unfortunately, the Donhwamun was destroyed by fire during the Japanese invasion, resulting in the loss of the white granite base of the oldest entrance, leaving only the two-story gate structure intact. This contrasts sharply with the design of Gwanghwamun, the primary entrance to the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, which was built with three open arches at ground level. Gwanghwamun was restored to its original form by King Seonjo in 1607. In 1611, Changdeokgung underwent restoration and continues to be home to numerous cultural treasures, including Injeongjeon Hall, Daejojeon Hall, Seonjeongjeon Hall, and Nakseonjae Hall.
Behind the inner hall of Changdeokgung Palace, there exists a "Secret Garden" that was established during the reign of King Taejong, serving as a leisure area for the royal family. Initially referred to as Bugwon and Geumwon, it was renamed Biwon Garden, or Secret Garden, after King Gojong took the throne. The garden was maintained in its natural state, with human involvement kept to a minimum. The garden features many attractions, including Buyongjeong Pavilion, Buyongji Pond, Juhamnu Pavilion, Eosumun Gate, Yeonghwadang Hall, Bullomun Gate, Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, and Yeongyeongdang Hall. The best time to visit the garden is in the fall, when the autumn foliage reaches its peak and the leaves begin to drop. Currently, Changdeokgung is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Xiwoo Hanok Guesthouse is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 1.9 km from the city center. Places nearby within 2 km are Gwanghwamun, Gyeongbok Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and Changdeok Palace. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels near Changdeokgung Palace.
Book Budget-Friendly Hotels near Changdeokgung Palace
Mayplace Seoul is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 2.1 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Gwangjang Traditional Market, Changdeok Palace, Dongdaemun Market, and Ssamji-gil. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels near Changdeok Palace.
Hotel Skypark Kingstown Dongdaemun is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 2.6 km from the city center. Places nearby within 2 km are Gwangjang Traditional Market, Namsangol Hanok Village and Changdeok Palace. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels near Changdeokgung Palace.
Jongmyo Shrine
Jongmyo Shrine is located in the northern section of central Seoul, close to the Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung palaces, specifically at 157, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul. The shrine is positioned on the eastern side of Changdeokgung Palace. Therefore, if you have the chance to explore Changdeokgung Palace for the first time, make sure to also visit Jongmyo Shrine. To get to Jongmyo Shrine, you can take Subway Line 1 to Jongno-3-ga Station at Exit 11, or Subway Line 3 or 5 to Jongno-3-ga Station at Exit 8. Alternatively, you can opt for the bus, as multiple bus routes stop at the Jongmyo Shrine bus stop. The entrance to Jongmyo Shrine features gentle ramps, and the main entryway consists of flat arch stones, ensuring accessibility for wheelchair users. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent.
The structures of Jongmyo Shrine are nestled in valleys and encircled by gentle hills, with man-made enhancements added to maintain the equilibrium of natural elements, following the traditional pungsu principles or a geomancy system aimed at fostering harmony between people and their surroundings. The construction of Jongmyo Shrine commenced in December 1394, after the Joseon Dynasty relocated its capital to Hanyang in October of that same year, and was finalized in September 1395. The prominent features of Jongmyo include the main shrine, known as Jeongjeon, and the Hall of Eternal Peace, referred to as Yeongnyeongjeon. Jeongjeon houses 49 royals across 19 rooms, while Yeongnyeongjeon contains 34 royals distributed in 16 rooms.
Other significant features consist of Mangmyoru, a wooden edifice where the king reflected on the ancestral monarchs in remembrance, Jaegung Hall, Jeonsacheong Hall, Hyangdaecheong, and Gongmingdang. Upon further exploration, you will discover a pavilion within Mangmyoru, where the officials of Jongmyo Shrine conducted their duties. In addition to Mangmyoru, there exists a main hall flanked by two wings, known as Jaegung Hall, where the King and attendees awaited the commencement of the rites, and Jeonsacheong Hall, where the ritual foods were prepared. Furthermore, you will encounter Hyangdaecheong, the storage facility for ritual utensils, and Gongmingdang, which denotes a shrine within Jongmyo Shrine, dedicated to Goryeo King Gongmin, who reigned prior to the Joseon Dynasty.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Nestled among Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village boasts numerous traditional Korean wooden homes known as Hanok. These houses feature a unique floor heating system called ondol, a wooden floor referred to as maru, a kitchen, and a courtyard, all of which showcase the essence of Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty. To visit Bukchon Hanok Village, board the Seoul Subway Line 3 and disembark at Anguk Station. After exiting the station, simply follow the signs leading to the village. Alternatively, you can take the Jongno 02 bus and alight at the Bukchon Hanok Village stop.
As you step into Bukchon Hanok Village, you'll discover hundreds of hanok standing closely together, once the residences of aristocrats and high-ranking officials. This area preserves a wealth of traditional hanok houses right in the center of modern Seoul. It's essential for visitors to keep their composure while exploring. Today, you'll also find art galleries, traditional workshops, restaurants, cultural centers, guesthouses, and tea houses, all offering a chance to experience, learn about, and immerse yourself in the rich and unique Korean culture. A particularly unique and fascinating aspect of the village is the opportunity to wear traditional Korean clothing, or hanboks, for unforgettable photographs among the hanoks. One of the most picturesque locations is Gahoe-dong Street, featuring hanok roofs, sloping streets, and the iconic backdrop of N Seoul Tower.Namsan Seoul
Namsan Seoul Tower
Situated in the center of Seoul, South Korea, Namsan Seoul Tower rises to a height of 237 meters, serving as a majestic guardian on Namsan Mountain and providing an exceptional viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the vibrant city. After reaching the nearest subway station, Myungdong Station, via Seoul Subway Line 4, one can either take a taxi or a shuttle bus to the base of Namsan Mountain. From Myungdong Station, visitors can ascend to the tower's base by choosing the Namsan Cable Car.
Namsan Seoul Tower is, in fact, Korea's inaugural general radio wave tower established in 1969, providing TV and radio broadcasting services to the metropolitan region. Since it was opened to the public in 1980, Namsan Seoul Tower has evolved into a symbol of Korea and a must-visit tourist destination. At its peak, the observation deck of Namsan Seoul Tower reveals a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Seoul's skyline, offering views that extend to Incheon's West Sea and North Korea's Songaksan on clear days. Capture your most stunning moments by taking unforgettable, Instagram-worthy photos of the magnificent cityscape from the Namsan Seoul Tower Observatory.
As the day transitions into night, the city morphs into a sparkling constellation, turning the observation deck of Namsan Seoul Tower into a venue for romance and wonder. Savor delectable dishes at the 'n.GRILL' restaurant located at the top while witnessing the stunning sunset color the Seoul skyline in vivid hues. If you find yourself unable to enjoy a sunset dinner at 'n.GRILL' due to the crowds, especially on weekends and during busy seasons, don't worry. There are plenty of other restaurants and cafes within the tower complex that offer excellent options.
Seoul Guest House Bodeum Stay, Myeongdong is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 1,1 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Namsan Park, Namdaemun Market, N Seoul Tower, Sungnyemun, and Namsangol Hanok Village. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels near Namsan Seoul Tower.
Book Budget-Friendly Hotels in Namsan Seoul Tower
ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong
ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 1,1 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Namsangol Hanok Village, Namsan Park, Namdaemun Market, and N Seoul Tower. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels near Namsan Seoul Tower.
Hotel PJ Myeongdong is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 1.6 km from the city center. Places nearby within 2 km are Namsangol Hanok Village, N Seoul Tower, Namdaemun Market, Changdeok Palace, and Deoksugung Palace. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels near Namsan Seoul Tower.
Lotte World Tower
Located in Sincheon-dong, Songpa District, Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in South Korea and the sixth tallest globally, opened its doors in April 2017. Visiting this landmark is quite easy. Simply take the subway to Jamsil Station on lines 2 or 8, and then continue your journey through the underground passage that leads directly to the B1 floor of Lotte World Mall, which is linked to the tower. This architectural masterpiece, a true gem of Korean design, was crafted to blend elements of traditional Korean calligraphy, ceramics, and porcelain with a modern aesthetic, harmoniously integrated with nature and state-of-the-art technology. With a total of 123 floors, it stands as the sixth tallest building in the world, reaching a height of 555 meters.
By taking advantage of its incredibly fast and stylish elevator, you can ascend to the top, right inside the Seoul Sky Observatory. Every viewpoint here is perfect for photos. The panoramic view of Seoul is astonishing. It feels like you're hovering over the entire city, suspended in the sky. You can see everything, from the river to the distant mountains and towering buildings. It's truly breathtaking. After enjoying an amazing time at the summit of the Lotte World Tower, make your way to explore various multipurpose areas where guests can find a healthcare center, a fitness center, and a financial center. Visitors can also indulge in shopping at the multi-level Lotte World Mall, which draws many as one of Seoul's premier shopping destinations, featuring a mix of local and international brands. The mall also boasts a wide array of entertainment options, including a movie theater, an aquarium, a concert hall, and much more. Additionally, Korea's latest luxury hotel, Signiel Seoul, is situated within the Lotte World Tower.
Conclusion
Must-See Places in Seoul, From Historical to Modern showcases how Seoul beautifully merges sleek skyscrapers with ancient temples and palaces, a legacy of the Joseon Dynasty that continues to resonate today. From Jangjongryul to James von Klemperer, renowned for the Lotte World Tower, these sites offer a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. Exploring these places allows us to gain deeper insights into ourselves, our ancestors, and the diverse cultures and religions that shape our world, revealing that these differences are, in fact, stunning and grand expressions of divine artistry.