On our second day, it was time to really do some sightseeing and we decided to head for Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Being a historical landmark of Seoul, the station itself has a gorgeous historical look. Lots of carved stone and cool waffled ceiling. I wish we could honor our own landmarks like this...
One of my favorite things about Seoul is how incredibly well-planned their subways are. They definitely DID NOT shortchange their citizens of efficient, clean, and sustainable public transport. Believe me when I say, you will never ever need a car in Seoul.
In Korea's national landmarks, a lot of people like to dress up in hanbok; some are in-house guides, this is an activity that both locals and tourists partake in! :)
As if the gigantic palace isn't enough, you can also check out the National Palace Museum.
After paying a minimal admission fee, you're free to roam around the complex without a guide. Unlike in Changdeokgung's Secret Garden where it is a must that you have a guide with you.
I really can't stress enough how much better it is to explore Seoul on a colder season. The heat this day was challenging and the palaces lack of covered areas made it close to unbearable.
The entire trip I was pretty much jealous of my friend, Keena, who had just brought short rompers, while I was dying in my skinny jeans. Saying I miscalculated the weather is a huge understatement.
The throne room.
Despite it being large and spacious, the palace felt like a maze and it's really easy to get lost.
Random European building in the complex.
Postcard shot of the palace.
The last attraction of the complex is this small shrine. You can't enter this area, not even to walk on the bridge. I can't imagine how stunning this view would be in the fall!
And that's it for Gyeongbokgung! Next up, Insadong! :D
Korea is included in my bucket list! Your photos are beautiful, and it has captured the beauty of the palace. Were you able wear their traditional costume?
ReplyDeleteGyeongbokgung Palace looks really huge. I would love to see Korea and check the palace.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see your post on Insadong! The palace looks grogeous but I'm curious what the last shrine is for~
ReplyDeleteThis palace is usually one of the first historical spots tourists visit in Seoul, and deservedly so. I loved the wide open spaces in palace grounds like this all over East Asia.
ReplyDeleteI think I've seen this palace in some korean dramas.I really love korea and i wish i can go there one day.
ReplyDeleteWOW the palace is beautiful! How lucky you are to have gone to Korea ... I want to go too. Traveling to Korea is one of my dream trips.
ReplyDeleteReally gigantic place! The place looks so scenic and mystical. Would love to visit Korea one day.
ReplyDeleteNice shots! I was there last spring the palace is really worth the visit.
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