Having taken a half-day off work, I decided to take a stroll through the Changgyeonggung Palace. While sipping my coffee and taking in the peaceful view, I felt completely restored and happy.

This is a great place to visit if you're seeking something to do in Seoul on your own.

The public transportation in Seoul is easy to use. Several routes will drop you off right at the entrance of the palace, making public transportation a great option.

From Hyehwa subway station (Line 4) : take bus number #301

From Anguk subway station (Line 3) : take bus number #151, #171, #272, #172

A ticket booth sits at the front of the palace.

Daily complimentary guided tour is offered in English, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese.

If you are traveling with children, we recommend the complimentary guide. If, like me, you enjoy sightseeing and taking pictures on your own, it is more convenient to tour freely.

 

Admission Fee

Age 25~64 (1,000 won) / Under 24 & over 64 (Free)

Tickets for Changdeokgung Palace can be purchased at the Hamyangmun gate. (3,000 won)

It can be sometimes dangerous for a woman to explore a new area on her own, but even during the week, there were plenty of people at the palace. The trip will be pleasant even if you are on your own.

 

Changgyeonggung Palace

In 1483, King Seongjong expanded the existing Suganggung Palace and built a new Changgyeonggung Palace.

Not only did the king and queen live there, but so did princesses, courtiers, and even concubines because it expanded the amount of living quarters available at Changdeokgung Palace.

Unlike other places, it has a more welcoming and attractive appearance because it was designed with residents' comfort in mind.

 

Guide map

The map and information brochure you can pick up at the entrance will be of great use, so don't leave them behind!

Lockers are also available.

Myeongjeongmun / Okcheongyo Bridge

Did you know that in every palace yard in Korea, a stream flows? The waterway that brings good energy is called Okcheon, and the bridge above is Okcheon Bridge.

In front of Okcheongyo Bridge is a gate that leads to Myeongjeongjeon. Those interested in seeing the palace first should continue straight. I started by walking down the path on the right.

When I look out at the beautiful trees and verdant grass, I immediately feel calmer. 

When compared to other Seoul palaces, I found the gardens to be significantly more impressive.

Typically, a trip to the palace can be boring. However, because of the increased presence of trees and other signs of nature a lot of people visit and enjoy the landscape.

You can see foreign tourists taking pictures in Hanbok (Korean traditional garment), and also see couples taking wedding pictures, possibly because there are so many beautiful spots.

Baeksong (white pine tree), a national monument. The tree's white bark led me to believe it had been painted, but it turned out to be a rare tree planted by Joseon Dynasty envoys on their way to and from China.

The shaded seats along this strolling path provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

 

Dae Onsil (Grand greenhouse)

Dae-onsil, a popular photo spot in the Palace. It was the first greenhouse in Korea to be built in the Western style, in 1909.

​

 

Chundangji

In the middle of the walkway lies a huge pond called Chundangji.

​Although I prefer to do most activities with others. When it comes to exploring cultural places or scenic areas, however, I prefer to go alone on my own.

Nature, the modern city, and a historic palace all in one. How awesome.

 

Tongmyeongjeon

Tongmyeongjeon is the residence of the queen. The backyard was full of trees and flowers, making for a picturesque scene.

 

Ham In-Jeong

It is reported that the King spent most of his time at this Haminjeong pavilion in the Changgyeonggung Palace.

A crape myrtle tree stood among the lovely purple blossoms.

Since it's summer, nearly else is green, but the pink trees make a striking contrast. I think you'll get some nice shots if you bring your camera over here as well.

This historical site in Seoul is also a beautiful location for taking photographs.

 

Myeongjeongjeon

My final stop was Myeongjeongjeon.

Since Gwanghaegun restored Changgyeonggung Palace, Myeongjeongjeon has not changed from its original design. This is the oldest structure in the palace.

Munjeongjeon is where the king worked, and Sungmundang is where he studied and spoke with advisors.

Two hours had quickly passed. One of my favorite hobbies these days is venturing out into Seoul on foot and capturing photographs.

There is a lot to do in Seoul, but if you're anything like me, you'll enjoy some quiet time in Changgyeonggung Palace, listening to some music while strolling around and snapping photos of the beautiful environment.

Now they're open until late, so I should return to check how the palace looks at night.

 

 

Address : 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu,, Seoul OPEN GOOGLE MAP

Phone : +82-2-762-4868

Operation Hours : Tuesday-Sunday : 09:00 - 21:00 (Monday closed)

Instagram : Click for images

Website : cha.go.kr

Admission Fee : 1,000 won

 

Source : https://blog.naver.com/yd219zoq/223208627307

Writer : yd219zoq

Special thanks to yd219zoq

 

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