Jongmyo Shrine
Right in the heart of Seoul, not far from Jongno 3-ga Station, lies Jongmyo Shrine — the royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon Dynasty.
It’s a Confucian shrine where memorial rites were once held for the kings and queens of Joseon, now honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can freely explore the grounds or join a guided tour with expert commentary for a deeper, more meaningful experience.
As you walk deeper inside, the tall green trees almost block the sky, and sunlight filters gently through the branches. It’s hard to believe such tranquility exists right in the middle of Seoul.
At the heart of Jongmyo stands Jeongjeon, the main hall — known as one of the longest wooden structures in the world. It’s a majestic space enshrining the spirits of Joseon kings and queens. Though simple in appearance, the atmosphere is solemn, dignified, and deeply moving.
You can, of course, explore on your own, but joining a guided tour brings Jongmyo to life in a whole new way. Regular admission doesn’t require a reservation, but if you’d like a more in-depth experience, I highly recommend booking a guided session — available in Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese.
If you’re planning to visit multiple palaces in Seoul, consider getting the Integrated Palace Ticket. It grants access for six months to Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Jongmyo.
As you step out after your visit, the path naturally leads you to Seosulla-gil — once a patrol route during the Joseon Dynasty, now a charming street lined with cafés, restaurants, and art galleries.
I had only been to the nearby Seosulla-gil and Changdeokgung before, but it was my first time walking deep inside Jongmyo, and it turned out to be much larger and more fascinating than I imagined. With the cool, gentle breeze of the season, Jongmyo is perfect for a peaceful stroll — and with so many photo-worthy spots, it’s also an ideal place for a relaxed outdoor date.
Address : 157 Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Instagram : Check out more photos
Website : https://royal.khs.go.kr/
Admission : 1,000 won
jongmyo shrine seoul palace