Seoul City Tour - Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Insadong - South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most iconic royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, constructed in 1395. It served as the main palace and administrative center, embodying the grandeur and architectural prowess of its era. Key features include the majestic Geunjeongjeon Hall, where major state affairs were conducted, and the beautiful Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, a royal banquet hall set upon a pond.

Gyeongbokgung Palace requires an admission fee for most visitors. However, certain groups may be eligible for free entry, such as those wearing traditional hanbok. The palace is typically closed on Tuesdays. Visitors can purchase tickets at the entrance or inquire about specific exemptions upon arrival. It is advisable to check the official operating hours before your visit.

The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a captivating historical reenactment held daily, except Tuesdays. It typically takes place at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, lasting approximately 20 minutes. This ceremony showcases the traditional costumes, weapons, and intricate movements of the royal guards from the Joseon Dynasty, offering a glimpse into Korea's rich heritage.

Gyeongbokgung Palace stands as the largest and most grand of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul. Its vast grounds encompass numerous buildings, courtyards, and gardens, serving as the primary royal residence and government hub. This extensive scale highlights its paramount importance and central role in Korean history compared to other palaces.

Seoul boasts an excellent public transportation system. For Gyeongbokgung Palace, the most convenient method is the subway, with Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3, Exit 5) offering direct access. The city's extensive subway and bus networks connect most major attractions efficiently. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available for convenient point-to-point travel.

To reach N Seoul Tower, you can take the Namsan Cable Car from near Myeongdong Station (Subway Line 4). Another option is the Namsan Oreumi elevator, which takes you to the cable car station. Alternatively, local Namsan circulating buses (routes 01, 02, 03, 04, 05) run from various subway stations directly to the tower's base.

In Seoul, while Uber operates, it is not as widely used as the local ride-hailing app, Kakao T Taxi. Grab is generally not a prominent service in South Korea. Taxis are abundant and can be hailed on the street or booked through the Kakao T app, offering a convenient way to travel between Insadong and other parts of the city.

Insadong is a vibrant cultural district renowned for its traditional Korean charm. Visitors can explore numerous antique shops, art galleries, and traditional teahouses. The main street is perfect for browsing unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and enjoying street food. Ssamziegil, a spiral-shaped shopping complex, offers a modern twist on traditional goods and often hosts cultural performances.