Gyeonbokgung Palace - Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
I've had the opportunity to visit many of the Royal palaces around Seoul. I would have to say that Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung were the best. Both palaces are only a block or two away from where I'm living which is handy for visitors and gives me a daily reminder that I'm definitely living in Korea.
Changdeokgung is one of the Five Grand Palaces of Seoul and is located in Jongno-Gu and was built during the Joseon Dynasty. The grounds are massive and have 30 plus buildings located within. It is also home of the famous secret garden, a lush and leafy space featuring a large pond and a beautiful pavilion. When standing in the secret garden, it's hard to believe that you are in the middle of a large and busy city. Due to increasing erosion, Changdeokbung can only be visited by guided tour. English tours are available from Tuesday-Sunday, 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm. If I remember correctly the entry fee is around 3,000 won (approx $3AUD). Changdeokgung is a 5 minute walk from Anguk Station, exit 3.
Gyeongbokgung is the largest of the Five Grand Palaces. It is more spacious than Changdeokgung and you are able to wander around without a guided tour. Gyeonbokgung was also built by the Joseon Dynasty. Sadly the palace is still undergoing reconstruction due to major destruction by the Japanese government during the 20th century. In my opinion the most impressive building is Gyeonghoeru, a large pavilion situated on a man made island surrounded by a rectangular lake. Gyeongbokgung palace is open every day except Tuesday and has English tours available at 11:00am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm. Entry fee is 3,000 won (approx $3AUD). Gyeongbokgung station is located right outside the palace, there are signs throughout the station pointing you in the right direction.
In line with the traditional style of Korean palaces, Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung have many buildings with beautiful architecture, statues and markings of great significance and stunning landscaping. The most eye catching of them all has to be the painting. All royal buildings are painted with brightly coloured, intricate designs. Only buildings of high importance are allowed to be painted with these colours and designs.
If you'd like a uniquely Korean experience, I highly recommend a visit to one of Seoul's impressive palaces.
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