If you’re a fan of Korean dramas, you’re likely familiar with the Joseon Dynasty, the last and longest-reigning imperial dynasty in Korea. Many popular historical dramas are inspired by real events from this era, with iconic scenes filmed at the stunning Joseon Palaces in Seoul. If you’re traveling to Seoul for the first time, visiting these palaces offers a unique glimpse into Korea’s royal history and a chance to step into the world of your favorite K-dramas.
The Five Joseon Palaces of Seoul
There are five palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty: Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, Gyeongbokgung, and Gyeonghuigung. While most tourists may choose to visit just one or two, I decided to explore all five because I love historic walks and am a big fan of Joseon dramas. Luckily, my friends were on board with the idea. Visiting all five palaces in one day is possible, but if you find it too much to take in, you can visit them on different days, just like we did.
First Stop: Changgyeongung
The walking tour starts at Changgyeongung. This palace served as royal residence and and as a secondary palace for queens and the king’s father. During the Japanese Occupation from 1910-1945, the palace became a park with a zoo and a botanical garden. The cheapest way to get to the starting point is to take subway Line 4 (Blue Line). The palace is around 10 minute walk from Exit 4 of Hyehwa Station.
Second Stop: Changdeokgung
The second stop is Changdeokgung which is located just beside Changgyeongung. This palace is known as “the palace of illustrious virtue” and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. It is also famous for its secret garden which was reserved for the royal family and guests of the king. This palace compound can be accessed through Hamyangmun gate(rear entrance) of Changdeokgung.
Third Stop: Gyeongbokgung
The third stop is Gyeongbokgung, which is the main and largest palace built during the Joseon Dynasty. To get to Gyeongbokgung, you can either walk or take a cab. If you fancy walking, then you can start from the main gate of Changdeokgung and then just walk straight to Anguk Station. When in Gyeongbokgung, do not miss the Changing of the Royal Guards Ceremony which is being performed three times daily except Tuesdays (10:00, 13:00 and 15:00 20 minutes per ceremony).
Fourth Stop: Gyeonghuigung
The fourth stop is Gyeonghuigung, which is located west of the main Palace Gyeongbokgung. To get to Gyeonghuigung, walk south of Gwanghwamun Square where you will see the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi Sunshin. Turn right at Jongno-gu and walk straight for about 2km.
Final Stop: Deoksugung
The last stop is Deoksugung which stands directly opposite Seoul City Hall. This should be the last stop because it is open later than the other palaces. Deoksugung is just a stone’s throw away from Gyeonghuigung. Walk straight to Jung-gu for about 15 minutes. Changing of the Royal Guards Ceremony is also being performed here three times daily except Mondays (11:00, 14:00 andd 15:30).
Joseon Palaces: Things to know before you go
Admission Tickets
I recommend purchasing the integrated ticket to gain access into four of the Joseon Palaces – Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung and Deoksugung as well as Jongmyo Shrine. This costs KRW 10,000. Gyeonghuigung is free admission. If you wish to visit just one or two palaces, then buying individual admission ticket would be the better option.
Operating Hours
Changdeokgung, Deoksugung and Changgyeonggung are closed on Mondays while Gyeongbokgung and Jongmyo Shrine are closed on Tuesdays.
- Changgyeonggung: 9:00 – 21:00 (January to December)
- Changdeokgung: 09:00 – 18:00 (February – May/September – October), 09:00 – 18:30 (June – August) and 09:00 – 17:30 (November – January)
- Gyeongbokgung: 09:00 – 17:00 (January – February/November – December), 09:00 – 18:00 (March – May/September – October) and 09:00 – 18:30 (June – August),
- Gyeonghuigung: 9:00 – 18:00 (January to December)
- Deoksugung: 9:00 – 21:00 (January to December)
How to get to the Joseon Palaces?
If you are visiting palaces through the subway system, then follow the instructions below.
- Changgyeonggung: Ten-minute walk from Exit 4 of Haehwa Station, Subway Line 4. Pass through National University Hospital.
- Changdeokgung: Ten-minute walk from Exit 6 of Jongno 3-ga Station, Subway Lines 1, 3 and 5; Five-minute walk from Exit 3, Ahngook Station, Subway Line 3
- Gyeongbokgung: Exit 5 of Gyeongbokgung Station, Subway Line 3; 10-minute walk from Exit 2 of Gwanghwamun Station, Subway Line 5
- Gyeonghuigung: Ten-minute walk from Exit 4 of Seodaemun Station, Subway Line 5
- Deoksugung: Exit 2 of City Hall Station, Subway Line 1; Exit 12 of City Hall Station, Subway Line 2
If you’re traveling solo, taking the subway is a good option to reach your destination. However, if you’re with friends—say, 3-4 people in total—taking a taxi can be more affordable. For instance, when we took a cab from Changdeokgung to Gyeongbokgung, the fare was only 4,000 KRW. Still, walking remains the cheapest way to explore the palaces. We only opted for a cab because it was extremely cold!
Another great option for exploring Seoul’s highlights is the Seoul City Tour Bus, a convenient hop-on-hop-off service. This bus route covers major tourist spots, including Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Changdeokgung, N Seoul Tower and Myeongdong Shopping Street. With audio guides available in multiple languages, you’ll learn about Seoul’s history and culture as you ride. It’s an ideal choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a hassle-free way to see the city’s top attractions.
How to visit Seoul’s Joseon Palaces for Free
Who doesn’t love something free? Here’s a travel hack I’ve used before: I wore a hanbok to get free admission to all of Seoul’s Joseon palaces. It’s a fun and immersive way to explore Korea’s royal history without spending a dime! If you’re looking for the perfect hanbok, check out my Hanbok rental experience to find a shop that offers beautiful, affordable options for tourists.
4 replies on “Joseon Palaces: Exploring Seoul’s Royal Heritage”
January. Winter pa nun kaya lamig na lamig kami 🙂
nice. anong month kayo pumunta?
Thanks sis! ^_^
Ganda ng shots! walang ibang tao! 🙂