Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung was the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, which ruled Korea for five centuries. Destroyed and rebuilt more than once, it now stretches from the great Gwanghwamun Gate to the foot of the mountains, its halls and courtyards painted in rich reds, greens and blues.

Highlights include the Geunjeongjeon throne hall, the Gyeonghoeru banquet pavilion standing in a lotus pond, and the National Folk Museum within the grounds. Gyeonghoeru is especially lovely reflected in its pond on a still morning. The colourful changing of the royal guard takes place at the main gate each day.

Many visitors hire a hanbok, Korea’s traditional dress, from shops near the palace for photographs. The palace is closed on Tuesdays; allow two to three hours.