Gyeongbokgung vs. Changgyeonggung: A Guide to Seoul's Palaces
Table of Contents
I. Daytime Palace Tour: Where to Go?
II. Gyeongbokgung vs. Changgyeonggung: Basic Information Comparison
III. Admission Fees, Hours, and Other Practical Comparisons
IV. Key Attractions and Features of Gyeongbokgung
V. Key Attractions and Features of Changgyeonggung
VI. Frequently Asked Questions: Where are the Best Photo Spots?
VII. Which Palace is More Crowded? A Comparison of Visitor Statistics
VIII. Recommended Nearby Attractions and Tour Routes
I. Daytime Palace Tour: Where to Go?
Gyeongbokgung and Changgyeonggung, two of Seoul's most iconic palaces, offer distinct charms and features during the day.
If you're struggling to decide which to visit, it's best to carefully compare their history, current appearance, and available activities.
II. Gyeongbokgung vs. Changgyeonggung: Basic Information Comparison
"Gyeongbokgung served as the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, while Changgyeonggung functioned as a palace focused on daily life."
Gyeongbokgung was the first palace of the Joseon Dynasty, built in 1395, and is a representative cultural heritage site of South Korea.
Located north of the center of Seoul, its scale and status clearly differentiate it from other palaces.
On the other hand, Changgyeonggung was built in 1483 by King Seongjong, son of Sejong, for three queen dowagers. It's a place where the daily life of the royal family is deeply embedded. Changgyeonggung is situated near Dongdaemun in a relatively quiet area.
III. Admission Fees, Hours, and Other Practical Comparisons
"Admission fees, opening hours, and the number of visitors allowed are important criteria for planning your visit."
| Item | Gyeongbokgung | Changgyeonggung |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Sejong-ro, Jongno-gu | Waryong-dong, Jongno-gu |
| Admission Fee (Adults) | 3,000 KRW | 1,000 KRW |
| Opening Hours | 09:00~18:00 (March-October), 09:00~17:00 (November-February) | 09:00~21:00 (Tuesday-Sunday), Closed on Mondays |
| Free Admission | Wearing Hanbok, Under 6 years old, Over 65 years old | Wearing Hanbok, Under 6 years old, Over 65 years old |
In terms of admission fees and operating hours, Gyeongbokgung is larger and more expensive, while Changgyeonggung offers advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and relaxed exploration.
For reference, you can enter both palaces for free if you wear Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing).
IV. Key Attractions and Features of Gyeongbokgung
"Gyeongbokgung is a place where you can admire the splendid architectural beauty of the royal family at a glance, including Gwanghwamun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Hall, and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion."
Gyeongbokgung has many magnificent spots, including Geunjeongjeon Hall, which was the king's official office, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, which stands grandly on a pond, and Sajungjeon Hall, which is considered one of Korea's best wooden buildings.
The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony is held regularly in the front yard of Gwanghwamun Gate, making it a popular course for foreign tourists. During the day, the sundial 'Angbuilgu,' Palwoojeong Pavilion, and the beautiful garden with a panoramic view are particularly attractive.
V. Key Attractions and Features of Changgyeonggung
"Changgyeonggung is famous for its first modern greenhouse in the palace, a tranquil lake, and a beautiful greenhouse garden with seasonal colors."
| Facility Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Grand Greenhouse | Opened in 1909, the first modern greenhouse in the palace, view various plants |
| Chundangji Pond | Palace pond where the royal family enjoyed taking walks and enjoying nature |
| Myeongjeongjeon Hall | The central building of Changgyeonggung, featuring a sophisticated architectural style |
Changgyeonggung is not crowded, making it great for a quiet stroll, and the palace's lake, 'Chundangji,' and the Grand Greenhouse are famous photo spots.
The cherry blossom path is especially spectacular in the spring.
Nighttime openings are also often held in the evening, creating a unique atmosphere.
VI. Frequently Asked Questions: Where are the Best Photo Spots?
"In Gyeongbokgung, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Geunjeongjeon Hall are representative spots for taking memorable photos, while in Changgyeonggung, the Grand Greenhouse and Chundangji Pond are popular."
Standing in front of the magnificent Gyeonghoeru Pavilion in Gyeongbokgung, you can feel the scale and antique atmosphere of the palace at the same time. In particular, the pond reflects the building, clear sky, and mountains, making it a beautiful photo opportunity.
Many young people also wear Hanbok and take photos in front of the red walls or with the surrounding pavilions in the background.
Changgyeonggung's Grand Greenhouse is attractive with its exotic atmosphere and unique background.
In addition, the natural pond scenery, especially Chundangji Pond with its vibrant spring and autumn colors, is a popular backdrop for commemorative photos with family or friends.
VII. Which Palace is More Crowded? A Comparison of Visitor Statistics
"In terms of annual visitors, Gyeongbokgung is the most crowded, while Changgyeonggung offers a more relaxed viewing experience."
| Year | Gyeongbokgung (10,000 people) | Changgyeonggung (10,000 people) |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 517 | 82 |
| 2022 | 734 | 121 |
| 2023 | 870 | 138 |
Gyeongbokgung is constantly crowded with domestic and foreign tourists, but Changgyeonggung is relatively less crowded except on weekends, so you can enjoy the quiet.
If you want to avoid the crowds, Changgyeonggung may be a better choice.
VIII. Recommended Nearby Attractions and Tour Routes
"There are various tourist attractions to link near each palace, such as Bukchon Hanok Village, the Museum of Modern Art, Daehak-ro, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)."
If you visit Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon Hanok Village is a 10-minute walk to the north.
The tranquil Hanok streets, galleries, workshops, and traditional tea houses are perfect for a half-day course.
In addition, Seochon and Samcheongdong alleyways and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul, are also connected on the same route.
Changgyeonggung offers a pleasant walking path connected to Small Jongmyo Shrine, Sungkyunkwan University, Daehak-ro cultural arts theaters, Dongsung-dong Cafe Street, and Naksan Park.
Also, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) and Cheonggyecheon Stream are a 10-minute walk away, making it a great combination for an outing.
In conclusion, if your goal is a "splendid palace and vibrant scenery," we recommend Gyeongbokgung, and if you want a "relaxing stroll and a palace in nature," we recommend Changgyeonggung.
"Gyeongbokgung served as the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, while Changgyeonggung functioned as a palace focused on daily life."
"Admission fees, opening hours, and the number of visitors allowed are important criteria for planning your visit."
"Gyeongbokgung is a place where you can admire the splendid architectural beauty of the royal family at a glance, including Gwanghwamun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Hall, and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion."
"Changgyeonggung is famous for its first modern greenhouse in the palace, a tranquil lake, and a beautiful greenhouse garden with seasonal colors."
"In Gyeongbokgung, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Geunjeongjeon Hall are representative spots for taking memorable photos, while in Changgyeonggung, the Grand Greenhouse and Chundangji Pond are popular."
"In terms of annual visitors, Gyeongbokgung is the most crowded, while Changgyeonggung offers a more relaxed viewing experience."
"There are various tourist attractions to link near each palace, such as Bukchon Hanok Village, the Museum of Modern Art, Daehak-ro, and Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)."
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