Korea, a stunning country with a long history and culture, is world-famous for its ancient palaces, built during the Joseon period, the last feudal dynasty of Korea. These palaces are a testament to the splendor and prosperity of the Joseon Dynasty, which is deeply imbued with traditional Korean culture.
Photo: Hey Korea
Renowned palaces in Korea were built during the ancient dynasties of the land of Kimchi, bringing majestic and magnificent beauty. Each wonderful destination features a different architecture, creating its own impression, most of which retains the ancient appearance that lasts forever. If you choose Korea as your upcoming vacation destination, keep in mind to visit the magnificent palaces suggested by Wanderlust Tips USA.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace, located at 161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea, is known as the largest and most important palace of the Joseon Dynasty. Located north of Seoul’s main avenue, Gyeongbokgung is truly an ideal place to start your journey in Korea.
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung is a typical work of Eastern architectural art, greatly influenced by Han culture, and is also the pride of all Koreans. Gyeongbokgung Palace is the result of a harmonious combination between human hands and nature. Inside the campus is a grand hall and meticulously maintained gardens, typical of the meticulous Korean gardening art. The palace is surrounded by high and wide walls, and inside are magnificent buildings.
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Photo: Linda Goes East
Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace, the second palace built during the Joseon Dynasty, is recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. Changdeokgung is known as the “garden palace”, as it is surrounded by a large garden with many trees and flowers. It is also a place where the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty lived.
Changdeokgung Palace is one of the oldest palaces in Korea, built around 1405. It has received thousands of positive reviews thanks to its excellent harmony and meticulous preservation, full of liberal sculptural beauty in the history of royal architecture in East Asia. Although it has undergone many restorations, this place still retains its inherent magnificence and antiquity.
Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Photo: Creatrip
Deoksugung Palace
Deoksugung Palace, built in 1608, is the only palace of the Joseon Dynasty still in use today. Surrounded by magnificent buildings and beautiful gardens, Deoksugung Palace is known as the “palace of light”, where many important events of the Joseon court took place, as well as many Korean festivals and cultural events nowadays.
Deoksugung Palace’s buildings come in many different styles, mainly built of wood and stucco, while others are erected according to Western architecture. Deoksugung is also well-known as the only place that is most influenced by Western construction architecture.
Address: 99, Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Photo: Trip
Gyeonghuigung Palace
Gyeonghuigung Palace, the fourth palace built during the Joseon Dynasty, was built in 1617. Gyeonghuigung is supposed to be the “palace of peace,” with the embellishment of a large garden with many trees and flowers blooming together. It is famous as the only palace in Korea solely for the resting purposes of the Joseon Dynasty kings and many important court events.
According to Korean history, Gyeonghuigung Palace was destroyed by many fires before. Until now, this place has only restored about 30% of its area compared to the old days. Currently, the remaining architecture inside Gyeonghuigung Palace is quite simple, mainly trees; therefore, it will be wonderful to visit and take pictures in the autumn.
Address: 45 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Photo: Flickr
Changgyeonggung Palace
Changgyeonggung Palace, built in 1483, is known as the “forest palace” due to the fact that it is protected around a mineral water forest. Changgyeonggung Palace is not only impressive in daylight but also offers a more magical illusion during a moonlit cruise at night.
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage in 1997, an ancient palace is considered the first-class electricity supply among the five electricity supplies in Seoul city. When visiting Changgyeonggung, it is a necessity for every visitor, as the exquisite architecture is in harmony with the nature surrounding the place. According to ancient scholars, Changgyeonggung Palace has a quite favorable location in terms of feng shui.
Address: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Photo: Planet of Hotels