Seoul is the seat for almost everything in South Korea—be it economic, education, political, and fashion. The capital and largest city, Seoul has been a top tourist destinations for many years now. Unsurprisingly, there is so much to see, experience and enjoy in this city that one would find it hard to squeeze everything in a short visit.
As thousands of tourists flock to the city each year, finding cheap flights to Seoul wouldn’t be so difficult. As a matter of fact, many travel agencies offer tour packages that already include air fare. The chance to experience the famous Incheon International Airport is already a treat even if you get cheap flights to Seoul. The airport is known for its beautiful architecture and if you’re lucky enough, you might even bump with famous Hallyu stars there.
Visit the Deoksugung Palace located on downtown Seoul. The historic palace features red and grey bricks, intricately decorated balconies, and solid columns that you might only see in Korean movies and TV series. Witness the changing of the guards at the main gate of Deoksugung in Daehanmun. The ceremonial changing of the guards happens three times a day at 10:30 in the morning and at 2:00 and 3:30 in the afternoon except on Mondays. The Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty is also a favorable stop. The UNESCO World Heritage Site houses 40 tombs of kings and queens dating back from the Joseon Dynasty.
Meanwhile, the Gwanghamun Square is impossible to be missed especially with the towering statue of King Sejong the Great at its center. The square has six sections that feature different historical markers. The central square has beautiful fountains symbolizing important events for the city.
There are many hotels in Seoul that you can choose from. The city wouldn’t be complete without its range of luxury accommodations. However, there are also budget-friendly hotels that wouldn’t break the bank. Check out the Dustin Guesthouse in Hongik University that offers free breakfast and all day coffee. The Kimchee Hongdae Guesthouse is also five minutes away from the university. A quick search would reveal many affordable hostels and guesthouses located in strategic areas in the city. Choose the one that is near the places you will visit.
It’s best to plan your Seoul trip ahead so that you’ll be able to pick out the attractions you want to see. Remember that Seoul wasn’t tagged the largest, and if not the most interesting, city in Korean for nothing.
Jongmyo Shrine
The Jongmyo (or Chongmyo) in Seoul, South Korea, is a royal shrine dedicated to the ancestors of the Choson dynasty, starting from King Taejo (who founded the Joseon dynasty). Among Confucian shrines, this is the most authentic and also the oldest. It is well preserved – what you see goes as far back as the 16th century. During the era of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, there were quite a number of shrines similar to Jongmyo. However, only the shrines for the Choson family have been preserved.
Deoksugung
Standing proudly at a busy intersection in downtown Seoul is Deoksugung (Toksukung) Palace. It is known for its stately stone-wall road. It was built during the rule of the Choson dynasty.
Seoul Festival of Lights
The Seoul Festival of Lights, organized by The Seoul foundation for Arts and Culture, is the biggest winter festival in Seoul, South Korea.
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