Gyeongbokgung

Gyeongbokgung (경복궁), which means "Greatly Blessed by Heaven Palace", is the main and largest palace among the Five Grand  Palaces in Korea.

Gwanghwamun (광화문) Gate

Gwanghwamun (광화문) Gate from the inside

Gwanghwamun is the largest and main gate of Gyeongbokgung

Gwanghwamun (광화문) Gate from the inside

Geunjeongmun (근정문)

Geunjeonjung (근정전)

Geunjeonjung is the throne hall where the king formally meets his officials or foreign envoys and gives declarations of national importance. It is registered as Korea's National Treasure No.223.

Geunjeonjung (근정전) roof

Geunjeonjung (근정전)

The King's throne inside Geunjeonjung (근정전)

Twin Dragons on the ceiling of Geunjeonjung (근정전)

To better know the various palaces, halls and pavilions and to understand the history behind Gyengbokgung, attend the free tours which is offered in English, Korean and Japanese. English-guided tours are at 11:00 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm. The tour lasts for an hour. 

 Geunjeonjung (근정전)

Gyeonghoeru (경회루)

Gyeonghoeru is a pavilion hall which is used to hold important and special banquets. It is registered as Korea's National Treasure No.224.

Gyeonghoeru (경회루) roof ridges

Pathway to other halls and quarters

There are also performances to watch out for while in Gyeongbokgung. First is the Changing of Royal Guards which happens thrice a day at 10:00 am, 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. Another is the Gate Guard Performance which occurs at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

Animals on roof  ridges

Other thing to do while visiting Gyeongbokgung is the Kings's and Queen's Royal Clothes Experience in Beodeul Maru (버들마루). It is located across from Sujeongjeon (수정전) and open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Gyeongseongjun (경성전)

Gyeongbokgung is located at 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul. To go there, take subway Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5) or Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 2). It is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm while it is closed during Mondays.