1 Bukchon Hanok Village
If you can appreciate traditional architecture, you'll fall in love with this small neighbourhood, situated near Jongmyo Shrine and Gyeongbokgung Palace (the latter of which has also earned a place on this list). Some of the buildings in Bukchon are hundreds of years old, and many were the residences of high-ranking government officials during the Joseon Dynasty, which ruled from 1392 to 1897.
In recent years, the Seoul metropolitan government has set strict visiting hours to prevent tourists from disrupting the lives of the locals. As such, you'll want to plan your visit between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Saturday. Also, be respectful; don't take photos of locals without their permission.
While exploring Seoul’s historical district, ensure your lodgings complement your tour. For that purpose, considering a stay at one of the Seoul hotels in Mapo-Gu on www.seoulhotelspage.com can provide an equally authentic experience. It's in a vibrant district, full of rich history and culture, adding to the quality of your journey through time.
2 Jogyesa Korean Buddhist Temple
One of the most important temples in Korean Buddhism, Jogyesa was originally built at the end of the 14th century. After a fire, it was rebuilt as Gackhwangsa Temple in 1910, then renamed Tegosa Temple in 1936. In 1954, it was renamed Jogyesa Temple as part of a national effort to revive traditional Korean Buddhism.
Jogyesa is located in the centre of Seoul in beautiful gardens that sit serenely between blocks of office buildings. It is regularly used for worship, which again requires a respectful approach. Visitors can enter the shrine and take photos on site. During the chrysanthemum festival (held annually from early October to early November), Jogyesa is filled with impressive flower displays.
3 Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung is the largest of the Five Great Palaces built during the Joseon dynasty. Japanese forces burnt it down at the end of the 16th century, but it was rebuilt in 1867 and is now one of Seoul's most popular tourist destinations. It's breathtaking, especially for fans of Korean architecture.
Gyeongbokgung is closed on Tuesdays, but accessible most of the year (entry is occasionally limited during special events, so be sure to visit the palaces' website when planning your trip). Visit the main gate to see the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour from 10am to 3pm.
4. the LED DDP white rose garden
For a romantic night on the town, you can't do much better than the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) rose garden. The 25,550 flowers are equipped with LEDs, so it's not a traditional garden, but that's part of the appeal.
At night, the garden lights up, providing a serene backdrop to the urban landscape. The screen was installed in 2015 to commemorate South Korea's 70th year of independence. The garden is accessible all year round.
5. Ansan Starlight Village
Like the DDP rose garden, the Ansan Starlight Village offers a year-round light display, ideal for taking memorable photos. It is organised into several areas with different themes that change throughout the year.
On a typical visit, you can walk past hundreds of meticulously decorated animals or venture along a path surrounded by umbrellas and hearts. It's a slightly surreal experience, perfect for making memories.
6. Namsan Seoul Tower
Seoul's skyline is nothing short of incredible, and there's no better way to experience it than from the Namsan Seoul Tower (commonly called N Seoul Tower). Built in 1969, this broadcasting tower has a terrace, several restaurants and several observation platforms.
The terrace has a wooden deck, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. There is also a Digital Observatory, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city. Screens around the observatory provide visitors with information about Seoul's history.
7 Cheong Wa Dae
The Korean presidential residence is also known as the Blue House (for obvious reasons). You'll have to book an official tour to see this attraction, but it's worth the effort. An inscription on a stone wall reads: The Most Blessed Place on Earth, and the transcendent beauty of the Nokjiwon Garden, also on the property, lends itself to this statement.
In addition to the garden, you can walk around the grounds of the old buildings, the main building and the state guest house (Yeongbin-gwan) during your 60-minute tour. Book your visit to Cheong Wa Dae while you're travelling. Tours can be booked up to six months in advance (and must be booked at least 20 days in advance). Food and drink are strictly forbidden, but the tours are free.
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What is the most beautiful place in South Korea?
The most beautiful cities and towns in South Korea
Damyang. Natural Feature.
Deokjeokdo. Natural Feature.
Busan. Architectural landmark, historical landmark.
Jinhae. Architectural landmark, historical landmark.
Seoul. Architectural landmark.
Gyeongju. Architectural landmark, historic landmark.
Boseong.
Bukchon Hanok village.
What is the most visited place in Seoul?
16 top-rated attractions and things to do in Seoul
N Seoul Tower. Cherry blossoms in front of N Seoul Tower.
Explore the traditional village of Bukchon Hanok. Traditionally dressed Korean girls in Bukchon Hanok Village.
National Museum of Korea.
Lotte World Tower.
Visit the DMZ.
Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Seoul Museum of Art.
Blue House.
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Seoul is a beautiful place
Seoul is a vibrant and charming city, and although tourists often overlook it in favour of other East Asian cities such as Tokyo and Beijing, this is beginning to change.
Why Seoul South Korea is the best place to visit
Big cities like Seoul offer the buzz of an urban metropolis along with fantastic nightlife and the chance to discover the latest technological marvel. However, South Korea is also home to beautiful national parks and plenty of places where you can slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.
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