In South Korea, ancient customs and modern ways go together in perfect harmony. Over the years, countless historical landmarks have shared stories of different royal families, battles, religions and people’s determination. Special relics from the past can be found in every region of South Korea and these sites are preserved to look just as they did before. Besides being ancient buildings, these places represent the deep history and traditions of Korea. Going to these places helps tourists recognize the country’s artistic, spiritual and political heritage.
If your trip includes more than just city life and stores, visit the country’s historical palaces and UNESCO sites. The help of well-organized South Korea Holiday Packages allows you to explore the land of Joseon kings, Buddhist monks and ancient scholars. A visit to South Korea’s palaces, fortresses and temples offers something interesting for anyone who loves history, photography or exploring new places. Pick these destinations when booking a South Korea Tour Package and turn your visit into an unforgettable experience.
Here are some of the top historical sites and palaces to visit in South Korea.
1. Seoul’s Royal Past is Found at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most famous royal palace in South Korea. It was built in the Joseon Dynasty in 1395 and was the main house of the royal family for more than five hundred years. The palace was named Gyeongbokgung because it was meant to be greatly blessed by heaven. The palace has been carefully restored, even after many invasions and fires and reveals the best of Korean architecture.
People can visit the Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and the National Folk Museum when they visit the palace. Many people enjoy watching the daily ceremony where the guards are changed in their traditional outfits. It is commonly featured in South Korea Holiday Packages since it is easy to get to by public transport from Seoul.
2. Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon are part of a UNESCO Treasure.
Changdeokgung Palace is famous for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its peaceful relationship with nature. It differs from other royal buildings since it fits perfectly into the environment around it. After its construction in 1405, it became a place where kings stayed and many of them preferred to live there.
Huwon, also called the Secret Garden, is the main highlight of the palace, with lovely pavilions, lotus ponds and old trees. Anyone interested in architecture and landscape design should make sure to tour this quiet place. When visiting Changdeokgung as part of a tour package, you’ll usually also see nearby cultural attractions in Seoul.
3. Bulguksa Temple is a Place of Beauty in Gyeongju
Situated in Gyeongju, a famous city, Bulguksa Temple was established in the 8th century by the Silla Dynasty. Along with Seokguram Grotto, the temple is a part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Every year, many pilgrims and tourists are drawn to Bulguksa because of its stone pagodas, wood-built halls and atmosphere of spiritual calm.
Stone bridges and carved reliefs in the temple show what ancient Koreans aimed for in art and religion. Because it reveals Korea’s religious history, the temple is a common stop for cultural or spiritual tours in South Korea.
4. Deoksugung Palace – Mixing the East and the West
Deoksugung Palace which is next to Seoul’s City Hall, is famous for its blend of Korean and Western-style buildings. The building was first used by the royal family but was made an official palace in the late Joseon Dynasty. The Seokjojeon Hall which is built in neo-classical style and the Junghwajeon Hall, with its traditional design, are among its highlights.
It’s especially lovely to walk around Deoksugung Palace in the evening as it’s lit up by the lights. A nearby walking path, Deoksugung Stone Wall Road, is a romantic spot with lots of trees. If you want to learn about Korea’s move into modernity, Deoksugung should be on your list when visiting South Korea.
5. Hwaseong Fortress is a remarkable military construction in Suwon.
Hwaseong Fortress was constructed in the late 18th century and surrounds Suwon. King Jeongjo had this fortress built to honor his father and used both advanced military methods and beautiful design.
The fortress stretches out over 5.7 kilometers and has four main gates, observation towers and secret paths. Walking or taking a trolley is an option for people to see the wall and its interactive exhibits. Many tour packages that cover South Korea’s military history and engineering include Hwaseong Fortress which is a World Heritage Site.
6. Gyeongju Historic Area is the site of Korea’s former capital.
Because it was the capital of the Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is commonly known as “the museum without walls.” All over the city, you’ll find many historical landmarks, royal tombs, ancient observatories and Buddhist relics. Some of the most impressive places to see are the Cheomseongdae Observatory, Anapji Pond and the Daereungwon Tomb Complex.
People visiting can explore old burial mounds, admire statues made over a thousand years ago and walk through temples and palace locations. Many detailed South Korea holiday packages for history lovers include Gyeongju because of its rich culture and countless stories.
7. Jongmyo Shrine is a Sacred Place for the Royal Family
Jongmyo Shrine is another important heritage site because it is highly valued spiritually. It is the oldest royal shrine for Confucianism worldwide and here memorial services for the Joseon Dynasty’s kings and queens were held.
The design is simple but still shows respect and modesty. Each year, the traditional ceremony “Jongmyo Jerye” is performed together with classical court music. It is usually included when visitors come to Seoul as part of cultural South Korea Tour Packages.
8. Unhyeongung Palace – A Look at Noble Living
Because it is not as grand as other royal palaces, Unhyeongung Palace lets visitors see what life was like for aristocrats in the Joseon era. It was built by Heungseon Daewongun, who was King Gojong’s father. The palace is surrounded by audience halls, places to live and gardens.
It’s not as busy as some other places and great for people who like a peaceful yet worthwhile trip. Sometimes, the site hosts reenactments of traditional weddings and ceremonies for kings and queens. It fits well with some of the biggest attractions that are a part of many South Korea holiday packages.
9. Namhansanseong Fortress – Protected by the Mountains
Namhansanseong Fortress which is on a mountain southeast of the city, was used as a temporary capital when Seoul was under attack. The walls of the fortress cover more than 12 kilometers and include temples, command centers and old bunkers.
This area is great for hiking since it has history and stunning nature. Because the area is perfect for day outings and picnics, it is a good choice for travelers interested in heritage and outdoor activities while in South Korea.
10. Changgyeonggung Palace – A Spot of Harmony
At first, Changgyeonggung was constructed as a place for queens and concubines to live, making it another important palace in Seoul. Even though it is less grand than some, it has beautiful gardens, courtyards and wooden halls showing a calm sense of nobility.
Springtime is particularly lovely because hundreds of cherry blossoms cover the gardens. Most South Korea Holiday Packages include both the peaceful palace and Changdeokgung which is nearby.
Conclusion
Going to historical sites and palaces in South Korea is similar to reading a history book that is still being written. Every site is a separate story about emperors, battles, architecture and religion. These landmarks display the elegance of royalty, the faith of the people and how Korean culture survived over the years. When travelers explore these heritage sites, they can see how Confucian beliefs, military thinking and Buddhist beliefs influenced China.
Be sure to include these places in your plans, no matter if you’re on a short trip or a long cultural tour. You can easily reach these famous attractions with ease and comfort by booking South Korea Tour Packages. Many people now participate in heritage tourism and South Korea is especially known for its excellent blending of heritage preservation and display. If you wish to have deep travel experiences, let the country’s palaces and temples lead your way. Book from a list of South Korea Holiday Packages and experience the blending of old and new in amazing ways.
