Lost in Antiquity

The most notable attractions included in the pass are Seoul’s four major palaces, all located on the north side of the river. While Gyeongbokgung Palace – the largest – is perhaps the most popular, Changdeokgung and the directly connected Changgyeonggung Palace in Jongno district are also a joy to explore.

Built in 1405, Changdeokgung was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. The palace buildings vary significantly in scale and style, with ornately designed interiors and large courtyards connected by winding, tree-lined paths.

Beyond the palace buildings is the Huwon Secret Garden, which harbors bucolic ponds and streams (cdg.go.kr). Changgyeonggung is a smaller palace built in 1483 as a residence for wives and concubines. Here you can also wander freely through the smallerscale buildings, courtyards and gardens with waterways and bridges (english.visitseoul.net).

To the southwest is another popular historic attraction: Dongdaemun Gate. One of the eight gates of the old Seoul City Wall (parts of which still remain and can be hiked along), Dongdaemun now sits somewhat incongruously in the midst of one of the city’s top shopping and entertainment districts. The revitalized Cheonggyecheon Stream that bisects the old city center passes close by; markets and 24-hour malls sell all manner of goods; and the Dongdaemun Design Plaza showcases exhibitions, forums and fashion shows.

Still on the north side of the river is one of Seoul’s most popular districts, Myeongdong. This lively area is also a shopper’s paradise, with vast duty-free stores (including the main branch Lotte Duty Free Shop connected to the Lotte Hotel Seoul in neighboring Euljiro district), and cosmetics and fashion shops.