Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
조계사
Historic site · Jongno-gu
Head temple of the Jogye Order in the heart of the city. Shade from centuries-old scholar trees, seasonal lanterns and chrysanthemum displays. A quiet place to rest, close to Insadong.
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Source: jogyesa.kr
Korean Buddhist History and Culture Memorial Hall
FreeMuseum · Jonggak Stn. (Line 1)
The Buddhist Art Museum's inaugural special exhibition is the first in the Three Jewels series on Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, built around the theme of 'Buddha' and the idea that anyone can become one.
Buddhist Central Museum
FreeMuseum · Jonggak Stn. (Line 1)
Founded by the Jogye Order, Korea's leading Buddhist order, and opened in 2007. It sits near Jogyesa, the central temple of Korean Buddhism, and the Joseon-era palaces Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung.
OCI Museum of Art
FreeArt gallery · Anguk Stn. (Line 3), Exit 6
OCI Museum of Art fulfils the social role of an art museum as a hub of cultural activity, presenting in-depth exhibitions and supporting artists to help Korean contemporary art grow.
Ujeongchongguk General Post Office
FreeHistoric site · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
Noh Gallery
FreeArt gallery · Anguk Stn. (Line 3)
Opened in 1977 as Songwon Gallery in Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Noh Gallery has played a leading role in establishing and developing the Korean art market ever since.
Gongpyeong Urban Archaeology Exhibition Hall
FreeMuseum · Jonggak Stn. (Line 1)
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Free if eligibleJongno-gu · Gyeongbokgung Stn. (Line 3) Exit 5
Joseon's foremost royal palace. Free on the last Wednesday of the month or in hanbok. The changing of the guard ceremony (10:00 and 14:00) is always free.
Changdeokgung Palace
Free if eligibleJongno-gu · Anguk Stn. (Line 3) Exit 3
A UNESCO World Heritage site famed for autumn foliage. Free entry applies to the main palace only; the Secret Garden requires a separate booking.
Changgyeonggung Palace
Free if eligibleJongno-gu · Hyehwa Stn. (Line 4) Exit 4
A palace with a Grand Greenhouse and the Chundangji pond. Linked internally to Changdeokgung, and beautifully lit during night openings.
Deoksugung Palace
Free if eligibleJung-gu · City Hall Stn. (Lines 1, 2) Exit 2
A downtown palace where Seokjojeon sits alongside traditional halls. Open until 9pm, it's popular for evening strolls and the stone wall road; the changing of the guard is free.
Jongmyo Shrine
Free if eligibleJongno-gu · Jongno 3-ga Stn. (Lines 1, 3, 5) Exit 11
A World Heritage shrine housing the spirit tablets of Joseon kings and queens, with a meditative path through dense woods. Self-guided visits on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays are the most relaxed.