Gyeongbokgung Palace (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
What makes it 92% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy evening illuminations, matching hanbok photo shoots, and quiet ponds, yet limited shade and weekend crowds reduce privacy during daytime.
Positives:
- Free guided tours and museums: Complimentary English tours and two on-site museums deepen your visit at no extra cost.
- Hanbok free entry perk: Wearing hanbok grants free palace admission for authentic photos and a cultural boost.
Challenges:
- Crowds at peak times: Guard ceremonies and cherry blossom season draw large groups. Arrive early to avoid the rush.
- Uneven stone paths: Wear comfortable shoes. Some palace areas have steep stairs and irregular paving stones.
What is Gyeongbokgung Palace?
- A 14th-century royal palace complex in central Seoul that served as the main seat of the Joseon Dynasty
- An expansive ensemble of traditional Korean architecture, including Gwanghwamun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Throne Hall, and meticulously arranged courtyards and pavilions
- A cultural landmark housing the National Palace Museum of Korea and landscaped gardens that exemplify Korean palace design
What is so special about Gyeongbokgung Palace for couple trip?
- Try matching hanbok for free entry and memorable photos
- Join the free English tour for palace history and highlights
- Witness the daily Royal Guard Changing Ceremony up close
- Enjoy spring night openings under lantern light
- Experience a hands-on royal tea ceremony on weekends
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a guided tour, hanbok photoshoot, and museum visits without hurry.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Gyeongbokgung Palace
Couple Hanbok Rental & Photoshoot:
Rent matching hanbok and take professional photos in front of Gyeonghoeru Pavilion.
Tip: Book at least one day in advance. Wear hanbok to skip the palace entry fee.
Free English-Language Guided Tour:
Join a 90-minute palace tour at 11:00, 13:30, or 15:30 (closed Tuesdays).
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early at the information center to secure your spot.
Royal Guard Changing Ceremony:
Watch the Joseon-era guard reenactment at Gwanghwamun Gate at 10:00 or 14:00.
Tip: Stand near the front left for photos of the guards entering the gate.
Spring Night Opening:
Stroll the palace under soft lights during May 8–June 15 from 19:00–21:30.
Tip: Buy KRW 3,000 tickets online. Hanbok wearers enter free and skip the line.
Jagyeongjeon Traditional Tea Ceremony:
Learn royal tea etiquette and make honey cakes every weekend at Jagyeongjeon Hall.
Tip: Email a reservation two weeks ahead to secure a weekend slot.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Book experiences in advance: Reserve hanbok rentals and tea-ceremony slots online to guarantee availability.
- Arrive before opening: Entering at 09:00 gives you quieter grounds and better photo opportunities by Gwanghwamun Gate.
Reviews of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Pedro Vera Obrador
Very beautiful and big complex, it can take hours to explore everything. 3000 won per adult, you can buy the ticket at the vending machine or also at the desks. Change of guards a couple of times every day.
Eren Korkmaz
It is a key attraction in Seoul for sure, and that is why it is full with tourists in traditional Korean attires for photo ops. The palace itself can be seen in 1 hour or so, but the garden is simply huge. So you might consider to dedicate some buffer time if you want to explore the whole landmark. There are free lockers available which was very practical to leave all the burden and walk around ...
Lissy “LuLu” Webber
Amazing! This place is closed on Tuesdays. Ceremonies happen 1000 and 1400. I would recommend to rent a traditional outfit and take cute pics. (If you are wearing the clothing it’s a free entry.) If you buy tickets it has to be with a card. Watching the traditional ceremony was definitely worth the visit and there is so many amazing buildings and history.
Nickola Wilson-Chung (Wilson)
Wonderful palace that needs to be seen in person. The beautiful architecture and designs are amazing. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes because the palace grounds are very spread out. Highly recommend seeing this historic place if you're able to visit Seoul, Korea.
Ed Tom
A must in Seoul ! Other early in the morning to avoid crowd! Dress up in Korean costume and you get in for free! Plan to be there for 2 hours to see all the chambers and the garden!!! Yes, it is cheesy to dress up in costumes but everyone es to to be a princess! Yes, I was tempted but decided to dress up modern to compare with the past and be unique rather than blend in..
When is the best time to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (Seoul, South Korea)?
Spring brings cherry blossoms around the pond and night openings. Autumn fills the trees with red leaves near Hyangwonjeong. Avoid midday summer heat by visiting early.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Palace admission (2 adults) | KRW 6,000 |
| Couple hanbok rental (4 hours) | KRW 30,000 |
| Professional photoshoot | KRW 45,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 81,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
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About Gyeongbokgung Palace
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+82 2-3700-3900Explore Popular Things to Do
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