Couples enjoy dusk lighting, hanbok photo walk, and calm 20-min guard ritual; area is flat for strolling hand in hand, but visit is brief and lacks cafés on site, so plan dinner nearby.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This timeframe covers the guard ceremony, a hanbok photo walk, and a short wall stroll.
Sungnyemun Gate Guard Ceremony:
Watch soldiers in Joseon-era uniforms perform a 20-minute ritual.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure a front-row spot at the plaza.
Night Illumination Photo Stop:
See the gate bathed in golden light at dusk into the evening.
Tip: Visit 30 minutes before sunset for optimal light and fewer crowds.
Hanbok Rental and Photo Walk:
Rent traditional dress nearby and explore the gate and Namdaemun Market.
Tip: Pre-book your hanbok online to guarantee your size and style.
Fortress-Wall Sunset Walk:
Follow the 1.8 km section of the Seoul City Wall from Baekbeom Square.
Tip: Carry water and start before sunset for city views over the wall.
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Item | Cost (Approx.) |
---|---|
Hanbok rental (2 people) | KRW 34,000 |
Subway round-trip (2 people) | KRW 5,400 |
Coffee or street snack (2 people) | KRW 10,000 |
Total Estimated | KRW 49,400 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
In spring, spot cherry blossoms near the gate. In autumn, walk the wall to see amber leaves. Summer heat can climb; carry water. Winter nights are clear and cold—layer up for night views.
Address: 40 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
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Si M
also known as Namdaemun (“Great South Gate”), is one of the historic Eight Gates in the Fortress Wall of Seoul, South Korea. Originally built in 1398 during the Joseon Dynasty, it served as the main southern gate to the capital city. Key points: • It’s designated as National Treasure No. 1 of South Korea. • The gate features traditional wooden architecture atop a stone base. • It was severely dam...
Isabel Cristina Perez Verona
Try to match the change of guard!!! It is totally worth it, we saw it by chance and then the guards explain how the ceremony was done in the older times and they are super nice if you want to take a photo
THE EXPLORER
I always go to this gate every time we visit Korea. I have been coming here for 40 years and I am always impressed that these monuments to Seoul’s past have been maintained for all to see. I always take a selfie with the front guard and once he even said something to me in English.
Mike M.
One of 8 gates that were along the fortress wall around Seoul during the Joseon dynasty. This is the south gate, and it is conveniently located between City Hall and Seoul Station (you can see both from the gate), so I recommend stopping by if you're in the neighborhood. The old architecture contrasted with the modern buildings is really interesting. The gate can be viewed from the street 24/7. Ho...
Jo Lee
Surrounded by all the high rise modern buildings, this is a true heritage in the Seoul city center. As one of the 8 gates in the fortress wall of Seoul, it's not surprise that the architecture looks grand, solid and sophisticated. As you walk through the gate, you can't help but admire the ceiling and the roof crafting. Too bad can't walk up to enjoy the view from above. Toilet available within t...
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