If you’re planning a getaway in Seoul, South Korea you should consider a visit to National Palace Museum of Korea. A great way to learn about Korean history, this museum traces more than 500 years of the country’s past. Found on the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, this popular tourist attraction is comprised of three spacious exhibit floors packed with more than 40,000 intriguing artifacts and relics. Exhibits focus on the Joseon Dynasty and royal family, along with the Korean Empire’s many offerings to the nation’s compelling culture and art. If your curiosity is peaked about this highly regarded museum take a look at what we’ve assembled: a guide to National Palace Museum of Korea, Seoul.
Highlights
Joseon Dynasty
National Palace Museum of Korea offers a comprehensive look at the formidable Joseon Dynasty. Exhibits showcase the rare artifacts, interesting symbols, and intriguing rituals that make up this clan that ruled from 1392 to 1910. Learn about the strict protocols for educating royal princes. See the refined royal family’s living quarters, elegant furnishings that decorate the rooms, stately court portraits that hang on the walls, and lavish palace architecture. Visitors can also view intimate items like silk robes, beautiful jewelry, poems written by kings, and so much more.
Self-striking water clock
This automated water clock was created during the Joseon era and aided residents in keeping the rhythm of their lives: when it was time to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Rain gauge pedestal
Invented during the Joseon Dynasty, this device was used to collect and measure rainfall activity.
Royal vehicle of Emperor Sunjong
Admire the handsome royal car of the Emperor Sunjong. A 1918 model of the General Motors Cadillac limousine, this vehicle’s body is surprisingly made of wood - not the usual steel. It features seven-person seating with an interior showcasing gold silk with delicately embroidered plum blossoms. Truly worth a studied look.
What to eat
Gogung Tteurak
Gogung Tteurak is the museum’s eatery. Situated on the first floor, Gogung Tteurak - or Museum Cafe - offers a cozy and casual place to dine. A must-try plate is the bibimbap combo meal. The soegogi deopbap - which is basically beef over rice - is a good choice as well. Hot soups and hearty stews are also available if the weather is chilly and you want something to warm your insides. To complete your meal, you can’t beat a luscious and satisfying chocolate latte and some cookies to nibble.
Things to buy
Museum Shop
Located on the ground floor, the Museum Shop features a nice array of wonderful souvenirs to remind you of your visit to the National Palace Museum of Korea. Kids will thrill in the fun-inducing, traditional children’s games. Intellectuals will love the assortment of books. Shopaholics with discriminating tastes will clamor over the beautiful collection of vibrant silk scarves and brilliant silk ties.
Travelers tips
Wheelchair accessibility
This attraction is fully accessible to those with disabilities. There’s wheelchair access, pathway access, and the restroom facilities are user-friendly for those with physical limitations. The Information Centers and Services provide wheelchair rentals and the parking lot can accommodate as well.
Check the South Korean calendar
Before you go you should know which South Korean holidays may interrupt your plans. Be aware January 1st is the Day of Seollal - or the Lunar New Year. Chuseok is known as the Korean Thanksgiving and occurs in September or October, depending on the year. For the year 2020, the Korean Thanksgiving date is October 1.
Seoul City Pass
A great and affordable way to get around the city is to buy a Seoul City Pass. With the purchase of this pass, foreign travelers in the city are allowed to ride the subway or bus up to 20 times in one day. The cost is 13 USD for one day, 22 USD for two days, and 26 USD for three days.
How to get there
Rent a car
Tourists deciding to rent a car and drive should head to the following address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Cheongun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Bus
Seoul offers a great public transit system that’s well-organized and wide-ranging. If you opt for a bus ride, numbers 272, 6011, 700, 7016, and 9401 stop near the museum.
Seoul Metro
If you want to experience the city’s efficient subway system then take the Seoul Metro. You can go to the Gyeongbokgung Station and hop on Line 3 to reach the museum. When you arrive, the museum is a two-minute walk away. If you’re at the Gwanghwamunhw Station catch Line 5 and the museum is a 10-minute stroll away.
Taxi
Tourists can hail a taxi off the streets or simply arrange for a taxi pick-up. Here’s a helpful hint: write down your destination in the local language because most drivers only speak Korean.
Uber
If you’re app-savvy book a quick and affordable ride with Uber.
Parking information
Visitors to the museum can use the nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace parking lot.
National Palace Museum Of Korea information
National Palace Museum Of Korea
Address: 12 Hyoja-ro, Cheongun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Official website: National Palace Museum Of Korea
Department of tourism: Visit Seoul
Opening hours: Sun - Tue: 10am - 6pm; Wed: 10am - 9pm; Thu - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 9pm
Price: Free
Seoul National Palace Museum Private Tour with Lunch Option
Duration: 3 hours
History
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