A Half-Day in Jongno: Palaces, Insadong and Cheonggyecheon

Why Jongno

Jongno is one of the most walkable parts of Seoul. In a short loop you can see royal palaces, traditional streets and a restored stream. The district sits in the old heart of the city, so it is also a good base for first-time visitors on a budget.

A suggested route

1. Changdeokgung. Start at this palace, one of the grand complexes of the Joseon dynasty. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Allow time to see the rear garden, which is visited by guided tour in many seasons, so check the schedule on arrival.

2. Anguk and Insadong. A short walk takes you to Anguk station and the lanes of Insadong, known for galleries, craft shops and traditional tea houses. It is a good place for a slow lunch.

3. Gyeongbokgung. From Insadong it is a stroll of about fifteen minutes to Gyeongbokgung, the main palace of the Joseon dynasty, built at the end of the fourteenth century. Look out for the changing of the guard ceremony, which is held at set times.

4. Cheonggyecheon. To finish, walk down to the Cheonggyecheon, a stream that runs through the centre and was reopened as a public space in the 2000s. In the evening the banks are lit and popular for a walk.

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, since palaces involve a lot of walking on gravel.
  • Many palaces close on one day a week, so confirm opening days.
  • Dress modestly and follow signs about photography.
  • Carry water in summer and layers in winter.
  • Use the subway between areas if you are tired.

After the walk

If you arrive from the airport, see our notes on getting to central Seoul. For where to sleep, read about hostel room types or return to the home page.

Making the most of each stop

Changdeokgung in more detail. The palace was a royal residence for many generations, and its buildings sit in a landscape designed to feel natural rather than strictly symmetrical. If you want to see the rear garden, ask on arrival about the next guided slot, as access is typically by timed group.

Insadong in more detail. The main street is lined with shops, but the side alleys are often more interesting. Look for small courtyard tea houses, stationery and paper shops, and galleries that change their exhibitions regularly. Traditional teas and sweet rice snacks are good to try here.

Gyeongbokgung in more detail. The palace has a large gate at the front and a long axis of halls leading to the back. Two museums stand within or beside the grounds, which is a useful option on a rainy afternoon. Wearing a traditional costume, available to hire nearby, is a popular activity and may give free entry at some palaces, so ask about current rules.

Cheonggyecheon in more detail. The stream flows for several kilometres through the centre, with stepping stones, small bridges and sculptures along the way. You can join at many points and leave at the next subway station.

If you have more time

Extend the day with a visit to a traditional market, a museum in the old town or a walk up to a viewpoint at dusk. Evenings are lively around the alleys near Anguk and Insadong, with street snacks and small restaurants.

Practical notes

Closing days differ between palaces, and some ticket offices close an hour or so before the gates. Combined tickets exist for several palaces, so ask at the ticket window. A rain jacket is more useful than an umbrella in crowds. Restrooms are available at palace entrances and in most subway stations.