Seoul, a City of Exceptional Culture, Spirituality and Colors

Seoul is a vibrant metropolis and the capital city of South Korea.  The landscape along the Han River reveals contrasting scenery of grand royal palaces and modern architecture. The Joseon dynasty profoundly impacted Seoul’s cultural landscape.  The Five Grand Palaces built during Joseon dynasty, embody the city’s distinctive traditions and culture.  The traditional neighborhood of Insadong houses a medley of traditional teahouses, pottery shops, art galleries and restaurants.  Seoul, a lively city of exceptional culture, spirituality and symbolism of colors. We invite you to explore its palaces, traditional neighborhoods and teahouses.    

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The Gyeongbokgung Palace, adorned in the background by the Bugaksan Mountain, is a cultural symbol of the Joseon dynasty.  The palace has heavy clay tiled rooftops, carved ceilings and multi-colored paintwork. The Gwanghwamun Gate is a magnificent entrance to the palace.  The reenactment of the royal guard changing ceremony takes place at the Gwanghwamun Gate.  The ceremony involves a procession of royal soldiers and awe-inspiring performance of royal duties.  It is a fascinating choreography of traditions, rituals and colors.  A walk through the Gwanghwamun Gate reveals the Geunjeongjeon Hall and the nearby Gyeanghoeru Pavilion set along an artificial lake.

Changdeokgung Palace

An expansive park and tranquil garden surround the Changdeokgung Palace.  The palace complex includes the governmental and royal quarters.  The Injeongjeon Hall, the main palace building, has a lovely courtyard.  The Seonjeongjeon Hall was used as the king’s office and displays an impressive multi-colored architecture.  The Buyongji Pond creates a peaceful space. 

Joseon Dynasty

The Joseon Dynasty profoundly impacted the cultural landscape of Seoul.  The Five Grand Palaces were built during the Joseon dynasty, including the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Gyeongbokgung Palace.  The Grand Deoksugung Palace signifies the end of the Joseon dynasty, the times of the king’s abdication.  Encircled by modern architecture, the Changgyeonggung Palace retains the spirit of the ancient culture.  The Gyeonghuigung Palace, significantly damaged during the Japanese occupation, has a beautifully restored audience hall. 

Insadong & Teahouses

Insadong is a wonderful place to visit.  It is a traditional Korean neighborhood with antique shops, art galleries, pottery shops and artisan boutiques.  The Insadonggil Street is lined with porcelain stores, calligraphy shops and traditional teahouses.  We pause at the snack stand to sample a powdery candy (the dragon’s beard candy), invented in ancient China and popular in ancient Korea.  Afterward, we visit a lovely teahouse and degust aromatic teas, sweets and snacks.