Gyeongbokgung Palace

November 27, 2015
Day 6

On our 6th day, we visited the main and largest palace of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung or the Gyeongbok palace. This palace served as the home of Kings of Joseon dynasty, the Kings' household, as well as the government of Joseon. (source: Wikipedia)

The palace ground was huge! It was a cold day at -7C, so it was a bit of a struggle to walk with nowhere to escape the cold. So with the hope of keeping ourselves warm, we kept walking. We bought our tickets and checked the throne hall, the king/queen/crown prince quarters and other buildings. 

Thankfully, we saw a cafe/restaurant! Finally, a safe haven to escape the bitter cold morning, albeit temporary. We grabbed a cup of hot coffee and hot chocolate, took a seat by the window, and watched people pass by while cradling our warm drinks and thawing our hands at the same time. Lol.

When we were feeling toasty enough to brave the cold outside world of our warm little shelter, we continued checking out the other quarters/residences in the palace. 

Spread your wings and prepare to fly...lol this building reminds me of Mariah's song, Butterfly.

The Gyeonghoeru pavilion is probably what I liked best in the Gyeongbokgung palace grounds. This hall, which is 'floating' on an artificial lake, used to hold important events/banquets back in the good old days. Across the artificial lake were stone benches where we decided to rest and soak up the sun in an attempt to warm our cold selves without success. From one of these benches, I thought to myself how wonderful it would be to sit there having the same view, but covered with snow. I thought, that would really be such an awesome sight.

Just imagine - this view..with snow.♥

We wandered to the back of the palace hoping to stumble upon an exit leading to Bukchon Hanok Village but to no avail. The scenery was worth it though. ♥

Getting there by subway:

You may get off Gyeongbokgung Station on Line 3 (Orange) and look for Exit 5, or get off Anguk Station (also Line 3; Orange) and look for Exit 1.

For more details, click here.