Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Tours to Begin on September 11th
Seoul, September 7, 2024 -Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul’s grandest and most iconic royal palace, will be hosting its popular Starlight Night Walk event from September11th to October 27th. The event, organized by the Palace and Tomb Heritage Division of the Cultural Heritage Administration, offers visitors a uniqueopportunity to explore the palace grounds under the moonlight.
The Starlight Night Walk will allow visitors to experience the beauty of Gyeongbokgung Palace illuminated by lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors will be able to explore keylandmarks such as Gwanghwamun Gate, Heungryemun Gate, Geunjeongjeon Hall, Sajeongjeon Hall, Gangningjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and Gyotaejeon Hall.
The night tour will be held every Wednesday to Sunday from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. The event will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as on September 19th and October 9th. Visitors are required to enter the palace by8:30 PM at the latest.
Tickets for the event went on sale at 10:00 AM on September 4th through the Korean e-commerce platform Interpark. A maximum of 3,000 tickets will be sold each day. Foreign visitors can purchase tickets at the entranceon the day of their visit.
Free admission is available for those wearing traditional Korean hanbok, national merit recipients and their spouses, children under six years old, and seniors aged 65 and above upon presentation of relevant documentation.
The Starlight Night Walk is a popular event that attracts both domestic andinternational tourists. It offers a unique perspective of Gyeongbokgung Palace, showcasing its architectural beauty and historical significance under the night sky. The event is a great opportunity to experience Korean culture and history in a unique and memorable way.
A Brief History of Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace, meaning Palace of Shining Happiness, was built in 1395 by King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. It served as the main royal palace for over 500 years and was a symbol of Joseon’s power and prosperity.
The palace was destroyedduring the Imjin War (1592-1598) and remained in ruins for over two centuries. It was finally rebuilt in the late 19th century by King Gojong.
Today, Gyeongbokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular touristdestinations in Seoul. It is a testament to the rich history and culture of Korea.
The Significance of Night Tours
Night tours of historical sites offer a unique perspective that is often missed during daytime visits. The absence of crowds and the soft glow of artificial lighting create a serene and atmospheric experience.
In thecase of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Starlight Night Walk allows visitors to appreciate the palace’s architecture and landscaping in a new light. The illuminated buildings and trees create a magical ambiance, making the experience more immersive and memorable.
The Impact of the Starlight Night Walk
The Starlight Night Walk is a popular event that has contributed to the growth of tourism in Seoul. It has also helped to promote Korean culture and history to a wider audience.
The event has been praised for its unique and immersive experience, and it has been featured in numerous travel publications and websites.
Conclusion
The Starlight Night Walk at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-see event for anyone visiting Seoul. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and history of this iconic palace in a new and unforgettable way. The event is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Korea.
Views: 0