【 Top 20 Must-Visit Attractions in Jongno-gu, Seoul 】A Complete Guide to History & Modern Charm

Located in the heart of Seoul, Jongno-gu is rich with 600 years of Joseon Dynasty history. From grand royal palaces and historic sites to trendy renovated neighborhoods lined with chic cafes, this area houses essential spots every traveler must see. Here is an expert guide to 20 top attractions in Jongno-gu, complete with metro access, admission fees, and official links.

1. Gyeongbokgung Palace

The main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty and the largest of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces. It features grand architecture, vast gardens, and the iconic Gyeonghoeru Pavilion floating over a pond. Wearing traditional Hanbok grants free admission.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5)
  
  
• Admission: Adults (19–64): 3,000 KRW
  
  
• Official Link: Royal Palaces & Tombs Center - Gyeongbokgung
  
  

2. Changdeokgung Palace

A UNESCO World Heritage Site praised for its architecture built in harmony with the natural landscape. The Secret Garden (Huwon) inside offers breathtaking seasonal scenery and peaceful pavilions once loved by royalty.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Anguk Station (Exit 3, 5-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: General: 3,000 KRW / Secret Garden: 5,000 KRW (Reservation required)
  
  
• Official Link: Royal Palaces & Tombs Center - Changdeokgung
  
  

3. Changgyeonggung Palace

Originally built as a residence for queens and concubines, this palace offers an intimate glimpse into royal daily life. It houses the Grand Greenhouse—Korea's first Western-style greenhouse—and the serene Chundangji Pond.

• Metro Access: Line 4, Hyehwa Station (Exit 4, 15-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Adults (19–64): 1,000 KRW
  
  
• Official Link: Royal Palaces & Tombs Center - Changgyeonggung
  
  

4. Jongmyo Shrine

A solemn UNESCO World Heritage Site housing the spirit tablets of Joseon kings and queens. Its unique, elongated architecture radiates quiet majesty, and traditional royal ancestral rituals are still performed here annually.

• Metro Access: Lines 1, 3, or 5, Jongno 3-ga Station (Exit 11, 5-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Adults (19–64): 1,000 KRW
  
  
• Official Link: Royal Palaces & Tombs Center - Jongmyo
  
  

5. Gwanghwamun Gate

The main southern gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace and an iconic symbol of Seoul. It features a grand stone base topped by a two-story pavilion where visitors can watch the colorful Royal Guard Changing Ceremony.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5) or Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 2)
  
  
• Admission: Free (Exterior view & guard ceremony)
  
  
• Official Link: VISITKOREA - Gwanghwamun Gate
  
  

6. Gwanghwamun Square

A vibrant public plaza stretching out in front of Gwanghwamun Gate. Featuring prominent statues of King Sejong the Great and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, it serves as a cultural gathering space with seasonal exhibitions and fountains.

• Metro Access: Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station (Directly connected to Exit 7 & 9)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul Plaza - Gwanghwamun Square
  
  

7. Bukchon Hanok Village

Nestled between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, this historic neighborhood is home to hundreds of traditional Korean houses (hanok). The preserved alleys offer stunning photo opportunities where old-world charm meets modern cityscapes.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Anguk Station (Exit 2, 10-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul Hanok Portal
  
  

8. Insadong Street

A famous cultural street packed with traditional craft shops, antique stores, art galleries, and historic teahouses. It is the perfect place to shop for unique souvenirs or enjoy traditional Korean snacks and tea.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Anguk Station (Exit 6) or Line 1, Jonggak Station (Exit 3)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: VISITKOREA - Insadong
  
  

9. Samcheongdong Street

An artistic neighborhood where traditional hanok structures house trendy boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafes. It is an ideal spot for a relaxing stroll, coffee break, and aesthetic photo walks.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Anguk Station (Exit 1, 10-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: VISITKOREA - Samcheongdong
  
  

10. Ikseondong Hanok Alley

One of Seoul's trendiest spots, featuring a network of narrow hanok alleys restored into retro-chic cafes, craft beer pubs, and lifestyle shops. It blends vintage 1920s vibes with modern Korean pop culture.

• Metro Access: Lines 1, 3, or 5, Jongno 3-ga Station (Exit 4 or 6, 2-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: VISITSEOUL - Ikseondong
  
  

11. Cheonggyecheon Stream

An 11 km ecological stream flowing through the heart of downtown Seoul. Lined with walking paths, waterfalls, and stepping stones, it serves as an urban oasis for locals and travelers seeking a peaceful break.

• Metro Access: Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station (Exit 5)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul Facilities Corporation - Cheonggyecheon
  
  

12. Gwangjang Market

One of Korea’s oldest traditional markets, world-famous for its bustling street food culture. Visitors can taste iconic local dishes such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), mayak kimbap, and fresh beef tartare (yukhoe).

• Metro Access: Line 1, Jongno 5-ga Station (Exit 8, 1-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Gwangjang Market Official Site
  
  

13. JogYESa Temple

The head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, located right in the city center. Known for its ancient trees and peaceful hall, the temple hosts impressive lantern festivals during Buddha’s Birthday celebrations.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Anguk Station (Exit 6, 5-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: JogYESa Temple Official Site
  
  

14. Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong)

A historical fortress wall built along Seoul's mountains to protect the ancient capital. Hiking along sections like Naksan or Baegak offers dramatic views of the old ramparts contrasted against the modern skyline.

• Metro Access: Line 4, Hyehwa Station (Exit 2, near Naksan Section)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul City Wall Official Site
  
  

15. Baek In-je House

A grand early 20th-century hanok built during the Japanese colonial era. It blends traditional Korean architecture with modern Western and Japanese elements, featuring an expansive courtyard and preserved period furniture.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Anguk Station (Exit 2, 10-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul Museum of History - Baek In-je House
  
  

16. Hong Geon-ik House

A public-access heritage hanok hidden in the quiet neighborhood of Seochon. It preserves authentic early-modern architectural layouts and offers visitors a serene space to rest and experience traditional house aesthetics.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 2, 10-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul Hanok Portal - Hong Geon-ik House
  
  

17. Gyeonghuigung Palace

A secondary palace used by Joseon kings in times of emergency. Compared to Gyeongbokgung, it offers a tranquil atmosphere away from crowds, making it perfect for peaceful walks among historical structures.

• Metro Access: Line 5, Seodaemun Station (Exit 4, 10-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul Museum of History - Gyeonghuigung
  
  

18. Seokpajeong Villa (Buam-dong)

A stunning private garden and villa that once belonged to Prince Heungseon Daewongun. Located on the slopes of Inwangsan Mountain, it combines historic architecture with seasonal nature and is accessed via Seoul Museum.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 3) -> Take bus 1020, 1711, or 7016 to Jahamun Tunnel
  
  
• Admission: 20,000 KRW (Includes Seoul Museum admission)
  
  
• Official Link: Seoul Museum - Seokpajeong
  
  

19. Seochon Village

A charming, artistic neighborhood west of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Lined with narrow alleyways, indie bookstores, craft workshops, and cozy cafes, it maintains a cozy, authentic community atmosphere.

• Metro Access: Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 2)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: VISITSEOUL - Seochon
  
  

20. Hanyangdoseong Sullagil

A historic patrol path used by royal guards during the Joseon era. Today, West Sulla-gil (Seosullagil) is a picturesque walkway running along the stone wall, lined with trendy wine bars, craft shops, and cafes.

• Metro Access: Lines 1, 3, or 5, Jongno 3-ga Station (Exit 7, 3-min walk)
  
  
• Admission: Free
  
  
• Official Link: VISITSEOUL - Sullagil
  
  

From royal heritage and serene gardens to bustling night markets and retro alleys, Jongno-gu showcases the best of Seoul. Pack your walking shoes, jump on the subway, and experience the rich cultural tapestry of Korea's capital!