[2025 Seoul Attraction] Travel Guide for Jongmyo Shrine (Updated Jun)

How to Spend 5 Days in Seoul --- ### 📍 Itinerary Overview Seoul, a vibrant blend of modernity and tradition, offers an exciting 5-day itinerary. This plan covers historical landmarks, bustling districts, and local cuisines, ensuring a well-rounded experience. ### 🚩 Sightseeing Route - **Day 1**: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong Market - **Day 2**: Myeongdong Shopping District, N Seoul Tower, Dongdaemun Design Plaza - **Day 3**: Hongdae Area, Trick Eye Museum, Han River Park - **Day 4**: Changdeokgung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine, Cheonggyecheon Stream - **Day 5**: Lotte World Tower, Gangnam District, COEX Mall ### 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions - Gyeongbokgung Palace: A stunning representation of traditional Korean architecture. - N Seoul Tower: Offers panoramic views of the city, especially beautiful at sunset. - Myeongdong: A bustling shopping paradise filled with street food and fashion. ### 🚇 Transportation Seoul’s subway system is efficient and user-friendly. Purchase a T-money card for seamless travel throughout the city. Bus services are also reliable, providing easy access to various attractions. ### 📷 Photo Spots - Bukchon Hanok Village: Picturesque streets with traditional Korean houses. - Namsan Park: Viewpoint for stunning city sceneries. - Ikseon-dong: Charming alleys adorned with cafes and shops perfect for Instagram. ### 🍜 Local Cuisine - Try Bibimbap: A colorful rice dish mixed with vegetables and meat. - Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes, a beloved street food. - Korean BBQ: Grill your own meat at bustling BBQ restaurants. ### 🏠 Accommodation Choose a hotel in Myeongdong or Hongdae for convenience and accessibility to major attractions. Guesthouses and hostels in Insadong offer a more intimate experience. ### 💡 Tips - Download a translation app to help with communication. - Learn basic Korean phrases for a more immersive experience. - Always check the opening hours of attractions and make reservations where required. Enjoy your adventure in Seoul, where every day brings new experiences and memories!

#0yentripJanuary2025 [Jongmyo Shrine] 🕰️Opening hours: 0900-1730 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: ◯ 📍Location: Jongno District, Jong-ro, 157, Seoul, Korea 💰Price per person: From 100 💞Reasons why we recommend it: We visited as one of the palace tours in Korea🤍 There are many famous temples, but this one has an entrance on the south side, so it's a good idea to plan your visit separately from visiting temples on the north side, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace‼︎ While feeling like you're strolling through a lush garden, explanations of events that were held in Korea at the time were written on the wall😁

#Travelwithme #TriptoKorea #Seoul #2023 #Walk At the request of a friend who traveled with me, I went to Jongmyo Shrine. I walked around this area in the summer, too, but the air was crisp on a winter morning. This is the place where the memorial tablets of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty are enshrined. Maybe that's why the air is different. Unfortunately, the main hall? The main hall was under construction at the time. It seems that the construction will be completed this fall, so I'll have to go again. The nearest station is Exit 11 of Jongno 3-ga Station. It's also close to Gwangjang Market, so it's recommended for a walk after a meal.

#tripmemory2022 I also like Ikseon-dong, which is famous for its hanok renovations in Seoul, Korea, but I also recommend Seosunla-gil, which is nearby. Seosunla-gil is a street that runs along the stone wall on the west side of the Jongmyo Shrine, and there are more and more hanok renovation shops here, with a stylish and mature atmosphere that is very nice 🫶 It's not as crowded as Ikseon-dong, and I think it's a hidden gem right now 👍 There are many restaurants and bars, but since I'm traveling alone, I'd like to introduce some cafes that are useful for solo travelers. I may have introduced one of them before, but I'd like to introduce it again! ☕️Seolbangwool Bakery 솔방울베이커리 ☕️1st to 3rd photos. It's about 10 meters after turning Seosunla-gil, and there is a bakery and a cafe in the back and on the upper floors. The name of the cafe means pine cone, and there is a pine tree in the courtyard of the cafe area, and the wooden interior is relaxing. 187-5, Jongrok, Gwanghwamun, Seoul ☕️Fikee Park ☕️4th-5th photo. It's next to a renovated Korean house shop, but the staff are nice and you can relax and enjoy the view of the stone wall of the Jongmyo Shrine. Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Seosulla-gil, 81 ☕️cafe SASA☕️6th photo. I haven't actually been here yet, so I can only take photos, it's crowded~😂The terrace is packed with people, so I can only take photos from a video I took from a distance~ I follow them on Instagram, and they always post wonderful and delicious-looking posts😋I've booked my next trip to Korea on trip.com, so I definitely want to go. It's close to Changdeokgung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace on Seosungla-gil. 144-1, Jongno-dong, Seolut-gu #Korean cafe #Korea trip #Seoul #Korea solo trip #Jongno 3-ga

📍 147 Seosun-ra-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 1-2F I visited a hanok cafe located on Seosun-ra-gil. They say that Sasa means the sound of a forest swaying in the wind. It’s too cold to sit on the terrace on the 2nd floor right now, but I think it would be great to sit on the terrace when spring comes. They sell Gwapyeon, Imjeolmi Mugwort Pound Cake, Mugwort Latte, Ginger Latte, and various types of tea that go well with the cozy hanok. Oh! And since it’s a dog-friendly cafe, they even have a separate menu for dogs. #SeoulTravel #Winter #Hanok #HanokCafe #Seosun-ra-gil

Jongmyo in Jongno-gu is a shrine that enshrines the spirit tablets of kings and queens. A walk around Jongmyo on Wednesday, Culture Day. It felt new because it was my first time visiting Jongmyo in a long time. It was a bit disappointing because it was under construction, but the quiet atmosphere was really nice. Location: 157 Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul Hours: Saturday 09:00 - 18:00 February - May, September - October Saturday 09:00 - 18:30 June - August Saturday 09:00 - 17:30 November - January Closed on Tuesdays Admission: 1,000 won #Seoul travel #Hanok scenery #Jongmyo #Things to do in Seoul #Jongno #City travel #Next time here #Seoul travel

I happened to hear about the Jongmyo guided tour when I went to Euljiro◡̈ On weekdays, to prevent damage to the heritage, only a certain number of people must move with a guide at a certain time! I think it was free admission on Saturdays, but I don't remember exactly😭 I checked the website, but it seems to have changed again because of Corona! The schedule always changes because of Corona, so I think it would be better to check before you go٩(๑❛ᴗ❛๑)۶ It was my first time on a Jongmyo tour in the fall, and it was such a great experience! I can't believe I could see such pretty autumn leaves 🥺 And I can see the harmony of the autumn leaves and Jongmyo 🥺 It was really amazing,,, especially the scenery of the ginkgo leaves, maple leaves, and just green leaves mixed together in the photo was so beautiful that I still remember it! It was nice to be able to truly feel autumn at Jongmyo◡̈ It was a really good experience to walk around Jongmyo and see the fall foliage with no one except the tour group✨ I feel like I will go to Jongmyo every fall.. And I think it was even better because I was able to learn things about Jongmyo that I didn't know about while walking around listening to the guide's explanation◡̈ Other people should definitely visit at least onceఇ 📍Jongmyo 📍Address: 1-2, Hunjeong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul #Jongmyo #SeoulTravel #TrekkingTravel #Seoul #WithNature #FallFallPlace #AutumnEmotion #AutumnTravel #LifeShotPlace#NextTimeHere#LifeTravelDestination #FoodExploration#CityTravel

-Visit Information- Address- 157 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul Closed- Every Tuesday Visit- Operated by guided tours with timed admissions *The following are free admission days - Every Saturday - The last Wednesday of every month (Culture Day) - Holidays and national holidays Fee- Adults 1,000 won The travel destination we will introduce today is the ‘Parthenon of the East’, Jongmyo! 1. Jongmyo, the Parthenon of the East Jongmyo is a shrine that houses the ancestral tablets of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty, as well as the posthumously honored kings and queens, and is one of the most refined and magnificent structures among Joseon architecture! For Joseon, a Confucian state, the space where the royal ancestors were worshipped and ancestral rites were held was more important than any other space. For this reason, the buildings of Jongmyo are evaluated as buildings that fully embody the aesthetics of Korean architecture: “simple but not shabby, splendid but not extravagant.” Even world-renowned architects were fascinated by the beauty of Jongmyo. Seiichi Shirai, a master of modern Japanese architecture, evaluated Jongmyo by saying, “If the West has the Parthenon, the East has Jongmyo.” Frank Gehry, a Canadian architect who designed the Guggenheim Museum, visited Jongmyo with his family after asking for permission from the relevant government agencies in advance when he visited Korea. How about a day trip to Jongmyo, the masterpiece of Joseon architecture that is majestic but restrained? #SeoulTravel #CityTravel #SafeTravel #LifeTravelDestination #LifeShotSpot #Jongmyo #jhtour

#cityplaybook Locate in the heart of Seoul's Jongno district, Jongmyo offers a profound and tangible connection to Korea's royal past. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site, particularly in April when the surrounding area comes alive, is a truly worthwhile experience. Jongmyo stands as a testament to the Joseon Dynasty, most notably through its main hall, Jeongjeon. This impressive wooden structure holds the distinction of being the longest of its kind in Korea and serves as the final resting place for 19 esteemed kings and their queens, including iconic figures like Taejong, Sejong, and Sejo. Walking through its grounds allows you to feel the weight of history and appreciate the architectural grandeur that has been preserved through centuries. Beyond the historical significance, Jongmyo provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in Korean culture. While simply exploring the site is rewarding, I highly recommend timing your visit to coincide with one of the guided tours. Available on both weekdays and weekends, these tours offer insightful narratives that truly bring the stories of the Joseon rulers and the significance of Jongmyo to life. Learning about the traditions and rituals performed here adds a deeper layer of understanding to the experience. Practicalities are also well-addressed. Located at 157 Jongno, the site is easily accessible. For those driving, a public parking lot is conveniently situated right next door, and the parking fees are noted to be quite reasonable for Seoul. The admission fee is a modest 1,000 won for adults (aged 25-64) and foreign visitors (aged 19-64), with free entry for those under 24, over 65, disabled individuals, veterans, and visitors wearing traditional Hanbok. In conclusion, a visit to Jongmyo is more than just sightseeing; it's an opportunity to walk through Korea's living history. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking a meaningful cultural experience in Seoul, Jongmyo is a destination that should not be missed. Make sure to check the tour schedules to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this remarkable site. #citydaytours #historicallandmarks

Upon entering, you can feel the solemnity and reverence of the place. It may seem like a quiet garden, but it is a site imbued with the spirit of the Joseon Dynasty. Jongmyo Shrine Jongmyo is the royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon Dynasty, where memorial services were held for the spirits of kings and queens, as well as for those who were posthumously granted royal titles despite not having ascended the throne during their lifetimes. 🌱 Guided Tours Weekdays: 9:20 AM - 4:20 PM (until 4:40 PM from March to September) Sundays and Culture Day: Tours operate as on weekdays Saturdays and Public Holidays: Only Korean-language tours are available Tour times: 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM ⚘ Admission Fees Closed every Tuesday Adults (ages 19-64): 1,000 KRW Under 19 years old / Over 65 years old: Free (Valid ID required for free tickets) Free admission on Culture Day (last Wednesday of every month) Integrated ticket for Jongmyo Shrine and the Four Palaces (Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung): Adults: 6,000 KRW / Valid for 6 months

Highlights of Jongmyo • The memorial tablets of the Joseon Dynasty's kings and queens are enshrined here, creating a solemn atmosphere. • The annual Jongmyo Grand Ceremony (종묘대제) showcases traditional costumes and music (Jongmyo Jeryeak), and is an intangible cultural heritage of Korea. • It is surrounded by a quiet forest, and the tranquil atmosphere makes it hard to believe you're in the city center. • There are audio guides and pamphlets in Japanese, so you can enjoy it even if you're not familiar with history. #AsiaTrip #SeoulTrip #0YenTrip

Visiting Seoul's "Jongmyo Shrine" offers a thought-provoking historical experience. Located in the bustling heart of the city, this ancient shrine exudes an atmosphere of tranquility and solemnity. Built in 1394, Jongmyo Shrine was dedicated to honoring and commemorating the kings and descendants of the Joseon Dynasty. Upon entering the shrine, visitors are greeted by a dense pine forest, with shadows dancing among the trees, evoking a sense of dignity and peace. Walking in front of the main hall of Jongmyo Shrine, one can feel the grandeur and simplicity of the ancient architecture. Each pillar and stone seems to hold a long and storied history. The annual Jongmyo Daeje ceremony attracts countless tourists and scholars, with its focused rituals and melodious traditional music transporting visitors back in time to experience the cultural heritage of dynastic transitions. This is undoubtedly a place worth revisiting, offering a deeper understanding of history.

The main temple in Seoul is the center of the action for Buddha Day. Parades and ceremonies originate here.

Jongmyo Shrine, dedicated to the successive kings of the Joseon Dynasty, transforms into a sea of vibrant red during autumn. The serene atmosphere adds a sacred touch to the surroundings. With fewer visitors, it’s a hidden gem for leisurely leaf-peeping. Guided tours are available within the premises, making it a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts 🍁 【Overview】 A historic shrine registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 【Impressions】 The tranquility and the beauty of the autumn leaves were truly soothing. Perfect for photography! 【Access & Tips】 Within walking distance from Jonggak Station. Mid-November is the best time to visit during the foliage season.

#Spring0yenTrip In March 2025, we went to Korea on a couple's trip. Jongmyo Shrine, a World Heritage Site, is a majestic mausoleum that enshrines the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. The quiet atmosphere and traditional architecture were charming, and it was a special place where you could feel the history. Some parts were under construction, but it didn't hinder us from touring. The time we spent walking quietly holding hands was memorable.

#Domestic travel 📍Jongmyo Jongmyo Management Office, 157 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul This is a temple that honors the royal family of the Joseon Dynasty, where you can enjoy truly beautiful nature. If you pay the admission fee, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms, and I recommend it as a great travel destination in Seoul where you can feel the plum blossoms and nature. Group tours are also available, and I recommend taking travel photos here. Jongmyo located in Jongno with a great atmosphere #SeoulTravel #JongnoTravel

#Spring 0 yen trip The Jongmyo Shrine, surrounded by a solemn atmosphere, is a sacred place that enshrines the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. I felt the history in the silence and my heart was at peace. The beautiful gardens are also a highlight. A Japanese guided tour is also recommended. #Jongmyo Shrine #World Heritage Site #Korea Trip

❤Recommendation reason: The Jongmyo Shrine is an important Confucian sacrificial site located in Seoul, South Korea, mainly used to worship the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. It was built in 1394 by order of Yi Seong-gye, the founding monarch of the Joseon Dynasty. Jongmyo is the royal ancestral hall of the Joseon Dynasty, used for sacrificial ceremonies to express respect and commemorate ancestors. 🌟Highlights: [○] Layout: The ancestral temple consists of the main hall, Yongning Hall and several ancillary buildings. The overall layout is rigorous and embodies the Confucian ritual system. [○]Jeongjeon: The Jeongjeon is the core building of the Jongmyo Shrine, where the tablets of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty are enshrined. [○] Yongning Hall: Yongning Hall is where the tablets of other royal family members are enshrined. It is slightly smaller than the main hall. [○] Architectural style: The architectural style of the ancestral temple is simple and solemn, reflecting the simplicity and solemnity of Confucian culture. 👍Most Recommended: In 1995, Jongmyo Shrine of Korea was listed as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO for its unique historical and cultural value.

🗺️🗺️ 【Travel Plan】 Day 1: Myeong-dong Day 2: Gyeongbokgung Palace-Gwangjaeng Market-Cheonggyecheon Stream- Day 3: N Seoul Tower-Jongmyo Shrine- Day 4: Myeongdong Street Food 📍📍【Must-visit attractions】 1. Myeong-dong 2. Gyeongbokgung Palace 3. Gwangjaeng Market 4. Cheonggyecheon Stream 5. N Seoul Tower 6. Jongmyo Shrine 7. Myeongdong Street Food 🥘🥘【Must-visit delicious food】 Myeongdong Street Food 🏠🏠【Recommended accommodation】 Sarang Guesthouse Dongdaemun, inexpensive, clean, quiet, kind owner 📷📷【Photo spot】 📣📣 [Tips]

Day 1: I arrived at Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul, an ancient structure listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its solemnity and simplicity. Walking slowly along the straight path of the sacred road, I felt the holy atmosphere of the ritual ceremonies. The grandeur of the main hall contrasted beautifully with the surrounding greenery, as if time had stood still here. I quietly listened to the guided tour, learning about the spirit tablets of past kings and queens enshrined here, and was deeply moved by the unique ritual culture of the Joseon Dynasty. In the afternoon, I strolled to the nearby Changgyeonggung Palace, admiring the harmonious beauty of the pond and ancient buildings in its courtyard, leisurely immersing myself in the blend of history and nature. Day 2: I chose to delve deeper into cultural exploration. In the morning, I visited Insadong, where traditional handicraft shops and modern cafes intertwine, presenting a unique charm of ancient and modern fusion. I tasted traditional Korean tea in a teahouse, feeling the pace of time slow down. In the afternoon, I headed to Bukchon Hanok Village, where winding alleys are dotted with historic hanok buildings. The wooden windows and tiles speak of the warmth of traditional life. Standing on a slope overlooking the city, the modern skyscrapers and ancient hanok buildings complement each other, making one feel the continuity and preciousness of history.

Jongmyo covered in snow offers a tranquil scenery. Walking along the walls, main gate, and the sacred path of Jongmyo, one of the longest wooden structures in Korea, you can feel the history and tradition. Admission Fee: 1,000 KRW Parking: Public parking available Address: 157, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul Operating Hours: 09:00-18:00 (Closed every Tuesday)

Jongmyo Shrine is a national shrine located in Seoul that enshrines the memorial tablets of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty, as well as the emperor and empress of the Korean Empire! It was founded in 1395 and was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, the earliest of Korea's cultural heritage sites☝🏽 ⭐︎History and structure Jongmyo Shrine was founded in 1395, just after the founding of the Joseon Dynasty, and originally consisted of only the main hall! After several expansions, it has grown to its current size😳The main hall has 19 rooms and the Yeongnyeong Hall has 16 rooms, and the two halls are arranged on either side of the central shrine room!  ⭐︎Rituals and Culture At Jongmyo Shrine, rites are held to worship the tablets of the king and queen, and these rites have long-standing traditions and customs that have been preserved intact☝🏽In particular, the Jongmyo Jeryeak is designated as an important intangible cultural asset, and traditional music and dance are performed at the Jongmyo Jerye, which is held on the first Sunday of May every year!  ⭐︎Access and Attractions In the precincts, there are buildings such as the Jeongjeon, Yeongnyeongjeon, Mangmyo-ro, Hyangdaecheong, Saegung, and Jeonsichong, and you can enjoy the architectural beauty of the Joseon period in each place☝🏽 In addition, there are three roads in front of the Jeongjeon, the central road is for the deceased king, the eastern road is for the king, and the western road is for the crown prince!  Jongmyo Shrine is a valuable place for gaining a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Joseon Dynasty, and by visiting, you can experience its solemn atmosphere and traditional rituals! #0 yen trip January 2025 #Asia trip #Korea

#Lunar New Year's Day Travel #Lunar New Year's Day Date #Architecture Travel #World Cultural Heritage #History Travel 🌅 Recommended World Cultural Heritage Seoul Architecture Period Travel Destinations to Visit Meaningfully on Lunar New Year 📍Jongmyo Yeongnyeongjeon: 157 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 📍Admission Hours: 09:00~18:00 / 17:30/18:30 (Different by season and quarter) 🌄 Introducing the World Cultural Heritage 'Jongmyo Yeongnyeongjeon' that is great for a meaningful trip on Lunar New Year! It is a place where ancestral spirits and old times are worshipped, so it is full of strong energy and good energy, and the solemn atmosphere calms the mind! 😌 It is a great place to walk around Jongmyo, reflect on history, and make New Year's wishes and resolutions on Lunar New Year! I recommend you visit for a Lunar New Year trip while feeling the beauty of our old architecture! 🩵

#chillandthrill Lovely visit, both culturally interesting and within a beautiful park setting showcasing all the golden colours of autumn. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995, the shrine dates back as far as 1395 for the main hall, which is currently undergoing some renovation All that aside, the grounds and the structures are amazing. Like other recent reviews have said, the main shrine building was still under refurbishment when I went. Despite that, the entire site is still worth visiting for the beauty, history, and peaceful atmosphere. If you buy the Palace Pass combination ticket, admission to this is included.

#January travel support event #Jongmyo After eating my fill at Gwangjang Market, I went to Jongmyo for a walk Admission is 1,000 won and free for those under 25! I went on a nice autumn day and it was so cool and nice❤️ Even though I went on the weekend, there weren't many people and it was quietㅎ It's also great to see our country's world cultural heritage

#January travel support event #Jongmyo Jongmyo (宗廟), located in Hunjeong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, is a royal shrine where the spirit tablets of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty, as well as the kings and queens who did not actually ascend to the throne but were given the title of king after death, were enshrined and memorial services were held.

When talking about Jongmyo Shrine, Jongmyo is right here. It is the most sacred and respected space in all of Joseon, where all the spirits of the Joseon kings are enshrined. The extremely long pavilion is spectacular, but it is under construction. I don't know when it will be finished. It was supposed to be finished at the end of September 2024. #2025OverseasTravelEvent

#koreatrip Visiting Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul is an amazing and unforgettable experience. As the oldest Confucian royal shrine in Korea, it exudes history and serenity. Walking through its peaceful grounds, surrounded by ancient trees, feels like stepping back in time. The main hall, Jeongjeon, is an architectural masterpiece, designed to honor the spirits of Joseon kings and queens. The intricate rituals and cultural significance of the shrine are fascinating to learn about. Attending the annual Jongmyo Daeje ceremony, if possible, would be a remarkable cultural experience. The tranquil ambiance and historical depth make it a truly special place, offering a glimpse into Korea’s rich heritage and traditions. I highly recommend visiting!

In the heart of Seoul, South Korea, lies a serene and sacred cultural heritage site - Jongmyo Shrine (종묘). This is the ancestral shrine of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), where the spirits of past kings and queens are enshrined. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Jongmyo is not just an ancient architectural complex but also a symbol of Korean traditional culture and Confucian rituals. Stepping into Jongmyo Shrine, I felt as if I had entered a solemn and majestic hall of time, experiencing the profound sense of history spanning over six centuries. 1. First Impressions of Jongmyo - A Majestic Royal Sanctuary Located in the center of Seoul, Jongmyo is a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. As soon as you enter the main gate, you are struck by the sight of the expansive courtyard, the ancient wooden buildings, and the lush greenery surrounding the area, creating a solemn and majestic atmosphere. A stone path extends from the entrance to the main hall, flanked by towering trees. The earthy scent of the soil under the shade of the trees instantly calms you. The air here seems to be frozen, as if time has slowed down, allowing every visitor to feel the weight and sanctity of history. 2. Historical Background of Jongmyo - A Reflection of Confucian Culture Jongmyo Shrine was built in 1394 by the founder of the Joseon Dynasty, King Taejo (Yi Seong-gye), specifically to enshrine the spirit tablets of past kings and queens and to conduct ancestral rites. It embodies the core values of ancestor worship in Confucian thought, expressing filial piety and respect through ritual ceremonies. Jongmyo has endured fires and wars but has been rebuilt each time, with most of the existing structures retaining their original appearance, witnessing the rise and fall of the Joseon Dynasty over more than six centuries. In 1995, Jongmyo was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, becoming one of Korea's cultural treasures. 3. Architectural Features - The Ultimate Aesthetics of Simplicity and Solemnity The architectural style of Jongmyo is distinct from the opulent palaces; it pursues the beauty of simplicity and solemnity, reflecting the introverted and respectful spirit of Confucian thought. • Main Hall (정전) This is the core building of Jongmyo and one of the longest wooden structures in the world, measuring 101 meters in length. It houses the spirit tablets of past kings and queens, with 19 rooms, each dedicated to a king and his queen. The interior is extremely simple, with no excessive decorations, highlighting the solemnity and sanctity of Confucian rituals. • Yeongnyeongjeon (영녕전) Yeongnyeongjeon enshrines the spirit tablets of meritorious kings and queens. Although smaller in scale compared to the main hall, it maintains the same solemn atmosphere. • Ritual Path The stone path within the shrine has a specific design - the elevated central stone slab is the 'Spirit Path' reserved for the spirits, while visitors can only walk on the side slabs. This design fully embodies the Confucian respect and reverence for the spirits of heaven and earth. 4. Jongmyo Jerye - The Essence of Korean Culture The most notable event at Jongmyo is the annual Jongmyo Jerye (종묘제례) held in May. This is a ritual ceremony combining music, dance, and rites, passed down since the Joseon Dynasty and recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. During the ceremony, priests dressed in traditional Korean attire offer sacrifices and burn incense in prayer. The ritual music (Jongmyo Jeryeak) is solemn and melodious, accompanied by ritual dances, creating a sacred and moving scene. This ceremony is not only a cultural heritage but also a vivid display of Korean national spirit and Confucian etiquette. 5. Strolling Around Jongmyo - A Tranquil Corner in the City After visiting Jongmyo, you can stroll along the surrounding paths, enjoying a moment of tranquility in the city. The area around Jongmyo is filled with pine and ginkgo trees, and in autumn, the golden leaves cover the ground, making you feel as if you are in a painting. Nearby, you can also visit Changdeokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun Square, experiencing the blend of classical and modern Korean culture. 6. Visitor Information and Tips • Address: 157 Jongno, Jongno-gu, Seoul • Transportation: Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Jongno 3-ga Station, and walk for about 10 minutes. • Opening Hours: March–October: 09:00–18:00 November–February: 09:00–17:30 Closed on Tuesdays • Ticket Information: 1000 KRW for adults, discounts for students and children. 7. Conclusion - A Cultural and Spiritual Cleansing Jongmyo Shrine is a place that encapsulates the essence of Korean history and culture. Its solemn architecture and simple aesthetics not only demonstrate Korea's reverence for ancestors but also allow us to feel the profound influence of Confucian thought on Korean society. Walking through the shrine, I felt as if I could hear the earnest prayers of past kings and priests in the halls, and sensed the silent narration of time by this ancient structure. If you love history and culture, Jongmyo Shrine will be a journey of spiritual and soulful cleansing, allowing you to deeply appreciate the cultural charm and spiritual heritage of the Korean dynasty.