This time, may it last for a good while...One of my favorite cities in Asia is Seoul. The complex was built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Korea’s cultural Golden Age, and operated as the main royal quarters until the Japanese invaded in 1592 (and again in 1911 after being reconstructed).

http://0dysseusjournal.blogspot.com/2009/02/insiders-guide-to-seoul.htmlWhile wandering the grounds of Gyeongbok-gung Palace, ("The Palace of Shining Happiness," built in the 1390's), I saw several teacher-led groups: kids on field trips in this Yi-dynasty city-within-a-city. Court attendants who assisted, served, and protected the king resided in the other chambers.A woldae, or elevated stone platform, is located in front of the structure.Over the years, the building was twice destroyed. 1950: Communist troops retreat for the first time during the Korean War, the gate is destroyed again... 1963:...rebuilt with concrete. Download Image. Gyeongbokgung’s construction was ordered by King Taejo in 1394, and the “Palace of Shining Happiness” held the regal throne for over two hundred years. There’s a nominal $3 entrance fee for adults, but plenty to see: arched gates, royal residences, pavilions, and ornamental gardens. Originally built by King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon dynasty, Gyeongbokgung served as the principal palace until 1592, when it was burnt down during the Japanese invasions. Today, the palace grounds, filled with lotus ponds, gardens, and ornate statues, offer a lovely place to spend the afternoon.

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace was located at the heart of newly appointed capital of Seoul (then known as Hanyang) and represented the sovereignty of the Joseon Dynasty.

Students in Seoul have the past at their fingertips; taking a break from their smart-phones, looking back at how time was told centuries ago, their teacher explaining how the lines indicated the time throughout the year. Like the Forbidden City in AFAR participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase an item featured on our site.Originally built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and greatest of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. Today, the harmony of mountain and tiled roofs reigns again at the center of the South Korean capital. Known for its lush botanical garden, Changgyeong-gung Palace was built by the famous King Sejong in the 15th century. Twice a day, the medieval heritage comes to life with the changing of the guard and patrol ritual. Some famous K-dramas shot there include Goblin, My Sassy Girl, Temperature of Love, Legend of the Blue Sea. This building, a sign of Japanese imperialism and a blow to the pride of Korea, stood until 1995.With the war long over, the government of Korea has been trying to restore it to its former glory. He goes all the way up to the throne, sits there and gives a slight nod and ask the audience to sit. Kilimanjaro! It lays in ruins until... 1867: It's rebuilt as part of the restoration of Gyeongbok Palace; the construction almost bankrupts the 'Hermit kingdom' which finally ends up becoming a protectorate and then an outright colony of Japan from 1910 to 1945. It lay in ruins for nearly 300 years until Heungseon Daewongun, regent and father of King Gojong, started to rebuild it in 1865. 2010: The newly restored stone-and-timber gate is unveiled; it has come home, after over eight decades of being 'displaced'... Once again, the stone 'haetae' can stand guard, as it did six centuries ago when it was first placed here. The hall was last rebuilt in 1888.In 1917, the hall was dismantled and its parts were used to rebuild Changdeokgung Palace.As with Heumgyeonggak Pavilion, Hamwonjeon Hall was restored in 1995.Heumgyeonggak Pavilion, built in 1438 during the reign of King Sejong, was used by the king for astronomical and agricultural observations and research. Importnat and one of the five palaces in Seoul. At the entrance to Gyeongbok-gung, the oldest palace complex, the "Sumunjang" (Changing-of-the-Guard) begins with the reverberant boom of a massive drum, and then the colors parade by, with boat-like boots. Admission is 3,000 won, or about 3 USD.The palace is an attraction in itself, but if you’re simply looking for a peaceful place to stroll, the area around Gyeongbokgung Palace is it. The Gyeongbokgung Palace is a royal palace in South Korea, that is located in the Northern parts of Seoul. This famous and beautiful garden features a terraced flower garden, decorated stonework, and four chimneys. Interesting architecture and stories of the past.I was so impressed with Gyeonbokgung Palace. In 1895, when the Empress Myeongseong was assassinated by Japanese agents, the royal family never returned to Gyeongbokgung. Heumgyeong means “respectful veneration of the ways of heaven.”Heumgyeonggak Pavilion is located near Gangnyeongjeon Hall, which was the sleeping and resting quarters of the king. Being the capital of world’s 11th largest economy, Seoul is also one of the of the most modern cities in Asia, where one can find a wonderful mixture of old-heritage sites and contemporary life. If you are wondering when the best time to visit Seoul is, check out this post on the best seasons to visit Seoul.The palaces are great in all seasons but avoid the very hot summer days and very cold winter days if possible.