Jongmyo Shrine
Santuario Jongmyo
Jongmyo Shrine (157 Jong-ro, Hunjeong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul) — Jongmyo is a Confucian shrine dedicated to the perpetuation of memorial services for the deceased kings and queens of the Korean Joseon Dynasty. According to UNESCO, the shrine is the oldest royal Confucian shrine preserved and the ritual ceremonies continue a tradition established in the 14th century.
The simple and elegant buildings of this shrine have faithfully kept their original forms since the 16th century. Jongmyo is made up of Jeongjeon (the main hall), Yeongnyeongjeon (the hall of eternal peace), and auxiliary buildings such as Jeonsacheong, Eosuksil, Hyangdaecheong and Sindang. Jeongjeon, the main hall of Jongmyo, is a place steeped in royal history and is highly esteemed for its outstanding architecture. It is said to be the world’s longest single wooden structure and its length measures 109 meters. The main hall is an outstanding example of traditional Korean architecture.
Admission: 1,000 Won (adult), 500 Won (children ages 7-18 years old). Free for children under 7 years, seniors, and those wearing hanbok (traditional Korean clothes). Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (February-May), 9:00 am – 6:30 pm (June – August), 9:00 am – 5:30 pm (November – January). Closed on Tuesdays.