Discover Jongmyo Shrine : A UNESCO Heritage Site and Hidden Gem in Seoul
Today, I visited Jongmyo Shrine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although i had been there a few times before, i never really gave it much thought. This time, however, i wanted to reconnect with the historical essence of this Korean treasure, so i decided to visit over the weekend. Shall we explore the charm of Korean beauty and architecture together?
Loacted at 157 Jongno, Jonno-gu, Seoul, Jongmyo Shrine is the royal ancestral shrine where the spirit tablets of the kings and queens, emperors, and empresses of the Joseon Dynasty and the Korean Empire are enshrined. The shrine was established in 1395, following the founding of Joseon, based on the traditional principle of placing the royal shrine on the left and the altar for the state on the right of the palace.
[Jongmyo Shrine Location Guide]
How to get to Jongmyo Shrine
Jongmyo Shrine is easily accessible by public transportation.
Jongno 3-ga Station (Subway Lines 1, 3 and 5), Exit 11, 273m away.
The Jongmyo Jerye, or Jongmyo Ancestral Rites, held at Jongmyo Shrine, is the most formal and grand ritual conducted by the King himself. It involved participants such as the crown prince, royal family members, civil and military officials, and other court members. Today, the Jongmyo Jerye is held annually on the first Sunday of May and the first Saturday of November.
[Preview Video of Jongmyo Shrine]
THere is plenty to see around Jongmyo Shrine. After visiting the shrine, be sure to explore the surrounding area as well. If you head to the right side after exiting the shrine, you can walk along the stone wall path of Jongmyo and discover various cafes, including traditional Korean tea houses, in a charming walking area.