🧳 1. Travel Essentials
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond departure.
- Most short-term visitors from the U.S. need K-ETA approval before boarding.
- Travel insurance should cover medical care, delays, and baggage.
- Monitor flight prices 4–10 weeks ahead; compare nonstop vs. one-stop.
- Stay in Jongno, Gwanghwamun, or City Hall for easy palace access.
📎 Source: Korea Tourism Organization
🚍 2. Getting There & Around
- From Incheon Airport: AREX train, airport buses, or taxis to central Seoul.
- T-money cards work on subway, buses, and some convenience stores.
- Airport buses to Gwanghwamun/Jongno minimize walking.
- Line 3 Gyeongbokgung Station Exit 5 is the easiest palace access.
📎 Source: Visit Seoul – Transportation
🏯 3. Gyeongbokgung Visit Guide
- Open 09:00–18:00; closed Tuesdays.
- Hanbok wearers enter free; bring ID for age-based discounts.
- Highlights: Geunjeongjeon, Gyeonghoeru, Hyangwonjeong, Amisan chimneys.
- English guided tours available—check signage or website.
- Drones prohibited; tripod use may be restricted.
📎 Source: Gyeongbokgung Palace Official Site
👘 4. Hanbok & Cultural Experience
- Rentals typically last 2–4 hours; ID and deposit may be required.
- Shops near palace gates offer various styles and prices.
- Breathable fabrics in summer; wear comfortable shoes.
- Best photo spots: Geunjeongjeon Hall, Gyeonghoeru Pond, Hyangwonjeong Pavilion.
- Guard ceremony held at Gwanghwamun Gate—arrive early.
📎 Source: Visit Seoul – Hanbok
🗺️ 5. Itineraries & Budget
- 2–3 hour route: Heungnyemun → Geunjeongjeon → Gyeonghoeru → Hyangwonjeong
- Half-day: add Bukchon or Insadong; Full-day: include museums and Seochon
- Spring/Fall: light layers; Summer: early visits; Winter: heat packs
- Admission is low-cost; hanbok rental varies; include transit/snacks
- Seochon and Bukchon offer great cafés and traditional eateries
📎 Source: Visit Seoul – Itineraries
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q1. Do I need a visa to visit Korea from the U.S.?
A: Most U.S. passport holders do not need a visa for short-term tourism, but must apply for a K-ETA before departure. - Q2. How do I get to Gyeongbokgung from Incheon Airport?
A: Take the AREX express train to Seoul Station, then transfer to Line 1 or 3. Alternatively, use airport buses to Gwanghwamun. - Q3. Can I enter Gyeongbokgung for free if I wear hanbok?
A: Yes! Visitors wearing traditional hanbok are generally granted free entry. Rental shops are located near the palace gates. - Q4. Is Gyeongbokgung wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. Major paths are wide and flat, and nearby subway stations have elevators and ramps. - Q5. What’s the best time to visit the palace for photos?
A: Early morning (soft light, fewer crowds) or late afternoon (golden hour). Spring and autumn offer the most scenic backdrops.
