Gwangneung Royal Tombs: A Journey Through Korea's Regal History
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Gwangneung Royal Tombs, the resting place of Korea’s royal family, nestled in Gyeonggi-do.
A brief summary to Gwangneung Royal Tombs
- 354 Gwangneungsumogwon-ro, Jinjeop-eup, Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi-do, KR
- +8231-527-7105
The Gwangneung Royal Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are an exquisite representation of Korea's royal heritage, located in the picturesque Gyeonggi-do province. This historical landmark serves as the final resting place for the Joseon Dynasty royalty, specifically King Sejong the Great and Queen Soheon. As you wander through the site, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning traditional architecture and the perfectly landscaped gardens that surround the tombs. The serene atmosphere invites visitors to reflect on the rich history of Korea while enjoying a peaceful stroll. The entrance to the tombs is adorned with intricately designed gates, leading you into a world where nature and history intersect harmoniously. Each tomb is surrounded by scenic walking paths and lush trees, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The area is also rich in folklore and cultural significance; several monuments and stone figures that guard the tombs tell stories of the past, adding depth to your visit. Photography enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to capture the beauty of the ancient structures set against the backdrop of nature. Visiting Gwangneung Royal Tombs is not just a chance to explore historical architecture; it's about experiencing a part of Korea's soul. With its well-preserved state and tranquil setting, this site is perfect for family outings, educational trips, or solo explorations. The tombs are open to the public daily, with ample signage in both Korean and English, making it accessible for tourists from around the globe. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, the Gwangneung Royal Tombs promise an enriching experience.
Local tips
- Visit during spring or fall for the best views of blooming flowers and vibrant autumn leaves.
- Take advantage of the peaceful walking paths to fully appreciate the landscape and tranquility.
- Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene atmosphere.
- Don't miss the informative plaques that provide insights into the history and significance of each tomb.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves walking on uneven paths and exploring multiple areas.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from your current location in Gyeonggi Province and enter the address '354 Gwangneungsumogwon-ro, Jinjeop-eup, Namyangju-si, Gyeonggi-do' into your GPS. The Gwangneung Royal Tombs are well-signposted along the roads. Expect to pay for parking on-site, which usually costs around 2,000 KRW for a standard vehicle.
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Public Transportation (Subway and Bus)
Begin your journey by taking the subway to 'Jinjeop Station' on Line 1. From Jinjeop Station, exit the station and find the bus stop nearby. Take Bus 1650 or Bus 1651, which will take you directly to 'Gwangneung Royal Tombs.' The bus fare is approximately 1,250 KRW with a T-money card. The total travel time is around 1.5 hours depending on traffic and wait times.
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Public Transportation (Train and Taxi)
If you are near a train station, take a train to 'Namyangju Station.' From there, you can take a taxi directly to the Gwangneung Royal Tombs. The taxi ride will take about 20 minutes and cost roughly 15,000-20,000 KRW. Ensure you have the address written down or available on your phone to show the driver.
Attractions Nearby to Gwangneung Royal Tombs
- Atal Strawberry Farm
- Nari Park
- Chungnyungsan Natural Recreation Forest
- Garden of Morning Calm
- Nijimori Studio
- Hwarangdae Railway Park
- Nowon Light Garden(Gyeongchun Line Hwarangdae Station)
- The Zoo of Morning Calm
- Gyeongchun Line Forest Trail
- Bukhansan National Park Ui Visitor Center
- Dream Forest
- Bukhansan
- Samgaksan Doseonsa Temple
- Pocheon Art Valley
- Piano Falls
Landmarks nearby to Gwangneung Royal Tombs
- Donggureung (East Nine Royal Tombs, Guri)
- Ilyeong Tourist Site
- 소요산국민관광지 (Soyosan National Tourist Site)
- Samcheonggak
- Naksan Park
- Soryeongwon (Tomb of Royal Noble Consort Suk of the Haeju Choe Clan)
- Seoul City Wall Trail
- Sukjeongmun Gate
- Yeongyeongdang
- Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong Fortress)
- Changdeokgung Secret Garden
- Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun)
- House of Go Huidong in Wonseo-dong
- Changgyeonggung Palace
- Wall Of Culture