Central Seoul Evening Tour Including Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza and Dongdaemun Market

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With over 10 million visitors each year, Seoul has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination in Asia.

But what if there was a way to discover the city’s hidden gems and experience its vibrant energy in a single evening?

Enter the Central Seoul Evening Tour, a carefully curated journey that takes you through three significant landmarks: Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza, and Dongdaemun Market.

From the rich history of the Joseon Dynasty to the stunning illuminated streets and the lively atmosphere of the market, this tour promises to show you a side of Seoul that you never knew existed.

So, are you ready to embark on a memorable adventure?

Good To Know

Central Seoul Evening Tour Including Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza and Dongdaemun Market - Good To Know

  • Central Seoul Evening Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore hidden gems and vibrant energy in the city.
  • Deoksu Palace, the only palace open for visits at night, showcases the blending of traditional and modern influences in palace architecture.
  • Seoul Plaza, located in the heart of the city, captures the essence of Seoul’s nightlife with its illuminated streets and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Dongdaemun Market, a lively market in central Seoul, offers a unique shopping experience and the opportunity to experience local culture and flavors.

Tour Highlights

Central Seoul Evening Tour Including Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza and Dongdaemun Market - Tour Highlights

One of the main highlights of the evening tour of Central Seoul is the opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere and electric energy that fills the city after dark. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with dazzling lights and bustling activity.

For photography enthusiasts, this tour offers fantastic nighttime photography opportunities. Capture the illuminated landmarks of Seoul Plaza and the grandeur of Deoksu Palace, the only palace open for visits at night.

As you stroll through the bustling Dongdaemun Market, make sure to indulge in the local street food recommendations. From savory Korean pancakes to spicy rice cakes, the market offers a wide variety of delicious treats that will satisfy any food lover.

Don’t miss the chance to taste the flavors of Seoul while enjoying its captivating nightlife.

Deoksu Palace

As the evening tour of Central Seoul continues, our attention now turns to the captivating Deoksu Palace, a majestic site that stands as a testament to the rich history and grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty kings.

Deoksu Palace is the only palace open for visits at night, allowing visitors to witness its nighttime beauty. Its name translates to the ‘Palace of Virtue and Longevity’ and it’s one of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty.

The palace boasts several main attractions, including Jonghwajeon, Junmyeongdang, and Seokjojeon. Along With its historical significance, Deoksu Palace also features forested gardens and a statue of King Sejong the Great.

Exploring this remarkable palace at night offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the charm and splendor of ancient Korean architecture.

Seoul Plaza

Central Seoul Evening Tour Including Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza and Dongdaemun Market - Seoul Plaza

Seoul Plaza comes alive at night, showcasing the illuminated streets and vibrant atmosphere of central Seoul. Located in the heart of the city, this bustling plaza is a popular gathering spot for both locals and travelers alike.

Here are three reasons why Seoul Plaza is a must-visit during your evening tour:

  • Beautiful City Hall: Standing tall at the edge of the plaza, Seoul City Hall is a magnificent architectural masterpiece. The building’s stunning design and grandeur make it a sight to behold.

  • Nightlife in Seoul: Seoul Plaza is surrounded by an array of trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. From live music to bustling street performances, there’s never a dull moment in this lively district.

  • Perfect for People-Watching: Grab a seat on one of the benches scattered throughout the plaza and indulge in some prime people-watching. As the night goes on, you’ll witness the city come alive with locals and travelers mingling, creating a lively and diverse atmosphere.

Seoul Plaza truly captures the essence of Seoul’s nightlife and is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the energy and excitement of the city after dark.

Dongdaemun Market

Central Seoul Evening Tour Including Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza and Dongdaemun Market - Dongdaemun Market

Located in the heart of central Seoul, Dongdaemun Market is a bustling and vibrant hub of activity that offers a wide variety of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. With its countless stalls and shops, visitors can explore the market and find everything from trendy clothing to unique souvenirs. Bargaining at the stalls is a common practice, allowing shoppers to test their negotiation skills and potentially score great deals. Along With shopping, Dongdaemun Market is a fantastic place to experience the local cuisine. From street food vendors to small restaurants, visitors can indulge in a range of delicious dishes, from traditional Korean favorites to international flavors. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a foodie, or simply seeking to learn about the bustling atmosphere, Dongdaemun Market is a must-visit destination in Seoul.

Tips for Exploring Dongdaemun Market
Bargain at stallsTry your hand at haggling and negotiate for better prices.
Sample local cuisineDon’t miss the opportunity to taste a variety of delicious Korean dishes.
Explore different areasDongdaemun Market consists of several sections, each offering its own unique shopping experience.
Be prepared for crowdsThe market can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak hours.
Enjoy the night marketDongdaemun Market is open late into the evening, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant atmosphere after dark.

Meaning of Deoksu Palace

Nestled within the vibrant heart of central Seoul, Deoksu Palace holds a rich history and a deep symbolic meaning. This magnificent palace, known as the ‘Palace of Virtue and Longevity’, is one of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty kings. Its historical significance is evident in its architectural features and main attractions.

Jonghwajeon: This is the main hall of Deoksu Palace, where important ceremonies and events took place. Its exquisite design and craftsmanship showcase the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty.

Junmyeongdang: The living quarters of the royal family, Junmyeongdang is a beautiful example of traditional Korean architecture. It offers a glimpse into the daily life of the royal household.

Seokjojeon: This Western-style building was added during the modernization period of Korea. It represents the blending of traditional and modern influences in the palace architecture.

Exploring Deoksu Palace allows visitors to appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of this cultural treasure in the heart of Seoul.

Main Attractions of Deoksu Palace

Central Seoul Evening Tour Including Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza and Dongdaemun Market - Main Attractions of Deoksu Palace

When exploring Deoksu Palace, visitors are captivated by the exquisite design and historical significance of its main attractions.

One of the unique features of Deoksu Palace is that it’s the only palace open for visits at night. This allows visitors to experience the palace in a different light and witness its beauty illuminated against the night sky.

Deoksu Palace holds great historical significance as it’s one of the Five Grand Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty kings. Its main attractions include Jonghwajeon, the main hall where important ceremonies took place, Junmyeongdang, the king’s living quarters, and Seokjojeon, a western-style building that housed the royal family.

Along With these architectural wonders, the palace also boasts forested gardens and a statue of King Sejong the Great, adding to its allure and charm.

Illuminated Landmarks of Seoul Plaza

Central Seoul Evening Tour Including Deoksu Palace, Seoul Plaza and Dongdaemun Market - Illuminated Landmarks of Seoul Plaza

As the sun sets and the city lights come to life, Seoul Plaza transforms into a captivating display of illuminated landmarks. At night, the beautiful City Hall located on Seoul Plaza becomes a focal point, showcasing its stunning architecture in all its glory. Here are three reasons why Seoul Plaza at night is a must-see:

  • Illuminated streets of central Seoul: The entire plaza comes alive with vibrant lights, creating a magical ambiance that’s truly mesmerizing.

  • Opportunity to admire the city’s architecture: City Hall’s architecture is a sight to behold, with its grandeur and intricate details shining brightly against the night sky.

  • Vibrant atmosphere in the evening hours: Seoul Plaza is bustling with activity as locals and travelers gather to enjoy the city’s nightlife, making it the perfect spot for people-watching.

Visiting Seoul Plaza at night provides a unique opportunity to experience the city’s energy and appreciate its architectural wonders in a whole new light.

Experience the Vibrant Dongdaemun Market

After enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Seoul Plaza at night, the next stop on your evening tour of central Seoul is the vibrant Dongdaemun Market. This lively market is buzzing with activity and offers a truly unique shopping experience. With a wide variety of stalls to browse, you’ll find everything from clothes and souvenirs to delicious street food. The market is not just about shopping; it’s also an opportunity to experience the local culture and flavors. As you explore the market, you’ll be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and aromas of traditional Korean cuisine. To give you a taste of what to expect, here is a table showcasing some of the local delicacies you can try:

Local DelicaciesDescriptionMust-Try Item
TteokbokkiSpicy rice cakesTteokbokki from a street vendor
ManduDumplingsSteamed mandu with dipping sauce
BungeoppangFish-shaped pastry filled with red bean pasteFreshly made bungeoppang

Dongdaemun Market is not just a shopping destination; it’s a cultural experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Seoul.

Common Questions

What Is the Best Time to Visit Deoksu Palace at Night?

The best time to visit Deoksu Palace at night is when the sun goes down and the palace lights up. It’s one of the best spots to admire the illuminated landmarks and engage in recommended activities like exploring the forested gardens and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at Deoksu Palace?

Photography restrictions at Deoksu Palace aim to preserve the historical site. With the rise of social media, it’s important to consider photography etiquette at such places to maintain respect and authenticity.

How Long Does the Central Seoul Evening Tour Typically Last?

The central Seoul evening tour typically lasts for a few hours, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night. It is recommended to visit Deoksu Palace at night for a unique and immersive experience.

Can I Try Street Food at Dongdaemun Market?

Yes, visitors can try street food at Dongdaemun Market. It offers a wide variety of stalls to explore and taste local delicacies. It’s a great opportunity to take in the local culture and flavors.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting Seoul Plaza in the Evening?

There is no specific dress code for visiting Seoul Plaza in the evening. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and admire the city’s architecture while indulging in delicious Korean street food at Dongdaemun Market.

The Sum Up

Embark on an evening tour of central Seoul and learn about the city’s captivating charm.

From the historical wonders of Deoksu Palace, where the rich history of the Joseon Dynasty comes to life, to the breathtaking views of Seoul Plaza, where the illuminated streets and stunning architecture take center stage, and finally to the vibrant atmosphere of Dongdaemun Market, where you can experience the local culture and indulge in delicious street food.

This tour offers a truly unforgettable journey through the heart of Seoul.