Jongmyo (sometimes written as Chongmyo) is one of the Five Great Palaces of the historical Joseon Dynasty. However, Jongmyo was the only one of the palaces that served not as a residential or official building, but as a Confucian shrine.

Memorial ceremonies and funerals of deceased Joseon Dynasty monarchs or rulers were held here. Like other palaces, it is surrounded by a beautiful park and jointly listed by UNESCO.

Built in 1394, even earlier than the main Gyeongbokgung Palace, it is the oldest Confucian shrine in the world.

There is only one smaller building on site, so a visit will take no more than 15 minutes.

Entrance fees and opening hours

Jongmyo Shrine is open every day except Tuesdays from 9:00am, closing between 5:30pm and 6:30pm depending on the season. The last entry is always one hour before closing.

The ticket price is 1 000 krw. It can be paid in cash and by card. For children aged 7 to 18, admission is at 500 krw.

An integrated ticket to all five palaces + secret gardens is also available for 10 000 krw (save 4,000 won).

Official website: english.cha.go.kr

Transportation to the sanctuary

You can find Jogmyo south of Changdeokgung Palace, but the entrance is only from the south side of the park, so you have to walk for about 15 minutes.

Metro - Jongno 3-ga station of blue line 1, orange line 3 and purple line 5 (use exit 11)
Buses - lines 101, 103, 143, 150, 160, 201, 260, 262, 270, 271, 370, 720, 721, 7212

Accommodation at Jongmyo

The neighborhood around Jongmyo is a typical prototype of a regular Seoul neighborhood. The lively streets are full of shops, the area has absolutely great transport links and hotel prices are lower than in central Seoul.