The historic Sungnyemun Entrance Gate, more commonly known as Namdaemun, is one of the 8 original entrances to the Joseon Dynasty walled city. Not much remains of the Seoul fortifications or the historic city, and even the other gates are not in as well-preserved a state as Sungnyemun.
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The gate dates back to the late 14th century and is built in the architectural style of a pagoda.
Sungnyemun is often the first landmark you see as a tourist on your way from the main station to the city centre, where most of the hotels are located. Passing under the gate is possible between 9:00-18:00 and is free of charge.
However, even outside of these opening hours, the gate can easily be photographed from the nearby sidewalk.
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