Gyeonbokgeung Palace

As Andrew is still working this week we are having a few days in Seoul to play tourists. We caught a cab and headed off to Itaewon to check out the tailors that had been recommended to us. Had measurements taken by the "best shirt maker" in Seoul, only to find he had a lot of competition in that area as we walked down the main street, and found that every one of the tailors had given himself that title.
More shops beckoned in Myeong-dong, a much more western part of the city. It was here we discovered "Paris Baguette" recommended by Andy..what a find...wish they were back home, but my waistline wouldn't cope very well. It is full of the most delicious looking rolls, pastries cakes, breads etc Yum!!!! We only had a coffee...what a waste!!
It was in this area I managed to get my glasses replaced for a fraction of the price back home!!

About now we felt the need for a cultural experience that didn't involve food. Many official sites are closed on Monday but not Gyeonbokgeung Palace. From the second we entered it was a wonderful spectacle. This palace was established in 1395 as the residence for the founder of the Josean dynasty. Photos do not convey the scale of the buildings which are spread over a huge area, and are nestled beside skyscrapers right in the city.









Heungryemun gate...entry to Geunjeonjeon

Gyunghoeru This pavilion was the best feast place in the Joseon Era, and nobody except kings could walk around here. It is built in a lake, with access via a bridge.

This is one of many ornate gateways that link each of the courtyards.

The National Folk Museum of Korea is also located in the palace grounds. This is a must see!! The displays illustrate the history, lifestyle and lifecycle of the Korean people, covering housing, farming, dress, food, implements, music, rituals and ceremonies.