First published: 15/04/10.

Kyle Magnuson 3.0

Confucian Royal Ancestral Shrine

Jongmyo Shrine (Inscribed)

What makes Jongmyo Shrine special is it's unique architecture and peacefulness. The site is a splendid place to take a walk, or as a quite spot for reflection. This site will not amaze you, but be patient and relax and you can certainly appreciate this beautiful shrine. For travelers in Seoul on a Monday, keep in mind most of the cities cultural sites are closed, however Jongmyo is open!

Jongmyo Shrine (KJM)

I revisited Jongmyo over the years to improve my pictures and better appreciate this quite WHS. Each time I was rewarded with a serene environment and lush green landscapes in the center of Seoul. Work has been completed to reconnect Jongmyo Shrine with Changdeokgung Palace. I hope visitors can eventually use this route to freely go between the royal complex.

I would favor Jongmyo to be paired with Changdeokgung as one WHS, but early nominations tended to be singular monuments. The entrance to Jongmyo has been transformed over the past decade or so as the Eodo (king’s path) has been restored. While just outside the inscribed area, this now acts as the de facto buffer zone.

Lastly, its worth noting this is not the only shrine in Seoul. There is also Munmyo and Dongmyo.

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