Hwangudan Altar (환구단)

3.9Km 2020-05-07

112, Sogong-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
+82-2-3396-5842

Hwangudan Altar, also called Hwandan Altar, refers to an altar complex for the rite of heaven. The rites were first performed in the Goryeo dynasty by King Seongjong in the first month of 983 (2nd year of his reign), but was repeatedly adopted and abolished, and eventually stopped at the start of the Joseon dynasty.

Then in 1456 (2nd year of King Sejo), the practice was temporarily standardized and the rites were performed at Hwangudan Altar again in 1457. However, rites were again abolished in 1464 (10th year of King Sejo). It wasn’t until 1897 (34th year of King Gojong) when the Joseon dynasty was renamed as the Korean Empire and King Gojong ascended to emperor, that the rite was revived.

Now, Hwangungu Shrine and three stone drums stand at the location of the former altar complex. The three stone drums symbolize the instruments used for the rites. The shrine was completed in 1899, two years after the altar was started in 1897. Today, the Hwangungu Shrine still stands within the hotel grounds of the Westin Chosun Hotel.

Dariwon (다리원)

3.9Km 2021-03-27

135, Jeungsanseo-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul
+82-2-376-0604

The nurungji soup served on the iron plate is famous. The best menu at this restaurant is sizzling rice soup with seafood. This Korean dishes restaurant is located in Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul.

Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin (충무공 이순신 동상)

3.9Km 2024-03-04

175, Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul

The Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin can be found at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. Admiral Yi Sun-shin (1545-1598) was a naval commander who served during the Japanese invasion of Korea (also known as Imjin War: 1592-1598). The undefeated admiral achieved 23 victories against the Japanese navy using innovative tactics, and he is thus considered as one of the greatest generals in the history of Korea. Admiral Yi’s likeness can be found on the 100 won coin.

Gallery Simon (갤러리 시몬)

3.9Km 2022-09-15

20, Jahamun-ro 6-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
+82-2-720-3031

Since its opening in April, 1994, Gallery Simon has continued to focus on promoting the beauty of modern art. Exhibitions include works from experienced artists as well as the works of budding artists, both from Korea and abroad. Select artists, referred to collectively as "Simon's Friends," have exhibitions annually. The changing collections allow the museum and featured artists to constantly strive for improvement and follow the changes in art over time.

Inwangsan Mountain Chosochaekbang (인왕산 더숲 초소책방)

3.9Km 2024-03-06

172 Inwangsan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Inwangsan Mountain Chosochaekbang is a bakery and book café located along the trail of Inwangsan Mountain, remodeled from an old police station. Surrounded by glass walls within the forest, it blends seamlessly with nature, offering a panoramic view of Namsan Tower through the transparent windows. On the second floor terrace, guests can enjoy the scenic view of Seoul. Freshly baked bread and desserts are available daily, and the venue occasionally hosts book talks and music concerts.

IFC Mall (IFC몰)

3.9Km 2022-12-16

10, Gukjegeumyung-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
+82-2-6137-5000

IFC Mall is designed by the world-reknown architecture and interior design company Benoy, featuring an exquisite atmosphere overall and presenting brand shops according to its unique characteristic and image. The glass pavilion lets in plenty of natural light, allowing a pleasant shopping experience.
Some of the noteworthy fashion brands featured by IFC Mall includes H&M, Hollister, Uniqlo, and ZARA.

Sangchonjae House (상촌재)

3.9Km 2024-10-21

12-11 , Jahamun-ro 17-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Sangchonjae House, run by the Jongno Cultural Foundation, is a traditional hanok cultural space located in Sejong Village, Ogin-dong, Jongno-gu, and operates various cultural Korean programs such as exhibitions, educational experiences, and events to fully experience Korea's four seasons. The name Sangchonjae was conceived from the old name of Sejong Village, the western part of Gyeongbokgung Palace and the birthplace of King Sejong. The house reflects the lifestyle of an ordinary peasant during the Joseon dynasty. It consists of three buildings: the main building, the guesthouse known as sarangchae, and the annex. There is an experience center indoors offering tea ceremonies and traditional game experiences.

Oil Tank Culture Park (문화비축기지)

3.9Km 2024-11-01

87 Jeungsan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
+82-2-376-8410

After being used as an oil tank for 41 years, the tanks were reborn into a culture space. The five tanks were transformed into performance halls, exhibition halls, and a multi-purpose pavilion, while one new tank was built to be used as an information center. In addition, the temporary parking lot turned into a culture yard where visitors can relax as well as enjoy activities or performances.

Mimosa [Tax Refund Shop] (미모사)

3.9Km 2024-06-27

33, Namdaemun-ro 7-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

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Gwanghwamun Plaza (광화문 광장)

3.9Km 2025-03-13

172 Sejong-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
+82-2-120

Gwanghwamun Plaza was opened to the public in August 2022 after renovation. Sejong-ro, the main street of Seoul with 600 years of history, has been reborn as a space for historical and cultural experiences by restoring Yukjo Street. Woldae (Elevated Ceremonial Stage) was reconstructed at the entrance of the "Plaza that Recovers the History of Gwanghwamun," and the statue of Haetae, an imaginary animal that judges good and evil, has been restored. In addition, traces of Yukjo Street, the main street of Hanyang in the past, were restored in the ‘Plaza that recreates the scenery of Yukjo Street’ near Sejong-ro Park, with a scale model installed. This is an excellent place for a stroll with beautiful scenery, including Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bugaksan Mountain.

Hwangudan Altar (환구단) - Area information - Korea travel information