The Seoul Subway is pretty easy to handle. Just make sure you find a map that you can read. And it is easiest to use if you pick up a T-money card. It took me a few stops to find a T-money card vending machine, but to get one is very easy. Just choose the one you want, pay for it, and then proceed to use it.
My first stop was Independence Park. (On Line 3 at Dongnimmun Station)
Independence Arch
It was very, very, very cold when I first exited the subway at 8 am.
After I got tired of freezing, I hopped back on the subway to the next stop.
This is the Heungnyemun Gate at Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Gyeongbokgung Palace - Changing of the Palace Guard Ceremony
When I got to the palace, it was almost 10:00; when the changing of the guards would take place.
I was right behind the drummer when the procession first started.
First the drummers went in to collect the guards already at the gate.
This is the second group all lined up and ready to change places with the first group.
The changing of the guard ceremony lasted about 20 minutes.
Geunjeongmun Gate
Geunjeongjeon Hall
This hall was built to symbolize the sovereignty of Joseon's rulers. Geunjeongjeon Hall has the most stately appearance of all the structures of the palace.
I find the painted details and patterns on the beams fascinating.
I love the colors and the patterns used in all of the buildings.
Roof tile is another thing I find fascinating.
The pillars are part of the wall, and I was not expecting them.
Sajeongjeon Hall
I found that after the first few halls, they all started to look the same. So I focused on the roofs.
And gateways are nice.
Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
The Pavilion is in the middle of Hyangwonji Pond in the northern garden of the palace.
Geoncheonggug Palace
Taewonjeon Shrine
The Taewonjeon Shrine was closed to the public, so I could only snap some pictures from the gate.
Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
Deoksugung
After I was completely frozen, I went to Deoksugung. On the way there, I stopped for some food.