Naksan Fortress, located in Seoul, is one of the important heritage sites representing the history and culture of the Republic of Korea. This place is popular with many tourists as it retains traces of various historical events and figures from the Goryeo Dynasty to the Joseon Dynasty. Now let’s learn about Naksan Fortress: Seoul’s historical heritage together.
1. Historical significance of Naksan Fortress
Naksan Fortress has historical significance spanning from the Goryeo Dynasty to the Joseon Dynasty. This is the location of Geumseong, the palace of the Goryeo Dynasty, and Gyeongbokgung Palace, the palace of the Joseon Dynasty, and became the backdrop for royal power and historical events. During the Goryeo Dynasty, Geumseong was built in Naksan and was used as the center of the Goryeo Dynasty. Here, royal administration and military decisions were made, and important diplomatic situations and national events took place. In addition, Kim Yun-heum, a famous craftsman of the Goryeo Dynasty, built the Great King's Road at Naksanseong Fortress, which played a role in connecting the king with nearby areas. During the Joseon Dynasty, Naksan Fortress was connected to Gyeongbokgung Palace and used as part of the royal palace. The Joseon Dynasty used Naksan Fortress as an important military defense facility, and it was also used as a residence for kings, queens, and princes. Also, during the Joseon Dynasty, the center of Seoul was formed around Naksan Fortress, and various cultures and arts developed here as well. In this way, Naksan Fortress served as a royal palace during the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties and has historical significance as the center of Seoul. The activities of many kings and figures and historical events took place here, and it has value as an important data and historic site in understanding the historical flow of the Korean Peninsula.
2. Architecture and beauty of Naksan Fortress
Naksan Fortress is famous for its size and beauty. This castle is made of stone and has a total length of about XX km. Below, we will learn more about the main buildings of Naksan Fortress and their beauty.
Naksanseong Fortress: Naksanseong Fortress, located in the center of Naksanseong Fortress, is the main building of the fortress and was built during the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties. This castle is made of stone and has strong defenses, and you can enjoy beautiful views of Seoul by strolling along the walls.
National Museum of Korea: Located in Naksan Fortress, the National Museum of Korea preserves and exhibits Korean history and culture and houses a variety of artifacts and artwork. Here, you can enjoy cultural assets and artworks from the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties, as well as various exhibitions and special exhibitions.
Naksan Gate: Naksan Gate, located at the entrance to Naksan Fortress, is a gate built during the Joseon Dynasty and is known as a historical landmark in Seoul along with the fortress wall. This gate is a beautiful wooden building that allows you to appreciate the architectural style and artistry of the Joseon Dynasty.
Seokpajeong: Located within the Naksan Fortress Wall, Seokpajeong was used as a resting place for officials of the Goryeo Dynasty. It has a beautiful garden and buildings with the architectural style of the Joseon Dynasty. Here you can enjoy a walk in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Naksan Fortress has such architectural beauty and historical value. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Seoul while taking a walk along the fortress wall, and experience Korean history and culture by visiting various buildings and cultural relics. Especially in fall, the trees around the castle turn into autumn leaves, creating an even more beautiful scenery.
3. Culture and events of Naksan Fortress
Naksan Fortress is famous for being a place where various cultural events and festivals are held every year. A variety of events are held here, including traditional art performances, exhibitions, and experience programs. Below, we will take a closer look at the main cultural events and features held at Naksan Fortress.
Naksan Fortress Cultural Festival: The Naksan Fortress Cultural Festival, held every fall, is a representative festival where various cultural events and performances are held. At this event, traditional art performances, traditional music and dance performances, exhibitions, and experience programs will be held, and tourists can experience and enjoy Korean traditional culture firsthand.
Traditional art performances: Traditional art performances are often held at Naksan Fortress. Various artistic performances, including Korean traditional music, gayageum, pansori, and dance, are held within the fortress, and tourists can enjoy traditional Korean art and music through these.
Exhibitions: Various exhibitions are held in the cultural space located within Naksan Fortress. Artifacts, works of art, and modern art from the Goryeo and Joseon periods are on display, allowing tourists to gain a deeper understanding of Korean history and art.
Experience Programs: Various traditional culture experience programs are also provided at Naksan Fortress. Tourists can directly participate in and experience Korean traditional culture through Hanbok experience, calligraphy experience, and traditional food experience. Through this, you can gain a deeper understanding of Korea's traditional values and culture.
Naksan Fortress holds various cultural events and events every year, providing tourists with a variety of cultural experiences. You can experience and enjoy Korea's traditional culture through traditional art performances, exhibitions, and experience programs, which will make your trip more enriching.
4. Visiting information and guide to Naksan Fortress
Naksan Fortress is a Goguryeo-era fortress located in Yangju-si, Gyeonggi-do, and is also called Naksanseong Fortress. It is known that the castle was mainly built using natural stones. Main attractions include the 12 gateways built along the Naksan Fortress Wall, the approximately 4 km long fortress wall, and an exhibition introducing the culture and history of Goguryeo. Additionally, you can enjoy various natural scenery depending on the season.
Hanyangdoseong Wall Trail Course
- Course 1 : 4.7Km (approximately 3 hours): Baekak Section (Changuimun ~ Hyehwamun)
- Course 2 : 2.1Km (about 1 hour): Naksan section (Hyehwamun ~ Heunginmun)
- Course 3 : 4.3Km (about 3 hours): Namsan section (Gwanghwamun ~ Sungnyemun)
- Course 4 : 4.0Km (about 2 hours and 30 minutes): Inwangsan Mountain section (Sungnyemun ~ Changuimun)
Visiting hours for the castle are generally from 9 AM to 6 PM, and admission is free.
However, due to earlier sunsets in winter, visit times may vary. Additionally, operating hours may change depending on special events or management situations, so it is recommended to check before visiting. There are no restaurants or convenience stores inside the castle, so it is recommended to prepare light snacks and water before visiting. Additionally, the road to the castle is a bit steep, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
Naksan Fortress is a historical heritage of Seoul and is loved by domestic and foreign tourists. When you visit here, you can not only experience Korean history and culture, but also enjoy beautiful scenery and various events. Naksan Fortress is one of the recommended attractions for tourists visiting Seoul.