The Traveling Tiger: Seoul: City and Palace

A city as alive as Seoul really does something to its tourists. It feels like the air has more oxygen which is slightly surprising considering how many 8 lane streets I had to cross. There is a higher sense you acquire as a traveler as well which could be the reason, but for me I think it was just the energy that infects you. To balance this out it was important to find a place to stow away for a morning city walk and what better place to do that then a walking tour of the major palaces in Seoul's historic center.

Upon entering one of the several impressive palace centers you are met with a very different atmosphere. Outside (literally right out side) you are immersed in the world of the modern Seoul business world. Then though the gateway into the palace you quickly find the world change and become a green oasis where the walls seem to extend beyond keeping enemies of the Royal Family out, but the street noise as well.

Gyeongbok Palace

Taken 2009

The architecture in these historic buildings was unlike anything I had seen before in my travels. After all my only experience with architecture and travel had been the Western world and while viewing different churches is fascinating the use of color in Asia is simply unmatched. The brilliant use of different and vibrate colors makes each wall or even corner a work of art. The detail and delicate touch required matches that of a sculpture within Notre Dame.

With the buildings being a wonderful stop I made a point to also see the changing of the guard ceremony. See this ritual being done in different parts of the world is something I have come to do almost by accident. The way a culture treats its security can often mirror the state reacts to different parts of its life. Korea for example has been constantly plagued with invasion and occupations throughout its history. Therefor their changing of the guard is very loud and difficult. This history of occupation; however, has also allowed Korea's individualism to thrive and now even to this day the children are taught to respect and uphold their culture.