Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House) (청와대)




Notices



* Required to come to the meeting point inside of Gyeongbokgung Palace 30 minute before the tour with an identification card



Address



1, Cheongwadae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 종로구 청와대로 1 (세종로)



Type



Architectural & Sculptural Highlights



Inquiries




• 1330 Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330
(Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

• For more info: +82-2-730-5800



Homepage




president.go.kr (Korean, English)







Introduction

The signature markings of the Presidential Residence of Cheong Wa Dae are its blue tiles. It is the first thing that catches one's attention upon entering the premises. The blue tiles and the smooth roof blend beautifully with Bugaksan Mountain in the backdrop.



The unique buildings of Cheong Wa Dae are comprised of the Main Office, Yeongbingwan (Guest House), Chunchugwan (Spring and Autumn Pavilion), Nokjiwon (Green grass), the Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) Valley, and the Seven Palaces. It is interesting to see that these buildings all have distinctive shapes. They are unique and beautifully designed, built in the Korean traditional style. The blue tiles and the smooth curve shape of the main office roofs are elegantly built. Approximately 150 thousand tiles compose the roof of the Blue House. Each were baked individually which make them strong enough to be used for hundreds of years. If you turn to the right you will see Chunchugwan. The roof of Chunchugwan was made of earthen tiles. This is where the president's press conferences are held. On the left side of the main office, there is the Yeongbingwan. It was designed to hold large conferences and official events for foreign guests.



You can walk along Nokjiwon and the Mugunghwa Valley. At Nokjiwon a succession of presidents planted trees on memorial occasions. There is one famous tree which is 310 years old. The Mugunghwa Valley has colorful flowers, a fountain, and a phoenix statue, which makes it perfect for taking pictures. It is best to visit here between July and October when the Mugunghwa flowers bloom.



A walk around the paths just outside the Blue House grounds is a pleasure as the surroundings are peaceful and beautiful. The paths follow Gyeongbokgung Palace to the Blue House and to Samcheong-dong Park. The walk from the East Gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the Blue House is the most beautiful part. With the road in the middle, there is the Gyeongbokgung Palace stone wall on the left and galleries and old buildings on the right. The stone wall of Gyeongbokgung Palace is scattered with beautiful old trees that will comfort you. Across the street are Hyundai Gallery, Geumho Gallery and other famous galleries and stylish cafes. Of the many nice cafes and restaurants, there is "The Restaurant." Its interior is modern and one side of the building is a glass wall where you can enjoy viewing the scenery and the stonewall alley while dining. After you pass this area, and before you reach the Blue House, turn to the right and you will reach Samcheong-dong Park. There are also many famous restaurants and galleries in the area.

Telephone

+82-2-730-5800

Closed

Every Sunday, Monday and National holidays

Duration

1 hour 30 minute (check participants (30 minutes) / Admission · Tour (60 minutes))

Tour Course Information

Meeting point – Cheong Wa Dae Promotion Hall – Nokjiwon – Gubongwanteo – Sojeongwon – Main Hall – Yeongbingwan (Guest House) – Chilgun (optional) – Mugunghwa dongsan – Cheongwadae Sarangchae

Activity Information

Cheongwadae Tour

Operating period: Tuesday-Friday / Every second and fourth Saturday

Tour time: 10:00, 11:00, 14:00, 15:00

Registration period: Available at least 20 days to 6 months before visiting

Inquiries: +82-2-730-5800



* Individual tour: 10 people or less / Group visitors: 11-200 people

* Children (ages 8 or under) must be accompanied by companion. (10 people or less)

* Saturday: 10 people or less individual visitors (no groups visitors)

* Participants can only join a Cheongwadae tour once a month.


Age Limit for Activities

Ages 8 and older
* Groups including preschoolers with parents should be no more than 10 persons.

Maximum Occupancy

Individuals, families and groups of ages 8 and over.
* No more than 200 persons in groups.

Parking Facilities

Available (Gyeongbokgung Palace parking lot)

* Inquiry: +82-2-720-7595


Admission Fees

Free

Parking Fees

Gyeongbokgung Parking Lot

Mid-sized and large vehicles (16 passengers or more): 4,000 won for the first 2 hour


* 50% Discount: Low-emission car, light-weight car (1,000 cc or less)


Reservation Info. for Foreigners

On-line
Application  Homepage

Reservation Info. for Natives

On-line reservation in advance

- Registration period: From 6 weeks prior to at least 20 days before the desired date




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