East Nine Royal Tombs [UNESCO World Heritage] (구리 동구릉 [유네스코 세계문화유산]) Visitor Guide with Practical Tips

The East Nine Royal Tombs (구리 동구릉) are a collection of nine royal burial sites located on the eastern outskirts of Seoul. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds the final resting places of seven kings and ten queens from the Joseon dynasty. The tranquil forested paths surrounding these tombs provide an opportunity to reflect on Korea’s rich history, making it worthwhile to visit even if the weather isn’t ideal.

Why do travelers recommend East Nine Royal Tombs?

Travelers appreciate the East Nine Royal Tombs for their historical significance and peaceful environment. Many enjoy walking through the lush landscape, which feels like stepping back in time. There’s something calming about wandering through these grounds, where you can connect with nature while learning about Korea’s royal past.

Another reason visitors endorse this site is its accessibility during different seasons. The paths are open to the public in spring and fall, which enhances the experience with beautiful foliage. And if you happen to be there during autumn, you might catch the East Nine Royal Tombs Healing Culture and Arts Festival, which features various cultural activities.

What is the layout of East Nine Royal Tombs?

The layout consists of several key tombs scattered throughout a serene forest setting. Each tomb is set within its own picturesque area that offers different perspectives on traditional Korean architecture and burial practices. The pathways connecting them are well-maintained, making it easy for visitors to explore at their own pace.

Here is the thing though — i recommend starting at the main entrance where you’ll find restrooms and facilities like a drinking fountain. walking along the trails, keep an eye out for informational signs that explain each site’s historical context. You’ll find that some tombs are more elaborate than others, reflecting their occupants’ status within the royal hierarchy.

How much time should you spend at East Nine Royal Tombs?

A visit typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest in reading about each site. If it’s a rainy day, you might want to allocate more time for breaks under trees or nearby shelters.

If you’re keen on a guided tour — which I highly recommend for deeper insights — you’ll need to reserve ahead of time. Tours are available in English, Chinese, and Japanese and can enhance your understanding of this historic area significantly.

What are the practical details for visiting?

The East Nine Royal Tombs operate from February to May and September to October from 06:00-18:00; June through August extends until 18:30; while November through January closes earlier at 17:30. Keep in mind that last ticketing occurs one hour before closing time.

The admission fee is quite reasonable at ₩1,000 (about $0.74 USD) for adults aged 20 to 65; groups of ten or more can enter for ₩800 (about $0.59 USD). Parking is available on-site with fees set at ₩2,000 (about $1.48 USD) for small cars and ₩5,000 (about $3.70 USD) for larger vehicles. Just a thought.

If you need assistance or have inquiries during your visit, contact the travel hotline at +82-31-1330; they provide support in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese. Remember that Mondays see closures unless a public holiday falls on that day — then it will close on Tuesday instead.