Ancient Echoes: Whispers of Time in the Jongmyo Shrine

Day 1: I arrived at Jongmyo Shrine in Seoul, an ancient structure listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its solemnity and simplicity. Walking slowly along the straight path of the sacred road, I felt the holy atmosphere of the ritual ceremonies. The grandeur of the main hall contrasted beautifully with the surrounding greenery, as if time had stood still here. I quietly listened to the guided tour, learning about the spirit tablets of past kings and queens enshrined here, and was deeply moved by the unique ritual culture of the Joseon Dynasty. In the afternoon, I strolled to the nearby Changgyeonggung Palace, admiring the harmonious beauty of the pond and ancient buildings in its courtyard, leisurely immersing myself in the blend of history and nature. Day 2: I chose to delve deeper into cultural exploration. In the morning, I visited Insadong, where traditional handicraft shops and modern cafes intertwine, presenting a unique charm of ancient and modern fusion. I tasted traditional Korean tea in a teahouse, feeling the pace of time slow down. In the afternoon, I headed to Bukchon Hanok Village, where winding alleys are dotted with historic hanok buildings. The wooden windows and tiles speak of the warmth of traditional life. Standing on a slope overlooking the city, the modern skyscrapers and ancient hanok buildings complement each other, making one feel the continuity and preciousness of history.