Jongno

Having a rich historical background, Jongno remains the epicenter of Seoul. Many of Seoul's government offices, cultural establishments and businesses can be found here. Most of Seoul's ancient royal palaces are conveniently located within walking distance. From Jongno, roads lead to other famous attractions, such as Insadong—famous for traditional teahouses, Korean ceramics, and antiques and the Chongmyo Royal Shrine—artifacts and antiques of the Chosun Dynasty. Every New Year, people gather in Chonggak where there is a pavilion which houses a giant bell. Following the Buddhist tradition, the bell is struck to ring out the old year and bring in the new.