Changuimun Gate, located in northern Seoul, is one of the Four Small Gates of Seoul Fortress. In the past, the gate has also been known as Jahamun and Buksosomun. Construction started in 1396 during the beginning years of the Joseon Dynasty.
Built north of the city, Changuimun became a major link between the city and areas to the north. The Joseon Dynasty built this gate with the purpose of protecting the capital city, known then as Hanyang.
Changuimun was constructed using granite and features an arched entrance. The original wooden gatehouse was destroyed by a fire during the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592, also known as the Imjin War.
The gate was rebuilt almost 150 years later in 1740 and is now one of the oldest remaining gates in Seoul.
Today, visitors can walk through the passageway to view each side of the gate and are allowed to take the stairs up to the gatehouse. In the past, access to the gatehouse was not allowed. Access may change at any time.
Changuimun Gate (Jahamun Gate) Information
Hours
24 hours
Admission
Free
How to Get Here
Take Subway Line 1 to Jonggak Station (Exit 3).
From here, take city bus 7022 at Jeil Bank to Jahamun Tunnel.
Changuimun Gate (Jahamun Gate) Video
Map
Additional Resources
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Book Recommendations
For an immersive guide to Seoul, many travelers choose to bring a book along. Fodor's Seoul, for example, offers detailed recommendations on sights, restaurants, maps, and travel tips.
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Last Updated on Mar 13, 2025