Changgyeonggung (Palace)🏰 castle
Originally built as a summer palace for the Goryeo dynasty, it later served as a royal Joseon residence.
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Changdeokgung Palace
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Changdeokgung Palace, often called the 'East Palace,' was established in 1405 as the second royal villa of the Joseon Dynasty. It is widely regarded as the best-preserved of Seoul's five grand palaces and is celebrated for its seamless integration with the surrounding natural landscape. Unlike other palaces that follow a strictly symmetrical layout, Changdeokgung's buildings are arranged according to the topography of the slopes of Mount Bugaksan. The highlight of the complex is the Huwon, or Secret Garden, a sprawling rear park featuring lily ponds, pavilions, and centuries-old trees where royalty sought relaxation and poetic inspiration. For over 250 years, it served as the primary residence and center of government for many Joseon kings. In 1997, Changdeokgung was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, uniquely honored among Seoul's palaces for its outstanding architectural and landscaping harmony.
- Location: South Korea
- Top sights: Changgyeonggung (Palace) · Hyehwamun Gate · Donhwamun Gate
- Nearby: Uijeongbu (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -1 | 4 | 10 | 16 | 21 | 24 | 25 | 20 | 14 | 7 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 31 | 37 | 72 | 84 | 116 | 361 | 260 | 138 | 53 | 47 | 22 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Changdeokgung Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site open to the public. You can visit the magnificent halls and the Secret Garden (Huwon) on a guided tour.
Typical hours
The palace is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, last entry at 4:30 pm. The Secret Garden has separate guided tours at set times; advance booking advised.
Photography
Photography is allowed across the entire palace grounds, but not inside the throne hall interior. The Secret Garden gives excellent opportunities for nature and landscape shots.
Time needed
Allow at least 2 to 3 hours for the palace and Secret Garden. The garden tour takes about 1.5 hours extra.
Combine with
Combine the visit with nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace or the traditional Bukchon Hanok Village. Insadong street is excellent for a stroll.
Getting there
The palace is in central Seoul, near Anguk subway station (Line 3). It is easily reachable on foot or by bus from the city center.
Insider tip
Rent a traditional hanbok to enter the palace for free and take authentic photos. Come early to avoid queues at the ticket booth.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1405 as a secondary royal palace
- Most well-preserved of the Joseon palaces
- Features the world-famous Huwon (Secret Garden)
- UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997
- Served as the primary seat of government for 250 years
- Landscape covers about 110 acres of land
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Changdeokgung Palace (17)
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a separate reservation for the Secret Garden?
Yes, access to Huwon (Secret Garden) is limited and requires a separate booking and guided tour.
When is the palace closed?
Changdeokgung Palace is closed to visitors on Mondays.
Can you wear Hanbok in the palace?
Yes, and visitors wearing traditional Hanbok usually receive free admission to the palace grounds.
How much time should I plan for a visit?
Including the Secret Garden, you should plan for about 3 hours.
What is the difference compared to Gyeongbokgung Palace?
Changdeokgung is known for its harmonious integration into the natural landscape, rather than symmetry.
Changdeokgung Palace: where is it located?
Changdeokgung Palace is located in South Korea.
Changdeokgung Palace: what is there to see?
Highlights include Changgyeonggung (Palace), Hyehwamun Gate, Donhwamun Gate.
Changdeokgung Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Changdeokgung Palace: why is it worth visiting?
Changdeokgung Palace, often called the 'East Palace,' was established in 1405 as the second royal villa of the Joseon Dynasty.
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