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How to Visit Changdeokgung Palace (+ Secret Garden)

Last Updated: Nov 12, 2023 by Max · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Changdeokgung Palace is not the biggest palace in Seoul, but it’s notorious for its unassuming beauty, intriguing both locals and foreigners. Like all palaces in Seoul , the operating hours at Changdeokgung depend on the season you decide to come, but they generally run from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays). 

Entrance costs ₩10,000 for adults and ₩5,000 for children, and grants you access to all parts of the palace, including the Secret Garden tour (which is available in 3 different languages: English, Japanese, and Korean).

Fast Facts About Changdeokgung

Most palaces in Seoul were made to impress, but Changdeokgung isn’t like that at all. In fact, the first thing you’ll notice is that it more so blends in with the natural topography. Walking the grounds feels like a refuge from the city, which is exactly what it was built for.

Some aristocratic residences, like Nakseonjae Hall, are unique compared to other buildings because they have no dancheong , or multi-colored patterns on the building’s surface. The designs inside are distinct from the usual Korean traditional designs you see on temples and other palaces.

A fascinating fact about this palace is that it’s home to a beautiful (not-so) secret garden in Seoul, also known as Huwon . Here you’ll see a lot of maroon pavilions overlooking ponds, perfect for, well, pondering the important stuff. 

No matter what the season, the garden is absolutely breathtaking. It’s even lovely during the winter ! How to get to Changdeokgung secret garden, however, requires you pay extra for access, but wearing a hanbok reduces your overall entrance fee.

Fun Fact : if you wear a hanbok, you can enter any of the five Grand Seoul Palaces of Seoul for free!

How to Get to Changdeokgung Palace

If you’re planning to visit Changdeokgung, you should be well prepared. The trip takes just 20 minutes from Seoul Station to Anguk Station, leaving from Exit 3.

It is quite a walk (and is about similar to the distance if you use Exit 7 from Jongno-3 Station), but there are plenty of hanbok rentals, cafes & restaurants you can visit before eventually arriving at Donhwamun Gate . There are also free & interesting museums nearby, like the Tteok Museum and the Seoul Museum of Korean Folk Music.

Both are good options if you really want to immerse more in Korean culture and practices before coming to the palace. For those who find walking tedious, there are shuttle buses that take you directly to the historical site.

You can find the bus stop in front of Jamong Gold Jewelry Store. To save time and effort to locate it, we recommend you install helpful apps like Naver Map or Kakao Map in your phone.

Another way to get to Changdeokgung is to ride bus 162 or 151 from the Seoul Station bus stop (서올역버스환승센터.강우규의거터 정류장(02007)), taking you to the bus station near the gate (창덕궁.우리소리박물관 정류장 (01199)).

Upon disembarking, you’ll have to cross the road and walk over to the ticketing office on the far left of the gate. You can either use the ticketing machine outside the front door or get in line inside to be assisted by an English-speaking staff member.

Changdeokgung’s muted design and layout give it a historically humble feel during the day. The purpose of this palace is to be one with nature, and the grounds’ feminine allure is largely what entices people to come. When the sun is out, this is the perfect time to take pictures wearing a hanbok. 

Thankfully there are rental shops nearby that you can visit, such as Hanboknam and Changdeokgung Su-Hanbok . You can walk in to rent, but there’s also an option that lets you pick from the website in advance, and they’ll have it ready for you as soon as you arrive.  

Touring Changdeokgung Palace (at Night & Daytime)

Did you know that Changdeokgung Palace is the only Joseon palace that is hailed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? This fact alone makes it a no-brainer why it is worth a visit, but if you need specifics, this section will help you pan out your trip to Changdeokgung.

You can choose from two major tour programs at Changdeokgung. The first one showcases the important parts of the palace, such as the Injeongjeon (main hall) and the Nakseonjae Hall (King’s office). As for the second part, you get to see the parts of the Secret Garden in Seoul, such as the Buyeongji pond, the entrance to the Secret Garden, and even Okryucheon Stream.

It is also possible to do both tours in one day (making it an excellent choice for a Seoul daytrip ), but it is important to keep in mind that some parts can get grueling and uncomfortable due to the trail’s rocky natural terrain.

If you plan to visit Changdeokgung Palace, wear comfortable shoes. Even though there are plenty of rest areas (with vending machines nearby), it takes quite a walk to get from one place to another, and some trails can get pretty steep.

If you need to unload your bags somewhere safe, there are free lockers by the entrance. Don’t worry, they are easy to use. Additionally, don’t forget to bring a hat and slather on sunscreen if the weather is hot. There’s little room for shade on the palace grounds, unless you enter the private chambers or inspect the workers’ quarters.

While this palace is suitable for most kinds of visitors, it is absolutely perfect for couples and solo travelers that want to take long, pensive walks with no interruption. Unfortunately, it is not recommended for families with young children because there are snakes that roam in grassy areas of the forest.

At night, from late April to June, the Changdeokgung Palace hosts a special evening for people who want to visit the Secret Garden. This special tour circles the Jondeokjeong Pavilion, a hexagonal, 2-story roof pavilion near the Korean peninsula-shaped pond.

Sometimes, during random points of the night tour, there will be reenactments of the Joseon royalty taking a peaceful night stroll near the Buyeongji Pond and the Juhamnu Pavilion.

Each stop also has various traditional performances, which range from songs and dances to instrument demonstrations. Another event happens every October at Injeongjeon Hall, where they hold a reenactment of the Gwageo Siheom, or national state examinations of the Goryeo and Joseon periods.

The Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace

This is the famous secret garden in Seoul, so you should expect flowers in the spring & summer – but it’s so much more than that. Best enjoyed during spring and autumn, this vibrant garden doubles as a walking trail, which takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

People mainly come to see the Buyeongji and Juhamnu, two structures that have come to represent the Secret Garden thanks to the promotional pictures.

While here, you’ll discover that the Juhamnu has two parts divided by two floors: the Gyujanggak, which served as a research institute to develop policies in support of the king’s reforms, and the reading room on the second floor.

The sound of the water coming from the Buyeongji (Buyeong pond) also provides a therapeutic ambiance, which is reinforced when you stand next to Buyeongjeong Pavilion, which overlooks the pond.

Another fun fact, even though this part is reserved for the King and few of his trusted officials, there were some special cases. Aspiring state officials used to take their state exam in front of the Yeonghwadang Hall.

As you venture deeper, you’ll be taken to Aeryeonjeong Pavilion and the Uiduhap. This is the spot where Crown Prince Hyomyeong underwent academic training and performed duties to support his father, King Sunjo.

Like Nakseonjae Hall, Uiduhap was not adorned with dancheong, probably to reinforce the mood for reading and contemplation. It is also said to be the most "modest" spot in the entire garden due to its colors mimicking the forest hues surrounding it.

After visiting the study area, you’ll see the Yeongyeongdang Complex. This structure is recent compared to the other areas because it was built near the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Initially an audience hall, this is where important figures brought pledges to the King and Queen, offering food, wine, and other luxurious items.

While performances are being held, others can retire to a small library (Seonhyangjae). This library is used by some officials to take refuge from the sun as well as read books until the program ends.

Here you can also learn how the original ondol works. The ondol is a traditional heating system that provides warmth during cold Korean winters – the underground systems trap smoke from a nearby fire to slowly warm the floor above.

Following the paths in the area reveals plenty of nature walks that lead to ponds and small waterfalls. But perhaps the most memorable one is the Ongnyucheon, which is a stream that is perfectly shaped like the letter U. 

This stream is also where the King was known to play games with his top officials. He would send wine cups from the top part of the channel for his subjects to catch. If they failed to do so, they’d have to drink three times — which by Korean drinking standards isn’t really a punishment.

You can also find the “Soyoam Rock” above the stream. Inscribed is a poem about the gorgeous Ongnyucheon landscape, said to be authored by King Sukjong himself.

Best Picture Spots at Changdeokgung Palace

• Donhwamun Gate

This is a two-story wooden gate that not only provides passage into Changdeokgung Palace, but is also used for surveillance. You can pose on the wide stone bridge in front of the gate, which will include the billowing trees and the vibrant flowers planted near parts of the wall.

• Injeongjeon (Hall of Benevolent Rule)

This is the throne hall of Changdeokgung, where they hold major state events like the coronation ceremony and the state banquets for foreign delegates. You can’t enter the hall, but you can pose on the platform in front of it to show off the throne behind you.

Here, you’ll see the best of Korean Architecture. The best places to appreciate this style is in the courtyard and the terraced garden that leads to Maebong Peak.

• Seonjeongjeon

Inside Seonjeongjeon lies a narrow colonnaded area that once served as a royal funeral site. It’s known to be the only remaining funerary building in any of the still-standing Seoul palaces. It may not be the typical "best picture spot," but it’s evidence of being inside a rare historical spot.

• The Staircases between the Tongmyongheon & Yanghwadang and the Yeongchunheon & Jipbokheon buildings

Since this is the area where the queen & the concubines used to stay, there is a large staircase (with a slippery stone formation before the first step) that takes you to an elevated path that showcase this vast residential ground.

If you stand on top of the staircase, facing the trail, it makes for a nice photo that includes the houses below, as well as the view of the Seoul skyscrapers and N-Seoul Tower behind you. Then you can have someone take a picture of you from below so that the nice, billowing trees of the hiking trail are included in the shot.

• Gate of Eternal Youth

Within the Secret Garden lies the stone-framed gate of eternal youth. Inscribed on top of it are three Chinese characters that identify it as such. Not only that, once you pass by this gate, you will be blessed with a long life. Whether this is true or not, this is a perfect place to take a hanbok selfie because it looks like an old-timey frame.

How to Rent a Hanbok Near Changdeokgung Palace

As I have mentioned earlier, the 10-minute walk that takes you to the palace has a lot of hanbok rental places. Below is a list of the ones that have a hassle-free transaction as well as good customer reviews. You can also negotiate to have these sent to you via courier, or you can just pick them up personally from the store. 

My opinion is that if you plan to spend a whole day in Changdeokgung Palace, or you have plans to move from one place to another, a whole-day rental makes a lot of sense. However there are options that let you borrow hanboks for just an hour or two.

The only downside is that their websites are in Korean, so you’ll have to use Papago to make the process easier.

Addess: 2F Hostel Korea (호스텔코리아 창덕궁점), 85, Donhwamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03131

A 24-hour hanbok rental for a single person can cost between ₩50,000 and ₩200,000, while rentals for couples can cost between ₩99,000 and ₩220,000. A child’s hanbok ranges from ₩40,000 to ₩50,000.

If you have a Discover Seoul Pass , you can enjoy a 20% discount on any kind of hanbok, as well as use their hairstyling service. You can pay in cash on the spot or through online banking, though foreigners are just recommended to pay in cash or book in advance .

• Changdeokgung Su-Hanbok

Address: 서울특별시 종로구 돈화문로 98, Donhwamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03134

This is a convenient hanbok rental service near Changdeokgung Palace. Aside from being the closest, there are plenty of styles you can choose from, and all you have to do is walk in; there’s no need to reserve in advance.

Prices depend on the style you’ve chosen, but it should be similar to Hanboknam’s. However if you’re looking for a specific style, it wouldn’t hurt to inquire directly by calling their number: 02-747-2546.

Where to Eat Near Changdeokgung Palace

If you’re looking for places to eat near Changdeokgung Palace, here are three of the best locations with varying specialties:

This restaurant opens an hour before lunch and closes around 10 PM. They take their break from 3 PM to 5 PM, so come around lunch time. The ambiance feels a lot like an outdoor hanok garden, and you get plenty of food for only ₩22,000.

The basic set menu includes fancy Korean dishes like octopus, fish, and soybean paste soup ( dwaenjang ); try their glutinous rice wine while you’re at it. For more details, visit Newijo’s website .

• Italy Budae Jjigae

If you’re looking for something filling, it’s always a guarantee that a bowl of budae jjigae will do the trick. This is a spicy sausage stew so-named because it was a  filling meal for Korean soldiers in years past, made using rations stolen from US military bases.

Now a dish enjoyed by all, locals and foreigners can enjoy this meal for just ₩9,000. If you feel like splurging, their stir-fried webfoot octopus and pork belly set is a divine combination that’ll set you back just ₩30,000 . More information about their menu can be found on their website .

• Baan Khun Kwan

For a more vegetarian-friendly option, this is an amazing restaurant that serves mouthwatering kao pad thai fried rice. That dish and all the rest of their food takes your tastebuds all the way to Thailand. Moreover, this is the best place to try unique spices not usually used in Korean food. 

Things to Do near Changdeokgung Palace

One thing you will appreciate about Changdeokgung is that not a lot of people come to visit. This may normally be seen as a downside, but the lack of crowds just means there are no lines to do some of my favorite activities near Changdeokgung Palace.

1. Tteok Museum (Institute of Traditional Korean Food)

Next to kimchi, the food Koreans are best known for is tteokbokki . In this free museum, you can see the various kinds of tteok (rice cakes) prepared for every kind of season and occasion.

Here you’ll also get to know the ingredients and tools used to make the delicious rice cakes, and learn what enhances their flavor, texture, and other fun facts about this beloved dish.

2. Find the Taesil

As you walk through the hiking trail, you eventually see this small pagoda made out of stone and may wonder what it is. The Taesil, also known as the "placenta chamber," is a stone monument that can be found anywhere in Korea.

But the one in Changdeokgung Palace is the best-preserved of all the royal Taesils. Back then, the royal family believed that putting their newborn’s placenta would guarantee a fortuitous life for the child. Inside, multiple stone plates identify whose placenta is stored within.

3. Son Donhwamun Traditional Theater

This modernized hanok theater faces Changdeokgung Palace, specializing in acoustic sounds of traditional music. The inside consists of an impressive wooden theater, a studio, the gugak madang (courtyard), and a cafeteria.

When you come here, the first thing you’ll notice is that this fan-shaped auditorium’s structure enhances the reverberation, and the sound quality is so clear that even small movements can be heard from the back of the hall. See the upcoming performances by visiting the Son Donhwamun Traditional Theater’s website .

4. Seoul Museum of Korean Folk Music

There’s another petite hanok building across Changdeokgung where you can experience the traditional instruments used to create beautiful melodies used in Korean folk music. Stepping into this museum also sets the tone.

It lets you listen to songs fishermen used to sing to boost their morale as they yanked heavy nets full of fish, or even the humming of women tasked with extracting silk from silkworms in the late Joseon Period.

Inside, there’s a virtual database that lets you listen to a range of 20,000 pieces of Korean folk music and learn about almost 6,000  musical instruments. It really is an admirable endeavor by the Korean government to keep their culture preserved.

5. Try to tell the time using the Angbuilgu

The Angbuilgu, or the "hemispherical sundial", used to be the most widely used astronomical scientific device in the Joseon Dynasty. It is a pot-shaped sundial, very different from the image of the sundial we are used to.

These unusually-shaped things have been around since the mid-1400s, sometime around the 16th year of King Sejong’s reign. You can find one on the elevated palace trail, somewhere near the resting area connected to the large stone staircases.

Even if you’re not a big fan of the Joseon Dynasty, it is still a good choice to swing by Changdeokgung on your visit to Seoul. There you can see how a palace in Seoul can still look grand without overdoing the traditional flair most Korean architecture is known for.

Plus, it's a great refuge from the overwhelming sounds of the city to enter the famous Secret Garden in Seoul.

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Visiting Changdeokgung Palace

The most authentic of the palaces in Seoul, Changdeokgung Palace offers a fascinating insight into Korean royal life.

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: April 11, 2024

• Visiting Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul

There are lots of things to see at Changdeokgung Palace and it's one of the most important landmarks in Seoul.

To learn a bit more about the history of Changdeokgung Palace - and plan for a visit - I've put together this story with lots of information, including:

• The main things to see at Changdeokgung Palace
• Why not to miss the Changdeokgung Palace Secret Garden
• My top tips for visiting Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace was never intended to be the most important palace in Seoul.

When the Joseon Dynasty began to rule the Korean Peninsula in 1392 and moved its capital to Seoul, it built Gyeongbokgung Palace as its primary residence, from where it planned to rule its new empire forever.

But fate had a different idea and, during a particularly brutal series of invasions by the Japanese between 1592 and 1598, the palace was burnt to the ground.

Changdeokgung Palace, which had been built about a decade after Gyeongbokgung Palace as a secondary residence, was also burnt to the ground during the Japanese invasions. But the decision was made to rebuild it first.

And so, Changdeokgung Palace was restored to its original glory by 1609. Gyeongbokgung Palace, on the other hand, wasn’t really touched for centuries and was left in ruins until a recent restoration effort began in the 1980s.

It meant that Changdeokgung Palace became the seat of government for the next 270 years of the Joseon Dynasty, right until the end of its rule.

And, as well as making it much more historically important than it was originally intended, this decision has also made Changdeokgung Palace the most authentic of the royal palaces in Seoul, with structures that are hundreds of years old, unlike Gyeongbokgung Palace, where many of them are just decades old.

It’s one of the main reasons why Changdeokgung Palace was named as one of South Korea’s World Heritage Sites , while none of the other royal palaces were.

Why is Changdeokgung Palace famous?

Changdeokgung Palace was originally built as a secondary residence in Seoul but became the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty in 1607, from where it ruled South Korea for about 270 years.

Is it worth visiting Changdeokgung Palace?

For the visual spectacle alone, it’s worth visiting Changdeokgung Palace, to see the imposing gates, monumental halls, and the incredible Secret Garden. But it’s also worth visiting to explore the best preserved of the royal palaces in Seoul.

What is the best palace in Seoul?

Often Gyeongbokgung Palace is considered to be the best palace in Seoul because it’s the largest and its recent restoration means it has the most impressive buildings. However, I think Changdeokgung Palace is actually the best because it is the most authentic, with centuries-old structures.

Visiting Changdeokgung Palace takes you inside the royal court, to the era of the Joseon Dynasty that ruled Korea from 1392 to 1897. I think it’s one of the best things to do in Seoul.

You can access most of the palace complex, from the collection of offices where much of the day-to-day work of running an empire was conducted, to the enormous throne hall that was used for official functions.

Not all of the buildings are open to the public – you normally won’t be able to see inside the residences of the king or queen. But you can walk around them to get a sense of how it was all laid out.

Most of the main wooden buildings, set on stone platforms, have sloped tiled roofs that look like wings holding up the structures. They’re painted with a colour pattern called ‘dancheong’ that includes five basic colours, but green and red often tend to dominated the designs.

And above it all, Mount Baegaksan looms over Changdeokgung Palace, acting as the main geomantic guardian mountain that it was considered to be.

As well as the main structures, one of the highlights is the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace. This large landscaped garden is very different to other palace gardens, in that it conforms to the sloping terrain, with hills and valleys intersected by various water features.

The Secret Garden should be considered an attraction in itself. Depending on what entrance ticket you’re using, you may need to pay an extra fee to see it (access is only by guided tour). I highly recommend you do this!

I’ll talk much more about the Secret Garden shortly, but first I wanted to run through the top things to see in Changdeokgung Palace’s main area.

Things to see at Changdeokgung Palace

The layout of Changdeokgung Palace follows the traditional principles of palace design in Korea, with three gates and three courts.

The first court is for administrative functions, the next court is for the royal residences, and the final court is for official audiences.

As you walk through the main part of the palace complex, through these gates and into the courtyards that surround the most important structures, these are the key sights to look out for:

Gwolnaegaksa (Government Offices)

After you come through the main entrance of Changdeokgung Palace, the first area you’ll see in front of you is Gwolnaegaksa, the word used to describe the government offices within a palace.

It was from these offices that the royal family’s affairs were run, such as meetings of the Royal Counsel Committee. There were also facilities like a royal pharmacy and a library.

The buildings of Gwolnaegaksa were destroyed by the Japanese, like the rest of the palace complex, but these ones weren’t rebuilt until 2005.

They’re all tightly packed together and, even though it’s not a very large area, it can feel like you’re getting a bit lost as you walk through the maze of offices.

Injeongjeon (Throne Hall)

As the main throne hall of the palace, Injeongjeon is where all the major state events were held, including coronations. It’s also where foreign envoys would greet the king and where receptions would be held for them.

After you come through the large gate, the open-air courtyard stretches out to the hall at the rear. It has a clear path marked down the centre, which was used by the king. On either side of it are stone markers where officials stood according to their rank.

If you look behind the hall, you’ll find a terraced garden. According to geomancy, it’s thought this landscaped area would channel energy from the guardian mountain into the palace.

Seonjeongjeon (King’s Council Hall)

While the throne hall was used for important receptions and ceremonies, Seonjeongjeon was where the king would do more of the day-to-day tasks of running his empire.

As the King’s Council Hall, it was where he would meet his senior officials for morning briefings each day and for other reports on national affairs. Around the central hall of Seonjeongjeon are collonaded areas that were used as offices for secretaries and other staff members.

An interesting thing to note here is that this is the only existing palace building that has blue tiles on its roof.

Huijeongdang (King’s Residence)

The king would also do work in Huijeongdang, where he had an office that he could use whenever he wanted. But, officially, this area was considered to be the king’s residence and was off-limits to many people (although the way it was used changed over the years).

From the outside, the building looks traditionally Korean, with the dominant red and green paint, plus the hip and gable roof. But inside there have been quite a few changes that make it appear more westernised. The largest areas were used as a drawing room and a conference room.

Something I think is quite interesting is the curved entrance that was added to the building towards the end for the king’s automobiles!

Daejojeon (Queen’s Residence)

As far as area goes, the Queen’s Residence is bigger than the King’s Residence, but I suspect that’s for two reasons – partly because she couldn’t use as many other areas in the palace, and partly because the queen often ends up with a larger personal staff.

In the centre of the Daejojeon’s courtyard is a large living room space with bedchambers on each side (one for the king and one for the queen). Attached to each of the bedrooms are smaller rooms for the maids of honour.

Over the years, there have been many changes to the Queen’s Residence – some because reconstructions were needed after fires, and some to keep up with trends and modernise parts of it (such as Western-style tiled floors and glass windows).

Seongjeonggak (Crown Prince’s Study)

The building known as Seongjeonggak is all that’s left of a mini-palace that served as the residence of the crown prince within the main palace complex.

There was once a hexagonal pavilion, a library, storerooms, and more – all connected by corridors. The area that is still here was used as the crown prince’s study.

Seongjeonggak is right next to the meeting spot for the Secret Garden tour, so it’s a good area to have a look at while you wait for the tour to begin.

The complex of buildings known as Nakseonjae is larger than it first appears, with a series of buildings that was gradually added to over a number of years.

The first part was constructed by King Heonjong in 1847 as a personal library and living quarters before he expanded it to create a residence for his concubine. He then also added a residence for the queen dowager who had served as regent until he took the throne.

The Nakseonjae complex is tucked away in a corner of the palace and you could almost miss them. You’ll also notice that they are intentionally decorated in a more modest style without the usual royal paintwork.

The Changdeokgung Palace Secret Garden

The Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most important aspects of the whole palace complex.

Built in a space full of hills, it’s not like a traditional palace garden. Instead, it has been adapted to the uneven topography and feels more like an adventure into a national park.

The Secret Garden is landscaped with a series of terraces, where you’ll find lawns, flowers, and pools. Pavilions constructed within the garden seem to sit harmoniously with the trees surrounding them, a large collection of species including walnut, oak, chestnut, and pine.

It’s a large space, stretching out for almost a kilometre behind the main section. You can only access it with a guided tour, which takes about an hour and involves a fair amount of walking.

There are only a few Secret Garden tours each day and they can get full in the busiest months. I’ve got information below about booking them.

There’s a fair amount to see on the Changdeokgung Palace Secret Garden tour because, as well as the natural (albeit landscaped) elements, there are quite a few small compounds of buildings that were constructed in the garden over the years.

There’s the two-story Juhamnu Pavilion, for example, which sits at the top of a flight of stairs overlooking a large reflecting pond. It was used as a royal library and a reading room.

Around the Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, with another pond and small buildings, one of the crown princes underwent his academic training and studied topics around state governance.

Nearby, the Yeongyeongdang complex stands out for its different architecture, not using typical royal designs but imitating the home of a common (but still noble) citizen of the time. Built in 1828 and modified in the 1860s, it was used for functions where the king wanted a more informal atmosphere.

For visitors to the city, I truly think this is one of the best things to do in Seoul. It takes you into an important part of history, with some impressive buildings and special access to the beautiful Secret Garden.

Because it’s one of the main attractions in Seoul, it can get busy. The earlier you come, the more likely you are to avoid the crowds, and arriving shortly after opening time will mean you may even get some sections almost to yourself.

It will take about an hour (maybe even a bit less) to see the main buildings in the primary palace area. You’ll then also need an hour or so to do the Secret Garden tour.

The Secret Garden tours run in English at 10:30, 11:30, 14:30, and at 15:30 (this last one isn’t offered in December and January).

There are 100 spaces on each tour and half of those are sold online in advance here . The other half are sold at the ticket office on the day. Seeing as they can get full, it’s another good reason to visit Changdeokgung Palace at the start of the day.

You also need to pay an extra admission fee for the Secret Garden tour on top of the entrance to the palace. But I would recommend getting the Royal Palace Pass which includes both. (More info on that below.)

Where is Changdeokgung Palace?

Changdeokgung Palace is in the northern part of central Seoul, next to Changgyeonggung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine. The entrance is in the southwestern corner. The official address of the palace is 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul. You can see it on a map here .

How do you get to Changdeokgung Palace?

If you’re coming to Changdeokgung Palace by public transport, the easiest option is the subway. The closest subway stations are Jongno 3-ga or Anguk. You can also catch the Blue Bus numbers 109, 151, 162, 171, 172, or 272; and Green Bus number 7025.

When is Changdeokgung Palace open?

Changdeokgung Palace is open Tuesday to Sunday at these times throughout the year: Feb to May: 09:00 – 18:00 Jun to Aug: 09:00 – 18:30 Sep to Oct: 09:00 – 18:00 Nov to Jan: 09:00 – 17:30 NOTE: It is closed on Mondays

How much does it cost to visit Changdeokgung Palace?

Entry to the main palace area of Changdeokgung Palace costs 3,000 won (US$2.30) for adults and 1,500 won (US$1.15) for children (aged 7-18). Visiting the palace’s Secret Garden can only be done on a guided tour and costs 5,000 won (US$3.80) for an adult and 2,500 won (US$1.90) for children. (You also need to have a palace entry ticket to get to the start of the Secret Garden tour.) I would recommend buying the Royal Palace Pass at the ticket counter, which costs just 10,000 won (US$7.60) for adults and 5,000 won for children (US$3.80). It includes Changdeokgung Palace and the Secret Garden, along with Changgyeonggung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Deoksugung Palace. All the palaces are also included for free with the Discover Seoul Pass , which is a great way to save money if you’re going to visit lots of sights.

Are there tours of Changdeokgung Palace?

The only way to see the palace’s Secret Garden is with a guided tour that is included with the garden’s admission fee. If you’re looking for a tour of the main palace area, I would recommend this excellent afternoon tour , which also includes some of the historic neighbourhoods around the palace. There’s also this private tour of Seoul that you can customise to include Changdeokgung Palace.

Because the Secret Garden includes a guided tour, there’s less reason to have your own guide at somewhere like Changdeokgung Palace. But you’ll certainly benefit from having expert knowledge at the other parts of the palace, and at other sights in Seoul.

If you would like a guided tour of Seoul that includes the palace, there’s this excellent afternoon tour . Or there are some other great options here:

The other important thing to keep in mind with your planning is the proximity of Changdeokgung Palace to a couple of other important royal sites.

Changgyeonggung Palace is right next door – and, in fact, there’s a gate that directly connects the tour (right next to where the Secret Garden tour begins). Although Changgyeonggung Palace is not as impressive, it may make sense for you to see both at the same time.

Changdeokgung Palace is also less than ten minutes’ walk from the entrance to Jongmyo Shrine. The shrine holds the spirit tablets of the Joseon kings and queens, so visiting Jongmyo Shrine takes you to a slightly different style of sight, one that’s also very important in its own way.

Jongmyo Shrine is another World Heritage Site and I would certainly recommend you consider seeing it, if you have time in Seoul. The shrine is included in the Royal Palace Pass, so it’s great value.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN SEOUL

For most first-time visitors, I would recommend accommodation around Myeongdong or Insadong, although I’ve also got a detailed story about where to stay in Seoul .

Colourful and cosy, the  One Hostel Hongdae  has comfortable beds with curtains and a nice rooftop terrace to meet people.

Right in the middle of Insadong,  Top Hotel & Residence  has lovely staff and plenty of good amenities for your stay.

There are some really funky features at  Moxy Seoul Insadong , which also has a cool bar on site.

Along with a fantastic location and a colourful design,  Le Méridien Seoul Myeongdong  also has beautiful views and a lovely pool.

This site is on the UNESCO World Heritage List ! I'm on a mission to visit as many World Heritage Sites as I can. Only about 800 more to go... eek!

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• Why Seoul's Jongmyo Shrine is so important
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Hello Michael

A few days ago, I visited three of the five palaces in Seoul, and it was the same everywhere. I mean the entrance fee. in the largest of them Changgyeonggung the price was the highest – 3,000 won for an adult, and the rest – 1,000 won. Children under 12 had free admission in each of them. Additional if you decided to rent a hanbok you have a free entrance to each of them

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Tips For Taking The Huwon Secret Garden Tour In Seoul

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: September 4, 2023

The Huwon Secret Garden is a popular highlight of Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul. Now an official UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was loved by Seoul’s royal family because it was built in harmony with the surrounding nature. This secret garden is of the most important landmarks in South Korea.

In this guide, we’re going to show you exactly what to expect during a guided tour of Huwon Secret Garden including how to get tickets for your visit.

Our Experience In Seoul

We spent 14 days exploring Seoul in  March 2023 . During this trip, we personally took the tour of Huwon Secret Garden in Changdeokgung Palace . But you can not visit the secret garden on your own and you must book a guided tour.

After visiting ourselves, we enjoyed the Huwon Secret Garden, but it may not be for everyone. So in this guide, we’ll give you a walkthrough of our tour including what you can expect to see inside. We also tell you what we liked and didn’t like about the tour. Read more  about us .

What Is The Huwon Secret Garden?

Stretching an impressive 78 acres through Seoul , the Huwon Secret Garden was created in the early 15th century during the reign of King Taejong. The beautiful grounds allowed access to both Changdeokgung or nearby Changgyeonggung Palace so it quickly became a private setting for the royal family.

Popular leisurely activities inside the garden included reading, poetry and thinking as well as archery, military drills and banquets. During our tour, we learned many of the trees in the garden are over 300 years old and the landscaping showcases minimal artificial features .

We think a tour through the Huwon Secret Garden is one of the most interesting ways to learn about the Joseon Dynasty. The garden itself takes up about 60% of the palace and it’s one of the best things to do in Seoul .

Visitor Information

The Huwon Secret Garden is found in the back of Changdeokgung Palace on the eastern side of Seoul. This is arguably one of the most beautiful palaces because it was built in harmony with surrounding nature . Open hours for the palace are 9:00-17:00 or 18:30 depending on time of year, but it’s closed Monday.

• Address : 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
• Location : Google Maps
• Best subway stop : Anguk Station (line 3, exit 3) or Jongno 3-ga Station (line 1/3/5, exit 6)

The Changdeokgung Secret Garden is open shorter hours than the palace and it varies by season. Here are opening hours for the year:

• March to June + September to October: 10:00-17:30
• July-August: 10:00-17:10
• November: 10:00-17:00
• December-February: 10:00-16:10

While you can visit Changdeokgung Palace on you own, you can only visit the Huwon Secret Garden via tour by an official palace guide . Admission to the garden will be indicated by the tour time on your ticket and you won’t be allowed to enter at any other time.

If you do not have tickets for Huwon Secret Garden, we recommend you visit the Changdeokgung Palace early in the morning so you can secure your tickets for the garden. Once you’ve entered the palace, make a beeline for the Secret Garden ticket office in the back of the complex .

Huwon Secret Garden Tickets

It’s important to note, your ticket to the Changdeokgung Palace will not give you entry into the Huwon Secret Garden. You must purchase a separate ticket . Admission cost 5,000 KRW (US$ 3.75) for adults and visitors over 65 or  2,500 KRW (US$ 1.88) for children aged 7 to 18.

If you have a Royal Palace Pass, you do not have automatic entry into the Secret Garden. You must exchange the Secret Garden voucher in your pass booklet for a valid tour timed ticket. Visitors who rented a hanbok and received free entry into the palace will also have to purchase an additional ticket.

Additionally, admission is limited to 100 people per tour . You can book tickets on site or online via this website here . Half of the tickets can be reserved online and the other half are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis at the palace. When we visited, the ticketing website was not available so everyone had to book on site and it was extremely chaotic. We recommend you book online to secure your spot.

Here is the current tour schedule:

• Korean : 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 (Mar to Oct), 16:30 (Jun to Aug)
• English : 10:30, 11:30, 14:30, 15:30 (Mar to Nov), 10:30, 11:30, 14:30 (Dec to Feb)
• Chinese : 12:30 (Tues, Thurs + Sat)
• Japanese : 13:30 (Wed, Fru + Sun)

All tours start at the entrance of the garden. Our tour started right on time after everyone had their tickets verified. You can visit the official website for more information.

Travel Tip : Tours and schedules are subject to change depending on unforeseeable circumstances so always verify times before your trip.

Huwon Secret Garden Tour Walkthrough

If you’re planning to visit Changdeokgung Palace and the Secret Garden during your trip to Seoul, we’ll show you exactly what to expect in our walkthrough.

It will take about 2 hours to visit Changdeokgung and then another 90 minutes to take the guided tour through the garden. So you can expect to spend 3-4 hours between both sites . If you’re on the fence about visiting, read through the rest of this guide to see if this experience is for you.

Our guide follows the exact route we took during our guided tour. Here are best things to do in Huwon Secret Garden:

1. Juhamnu Pavilion + Buyongji Pond

One of the first buildings you’ll see inside Seoul’s Secret Garden is Juhamnu Pavilion . The gorgeous two story pavilion served as a library on the first floor and reading room on the second floor. Juhamnu Pavilion was constructed in 1776 during the reign of King Jeongjo .

We learned the library was essential for King Jeongjo because he felt tremendous pressure in power and used the space to strengthen his mind. The small gate leading up to the pavilion is known as the  Eosumun Gate . The name was a reminder to the king that a fish can not live out of water and he must always respect the people .

Buyongji is a rectangular pond with a small island in the middle located directly across from the large pavilion. It’s an incredibly peaceful spot inside the garden and one of our favorites. During our guided tour, we were given a short time to explore this area. Visitors can not go inside Juhamnu Pavilion , but they can walk up to Eosumun Gate.

Photography Tip : Juhamnu Pavilion is an extremely popular photo spot to see the beautiful fall foliage.

2. Yeonghwadang Pavilion

Another interesting building from the Joseon Dynasty, Yeonghwadang Pavilion was occupied by the king and his visitors who enjoyed poetry or nature. However, this pavilion later become a place where important civil service examinations were organized and administered.

We learned the exams regulated under the Joseon Dynasty were very difficult and demanding tests. They assessed the candidates knowledge of Chinese Classics and technical subjects . Our tour guide went into many details about the examinations.

3. Aeryeonjeong Pavilion + Aeryeonji Pond

After passing the garden at Juhamnu Pavilion, you’ll come to Aeryeonjeong Pavilion , which was built in 1692 during the reign of King Sukjong . It’s located on Aeryeonji Pond hanging about half way over the water.

Aeryeonjeong Pavilion was originally placed in the center of the pond on an island, but it was eventually moved to it’s current location on the side of the pond so it faces north to allow for better reading light .

This entire area in Huwon Secret Garden is an excellent example of deign and beauty as these structures are in perfect unison with the surrounding nature . It’s easy to see why the royal family enjoyed their time in this garden together.

4. Bulromun Gate

During your secret garden tour, you’ll pass under Bulromun Gate. This gate is significant because everyone who passes underneath it will be blessed with a long life and good health . Our tour guide stopped for a brief second here so we could learn a little bit more about the gate.

Travel Tip : If you don’t make it to the Secret Garden, a Bulromun Gate replica can be found inside the Gyeongbokgung Station.

5. Seonhyangjae Hall

After passing under Bulromun Gate, we visited a very private section of the garden where the royal family often resided and held banquets. One of these buildings was Seonhyangjae Hall , which was built as the study next to Yeongyeongdang Hall. This building served as a library and school for the royal family.

It’s interesting to note this was once one of the most luxurious buildings in Korea because it featured a sun shade on the western side, a wooden heated floor and a bronze plate that once hung from the roof.

6. Yeongyeongdang Hall

Built in 1828 by Crown Prince Hyomyeong for Jinjakrye (the royal banquet ritual), Yeongyeongdang Hall was used as a ceremonial place for his mother, Queen Sunwon and his father, King Sunjong .

However, this hall was sometimes used as the men’s quarters and it was also where the master of the house lived . All guests would be required to walk the three stairs, take of their shoes and wait on the wooden veranda before entering.

We also learned this hall was strategically created with windows on each side of the building that could be lifted in summer to let the breeze through. This was a major engineering feat back in those times!

7. Jondeokjeong Pavilion

Another important structure inside Huwon Secret Garden is Jondeokjeong Pavilion. It’s set on a small pond with beautiful views surrounding the garden . Our tour stopped here for another brief moment as our guide explained more about the royal family.

Travel Tip : We highly recommend you get close enough to look up at the twin colorful dragons playing with Cintamani on the ceiling of Jondeokjeong Pavilion.

8. Gwallamjeong Pavilion

Located along Bandoji Pong, Gwallamjeong Pavilion is shaped like an extended fan . The floor and the roof of this pavilion were built with curved materials to suit the morphology of the structure.

No one officially knows when this pavilion was constructed, but it’s estimated between the end of the Joseon Dynasty and the early colonial period. We loved how private this pavilion appeared as it seemed to be tucked hidden away from the rest of the secret garden.

9. Ongnyucheon Stream

The Ongnyucheon Stream and the Eojeong Well pass through Huwon Secret Garden. This stream was designed with a simple stone bridge connecting numerous pavilions throughout the complex.

These bridges are perfect for pedestrians to explore more of the gardens. Next to the Eojeong Eell, you’ll find a large natural rock, a curved waterway and a waterfall. Our tour guide highlighted Cheonguijeong Pavilion because it features a straw-thatched roof and it’s positioned in the center of a small rice field.

10. The Chinese Juniper Tree

As our tour concluded, we passed the 750 year old Chinese Juniper Tree , which is now designated and protected as a Korean National Monument . This impressive tree measures 12m (40 ft) in height and 5.9m (19 ft) in circumference.

The branches typically spread out in all directions, but it has been trimmed to to help the tree stay alive. We learned the Chinese Juniper Tree is significant because is has a very strong smell and is commonly used as incense for ceremonies . This type of tree is often found in gardens or parks in Korea.

Travel Tip : This tree will be located on the left hand side as you exit the Huwon Secret Garden guided tour.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Seoul’s secret garden is in late March to early April for cherry blossom season or late September to early October for the fall foliage . We visited mid-March and the cherry blossoms were only starting to come out because we headed to Japan that year for the peak of cherry blossoms.

But even if you can’t visit during these two times of the year, the grounds showcase stunning architecture of the Joseon Dynasty you won’t see anywhere else . We’ve even seen photos of Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Secret Garden beautifully draped in snow so you can’t go wrong visiting any time of the year.

The Morgan Conclusion

Changdeokgung Palace is home to the Huwon Secret Garden and visitors will need to secure tickets for a guided tour if they want to visit the garden.

But is the Huwon Secret Garden worth visiting ?

Yes, we thought our guided tour through Huwon Secret Garden was worth it. We visited in spring just as the cherry blossoms were blooming and it was absolutely stunning throughout the grounds. But the tour lasted 90 minutes with a lot of walking involved and tickets sold out on the day of our visit.

However, it was absolute chaos trying to get a ticket for the garden since it was cherry blossom season. We recommend you try to book your tickets online or you’ll run the risk of tickets selling out onsite.

If you can’t get tickets, you could visit Changgyeonggung Palace because it has an extensive garden anyone can visit. And if aren’t interested in gardens or you don’t have much time in Seoul, we don’t think the Huwon Secret Garden will be worth your time.

Here are pros and cons to visiting the Huwon Secret Garden:

• Ability to tour a garden loved by Seoul’s royal family
• The guided tour provides insight into the history of the grounds
• Unique experience you won’t get at the other palace in Seoul
• Tickets can sell out quickly in peak season
• You can’t visit the gardens on your own and you must be with a tour
• The guided tour takes about 90 minutes so you need enough time

Our Personal Photos

We enjoyed our visit to the Changdeokgung Palace Secret Garden and took many photos. Here are a few of our favorites so you know exactly what to expect:

More Seoul Palaces

• How to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Guide to visiting Changdeokgung
• First time visitor guide to Changgyeonggung
• Deoksugung Palace visitor guide
• Best things to do inside Gyeonghuigung
• Best palaces to visit in Seoul

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• 35 unique things to see in Seoul
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Want more Seoul content? Head over to our South Korea Travel Guides to explore the very best of Seoul and beyond.

We hope this guide featuring the Huwon Secret Garden helps with planning your visit to the Changdeokgung Palace!

Please let us know if you have any questions about visiting Seoul’s Secret Garden in the comments below!

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy this Seoul secret garden guide? Pin it for your visit!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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Secret Garden in Changdeokgung Palace

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Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden

While Gyeongbokgung is considered Korea’s main palace , Changdeokgung and its secret garden actually served as the primary royal residence from the early 1600s – 1800s. I’ve been twice now, once in late spring and recently mid-autumn, and it’s definitely one of those places in Seoul I’ll never tire of visiting.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most significant Korean landmarks, and the best preserved of all the palaces. I honestly can never decide if it’s my favorite or Gyeongbokgung is. Every time I visit one of them, I change my mind! Here’s a little history into this beautiful place as well as some tips to make the most of your visit.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Before I get into why you should visit Changdeokgung and a little more about its importance in Korean culture, let me just say this:  book ahead of time.  

While you can stand in line and get a ticket to see the palace grounds, you actually need to be on a specific tour to visit Huwon (the secret garden). If it’s busy, the tickets actually sell out quickly. I was so annoyed with myself for not booking ahead the last time I visited. I totally missed out on seeing Huwon during autumn in Korea , and it’s one of the best places for fall foliage in the country . Luckily I’ve been before, but it would really be a bummer if you only have one chance to visit and you can’t because tickets are booked.

There are few ways to prevent this from happening to you:

• You can try to reserve on the website up to 6 days ahead of time.  I don’t think you pay right away. You reserve and pay when you arrive. Just an FYI, there’s a separate line for internet reservations. If the regular line is super long, you might miss the sign.
• Get there right at the opening .  They have 100 tickets per tour with 50 for online reservations and 50 for the day of. It’s first come, first served, so you can always try arriving before 9 to book your tour. I don’t know if it’ll be super easy or there will be a line though.
• Book Seoul by Foot (Secret Garden + Bukchon Hanok Village Walking Tour) – You’ll join one of the 90-minute guided tours for Huwon followed by a 2 1/2 hour walking tour which includes the rest of Changdeokgung, Buckhon Hanok Village, and Samcheongdong.  Check prices + times here.

What is it?

Changdeokgung was created in 1405 as the secondary royal palace. While Kim Taejong claimed it was because Gyeongbokgung’s topography wasn’t auspicious enough, many believe it’s because he assassinated his brothers in the main palace and didn’t want to rule from the same area. After the Japanese invasions destroyed all the palaces in the late 1500s, it was the first palace rebuilt and became the primary royal residence for almost 300 years.

What also makes Changdeokgung a unique palace to visit is its design. Instead of making the surrounding nature work with its layout, architects designed the palace to work in harmony with nature. When they worked on the Secret Garden, they kept artificial landscapes completely minimal to better highlight its natural setting.

The Secret Garden was used for everything from banquets to recreation and even some farming throughout the centuries.

Major Areas of Changdeokgung

Donhwamun ( 돈화문 )

You’ll enter Changdeokgung through Donwamun, the palace’s main gate.  You can get tickets right out front, and this is what you’ll see when you’re walking up to find it.

Geumcheongyo (금청요)

This bridge is the oldest structure in the palace, dating back to 1411. It’s also considered one of the oldest stone bridges in Seoul.

Injeongjeon (인정전)

When you walk in, eventually you’ll pass through Jinseonmun gate and to your left you’ll see the entrance to Injeongjeon. This was the palace throne hall, and any major affairs were held here, such as coronations or royal ceremonies.

Seonjeongjeon (선정전)

This area is where kings would occasionally work or hold meetings. It’s also the only building to have a blue-tiled roof.

Huijeongdang (휘정당)

Huijeongdang was the royal bedchamber, and where the king spent most of his time working. The current reincarnation of Huijeongdang, which is only a hundred years old, is actually very different from its original design.

Daejojeon (대조전)

Daejojeon was the queen’s bedchambers. The structures you see today are also quite young, having been recreated in 1917 after a fire.

Seongjeonggak (성정각)

Seongjeonggak was where the crown prince lived.

Nakseonjae Complex (낙선재)

Nakseongjae was originally designed for King Heonjong in 1656 so that he could relax and read. It has also served as the quarters for the crown prince. It was still in use until 1989 by Lee Bangja, the wife of the last Korean crown prince.

Major Areas of the Secret Garden

Buyongji and Juhamnu (부영지와 주함누)

The first place you’ll visit on your tour is Buyongji, a gorgeous rectangular pond.

Aeryeonji and Uiduhap (애련지와 의두합)

This is another pond area. The little pavilion sticking out at one end is called Aeryeonji and represents the lotus flower.

Jondeokjeong (존덕정)

Jondeokjeong features some beautiful pavilions around a pond. It’s one of the last additions to the garden.

  A Quick Guide to Changdeokgung +  the Secret Garden

Here are some other tours that will go to Changdeokgung but not the Secret Garden, unfortunately.

• Seoul Palace Tour   – This is actually a private tour, so instead of sharing your guide with a bunch of other visitors, it’ll feel more intimate. Not only can you choose Changdeokgung, but Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung are also options. The only downfall is that you need at least two people for the tour, so if you’re solo it can cost you $30 for the guide plus the ~$8 for entry. Check prices + times here.
• Korean Palace Tour – There are two options: a half-day tour (3 1/2 hours) and a full day tour (8 1/2 hours). Changdeokgung is included in the afternoon half-day tour and the full day tour for all days  except  Mondays. Check prices + times here.
• One Day Seoul Tour – This is another pretty packed tour that includes Changdeokgung along with Gyeongbokgung, the National Folk Museum or History Museum, Jogyesa, a ginseng center, Insadong, an amethyst factory, and Namdaemun. Check prices + times here on Trazy or check them here on Klook.

Information

Korean Name: 창덕궁, 후원 Address:   99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul Korean Address:  서울특별시 종로구 율곡로 99 (와룡동) Cost:   3,000 KRW for palace, 5,000 KRW more for Huwon **If you’re planning to visit all the palaces and the Jongmyo, then you can get a combination ticket for 10,000 KRW and it’s good for up to a month. This won’t include Huwon, but will save you about $4! Opening Times: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (give or take 30 minutes depending on the season), ticket sales stop 1 hour before. Secret Garden Tour Schedule:

• English:   11:30, 1:30, 3:30
• Chinese: 12:30
• Japanese: 10:30, 2:30
• Korean: 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00, 4:30

**The first time I went, I missed the English tours but managed to get into the last Korean tour. If you miss one of the tours, you can always try to get one in another language.

How to Get There

• By Taxi –  Simply tell your taxi driver “Changdeokgug,” and s/he should know where to go. It might be wiser and cheaper to use the subway or bus though.
• By the Seoul Bus –  There’s a hop-on, hop-off bus in Seoul, and the stop is right out front of Changdeokgung. This might be easier if you’re visiting a lot of spots in a day. Get a discounted ticket here.
• By Local Bus –  There are a number of buses in the go near Changdeokgung, though the bus stop itself is “Changgyeong Palace.” I use the Kakao Bus app to look up times and buses.
• By Subway – This is by far the fastest and most reliable way to get there! Trust me, Korean subways are incredible. Get off at Anguk Station, Exit 3. You’ll start seeing signs for Changdeokgung in a few minutes.

And there you have it! All about Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden. Let me know if you’ve been! What’s your favorite palace?

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Hi Sam, Quick question, how is Palace tour like during December? Is the secret garden worth visiting?

Hmm I’ve never been in winter, but I’d say it’d still be worth the visit. The palaces have this barren beauty in the winter (google changdeokgung winter to see if you agree) and the palaces are especially pretty if you visit on a snowy day.

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Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁) and Huwon, The Secret Garden

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Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most beautiful of Seoul’s five main palaces . Although Gyeongbukung is Korea’s main Palace, Changdeokgung actually served as the main residence from the early 1600s-1800s. 

Unlike other palaces, Changdeokgung Palace works in harmony with nature, and the overall construction highlights the natural settings. The buildings don’t overshadow the overall natural beauty of the region.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved palaces amongst all the royal palaces from the Joseon Dynasty reigning from 1392 to 1910. Changdeokgung Palace was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. It is regarded as a masterpiece of Korean palace architecture where the buildings are in perfect harmony with the natural setting.

Read more about Grand Palaces of Seoul:

• 5 Seoul palaces you must visit to add to your Royal South Korea Experience
• Gyeongbokgung Palace – Korea’s Magnificent Main Palace
• Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁), Seoul

Table of Contents

History of Changdeokgung Palace

The Palace was built originally as a secondary palace in 1405 following the construction of Gyeongbukung Palace . It was commissioned by King Taejeon, the third king of Joseon. 

After the Japanese invasion in 1952, all the palaces in Seoul were burnt down. Changdeokgung became the first one to be reconstructed in 1610, and it became the main palace. It was the primary royal residence and Palace until 1872, around 270 years! The Palace has remained well in use up into the 20 th  century. During the Joseon Dynasty rule, 13 different kings, including the last monarch, used Changdeokgung as the primary Palace. 

The palace construction follows the excellent feng shui (pungsu), just like all the other Korean palaces – a mountain behind the palace building and a small stream in front. The buildings of the Palace are positioned more naturally following the land contours, unlike the Gyeongbokung, which is built on flat land. Changdeokgung blends in naturally with the surroundings, and the compound covers a sprawling area of about 462,000 square meters. 

Things to See in Changdeokgung Palace

Donhwamun gate ( 돈화문 ).

It is the largest and imposing entrance gate amongst the other Seoul’s main palaces. The gate dates to 1608. Like other palaces in Korea, as you enter the gate, you will cross a stone bridge over the water stream. 

Geumcheongyo ( 금청요 )

It is the oldest structure in the palace complex dating back to 1414. The bridge has guardian animals carved on its side and is considered one of the oldest bridges in Seoul. 

Injeongjeon (인정전)

After passing through the Jinseonmun gate, you can enter Injeongjeon. It is the main palace building and sits in harmony with the paved courtyard, open corridors, and the trees in the background. All the significant affairs like coronations and royal ceremonies were held here. 

Seonjeongjeon ( 선정전 )

It is the only building with a blue-tiled roof, and it stands next to the Injeongjeon and other office buildings. 

Huijeongdang ( 휘정당 )

It was the royal bed-chamber where the king used to spend his time working. The reconstruction of Huijeongdang is much different from what it used to be initially. 

Daejojeon ( 대조전 )

Daejojeon was the queen’s bed chambers that have been reconstructed as they were also destroyed in the fire. 

Nakseonjae ( 낙선재 )

It was built during the reign of King Heonjong in 1656 as a place to relax and read. It has also served as the quarters for the crown prince. The complex was in use until 1989 by the wife of the last Korean crown prince. 

Moonlight Tour of Changdeokgung Palace

Huwon – The Secret Garden of Natural Beauty

Huwon, the garden at the back of Changdeokgung Palace, is self-contained and occupies about 60% of Changdeokgung. It is an excellent example of Korean garden design, and it is one of a kind. The rear garden was constructed during the reign of King Taejon, and it served as a resting place for the family members. There are many pavilions and fountains in the garden which enhance its natural beauty.

There is a large pond in the center of Huwon named Buyongji. Along with the pond, there is Buyongjeong (Pavilion) and Juhapru (Pavilion). The construction design of Buyongjeong is unique, with a cross-shaped roof and two supporting pillars rising from the pond. It is said that King Jeongjo (the 22nd king of the Joseon Dynasty) and his courtiers often enjoyed fishing here at Buyongjeong. The Juhapru Pavilion used to house the royal library and was used by the king and his courtiers to study and discuss politics. The entrance of Juhapru, the Eosumun (Gate), even has a symbolic meaning as the name literally means “Fish cannot live without water.” It reflects that “The ruler should always put his people first.”

If you visit the garden in autumn, you will be mesmerized by the autumn foliage and the gorgeous falling leaves!

Important Info about Changdeokgung Palace

Where :  99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Timings : Every Monday the Palace and the garden are closed.

Changdeokgung

• Feburary – May, September & October 09:00 – 18:00
• June – August 09:00 – 18:30
• November to January 09:00 – 17:30
• March – May, September & October 10:00 – 18:00
• June – August 10:00 – 18:30
• November – February 10:00 – 17:30
• December to February 09:00 – 17:00

Entrance Fee: 

• Changdeokgung – Adults (aged 19-64): KRW 3,000; Children & Teens (aged 7-18): KRW 1,500
• Including Huwon – Adults (over 19 yrs.): KRW 8,000; Adults (over 65 yrs.): KRW 5,000; Children & Teens (aged 7-18): KRW 4,000

Website :  http://www.cdg.go.kr/eng/

Important Note

You must book tickets ahead of time, especially for a tour to visit Huwon. In busy times, the tickets sell out pretty quickly. You can still visit the palace complex, but you won’t be able to see the secret garden. 

You can book the tickets online up to 6 days ahead of time. There are only 100 tickets available for each tour, so they sell out fast. And if you are late and the tour has started, you won’t be allowed entry into the Secret Garden. So, make sure you give yourself around 20 minutes to walk to the Secret Garden from the main gate. 

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KoreaTravelPost Editor

Hello there! I'm the Features Editor for KoreaTravelPost.

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A step-by-step guide to visit Changdeokgung palace and Huwon secret garden

Changdeokgung Palace, with Huwon Secret Garden , has been one of the most tourist-attracting historic sites in Seoul and visiting this attraction is one of awesome things to do in Seoul . Korea has thousands of years of history and culture. Which explains why the city of Seoul is home to so many historic sites. The city attracts a large number of tourists every year. And today, we will be guiding you to one of the oldest and most beautiful historic sites of Seoul. Let's start, shall we?

Changdeokgung Palace, the Prospering Virtue Palace

Changdeokgung, also known as Changdeokgung Palace or Changdeok Palace. The name literally means Prospering Virtue Palace. It is one of the "Five Grand Palaces" built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Due to its location being the east of Gyeongbokgung Palace , people also refer to Changdeokgung Palace as the "East Palace". Apparently, you should add Changdeokgung Palace to your Seoul city day tour.

Changdeokgung was the second palace after Gyeongbokgung which had been established in 1395 as a primary palace. The construction began in 1405 and completed in 1412. In 1592, during the Japanese invasion, the palace was burnt to the ground. Later, In 1609, King Seonjo and King Gwanghaegun reconstructed the palace. In 1623, King Injo led a political revolt against Gwanghaegun, and Changdeokgung Palace was once again burnt down to the ground. The Chinese also attacked the palace several times. Through many repairs and reconstructions, Changdeokgung Palace still stays true to its original design.When they were rebuilding the nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace was the site of the royal court and the seat of government until 1868. Emperor Sunjong, the last emperor of Korea, lived here until his death in 1926. Other members of the former Royal family were allowed to live in parts of the palace. Former Crown Prince Yi Un lived in the Nakseonjae Buildings with his wife Princess Bangja and sister Princess Deokhye until their deaths. Differing Presidential orders supporting and objecting their use of historic facilities repeatedly interrupt this arrangement. The modern-day Changdeokgung Palace has 13 buildings remaining on its ground and 28 pavilions in the gardens. The palace occupies 110 acres (45 hectares) in total. The palace is considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Seoul thanks to its garden and natural surroundings. In 1997, Changdeokgung Palace became a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What to expect in Changdeokgung Palace

Donhwamun gate.

The first thing that you’re going to notice is the giant 3-door gate serves as the entrance to Changdeokgung Palace. People name it Donhwamun Gate. Its construction began in 1412 during the twelfth year of Emperor Taejong’s reign. He was the third emperor of the Joseon Dynasty, he ruled the country from 1400 to 1418In 1592, during the war between Korea and Japan (the Imjin War), Japanese troops destroy and set the gate on fire. Years later, Emperor Gwanghaegun orders the gate’s restoration. The process took 2 years, from 1607 to 1609, giving it the current appearance.

The gate has a simple yet elegant 2 story wooden design. According to data, in 1413, there was a 7.5-ton bronze bell hung here, but it was later removed. The rock roads going through the gate, which passengers use, were made in the 1890s. Originally, only royal vehicles allowed to go through the gate. Nowadays, the gate act as one of the oldest, if not the oldest, existing entrances to Changdeokgung Palace. The gate is also Korea National Treasure #383.

Gwolnaegaksa Complex

While many government offices were located outside Changdeokgung Palace, some offices were built on the palace grounds and were collectively known as Gwolnaegaksa Complex. The Emperor choose these offices to handle royal family and political affairs.Because so many of the king’s support offices were concentrated in such a small area, Gwolnaegaksa had a labyrinthine feel to it. The buildings in this complex are Naeuiwon (Royal Infirmary), Hongmungwan (Office of Special Advisers), Geomseocheong (Publication Office), Gyujanggak (Royal Library), and Bongmodang (Hall of Upholding the Policies of Former Kings).

During the Japanese occupation of Korea in the early 20th century, the Japanese decided to vastly simplify Gyujanggak by destroying most of the building. They move its collection to the library of today’s Seoul National University. After destroying the building they covered the place with roads. In 2005 the restoration process of Gwolnaegaksa Complex began. They rebuild the complex to its original design.

Huijeongdang Hall

In Changdeokgung Palace, there’s a place to stay only for women and later become a place for the Emperor to rest and work.  And that place is Huijeongdang Hall. This place is where the Emperor meet his official. It’s also the place where they handle official royal affairs and discuss political issues.A fire in 1917 destroyed the original building. When the Japanese government rebuilt it in 1920, they use materials from the king’s residence at Gyeongbokgung Palace. The new building is completely different than the original one. On the outside, Huijeongdang Hall still looks like a traditional Korea building. But the interior is where the change took place, they built the entire interior in Western style.

This kind of interior design where east meets west is rarely seen in early 19th century Korea. The interior features many amenities such as glass windows, wood floors, electricity, lights, a chandelier, bathroom, and curtain. There’s even a car parked in the front.Originally, the Emperor would meet his officials and discuss matters in Seonjeongjeon Hall. But when the meeting requires more room, the king decided to relocate to Huijeongdang Hall.

Huwon Secret Garden

Behind Changdeokgung Palace lies the beautiful 78-acres (32 hectares) garden of Huwon. The garden is enormous and takes up approximately 60% of the palace ground. They originally construct the garden for the use of royal family and palace women. The garden contains a lotus pond, pavilions, and multiple landscape lawns, trees, and flowers. In the garden, there are over 26,000 specimens of more than 100 different species. Some of the trees are over 300 years old.People call the garden ‘Geumwon’ (Forbidden garden) because it’s only for the private use of the king. Even high ranking officials were not allowed to enter the garden without the emperor’s permission. Huwon Garden also have other names like ‘Naewon’ (Inner Garden) and ‘Biwon’ (Secret Garden). Despite its various names, the one that people use through Joseon dynasty was ‘Huwon’.

The king hosted a variety of ceremonies in Huwon. In the early period of the Joseon dynasty, military inspections in which the king participated were often held here. King Sejo had troops parade before him or commanded them by himself in this garden. In addition, they also host feasts, archery tournaments, and fireworks displays in Huwon.The highlight of the garden is the two-story Juhamnu P1avilion, the king use it as a library and reading room. The pavilion is located on a small, peaceful square lily pond.In 1592, the Japanese destroyed most of the building in the garden, during their invasion of Korea. In 1623, the first year of King Injo’s reign, he ordered the restoration of the garden. The restoration process continues through many kings until creating the current look.

Injeongjeon Hall And Injeongmun Gate

Injeongjeon hall.

In 1405, during the 5th year of his reign, Emperor Taejong ordered the construction of this hall along with Changdeokgung Palace. The Japanese destroy this hall the first time in 1592 in their invasion of Korea. In 1804, which is the 4th year of Emperor Sunjo, the hall was destroyed and rebuilt.Injeongjeon Hall is the main hall of Changdeokgung Palace. It’s where the official gather to greet the emperor on New Year’s day. It’s also where the emperor held national ceremonies and received foreign officials.

The Hall is a two-story building, with 5 rooms in the front and 4 rooms on the side. The top of the roof was decorated with a plum design, which was a symbol of an imperial family during the very end of the Joseon Dynasty. Injeongjeon is one of the three great halls along with Geunjeongjeon in Gyeongbokgung palace and Myeongjeongjeon in Changgyeonggung palace. It’s the main place that represents the history of the Joseon Dynasty.In front of the hall, there’s a royal walkway and courtyard, both dating back to 1609. On the walkway, there are stone markers with ranks of the officials inscribed on them. The official will stand behind their designated stone marker when they meet the emperor. The higher rank the official is the closer they stand to the emperor. And the lower ranked official will have to the furthest from the emperor.

Injeongmun Gate

Serving as the main gate of Injeongjeon Hall, Injeongmun Gate was built in 1405 (5th year of King Taejo’s reign during the Joseon Dynasty). Later on, the Japanese destroyed the gate with multiple fires during the Imjin War (Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592), therefore the current form of the establishment displays designs that are more often seen in the late 19th century's.

Injeongmun Gate served as the place for several coronation ceremonies of kings, prince's succession of the throne, and many other national affairs celebrated by the royal members who gathered and aligned around this gate. It’s National Treasure #813.

Jinseonmun Gate

Jinseonmun Gate is the small inner and middle gate in the Changdeokgun Palace. To reach the main throne hall, you must pass under three gates, one of which is Jinseonmun. The other two are Dowamun and Injeongmun.

In front of the gate is a wide stone bridge known as Geumcheongyo. Bridges similar to these are a common royal feature and symbolizes purifying oneself who passes over it. Passing over the bridge and through the gate is a sign of royal sovereignty and is often seen at other royal residences in Seoul.

Nakseonjae Complex

The Nakseonjae Complex is a residential compound in the Changdeokgung Palace. In 1847, Emperor Heonjong orders the construction of this complex, during his reign. In the complex, there’s Nakseonjae Pavilion, it was a library for the emperor, where he can read and paint. There’s also Seokbokheon, the residence of Gyeongbin. Sugangjae was built for Queen Sunwon, the grandmother of Heonjong.Nakseonjae is famous for its love story. When Heonjong was 7 he ascent to the throne. He married at the age of 14, but his wife died two years later. His mother, Queen Sunwon spearheaded the selection for the mother of the heir to the throne. King Heonjong attended the selection and immediately took interest in Kim Gyeongbin. However, his mother preferred a different candidate, Hyojeong (later known as Empress Dowager Myeongheon). And so, following tradition, Hyojeong became his second wife. But unfortunately, Hyojeong couldn’t bear a child. So she decided to call in a concubine, Kim Gyeongbin. Nakseonjae was built for Gyeongbin in an isolated corner at Changdeokgung Palace

There’s also a garden in the complex. There’s also a simple and beautiful pavilion known as Sangryangjeong or Pyeongwonru before the Japanese occupation of Korea. This place was a resting place and it has a beautiful view of the palace area below. In 2006, after many years of restoration, the complex finally open to the public for the first time.

Seonjeongjeon Hall And Seonjeongmun Gate

Seonjeongjeon Hall is the main place for the emperor to meet with high ranking officials to discuss political, state, and foreign affairs in Changdeokgung Palace. The king and his subjects would hold seminars and have morning meetings here. He would discuss royal issues and other national affairs.

The area surrounding the building act as for storage and offices for secretaries. Attached to the hall is a narrow corridor leads to Seonjeongmun Gate. The corridor was also used in royal funerals when Seonjeongjeon Hall became a royal shrine. It’s the only remaining evidence of its function during funerals.

Seonwonjeon Hall

Seonwonjeon Hall is where the portraits of former emperors were enshrined and where people perform ancestral rites. Emperor Taejo, Emperor Yeongjo, and Emperor Jeongjo all had their portraits enshrined at the same time here. The portraits were destroyed in the Korean War (1950-1953).

In 1656, They move the building here from the nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace. From that time to 1695, people called this place Chunhuijeon.In 1921, during the Japanese occupation, they built a new hall inside Huwon Secret Garden. Now, they perform the Ancestral rites at the new location. In 2005, they restored auxiliary buildings on the left and right of the hall, which are Jinseolcheong and Naechaldang.

Opening time and how to get Changdeokgung Palace

They actually change the palace’s opening time based on the month. From February - May and from September - October, the opening time is 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. From June - August, the palace is open from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. And in November - January, the opening time is 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. So be sure to check the time before starting your tour.The secret garden also has its own opening time. Throughout the year, the opening time doesn’t change, it’s always 10:00 AM. But the closing time changes. From February - May and from September - October the garden close at 5:30 PM. From June - August, it closes at 6:00 PM. And finally, from November - January, the closing time is 4:30 PM.If you want to get to Changdeokgung Palace by taxi, the address is 99 Yulgok-ro, Waryongdong, Jongnogu. Going by taxis also has it perks; you can freely see the sights, just beware that the price probably won’t be cheap.To cut down on the travel budget, try the subway. Just take the Anguk Subway and take the 3rd exit. Walk straight for a couple of blocks, and the palace will appear on your left side. You can also take the Jongno 3-ga Station in line 1, 3, 5 and take the 6th exit. The walk to the palace is 5 minutes if you take the Anguk Subway and 10 minutes if you take the Jongno 3-ga Station.If the subway is still too expensive for you, the bus is just perfect. Admittedly, the bus is slower than the two options above, but its price and convenience are just unrivaled. You can take the number 109, 151, 162, 171, 172, 272 blue buses or the number 7025 green bus to get to the palace.And that concludes our guide to the Changdeokgung Palace. I hope that this article provides you with useful information. And I hope that you have a great trip to the Palace.

Huwon Secret Garden

Huwon Secret Garden is a rear garden at Changdeokgung Palace that flows naturally with nature and was used as a place of leisure by members of the royal family. The garden, which has also been known as Bukwon, Geumwon, and Biwon. At 78 acres, the garden takes up about sixty percent of the palace grounds.

This intimate rear garden, which today is the highlight of any visit to Changdeokgung Palace , was first constructed during the reign of King Taejong, who ruled from 1400 to 1418. Its location allowed access from either Changdeokgung Palace or adjacent Changgyeonggung Palace .

The royal family has used the garden as a place of rest since the reign of King Taejong (1400 to 1418). They would come here to contemplate life, write poems, and hold banquets. The garden was also used as an archery range and as the location of military drills.

The highlight of the garden is the two story Juhamnu Pavilion which was used by as a library and for reading by the king. The pavilion is located on a small, peaceful square lily pond.

Many of the pavilions and buildings located here were destroyed by fire in 1592 during the Japanese invasion of Korea.

Restoration work began in 1623 during the first year of the reign of King Injo. This work continued from one king to the next leading to its present appearance.

The design of the garden flows naturally with the surrounding nature. The exquisite design is adapted to the topography, geography, and ridges of Mt. Bugaksan. Artificial landscaping is minimal and left untouched to human hands as much as possible. Many of the trees seen here today are over 300 years old. The landscaping and trees are a great example of Joseon Dynasty gardening design.

Table of Contents

What to see at Huwon Secret Garden

Juhamnu pavilion.

Juhamnu Pavilion is a two story pavilion that served as a library and reading room during the reign of King Jeongjo. The two story pavilion was first constructed in 1776 during the first year of the reign of King Jeongjo.

A royal library known as Gyujanggak was found on the first floor. Gyujanggak was not only used as a library but also as a political research institute for the king as he worked on his reform ideas. The second floor was used as a reading room.

Jeongjo was always under pressure from political foes while he held power. He worked hard to strengthen his mind and body and went on to become a great leader who enlightened and served his people to the best of his ability.

The small gate leading to Juhamnu Pavilion is known as Eosumun Gate . The name Eosumun refers to the fact that a fish cannot live outside of water. This was a reminder to King Jeongjo that he as a ruler must consider and respect the people he rules.

Aeryeonjeong Pavilion

Aeryeonjeong Pavilion is a small square pavilion located on Aeryeonji Pond. It was first constructed in 1692 during the reign of King Sukjong. The pavilion was originally located on a small island in the middle of the pond. After the island was removed, the building was relocated to its current location on the side of the pond.

The first son of King Sukjong, Crown Prince Hyomyeong, often visited here to relax and contemplate state affairs. The location makes it a very peaceful and popular area of the garden.

The name means “love of lotuses” which King Sukjong was very fond of.

This pavilion is one of the only buildings at Changdeokgung Palace that faces north. This location allowed more light for reading and contemplation. Another pavilion that faces north is Uiduhap Pavilion.

Bulromun Gate

Bulromun Gate is a single rock stone gate inside the Huwon Secret Garden. Anyone who passes under is said to be blessed with long life and good health. On the tour, you can pass under it and be blessed with good health and longevity. Bulromun leads to Aeryeonjeong Pavilion and Uiduhap Pavilion.

A replica of the Bulromun Gate can be found inside Gyeongbokgung Station on the Seoul Subway .

Changdeokgung Chinese Juniper

This tree that stands here, known as the Changdeokgung Chinese juniper, is thought to be over 750 years old. The tree measures in at 12 meters (40 feet) high and 5.9 meters (19 feet) in circumference.

These types of trees were often used during rituals for incense because of their aroma. Chinese juniper trees were commonly used for incense during rituals by worshipers who visited the nearby Seonwonjeon Shrine.

If you take a tour of the Huwon Secret Garden, the tree will be located on the left hand side as you exit the tour and walk back out to the palace.

Jondeokjeong Pavilion

Jondeokjeong Pavilion is a hexagonal, two story roof pavilion. On the underside of the painted ceiling are two dragons playing with a wish fulfilling jewel. This jewel is known as a cintamani. The painting is symbolic of total royal authority.

A tablet hangs on the north side of the pavilion that reads “All streams of the world have moons reflected on them, but there is only one moon in the sky. The moon in the sky is me, the king, and the streams are you, my subjects.” This plaque reiterates that King Sejong desired full royal authority over the people of his country.

Jondeokjeong Pavilion is located on a small and peaceful pond with wonderful views of the surrounding garden. The pavilion would have been a peaceful retreat for anyone in the royal family that would have wanted to rest and relax.

Seonhyangjae Hall

Seonhyangjae Hall was built as a study for the adjacent Yeongyeongdang Hall. It was here where books were stored and read and where guests were often greeted.

Records known as Gunggwolji (Record of the Palace) were found noting the function of this luxurious building as a study.

The building features, which faces to the north and south, features a sun shade on the western side which was used to block the setting sun, wind, or rain from those inside reading books or studying.

On the inside of the building is a wide wooden floor with heated floors on each side of the main floor. A bronze plate once hung from the rood.

The building is 7 kan wide and 2 kan in depth. A kan is the interval between pillars.

To the east is a terraced flower garden that was built into the hill.

Uiduhap Pavilion

Uiduhap Pavilion was built by Crown Prince Hyomyeong as a place of study, reading, and contemplation. Unlike other royal structures, the architecture is conservative and not decorated with vivid paintwork. It is one of the most modest buildings at Changdeokgung Palace.

The structure was built in 1827 by Hyomyeong who was the first son of King Sunjo. Sunjo, who reigned from 1800 to 1834, was the 23rd Joseon Dynasty king.

Hyomyeong only lived to be 22. Known for his intelligence and fine character, he handled state affairs on behalf of his father from the age of 18.

Along with Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, these are the only buildings in the palace that face north to allow more sunlight for reading and contemplation.

Yeongyeongdang Hall

Yeongyeongdang Hall was built in 1828 by Crown Prince Hyomyeong for Jinjakrye, which was a special ceremony for his father King Sunjong. During this ceremony court officials would present food and wine to the king and queen as a sign of strong royal authority.

Yeongyeongdang was also the men’s quarters. It was here where the master of the house resided. Inside is a main room where the master would meet with guests and where he stayed during the day. A separate room with a raised floor was used as a bedroom in the summer.

Yeongyeongdang is built with stone pillars on top of a stone platform. The roof is single-eaved and features roof extensions at each of the corners. Windows surround all four sides of the building which were designed to be lifted during the warmer summer months.

Next to Yeongyeongdang is Seonhyangjae, which was used as a study and for reading books inside the garden.

Last Updated on Jul 21, 2023

Changdeokgung Palace: Seoul’s Secret Garden

My wonderful friend, Gina, and I spent the afternoon nobly frolicking around Changdeokgung Palace like we owned the place: quite literally we were pretending to be the daughters of royalty. We suspended our disbelief – no one had to know that we were ACTUALLY part of the Secret Garden tour – much to our guide’s dismay. I imagine that during his career he has encountered many overly imaginative children and young adults pretending to be princesses (like the little cutie we met below). And so we wrote our guide into our fairytale.

Changdeokgung Palace or the ‘Palace of Prospering Virtue’ is one of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul. It’s also often referred to as the ‘Eastern Palace’ because it’s located to the east of Gyeongbokgung Palace – the grandest of them all. It was built by King Taejong, the third king of the Joseon Dynasty. The architecture delicately incorporates the enchanting characteristics of the surrounding natural environment. The palace buildings are somewhat spontaneously situated around the grounds unlike the layout of the other palaces, which are very structured. It illustrates a harmonious synergy between man-made buildings and nature.

The palace is located at the foot of Mount Ungbongsan and is encompassed by what seems to be a botanical garden. The garden, which is situated behind the palace, covers 60 per cent of the palace grounds. It goes by the same name as Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novel: The Secret Garden or Huwon. The name is most fitting: it was the private playground of the royal family. No one dared to enter without the king’s invitation. The garden contains over 26,000 specimens of over 100 species of indigenous trees, as well as thousands of alien trees. The secret garden is nourished by a stream called Ongnyucheon or ‘Jade Stream’. Roughly at its centre you will come upon Soyoam: a U-shaped water channel that was carved into a large rock in 1636. The channel ends in a modest waterfall, more like a trickle actually. The boulder of the channel is inscribed with a poem. When I closed my eyes I imagined myself sitting in the pavilion overlooking the lily ponds. During its prime, the garden hosted elaborate banquets, archery games and fireworks.

The best time to visit is during spring, when everything is in full bloom, or during autumn, when the fall foliage bursts into flame. If you encounter the distinguished 750-year-old tree, sit beneath his shade. He will tell you tales of the Japanese occupation, which partially explains why only 30 per cent of the original buildings remain. He has stood steadfast and witnessed kings and emperors come and go, changing times, destruction and renovation.

It took seven years to construct Changdeokgung Palace, from 1405 to 1412. It has an important place in Korea’s modern history: Korea’s last emperor, Emperor Sunjong, lived here until his death in 1926. The roof ridge of Injeongjeon, the throne hall, is beautified with the carvings of guardian animals, such as eagles and dragons. The main stairway leading to the hall is decorated with stone statues of mythical guardian animals. The palace grounds are designated as Historical Site No. 122, they also contain Geumcheongyo Bridge, which is an important historical relic dating back to 1411. Changdeokgung Palace was restored to its original state in 1991 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Somewhere along the way, our fairytale changed and we became the illegitimate daughters of King Taejong and had to escape the watchful eyes of the palace guards. Our tour guide was left traipsing behind us. Bless his soul. We were entirely enchanted by the legendary personality of the palace.

Information:

Changdeokgung Palace  is closed on Mondays. The general palace tour is 80 minutes. The palace and secret garden tour is 120 minutes. There are only a limited number of spaces available for the secret garden tour, so be at the ticket office ahead of time to secure a place.

Changdeokgung Palace opening times: April – October: 09:00-18:30 March & November: 09:00-17:30 December – February: 09:00-17:00

Address: Seoul-si, Jongno-gu, Yulgok-ro 99.

Phone: +82-2-762-0648

How to get there:

Anguk Station (Subway Line 3, Exit 4). Walk straight for 5 minutes. The palace will be on your left hand side. OR Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station (Subway Line 1, 3 or 5, Exit 6). Go straight along Donhwamun-ro Street for 10 minutes.

Iga Motylska

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This sounds like it was a beautiful visit! You got some great pictures. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much Sanjana! :) It’s a spectacular palace to visit, certainly one of my top two in Seoul and the gardens do make for great photos too!

lga you doing a great job in terms of uplifting the tourism sector globally, well done….

Thank you so much Reg, that’s very kind of you. I hope we’ll meet again on another trip! :)

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Changdeokgung Secret Garden

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Changdeokgung Palace’s rear garden was constructed during the reign of King Taejong and served as a resting place for the royal family members. The garden had formerly been called Bukwon and Geumwon, but was renamed Biwon after King Kojong came into power. The garden was kept as natural as possible and was touched by human hands only when absolutely necessary. Buyongjeong, Buyongji, Juhabru, Eosumun, Yeonghwadang, Bullomun, Aeryeonjeong, and Yeongyeongdang are some of the many pavilions and fountains that occupy the garden. The most beautiful time to see the garden is during the fall when the autumn foliage is at its peak and the leaves have just started to fall.

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Changdeokgung Palace & The Secret Garden Everyone Is Talking About In Seoul

Changdeok Palace (창덕궁), translated to mean the “Palace of Illustrious Virtue”, was the principal palace for many of the Joseon kings and sitting just up the street from the more famous Gyeongbukgung Palace, it warrants a visit any season of the year with one of the most beautiful gardens in the city.

This palace in Seoul Korea is actually said to be the most beautiful in each season and needs to be seen in each season… so I hope you’re ready to go at least four times.

Looking for some specific information? Skip around:

How To Get To Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung palace basic info, changdeokgung history & what you’ll see, the secret garden.

• Where To Stay In The Area
• What’s Nearby
• The Other Four Main Palaces

(This page contains affiliate links. That means if you click on them and purchase something, I will get a percentage of the transaction at no cost to you. Thanks for the support!)

Address: 2-71 Waryong-dong Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 와룡동 2-71)

By Subway: Anguk Station, exit 3. Walk straight for about 400 meters and the palace will become visible on the left.

Hop On/ Hop Off Bus:  If you’ll be traveling via the Seoul City Hop On/Hop Off Bus, know that it also stops here. You can buy the ticket for this bus here . And to get more information about the bus, here is a guide to the Hop On/ Hop Off Bus In Seoul .

Days: Open everyday except for Mondays.

Changdeok Palace:

• February ~ May & September – October: 9:00am – 6:00pm
• June ~ August: 9:00am – 6:30pm
• November ~ January: 9:00am – 5:30pm

The Secret Garden: (by guided tour only)

• February ~ May & September – October: 10:00am – 5:30pm
• June ~ August: 10:00am – 6:00pm
• November ~ January: 10:00am – 4:30pm

General Tours: Adult: W3,000; Youth (age 7-18): W1,500

Secret Garden Tours: Adult: W8,000; Youth: W5,500

(Last ticket purchase available 1 hour before closing for the regular tour and 2 hours before closing for the Secret Garden.)

Children 6 years old and under, Seniors over 65 and every month on the last Wednesday there is free admission. (This does not include the Secret Garden.)

Did you know: You can get into the palaces for FREE if you’re wearing a Hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, and that means you can take beautiful pictures while you’re there. Rent a dress at this shop near Changdeokgung Palace.

Private Tour Guide: You can hire your own private tour guide that will take you to this palace, here .

General Tours: Takes 1 hour

• Korean: March ~ October: 9:30am , 11:30am , 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm; November ~ February: 9:30am , 11:30am , 1:30pm, 3:30pm
• English: 10:30am & 2:30pm
• Japanese: 12:30pm
• Chinese: 10:00am

The Secret Garden Guided Tours: Takes 90 minutes. There are only 100 tickets available for these tours. 50 tickets can be booked in advance online while 50 tickets will be held for walk-ups and are sold at the ticket office on the day.

• Korean: Throughout the year there are 6 to 9 tours a day generally starting on the hour from 10:00am throughout the year.
• English: February ~ October: 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm; November ~ January: 11:30am & 1:30pm
• Japanese: 10:30am & 2:30pm
• Chinese: 12:30pm

Amenities: parking, restrooms, cafe, water fountains, free wheelchair rental, baby stroller rental

Designated as an UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, it is the most well preserved of the five remaining palaces in the city and offers up a chance for visitors to learn about tradition, architecture and Korean culture.

The palace was built just after the construction of Gyeongbukgung Palace in 1405 and was completed it 1412 keeping the ideas of Feng Shui in mind while at the same time harmonizing with the nature that surrounded it rather than dominating the land like the other four palaces.

King Taejo, the first king of the Joseon Dynasty who took his seat in 1392 had eight sons, six with his first wife and two with his second, and for this story the two sons to know are Yi Bang-Gwa who would become King Jeongjong and Yi Bang-Won who would become King Taejong. Of the eight sons, the king favored his youngest, who was neither Bang-Gwa nor Bang-Won which did not sit well with the elder princes.

In 1398, Bang-Won led a coup and killed the two youngest sons from the second wife and pushed to have his older brother Bang-Gwa become the crowned prince as he was older and was intended to take the throne.

Their father, disgusted, named Bang-Gwa the crowned prince and abdicated his throne to him shortly after. Yi Bang-Gwa became King Jeongjong, moved the capital from Seoul, then Hanyang, to Gaesong and all was good until just two years later when a conflict arose between Bang-Won and another one of his brothers.

Bang-Won attacked his elder brother, defeated him and sent him into exile with his family. King Jeongjong seeing this, named his younger brother Bang-Won the crown prince and realizing that he was leading from the former capital, abdicated his throne to his brother just two years after he’d become king.

Once King Taejong took over power, the capital city of Seoul, then Hanyang, was restored and King Taejong moved into Changdeok Palace instead of the primary Gyeongbuk Palace. This was done due to the fact that he had had his half brothers killed on the grounds of Gyeongbuk and the palace had been built by one of his original rivals.

All in all, a bad history made Changdeok Palace look like a more pleasant place to reside. King Taejong ended up reigning for eighteen years, far longer than the two years of his brother and the six years of his father. Ultimately, Changdeok Palace served as the main seat of the dynasty for more than 250 years and saw some thirteen kings walk through its gates.

Though the palace was later burnt down by an angry mob of citizens in 1592 when the royal family fled to escape from the Japanese Invasion, it was rebuilt and restored in 1611 only to be burnt down once again in 1623 during a political revolt against King Injo. The palace was later attacked by Manchu Qing but, each time the palace was rebuilt and restored, the original design was kept in tact.

The garden that sits behind the palace is the largest draw for visitors and ever since it was established during the reign of King Taejong, the powers that be have tried to keep it as natural as possible. Because of this, only tours allow visitors to walk through the Secret Garden to preserve the original sanctity of the area.

Changdeok Palace was the site of the royal court and the main seat of government up until 1868 and the last Emporer of Korea, Sunjong, resided in the palace until his death in 1926. Though Gyeongbuk Palace is seen as the more formidable and dominating palace in the city, Changdeok Palace has just as much, if not more, to say historically and is revered as the more beautiful palace to visit.

The Secret Garden (비원 or 후원) is one of the biggest draws to Changdeok Palace (창덕궁) and it is touted among Koreans as a beautiful place to take a stroll not only in the autumn but in every season. It’s one of those places, they say, that should in fact be visited each season to truly appreciate its beauty. Can you imagine seeing cherry blossoms abloom, the vibrant greens of summer, and the garden covered in a blanket of snow?

The garden, though it hasn’t changed much from the beginning, has seen a few different names through its history. Due to the private nature of the area and that only the king and those he permitted could enter the space it was once known as Geumwon (금원) or the Forbidden Garden.

Later is was known as Naewon (내원) or the Inner Garden but today most Koreans know the garden as Biwon (비원), the Secret Garden, or Huwon (후원) meaning the Rear Garden and the name most commonly used during the Joseon Dynasty period. The Secret Garden was a place where kings and queens strolled through the trees among the pavilions and allowed them to get away to relax from their hectic public lives.

For more than 250 years, kings of the Joseon Dynasty, beginning with King Taejong, took advantage of the  large space that takes up nearly 60% of the palace grounds to enjoy various activities from fishing, archery and banquets to planting, raising grains and sericulture (rearing of silkworms).

The garden, with its pavilions scattered among different valleys and sitting beside the many ponds and stream that flows through, was designed to adapt to the topography of the area rather than making the area adapt to the ideals of architecture at the time.

The gardens have been maintained as natural as possible with as little human touch as possible which is why only guided tours of the area are available. That being said, the day that we went, the guide said that those interested were welcome to stay with him to hear the history and stories of the area while those just wanting pictures of the area were able to wander ahead and enjoy the views and scenery that surrounded.

Only 100 tickets are sold for each tour though and they can fill up fast, especially during the autumn, so plan ahead. Fifty tickets are available to be booked online in advance while fifty are held back for walk-ups and it is suggested that you arrive a half hour to an hour in advance to get the walk-up tickets in high season.

What’s Nearby

Changdeokgung is right in the heart of the traditional downtown of Seoul. Here is what else you can check out while you’re in the area.

• Bukchon Hanok Village : The neighborhood to the west of the palace is a must see to understand how Koreans used to live. There are amazing cafes, plenty of restaurants, and a lot to do in the area. It’s a MUST SEE while in Seoul.
• Ihwa Mural Village : Just down the road is the popular mural village that is great fun to find… if you can. It’s a bit of fun after the traditional downtown.
• Gwangjang Traditional Market : One of the best places to get good Korean cuisine in the city. This is one of my favorite spots to get food and was recently featured on Netflix. It’s a must eat.

Changdeokgung Palace is one of five palaces in the city of Seoul, Korea and is a popular stop for tourists looking to see the beautiful Secret Garden. While it requires a tour to get in, it’s worth it. There are FOUR more palaces though AND a royal residence you need to know about.

The other four main palaces are:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace  is the largest of the five palaces and the most popular with tourists. There is a lot to see on the grounds of this beautiful palace and hours can be spent here. It’s popular for a reason. Check it out if there’s time.
• Deoksugung Palace : This is one of the most interesting palaces due to the multiple architectural styles on the premises. It’s really interesting and so different from the other palaces. It also has a popular changing of the guard ceremony three times a day.
• Changgyeonggung Palace : One of the most overlooked palaces of them all, this palace has a substantial park and features a Japanese colonization era greenhouse that is quite stunning. The palace is beautiful and you can often walk the grounds all on your own.
• Gyeonghuigung Palace : This palace, also free and a great stop if you want a bit more privacy while palace viewing is another palace that is often overlooked but is great if you just want to peruse the architecture quickly and easily on your own.
• Unhyeonggung Royal Residence:  This smaller residence is a bit different from the others in that none of the buildings have been painted in the colorful reds and greens of the other palaces but technically it’s not a palace. Quite a bit smaller, but FREE to enter, this stop is a bit more rustic, easy to get to and has some of the cheapest options for Hanbok rental in the area.

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SecretMoona

A Travel and Lifestyle Blog

Strolling Changdeokgung Palace and its Stunning Secret Garden: Huwon

Last Updated on 05/08/2023 by secretmoona

Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden are located in the Jongno-gu district in Seoul. It is situated east of Gyeongbokgung Palace, about 20 minutes walk – so you can visit both palaces. 

The Palace was Joseon’s kings’ favourite and had many characteristics of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. Its architecture is thought to be in perfect harmony with nature, and its secret garden is one of a kind. Despite being ravaged by fires and Japanese invasions, the Palace remains one of the most/best-preserved palaces in the country. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important landmark thousands of people visit each year. 

Having visited three of the five palaces in Seoul, I can’t say which one is my favourite, but I can say Huwon, the secret garden is the most peaceful place in Seoul! 

Here’s a little info about the history of the Changdeokgung Palace, some of the existing buildings, including the secret garden and practical information to help you plan your trip. 

History of Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden

Changdeokgung was built in 1405 as a secondary palace during the reign of King Taejong (Joseon Dynasty). The main reason for making this Palace was that Gyeongbokgung didn’t preserve its original topography. However, many believe the real reason is that King Taejon assassinated his brothers in the main Palace and didn’t want to reign there. 

The Palace was destroyed during the Japanese invasion in 1592. Changdeokgung was the first Palace rebuilt in 1610 and became the main royal Palace.  It was again destroyed by fire in 1623 and was rebuilt. This cycle continued for another hundred years. 

The royal family and their descendants lived in Changdeokgung until 1989. In 1990, restoration work started in the complex and the Palace was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The designation highlights the beauty of the architecture and design, which is in harmony with the surrounding landscape. Today, work is still ongoing to fully restore the place complex. 

Why you should visit Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace is a big palace with a vast open space and many things to see. The Palace was loved because of its design and its beautiful secret garden: Huwon. 

Changdeokgung Palace

Donhwamun (돈화문), the main gate of changdeokgung .

It’s the first thing you notice when you approach the Palace. It’s the largest of all the gates (all combined courts). Tickets can be purchased just before entering the gate. As you enter, you have the meeting point for the guided tours. 

Geumcheongyo (금청요)

Dating back to 1411, this bridge is the oldest structure in the Palace and one of the oldest stone bridges in Seoul. Despite the various fires, it has remained intact. 

Injeongjeon (인정전) throne hall

Built in 1405, the palace throne hall was where all the essential ceremonies were held, such as coronations, receptions for prestigious guests from abroad etc…The hall was restored in 1804, and by visiting it, you can appreciate the architectural style of the end of the Joseon Dynasty. To get to the hall, you will need to pass through the gates of Jinseonmun (진선문) or Sukjangmun (숙장문) and finally, Injeongmun (인정문) gate. 

Seonjeongjeon (선정전) King’s Council hall

Hidden behind Seonjeongmun (선정문) is the hall where the king works or discusses state affairs with his senior officials. It is said to be the only building in Korea to have kept its blue-green tiles intact. 

Huijeongdang (휘정당) King’s residence

Huijeongdang was part of the inner Palace and initially served as a private quarter for the royal but ended up being used as an office for the king as the space in Seonjeongjeon was limited. LikeLike most of the palace complex’s buildings, Seonjeongjeon was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The current room decoration differs a lot from its original: you can see that it has been westernised with chandeliers and carpets decorating the room. 

Daejojeon (대조전)

Daejojeon was the queen’s residence. It was rebuilt with structures from Gyeongbokgung after being destroyed by fire in 1917. Surprisingly the Queen’s home is more spacious than the King’s.  

Seongjeonggak (성정각)

Located next to the King’s residence is Seongjeonggak, where the crown prince lived and studied.

Nakseonjae Complex (낙선재)

Nakseongjae was built by King Heonjong in 1656 for his concubine Kim Gyeongbin in an isolated corner at Changdeokgung Palace. It was still in use until 1989 by Lee Bangja, the wife of the last Korean crown prince.

Huwon: Changdeokgung Secret Garden

The main attraction of the Palace is, without a doubt, the secret garden: Huwon. The park, which has also been known as Bukwon, Geumwon, and Biwon, takes up about sixty per cent of the palace grounds (78 acres). By building Huwon, the aim was to create a relaxing space for the kings and royal family. It’s a place inviting calm, relaxation where the word “zen” reveals its true meaning. They preserved the garden much as possible to keep its raw state. As well as being a place to relax, it hosted many activities, such as archery contests or banquets. It was surprising to find such a serene garden in the middle of buzzing Seoul.

We spent time going up and down paths lined with trees; you feel like you are in a forest. I can only imagine how beautiful the site will be in autumn when the leaves change to show a range of beautiful colours from yellow, orange, and red to brown.  

Buyongji Pond and Juhamnu Pavilion  (부영지와 주함누)

The first place you’ll visit on your tour is Buyongji, a rectangular pond with a small island in the middle. This is a gorgeous area, perfect for a morning stroll, and I can perfectly picture the royal family enjoying leisure walks around the lily pond, surrounding trees and pavilion. The Juhamnu is a two-story library. It was the place where scholars came to study and read. It was also a venue for celebratory banquets for those scholars who passed state exams. For that reason, they made the landscape surrounding the pavilion serene and beautiful. 

Aeryeonji Pond and Uiduhap (애련지와 의두합)

You will reach another serene area once you pass through the garden at the back of Buyongji Pond and walk along the hill. On the opposite side of the Aeryeonji pond is a little pavilion, Aeryeongjeong,  placed half over the water. It is known to offer a gorgeous view of the pond’s scenery.  

Yeongyeongdang Hall

Yeongyeongdang Hall was built, taking inspiration from the houses of the Korean nobles. The wooden houses were decorated naturally without vivid colour paints as they were reserved for the royal family. They have less of a regal feel but fit exceptionally well with the natural setting.  The complex used to hold ceremonies and performances for the royal family thanks to its vast yard. 

Bandoji Pond (반도지) 

Another notable part of the tour was Bandoji Pond, a complex with a number of beautiful pavilions in different shapes around it. The Gwallamjeong Pavilion stands at the edge of the pond and is shaped kike an extended fan.  Jondeokjeong Pavilion is also very pretty. 

Ongnyucheon Stream

The Ongnyucheon (“Jade Stream”) area is also attractive. It contains an L-shaped water channel with a small man-made waterfall. The site also includes several small pavilions, including Cheonguijeong, Soyojeong, Taegeukjong and Chwihanjeong, designed and arranged along the stream in the traditional Korean ways. Each pavilion has a small pond and stone bridge to enable a way across. Cheonguijeong, with its straw-thatched roof and in the centre of a small rice field, is perfect for those looking for a fresh and cool spot even in hot summer.

Practical information about Changdeokgung Palace 

How to get to changdeokgung palace  .

Address: 99, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (in Korean – 서울특별시 종로구 율곡로 99 (와룡동)

By Subway: This is the fastest and most reliable way to get there.

• Anguk Station (안국역) (Metro Line 3), take Exit 3 and walk for about 5 minutes.
• Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station (Metro Line 1, 3 or 5), Exit 6. Walk for 10 minutes.

By local buses: Several buses stop close to the Palace. Take buses 109, 151, 162, 171, 172, 272 or 7025 and stop at Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁.서울돈화문국악당). It’s less than 5 minutes walk to the palace entrance. To check the bus times, make sure you download the Naver App.

By taxi: this can be a good option if you spending a little more is not a problem for you. Having said that, taxis are relatively cheaper than in Europe or America. Make sure you have the Korean address of the Palace.  

Cost: 

• Changdeokgung Palace: 3,000₩ (1,500₩ for children) for the Palace. Entry is free for anyone wearing a Hanbok, kids under 6, and senior citizens during Chuseok and every Wednesday.
• Huwon Secret Garden: 5,000₩ (2,500₩ for children) You are required to have a palace admission ticket.
• Royal Palace Pass: 10,000₩ to access Seoul’s five palace sites (Gyeongbokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksuggung, Changgdeokgung and Jongmyo Shrine) and Secret Garden; valid for three months from the date of purchase

Opening Times: 

• 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Closes 30 minutes earlier in Winter and 30 minutes later in Summer. The last admission is an hour before closing time. 
• Changdeokgung Palace and the Secret Garden are closed on Mondays 

Available Guided tours to Changdeokgung & Huwon

There are several tours available to enjoy Changdeokgung Palace, including the Secret Garden tour offered by the Palace.

• Palace Tour: there are three daily tours in English (11:30, 1:30, 3:30), one in Chinese (12:30), and two in Japanese (10:30, 2:30). Those speaking Korean can join the tour every hour from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm. Price included in admission fee. 
• Secret Garden Tour: It is only possible to visit the Secret Garden via a guided tour. Tours leave strictly on time: English (11:30, 1:30, 3:30), Chinese (12:30), and Japanese (10:30, 2:30). Those speaking Korean can join the tour every hour from 10 am to 4 pm. Check prices & book here.  
• Moonlight Tour: The Palace is even more magical when seen under a full moon. You can join the Moonlight Tour every Sunday at Changdeokgung Palace for a pleasant evening stroll. W30,000 per person; this two-hour evening event is limited to 100 people from April to June and then from August through October. It includes a tour of the Palace and Secret Garden, plus a traditional performance. Check prices & book here .  
• One-Day History Joseon Dynasty Tour – This tour is perfect for those wanting to learn more about the history of the Joseon Dynasty. It includes visits to Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung, the National Folk Museum, Jogyesa Buddhist temple and Namsan Hanok Village. Check prices & book here .
• One-Day History of Seoul Tour: similar tour similar to the above but including a visit to Insadong and Namdaemun Market instead of the folk village. Check prices & book here.

The Changdeokgung and especially the secret garden is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Seoul. I highly recommend it!

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links. I receive a small commission if a product is purchased through one of these links at no extra cost to you. 

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10 thoughts on “ Strolling Changdeokgung Palace and its Stunning Secret Garden: Huwon ”

This palace is absolutely fascinating and so beautiful. Adding it to my bucket list!

Thank you Francesca, the palace is an absolute gem. It’s definitely a must see.

This is such an informative post!! Will be saving it for our bucket list! Love that you included the tours as well!

Thank you. I’m had you found the post informative. The tours are the best way to explore all the corners of the palace. I highly recommend joining one.

Oh wow, this garden and palace is beautiful! Thanks for a great detail post about the experience.

Such an informative post, the garden looks so beautiful!!

Wow, this is stunning. The Secret Garden looks so beautiful. It’s nice they have so many tour options! I’d want to do them all!

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Secret Garden Tour! - Changdeokgung Palace

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Secret Garden Tour!

Our first time here we were on a city tour and so our stop at this palace was too short! We came back the next day after booking the English walking tour of the Secret Garden which is incredibly expansive and takes up most of the grounds at the palace. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone who is interested in learning more about the architecture and history of not just this Palace but of the country and royal family. The secret garden is only open to those who are on the tour so make sure to book ahead of time!

We visited the palace on a bloody hot day yet it was still a great experience. Better weather or season, then it'd be even better. Great history, tranquil atmosphere and beautiful palaces. Go for the combination tickets that will allow you to go to this palace, its secret garden, changgyeonggung palace, gyeongbokgung palace and yonmno shrine. Make sure you visit the Secret Garden located at the rear of the Palace - and you can only enter it by guided tours - there are 3 English tours / day - check the time table. To get to the palace, get to Anguk subway station.

it not so far from Anguk subway station, you can have a english tour guide who will show you a palace with the history information.

This palace is not the largest, but I would say prettiest as it contains the "secret" garden of the court. The entrance to garden is separate and has time limits, but it is beautiful.

We were here for the blossoming of the azaleas, and the timing could not have been more perfect. This is a place where the weather matters a great deal to how much you will enjoy it. It's a wonderful green oasis on the outskirts of an enormous city. Bring extra batteries for your camera, and don't miss out on the Secret Garden. (And try to pop next door to the other palace too - they have a beautiful white greenhouse!)

This huge palace is set on almost 10 acres, it's a haven of tranquility in the middle of the city centre. There's a very nice little souvenir shop which sells items you will not find elsewhere. The secret garden can only be visited with a guided tour so make sure to check the times table. It is absolutely worth it though, it's an amazing place full of history in a beautifull and tranquil setting.

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Meet Location

• Anguk Station (Line 3)
• Entrance fee for Changdeokgung Palace and Secret Garden
• 1.5-hour guided tour of Secret Garden in Changdeokgung Palace
• 2.5-hour walking tour with an English speaking tour guide

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Porter Robinson Announces “SMILE! :D World Tour” 70+ Dates In 2024-2025

Grammy-nominated artist Porter Robinson announces a 5-continent world tour including stops in 30+ North American cities, Europe, and Asia in support of his highly anticipated third studio album SMILE! 😀 , releasing July 26th via MOM+POP. [Pre-order here ]

Robinson will debut a completely new live production including a full live band during his SMILE! 😀 World Tour, after first experimenting with the band format at his own sold-out Second Sky festival and again in 2023 at Coachella’s main stage. Fans can expect opening acts ericdoa in North America, underscores in Europe and Galileo Galilei in Japan.

The SMILE! 😀 World Tour will kick off on August 29 in Boston and hit notable stops along the way including Forrest Hills in New York on August 31 and Hollywood Bowl on October 11, before heading onto an Asian run which spans 9 cities beginning November 2024. Porter concludes the tour by traversing across 8 countries in Europe throughout February and March 2025, including a stop at London’s prestigious Brixton Academy . Dates in Australia and Latin America will also be announced soon. Full routing is available below.

Pre-sale commences Tuesday, April 30 at 10am local time —fans can register for early access to tickets at porterrobinson.com . Various presales will take place throughout the week including a CITI presale in the U.S. (details below) ahead of the general on sale on Friday, May 3 at 10am local time. For more information on the tour and tickets, visit porterrobinson.com .

The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans. VIP Packages may include premium tickets, exclusive access to the pre-show VIP lounge, access to a VIP bar, early entry into the venue, pre-show merchandise shopping opportunity, specially designed gift item, and more. VIP package contents vary based on offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com (N. America) or vipnation.eu (Europe).

CITI is the official card of Porter Robinson presents SMILE! 😀 World Tour. CITI Card Members will have access to presale tickets for the U.S. dates beginning Monday, April 29 at 10AM local time until Thursday, May 2 at 10PM local time through the CITI Entertainment program.

For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com .

For the Hollywood Bowl show, American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Monday, April 29 at 10:00am PST through Thursday, May 2 at 10:00pm PST.

SMILE! 😀 World Tour Dates:

August 29, 2024 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

August 30, 2024 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

August 31, 2024 – New York, NY – Forest Hills Stadium

September 5, 2024 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy

September 6, 2024 – Orlando, FL – Addition Financial Arena

September 7, 2024 – Miami, FL – FPL Solar Amphitheater at Bayfront Park

September 10, 2024 – Nashville, TN – Municipal Auditorium

September  11, 2024 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre

September 13, 2024 – Philadelphia, PA – TD Pavilion at the Mann

September 14, 2024 – Washington, DC – Merriweather Post Pavilion

September 15, 2024 – Pittsburgh, PA – UPMC Events Center

September 17, 2024 – Montreal, BC – MTELUS

September 19, 2024 – Toronto, BC – HISTORY

September 21, 2024 – Toronto, BC – HISTORY

September 22, 2024 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore

September 23, 2024 – Indianapolis, IN – Everwise Amphitheater

September 26, 2024 – Madison, WI – The Sylvee

September 27, 2024 – Chicago, IL – Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island

September 28, 2024 – Minneapolis, MN – The Armory

September 30, 2024 – St. Louis, MO – Saint Louis Music Park

October 1, 2024 – Oklahoma City, OK – The Criterion

October 8, 2024 – El Paso, TX – El Paso County Coliseum

October 11, 2024 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl

October 12, 2024 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

October 13, 2024 – San Diego, CA – The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park

October 15, 2024 – Albuquerque, NM – Revel

October 17, 2024 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena

October 18, 2024 – Salt Lake City, UT – Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre

October 19, 2024 – Las Vegas, NV – BleauLive Theater

October 24, 2024 – Sacramento, CA – Wheatland Toyota Amphitheatre

October 25, 2024 – San Francisco, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre

October 29, 2024 – Boise, ID – Revolution Concert House

October 31, 2024 – Portland, OR – Alaska Airlines’ Theater of the Clouds

November 1, 2024 – Vancouver, BC – Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre

November 2, 2024 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

November 25, 2024 – Bangkok – Samyan Mitrtown Hall

November 27, 2024 – Singapore – The Star Performing Arts Centre

December 8, 2024 – Manila – The Podium

December 10, 2024 – Taipei – Zepp New Taipei

December 12, 2024 – Seoul – Myunghwa Live Hall

February 10, 2025 – Tokyo – Tokyo Garden Theater

February 11, 2025 – Osaka – Namba Hatch

February 12, 2025 – Nagoya – Diamond Hall

February 14, 2025 – Fukuoka – UNITEDLAB

February 21, 2025 – Berlin – Huxleys Neue Welt

February 22, 2025 – Hamburg – Fabrik

February 24, 2025 – Oslo – Rockefeller Music Hall

February 25, 2025 – Stockholm – Berns

February 26. 2025 – Copenhagen – Vega

February 28, 2025 – Amsterdam – Melkweg

March 3, 2025 – Cologne – Live Music Hall

March 4, 2025 – Paris – Salle Pleyel

March 6, 2025 – London – O2 Academy Brixton

March 7, 2025 – Manchester – Albert Hall

March 8, 2025 – Glasgow – SWG3 Galvanizers

March 10, 2025 – Dublin – 3Olympia Theatre

About Porter Robinson:

At age 18, the North Carolina-based producer and songwriter burst onto the scene with a complex, bombastic brand of electro-house. Following the major success of his 2014 debut album Worlds , Porter released the RIAA Gold single “Shelter” with Madeon in 2016, followed by a Shelter Live Tour spanning 43 dates and four continents. The following year, Porter began releasing music under a new alias, Virtual Self, which led to his first Grammy nomination for the BBC Radio 1 hit single “Ghost Voices.” In 2019, Porter put on the first Second Sky Festival, which sold out all 30,000 tickets for the two-day festival in a single day. In both 2020 and 2021, Porter Robinson hosted editions of his virtual festival Secret Sky, amassing over 6 million viewers combined, and which came to be regarded as the most sophisticated virtual festivals of its time. Later in 2021, following the release of sophomore album Nurture, Second Sky Festival made its return to the Bay Area, selling out 40,000 tickets in a single day. Immediately following, the Nurture Live North American Tour sold over 150,000 concert tickets and was the highest grossing electronic tour of 2021. In 2022, in partnership with Riot Games, Robinson released “Everything Goes On” surpassing 100 million global streams . Later that year was his debut of one of two exclusive full live band performances, first at Second Sky 2022 and again in 2023 at the Coachella Main Stage.

About MOM + POP: 

In their 16th year, Mom+Pop Music has curated a critically acclaimed list of artists including  Courtney Barnett, MGMT, Beach Bunny, Caamp, Ashe, Orion Sun, Porter Robinson, SEB, Tom Morello, and many others. Solely owned and operated by Founder/co-owner Michael Goldstone and co-owner Thaddeus Rudd, M+P has a global team of 25 people and is self-distributed. Known for their artist-first ethos, M+P continues to amass industry accolades from artists, media, and colleagues including Billboard’s Independent Label Power Lists, A2IM’s Libera Award for Label of the Year, and other recognition. They have received consistent media acclaim featured in Forbes, Variety, Billboard and HITS among other outlets. Mom+Pop Music is located in New York City and has offices in Los Angeles.

About Live Nation Entertainment:

Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com .

Contact info:

Porter Robinson

Kate Trapani | [email protected]

Lisa Perkins | [email protected]

Live Nation Concerts

Monique Sowinski | [email protected]

Valeska Thomas | [email protected]

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