Public Transport
The palace is easily accessible via Seoul's efficient subway system; check the nearest station before heading out.
Changdeokgung
KR
Cultural Landmark·Historic, Peaceful, Scenic, Majestic
Changdeokgung Palace stands as the most well-preserved of Seoul’s royal residences, offering a deep dive into the history of the Joseon dynasty. Unlike other palaces that adhere to rigid, symmetrical layouts, Changdeokgung is celebrated for its organic design that harmonizes perfectly with the natural topography of Mount Bugaksan. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the extensive grounds, which feature a variety of historic buildings and traditional architectural styles. The highlight for many is the Huwon, or Secret Garden, a sprawling, peaceful oasis that requires a separate, timed-entry ticket. Whether you are looking to capture the perfect photograph or simply enjoy a quiet walk along the lake, this palace provides a uniquely immersive cultural experience.
Changdeokgung Palace stands as the most well-preserved of Seoul’s royal residences, offering a deep dive into the history of the Joseon dynasty. Unlike other palaces that adhere to rigid, symmetrical layouts, Changdeokgung is celebrated for its organic design that harmonizes perfectly with the natural topography of Mount Bugaksan. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the extensive grounds, which feature a variety of historic buildings and traditional architectural styles. The highlight for many is the Huwon, or Secret Garden, a sprawling, peaceful oasis that requires a separate, timed-entry ticket. Whether you are looking to capture the perfect photograph or simply enjoy a quiet walk along the lake, this palace provides a uniquely immersive cultural experience.
You might want to ask
Address
99 Yulgok-ro,Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Websiteroyal.khs.go.kr
Phone02-3668-2300
Hours
ClosedMon
Closed
Tue
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wed
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thu
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Fri
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sat
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sun
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Highlights
UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved architecture.
Organic design that follows the natural topography of Mount Bugaksan.
The expansive and tranquil Huwon Secret Garden.
Excellent guided tours available at an accessible price.
Less crowded atmosphere compared to other major palaces.
Before you go: Changdeokgung essentials
The Secret Garden requires a separate, timed-entry ticket which is highly recommended.
The palace grounds are large and involve significant walking on uneven paths.
Some buildings are not furnished, focusing instead on the architectural and historical layout.
Dress Code
While there is no strict dress code, wearing traditional Hanbok can sometimes grant you free entry to major palaces in Seoul.
Best For
History enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape in Seoul.
Currency
KRW ₩
Average Cost
$50-$100 p/day
Time of Day
Morning, Lunch, Afternoon
Photography
Every corner offers unique angles, so bring a camera and extra memory space for the stunning architecture.
Languages Spoken
Korean, English
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Culture, History
Reviews
4.6
Excellent13,8 K reviews
Changdeokgung is widely praised by visitors as one of the most unique and beautiful palaces in Seoul. Reviewers frequently highlight the palace's organic layout and its distinct architectural style compared to other royal residences. The Secret Garden is consistently cited as the highlight of the experience, with many recommending it as a peaceful, must-see section. While some visitors note that the buildings are not furnished, most agree that the historical atmosphere and the layout tell a compelling story. The site is generally described as less crowded than Gyeongbokgung, allowing for a more relaxed exploration. Overall, guests find the palace to be an excellent value, especially when taking advantage of the guided tours.
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Location
Yulgok-ro, Seoul, South Korea
