Seoul · The Classics

Changdeokgung Palace

The loveliest Joseon palace, and its Secret Garden. Book the garden tour.

Photo · Wikimedia Commons
At a glance
⚖
Verdict
Worth it
🕐
Best time
Opening; book Secret Garden ahead
💵
Cost
Small entry (+ garden tour); free in hanbok
⌛
Time needed
2 hr
🚫
Skip if
You didn't book the garden

Changdeokgung is the most beautiful and best-preserved of Seoul's grand palaces, a UNESCO site whose buildings bend to the hillside rather than flatten it, hiding the famous Secret Garden behind. It's the connoisseur's palace to Gyeongbokgung's grandeur.

The intelwhat we'd tell a friend
ReallyThe real deal
Arrive at opening, and here's the key move: the Secret Garden (Huwon) is only accessible on a timed guided tour that caps numbers and sells out, so book it online ahead, because it's the whole reason to come. As at Gyeongbokgung, renting a hanbok gets you in free, and tours run in several languages.
SafelyThe risk read
Extremely safe, calm and orderly. Lots of walking on stone and gravel; comfortable shoes.
DeeplyThe culture
The layout following the natural terrain reflects Korean geomantic ideas, and the Secret Garden was the kings' private retreat, a masterpiece of restraint, not display. It's a revered heritage site; stay on the paths and keep the quiet the garden asks for.
Quick answers
Is Changdeokgung Palace worth it?

Yes, arguably prettier than Gyeongbokgung; just pre-book the Secret Garden tour.

Is Changdeokgung Palace free? What does it cost?

There's a small entry fee, no need to book far ahead.

What's the best way to visit Changdeokgung Palace?

Arrive at opening, and here's the key move: the Secret Garden (Huwon) is only accessible on a timed guided tour that caps numbers and sells out, so book it online ahead, because it's the whole reason to come.

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