Changdeokgung, first built in 1405 as Seoul's second Joseon-dynasty palace after Gyeongbokgung, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 for the way its buildings blend into the natural terrain rather than imposing on it. It combines the formal throne hall Injeongjeon, royal living quarters such as Nakseonjae, and a large rear garden known as Huwon (the Secret Garden). The Huwon can only be seen on a timed, guide-led tour and is not open for free wandering.
Injeongjeon - the National Treasure throne hall used for coronations and major state ceremonies
Donhwamun - the oldest surviving main gate among Joseon palaces
Nakseonjae complex - understated, unpainted residential halls that housed the last members of the royal family
Buyongji pond and Juhamnu pavilion inside the Huwon - a classic composition of pond, pavilions and the royal library
The Huwon's grove of trees over 300 years old, laid out to follow the land - a masterpiece of Korean garden design
Good to know
RulesThe Huwon (Secret Garden) cannot be entered freely: it is a restricted zone accessible only on a scheduled, guide-led tour. You must buy a separate garden ticket in addition to the palace ticket.
RulesEach Huwon tour caps attendance (about 100 people, split between online reservations and on-site sales), so slots sell out on weekends and in peak season - book ahead.
RulesThe entire palace is closed on Mondays, so check the day of the week before you go.
SeasonThe Huwon tour is fully outdoors on foot; reservations can be cancelled en masse during weather alerts (extreme heat, heavy rain, typhoons). Spring blossom and autumn foliage weeks are especially crowded.
MannersYou move as a group with the guide, so do not stray from the set route or leave the tour, and note that palace interiors and wooden floors are off-limits for preservation.
SafetyThe Huwon involves unpaved slopes and steps, so wear comfortable shoes, and be aware there are almost no shops or restrooms once the tour begins.
Practical info
Hours (verify latest): 09:00-18:00 (until 18:30 Jun-Aug, 17:30 Nov-Jan; last entry 1 hour before closing), closed Mondays. Fees (verify latest): palace adult 3,000 won; the Huwon special tour is a separate 5,000 won and still requires a palace ticket. Free palace entry on the last Wednesday of each month (Culture Day) and for visitors in hanbok (garden excluded). Reserve the Huwon in advance via the Korea Heritage Service portal (royal.khs.go.kr). About a 5-10 minute walk from Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 3.
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Sources · Korea Heritage Service, Royal Palaces & Tombs - Changdeokgung visitor info (royal.khs.go.kr): hours, fees, Huwon reservations · UNESCO World Heritage - Changdeokgung Palace Complex (inscribed 1997) · Wikipedia 'Changdeokgung' - history and principal structures · Visit Seoul (Seoul Tourism Organization) - Changdeokgung Secret Garden guide
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