Changgyeonggung is a Joseon-dynasty palace in Jongno-gu, Seoul, originally built by King Sejong for his retired father King Taejong and expanded and renamed by King Seongjong in 1483. It sits wall-to-wall with Changdeokgung, and the two were together known as the 'East Palace' (Donggwol); it mainly served as living quarters for queens, concubines, and the royal family. During the Japanese colonial period it was scarred by the addition of a zoo and botanical garden, before being restored in the 1980s.
Myeongjeongjeon — the oldest surviving throne hall among Seoul's royal palaces (a National Treasure), notable for facing east rather than the usual south.
The Great Greenhouse (Daeonsil) — Korea's first Western-style glass greenhouse, built in 1909 with a steel-and-wood frame, tucked behind the Chundangji pond.
Chundangji Pond — once royal rice paddies the king plowed himself, turned into a pond in the colonial era; today a top spot for spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage.
Tongmyeongjeon — the queen's residence and the foremost hall of the inner court (a Treasure), rich with stories of palace women.
Okcheongyo Bridge and Honghwamun Gate — a stone bridge and main gate from 1484, anchoring a quiet, walkable route that links toward Changdeokgung.
Good to know
RulesChanggyeonggung and Changdeokgung connect internally via Hamyangmun Gate but are separate palaces requiring separate tickets. Buy a second ticket at Hamyangmun to pass through if visiting both.
RulesThe palace is closed on Mondays (if a Monday is a public holiday it opens, closing the next weekday instead). Check the latest schedule before you go.
SeasonIt gets very crowded during April cherry-blossom season, autumn foliage, and night-opening periods. Night and special viewings often sell out, so confirm dates and book ahead.
MannersThis is a heritage site with real wooden buildings. Do not climb or lean on the halls' stone platforms and railings, and do not touch the plants or glass structure inside the Great Greenhouse.
SafetyThe old stone paths and steps, and areas around Chundangji, get slippery after rain and in winter. Wear comfortable shoes and take care in dim sections during night visits.
Practical info
About a 15-minute walk from Hyehwa Station (Line 4, Exits 3/4). Hours are 09:00-21:00 (last entry 20:00); adult admission is around 1,000 won, and it is free for hanbok wearers, visitors 24 and under, those 65 and over, and on Culture Day (last Wednesday of each month). Always reconfirm fees, hours, and night-opening periods on the official Korea Heritage Service site.
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