Changdeokgung Palace Complete Guide 2026
Changdeokgung Palace (μ°½λκΆ) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its exceptional architecture that harmonizes with the natural topography. Built in 1405, it served as the secondary palace of the Joseon dynasty and was favored by many kings for its beautiful layout. The attached Secret Garden (λΉμ/Huwon) is considered one of the finest examples of Korean garden design.
Ticket Prices & Secret Garden Reservation
Palace admission: β©3,000 (adults), β©1,500 (youth 7-18). Secret Garden: β©5,000 (adults), β©2,500 (youth). Combined: β©8,000. Children under 7 and seniors 65+ are free.
The Secret Garden tour is the highlight of any Changdeokgung visit. Reservations open on the Korea Heritage Service website (heritage.go.kr) and sell out extremely fast. We recommend checking availability exactly when new dates are released β typically on the 1st of each month for the following month.
The palace ticket alone allows you to explore the main palace buildings without a guide. However, the Secret Garden requires a guided tour and cannot be visited independently.
Opening Hours & Tour Schedule
Palace: 09:00β18:00 (FebβOct), 09:00β17:00 (NovβJan). Closed Tuesdays. Secret Garden guided tours: 10:00, 11:00, 14:00, 15:30 daily. Each tour accommodates ~100 visitors and lasts approximately 90 minutes.
The Secret Garden tour follows a set route through the 78-acre garden, passing by Buyongji Pond, Juhamnu Pavilion, Ongnyucheon Stream, and the Yeongyeongdang Residence. Each season reveals a different beauty β cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and serene snowscapes in winter.
How to Get There
Subway: Seoul Metro Line 3 to Anguk Station (Exit 3) β 5 minute walk, or Line 3 Jongno 3-ga Station (Exit 6) β 8 minute walk.
Bus: Routes 101, 162, 171, 272, 606 stop near Anguk. Walk from Anguk Station Exit 3 toward the palace.
Must-See Buildings & Secret Garden Highlights
Changdeokgung features buildings arranged along the natural terrain rather than a rigid grid. Notable structures include Donhwamun Gate (the main entrance with its unique arched design), Injeongjeon Hall (the throne hall), Seonjeongjeon (the king's office), and Buyongjeong Pavilion.
Donhwamun Gate
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Western Gwollaegaksa
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Old Seonwonjeon Shrine
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Geumcheongyo Bridge
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Jinseonmun Gate
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Injeongmun Gate
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Visitor Tips
Visitor Tips:
- Book Secret Garden tickets at least 1-2 weeks in advance β they sell out within hours
- Wear comfortable walking shoes β the Secret Garden tour involves 2+ km of walking
- The palace is beautiful in every season, but autumn (mid-October) offers the most stunning views
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but tripods may be restricted during peak hours
- Audio guides are available at the entrance in multiple languages
- Free admission with hanbok β nearby rental shops are plentiful around Anguk Station