Changdeokgung — Attraction in Seoul

Nestled in the heart of Seoul, Changdeokgung Palace stands as a testament to Korea's rich history and architectural brilliance. Built during the Joseon Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors a captivating journey through centuries of royal heritage and cultural significance.

Changdeokgung Palace, constructed in 1405, served as the primary residence for many Joseon kings and their families. Its design embodies the principles of Korean palace architecture, blending harmoniously with the natural landscape of its surroundings. The palace was meticulously planned to ensure it harmonized with the topography, embodying Confucian principles of balance and harmony.

The palace complex comprises a series of majestic halls, pavilions, and residential quarters, each reflecting the distinct architectural style of the Joseon era. Notably, the Secret Garden (Huwon) within the palace grounds is a highlight, offering a serene retreat with beautiful ponds, pavilions, and meticulously landscaped gardens. The Secret Garden is particularly renowned for its natural beauty and the integration of traditional Korean garden design principles.

The experience of visiting Changdeokgung Palace is both awe-inspiring and educational. The tranquil ambiance, coupled with the palace's historical significance, transports visitors to a bygone era of Korean royalty. The well-maintained grounds and informative guides contribute to a memorable journey through Korea's cultural heritage.

Changdeokgung Palace is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Korea's royal legacy. Its blend of architectural splendor, natural beauty, and historical importance ensures that every visit is a rewarding experience, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Korea's rich...

Changdeokgung (Korean: 창덕궁; Hanja: 昌德宮) is a former royal palace in Seoul, South Korea. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Historic Site of South Korea, it is among the best preserved of all Korean palaces. It and its neighboring palace Changgyeonggung have together been called the "East Palace". Changdeokgung was established in 1405. It was the second palace to be established in Seoul, after Joseon's official main palace Gyeongbokgung. Despite Gyeongbokgung's legally superior status, a majority of kings preferred to reside in Changdeokgung instead. In 1592, amidst the Imjin War, Changdeokgung and all the other palaces in the city were completely destroyed. After the war, due to budgetary constraints, Gyeongbokgung was not repaired, while Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung were. This effectively made Changdeokgung Joseon's main palace for several centuries.

In the late 19th century, under the reign of the penultimate Korean monarch Gojong, Gyeongbokgung was rebuilt and the royal family moved out of Changdeokgung and into Gyeongbokgung, although they would again move to another palace Deoksugung in 1897. In 1907, Gojong was forced by Japan to abdicate, and his son and final Korean monarch Sunjong ascended the throne and made Changdeokgung his official palace. In 1910, Japan colonized Korea, and proceeded to heavily alter the palace. The Korean royal family continued to reside in the palace even after the 1945 liberation of Korea and into the late 20th century.

Changdeokgung is now a major tourist attraction. In 1997, it was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace's Secret Garden [ko], long beloved by Korean monarchs, are now mostly available to the public, with some sections requiring tours...

my guide's recommendation to visit Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden (Huwon) in November for autumn leaves is spot on! This UNESCO World Heritage site truly transforms into a breathtaking spectacle during fall. Changdeokgung Palace itself is renowned for its harmonious blend with nature, unlike other palaces that follow a more rigid, symmetrical design. You can explore the various palace buildings, courtyards, and gates, imagining the lives of Joseon Dynasty royalty. The true gem, however, is the Secret Garden (Huwon). This sprawling garden, originally reserved for the royal family, is a masterpiece of Korean landscaping, featuring pavilions, ponds, and ancient trees arranged to complement the natural contours of the land. In November, the foliage bursts into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating stunning photo opportunities and a truly serene atmosphere. It's often considered one of Seoul's most enchanting spots for autumn foliage. Important Note: Access to the Secret Garden is usually only by guided tour, and tickets are limited. It's highly recommended to book your Secret Garden tour online in advance, especially during the peak autumn season in November, as tickets often sell out quickly. You'll need to purchase a general admission ticket for the palace grounds first, and then a separate ticket for the Secret Garden tour. Be prepared for a walk as the garden is extensive, but the beauty of the autumn leaves, reflected in the ponds and framing the traditional architecture, makes every step worthwhile. The crisp November air adds to the charm, making it a perfect day to immerse yourself in Korean history and...