Changdeokgung Palace is one of the five palaces built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Construction of Changdeokgung Palace started in 1405, and was completed in 1412. The palace was destroyed during the Japanese invasion of 1592 and then reconstructed in 1610. Tragedy struck again in 1623 when the palace was set on fire by [...]]]>

Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace is one of the five palaces built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty. Construction of Changdeokgung Palace started in 1405, and was completed in 1412. The palace was destroyed during the Japanese invasion of 1592 and then reconstructed in 1610. Tragedy struck again in 1623 when the palace was set on fire by Korean citizens revolting against the king. The palace was yet again restored and continued to be plagued by problems and fire over the next few hundred years. Finally from 1990 – 1999 large-scale restoration work began. In 1997 Changdeokgung Palace UNESCO list Changdeokgung Palace as a world heritage site. Unesco stated the reason for adding it to the list was for it’s outstanding architecture and a design that is in harmony with the landscape.

At Changdeokgung Palace there are things to see such as Donhwamun Gate, Geumcheongyo Bridge – Oldest bridge still in existence in Seoul, built 1411 and Injeongjeon Hall . However the main attraction, in my opinion, is the Biwon( Secret Garden). Being a 72-acre garden it wasn’t an easy secret to hide. The King spent a lot of his time here thinking and many high officials would not dare enter the garden without his permission. In the garden there a hundreds of different species of trees dating back over 300 years.  The garden also incorporates a lotus pond, a pavilion and landscaped lawns , trees and plants.

It takes about 2 and a half hours to stroll around the palace and gardens.

Admission:
Changdeokgung Palace
Adults : 3,000won
Children : 1,500won

Secret Garden;
Adults: 5,000won
Children: 2,500won

Opening hours:
April – October 09:00 – 18:30
March & November 09:00~17:30
December – February 09:00~17:00

How to get to Changdeokgung Palace:
There are many subway stations located nearby. Check the map for your best route.
- From Exit #3 of Anguk Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line No. 3), walk 5 minutes.
- From Exit #6 of Jongno 3-ga Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line No. 1, 3 and 5), walk 10 minutes.