Changdeokgung Palace

The Basics

As a well-preserved example of ancient Korean architecture, Changdeokgung Palace provides insight into the country’s history, culture, and values. The site can only be visted by guided tour—explore the complex, which was designed in accordance to Confucianpungsu principles; admire the colorful palace interior; and stroll past terraced lawns, flowering trees, and serene pavilions in the Huwon Secret Garden (separate ticket required).

Many city tours include a visit to Changdeokgung Palace, whether you want to explore Seoul on foot, by bike, or by bus. Some cultural tours include a stop at the palace along with historic sites such as Jongmyo Shrine, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, or Gyeongbokgung Palace. Private and small-group tours are available for a personalized experience, and it’s also possible to visit the palace independently on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Changdeokgung Palace is a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.

• Palace visits are by organized tour only, and separate tickets are required for the Huwon Secret Garden. Several English-language tour options are available throughout the day.

• Bring comfortable shoes for exploring the sprawling palace and gardens.

• Visitor facilities include onsite parking and restrooms.

• Wheelchair and stroller rentals are available.

How to Get There

Changdeokgung Palace is set in the Jongno-gu area of Seoul. It’s possible to get there via guided tour, taxi, or public transportation. To arrive by subway, take Line 3 to Anguk Station. From there, the palace is roughly five minutes away on foot.

When to Get There

The Korean palace is open year-round and closed Mondays. The secret garden is especially beautiful in fall, when the trees’ leaves turn shades of gold and red. In late June, the lotus pond is surrounded by colorful flowers.

The*Pungsu-Jiri* Principle of Korean Palaces

Like other Joseon palaces, a stream runs in front of and a mountain sits behind the buildings of Changdeokgung Palace for goodpungsu-jiri—the Korean version of Chinesefeng shui. This concept layers spiritual importance on the topography of land, water, and mountains, and has been an important aspect of Korean architecture for more than 1,000 years.

Are guided tours available at Changdeokgung Palace?

Changdeokgung Palace offers free guided tours in English twice a day. Alternatively, you can opt for a Seoul sightseeing tour that includes the palace and other neighboring attractions. If you purchase entry to the palace’s Secret Garden, it consists of a mandatory 90-minute tour. Space and times are limited, so book in advance.

What are the opening hours and days at Changdeokgung Palace?

Changdeokgung Palace is open Tuesday–Sunday from 9am–6pm. Hours are slightly shorter in the winter—November-January—when the palace closes at 5:30pm. In the summer—June-August—closing time is at 6:30pm. Changdeokgung Palace is closed on Mondays. Whenever a public holiday falls on a Monday, the palace will be closed on Tuesday.

What are the main attractions within Changdeokgung Palace?

When visiting Changdeokgung Palace, be sure to see the impressive Donhwamun Gate and the grand Injeongjeon Throne Hall. Also, take time to check out Huijeongdang Hall, the King's residence, and Daejojeon Hall, the Queen's residence. Don’t miss the Buyongji Pond and Pavilion in the palace’s Secret Garden (admission sold separately).

What special events take place at Changdeokgung Palace?

For one week every spring and autumn, Changdeokgung Palace (along with the city’s four other palaces and Jongmyo Shrine) hosts the K-Royal Culture Festival. During this festival, discover Korean cultural heritage through live performances, exhibitions, and other programs. In spring, the palace offers the Changdeokgung Moonlight Tour, a lantern-lit guided tour of the grounds.

What Seoul attractions are close to Changdeokgung Palace?

Changdeokgung Palace is within easy walking distance of several essential Seoul attractions, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Jongmyo Shrine, and Bukchon Hanok Village. Save time and maximize your budget with a Royal Palace Pass, available at participating locations. This pass grants you access to the four palaces and the Jongmyo Shrine.

Is it worth it to visit Changdeokgung Palace?

Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting Changdeokgung Palace. As Seoul’s best-preserved palace, it’s Korea’s only Joseon royal residence to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Changdeokgung also stands out for its Huwon Secret Garden, a serene space with pristine pavilions, peaceful ponds, and ancient trees.