Changdeokgung

Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning example of traditional Korean architecture harmonized with its natural surroundings.

1910, History, TOP100
#Korea, #RoyalPalace, #SeoulTravel, #UNESCO, #WorldHeritage

Harmony with Nature

Changdeokgung Palace, nestled amidst the natural beauty of Seoul, is a testament to the harmonious blend of architecture and nature. Unlike the grand and formal Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung is celebrated for its organic design and its integration with the surrounding landscape.

A Royal Retreat and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historical Significance:

Built in 1405, Changdeokgung served as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung.
It became the primary palace for many Joseon kings, particularly those who favored its natural setting.
It is very well preserved, allowing visitors to feel the history of the Joseon Dynasty.

Architectural Harmony:

The palace’s architecture respects the existing topography, resulting in a more natural and less symmetrical layout.
Buildings are carefully placed to blend with the contours of the land, creating a sense of tranquility.
One of the key features of the palace is that the buildings are very well integrated into the nature surrounding the palace.

The Secret Garden (Huwon):

Changdeokgung is renowned for its Secret Garden, a sprawling rear garden that showcases the beauty of traditional Korean landscaping.
The garden features pavilions, ponds, and wooded areas, providing a serene escape from the bustling city.The secret garden is a must see for anyone visiting the palace. It is a large area, and has many beautiful views.

UNESCO Recognition:

In 1997, Changdeokgung was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural and architectural value.

Visiting Changdeokgung Today

Tranquil Experience:

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the palace grounds, appreciating the natural beauty and historical ambiance.
The Secret Garden offers guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about its history and design.

Cultural Immersion:

Changdeokgung provides a unique glimpse into the lives of Joseon royalty, showcasing their connection to nature.
Like Gyeongbokgung, many vistors rent Hanbok, and take many pictures.

Accessibility:

The palace is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient destination for tourists.

Changdeokgung Palace offers a refreshing contrast to the grandeur of other palaces, inviting visitors to experience the beauty of nature and the tranquility of Korean tradition.

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4.6

Based on 12784 reviews

중도서관

07:33 04 Mar 25

Manuel Rodrigues

03:17 03 Mar 25

A very nice place. 100% recommended.

Julius Tan

12:06 02 Mar 25

Another beautiful palace but so take note to come earlier, this palace closes earlier than most others at 4pm. We came quite late and it was quite a rush and didn’t manage to take much pictures.

김미애

23:13 01 Mar 25

The admission fee is more expensive than you think if you want to see the sponsorship.It is said that reservations are difficult during the fall foliage season, so it is best to make them in advance.The explanation was not very helpful as it was mainly used as a garden for the kings of the Joseon Dynasty.

野原麗一

02:41 01 Mar 25

You can feel the history of Korea

15:50 27 Feb 25

03:40 26 Feb 25

16:30 25 Feb 25

00:59 23 Feb 25

Very beautiful. I recommend visiting.

suncat

01:12 21 Feb 25

If you go right after heavy rain or snowfall, the forest path is a little dangerous, but it is more beautiful than usual. During times of great beauty, wild boars sometimes invade and cause havoc. Do wild boars seem to be sensitive to the energy of Mother Nature?Wild raccoons live here. There are many chestnut and acorn trees, so there is plenty of food for wild animals.If you go in the morning on a clear day, you can clearly see the murals of Daejojeon and Huijeongdang.Almost all the palaces of King Sukjong and King Jeongjo, as well as fictional historical dramas from the Joseon Dynasty, are set here, so there are many foreign couple tourists.If you come wearing hanbok, you can sit in the movie hall, and if your group goes down to the bottom of the building and takes pictures from an angle looking up, you will look as pretty as the main character in a historical drama.Nakseonjae was a newlywed house for the king to live with his first love, a concubine, but in fact, the concubine's residence was connected by a corridor to the residence of the king's paternal grandmother, the Queen Mother, so from the concubine's perspective, she would have had to attend to her husband's grandmother 24 hours a day. The stage of the strictest in-laws life in Joseon?In the past, there were guided tours up the hill behind Nakseonjae, and there were special opening events for Huijeongdang and Juhamnu, and I wish I could go there again in my lifetime.Traces of bombings or bullets from the Korean War can also be seen at the entrance to the stone steps leading up to Juhamru in Huwon.

Tiffany Tan

01:59 14 Dec 24

Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden are a must-visit in Seoul! The palace's elegant architecture showcases Korea's royal heritage, while the Secret Garden offers a serene escape with its lush landscapes, ponds, and pavilions. A perfect blend of history and nature.

J • B •

17:02 20 Nov 24

Changdeokgung Palace is a breathtaking blend of history and nature. Walking through its tranquil gardens, especially the Secret Garden, feels like stepping back in time. The architecture harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding landscape, creating a serene and majestic atmosphere. A must-visit for anyone interested in Korean history and traditional beauty.

vincent mark

15:56 06 Nov 24

A beautiful, historic site in Seoul, known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a glimpse into Korea's royal past. The Secret Garden is a highlight, especially in autumn, with vibrant foliage. A must-visit for history and culture lovers.p.s : Need to buy ticket for Secret Garden in advance as it sold out quite fast

Kathryn Garbuzinski

11:49 16 Oct 24

Truly stunning. I do recommend doing the secret garden as well. It's incredibly peaceful and beautiful. The tours themselves don't take too long but I could spend hours sitting in the garden and relaxing. Very rich history and well informed tour guides

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