About
Changdeokgung Palace (also known as Changdeok Palace) is a royal palace in Seoul, South Korea, located at 99 Yulgok-ro in Jongno-gu. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most evocative places to visit in the city.
What to expect
The palace is known for the way its buildings sit within the surrounding natural landscape, rather than being laid out in a rigid grid. Visitors often remark on how the structures follow the contours of the land, creating a sense of balance between architecture and nature. The palace was built in 1405 and is widely regarded as an example of Korean palace architecture.
The Secret Garden
Among the palace's best-known features is its Secret Garden, a wooded area of pavilions, ponds and paths that feels quite different from the courtyards nearer the entrance. Walking through it is a quieter experience and a good way to see how the palace grounds were designed to blend with the hillside behind them.
Planning your visit
- Location: Jongno-gu, in central Seoul, within the Seoul Capital Area.
- Contact: +82-2-3668-2300.
- Setting: Suited to a half-day or longer visit, combining the main buildings with a walk through the garden.
Because the palace sits in the historic heart of the city, it pairs naturally with other sights in Jongno-gu. A visit here suits anyone interested in Korean history, traditional architecture or a slower pace of sightseeing in the capital.