Changdeokgung, the Only World Heritage Ancient Palace in Korea! The Beautiful Garden of Changdeokgung

One of Korea’s must-see ancient palaces that cannot be missed on any Seoul tour, Changdeokgung—registered as a World Heritage Site—always ranks as a top favorite. Although it is located in the heart of Seoul among towering skyscrapers, it offers a natural oasis where visitors can enjoy nature.

The lush palace is characterized by its magnificent garden and the beauty of its architectural layout. It is the only ancient palace in Korea designated as a World Heritage Site, and its expansive grounds invite visitors to return again and again as the seasons change. In this article, we introduce the World Heritage Site Changdeokgung.

What is Changdeokgung?

Changdeokgung, a World Heritage Site representing Seoul, is one of the five grand palaces remaining in Seoul.
It was originally built in 1405 as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung during the Joseon Dynasty.
However, after Gyeongbokgung was burned down in 1592 during Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s invasion, Changdeokgung served as the main palace for approximately 270 years until Gyeongbokgung was rebuilt.

From King Gwanghaegun onward, successive monarchs who ruled Korea resided and conducted state affairs at Changdeokgung. As the palace that was used the longest in Korean history, many cultural assets that offer a glimpse into royal life have been preserved. Changdeokgung is an extremely valuable site for understanding Korea’s history.

Within its vast grounds, there are 13 buildings, and its main gate, Donhwamun, is famous as the oldest gate remaining in Seoul. Its design takes full advantage of the natural terrain—a hallmark of Changdeokgung. Unlike other royal palaces built strictly according to Confucian ideals, the garden known as Huwon (the Secret Garden), which occupies the northern half of the grounds, is celebrated for its unique beauty and has received high praise as a World Heritage Site.

Access to Changdeokgung

Changdeokgung is about a 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Anguk Station on Subway Line 3. If you use Subway Line 5, it is about a 10-minute walk from Exit 6 of Jongno 3-ga Station. Additionally, Seoul city buses are very convenient; several bus routes such as 109 and 151 pass by Changdeokgung, and the bus stops are within a short walking distance.

Recommended Points of Changdeokgung

◆ Huwon (Rear Garden)

Huwon, formerly known as the Rear Garden, is famous as one of the most beautiful areas within Changdeokgung, the World Heritage Site. In Huwon, where kings are said to have strolled and devoted themselves to study, you can experience a traditional Korean garden. The garden is very expansive, and when combined with the general viewing area, the walking distance can be considerable—so be sure to focus on the key highlights.

Among these, the Puyong Pond and Puyong Pavilion are absolute must-sees. Puyong Pond features a square pond representing “earth” with a round island symbolizing “heaven,” and the Puyong Pavilion is built projecting over the pond. In summer, when lotus flowers bloom in full splendor, the beauty of Puyong Pond and Pavilion is enhanced even further. Be sure to visit at the right time of year!

◆ Moonlight Journey

The “Moonlight Journey,” held annually from March to June and again from August to October, is one of the popular events at World Heritage Changdeokgung. While regular viewing hours are until early evening, special nighttime viewings are held during these periods. The buildings and gardens of Changdeokgung are illuminated, creating a fantastical landscape that is completely different from the daytime scene.

In Huwon, you can enjoy breathtaking views such as the reflections of trees in Puyong Pond, the full moon, and the palace’s beauty. The tradition of moon appreciation has long been practiced in Korea.
In addition, at Yeongyodang within Huwon, you can watch live performances featuring traditional Korean instruments and dances.

Since this popular event attracts tourists from around the world, advance reservations are recommended.

◆ The Amulets Protecting Changdeokgung

While strolling through Changdeokgung, you may notice small stone figures attached to the roofs of the buildings. Upon closer inspection, these tiny statues resemble animals. These are called jap-sang, and they are protective talismans commonly seen in traditional Korean architecture.

They were created by specialized craftsmen to serve as guardian deities, preventing negative energy from entering the palace. These jap-sang continue to serve as important protectors of Changdeokgung, now a World Heritage Site, and are one of its noteworthy features.

Notes for Visiting Changdeokgung

Changdeokgung is divided into two viewing areas: the general viewing area and Huwon. Please note that separate admission fees are required for the general area and Huwon. Also, the general viewing area is quite extensive and may take considerable time to tour, so plan to spend plenty of time there.

Huwon is available only for a limited time and requires advance reservations online. The viewing times for the general area and Huwon differ, and they also vary by season, so it is recommended to check the official website in advance.

◎ Summary

The area around Anguk, the nearest station to World Heritage Changdeokgung, is filled with popular tourist spots that embody Korean tradition, such as Bukchon Hanok Village with its traditional houses and Insadong, lined with traditional craft shops. Be sure to explore these various locations.

In addition, while touring Changdeokgung, you should also visit Gyeongbokgung, the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.
Its grounds include numerous attractions such as the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum.
Enjoy your journey through Korea’s rich history!

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Changdeokgung, the Only World Heritage Ancient Palace in Korea! The Beautiful Garden of Changdeokgung