(Korea, Seoul) Changdeokgung Palace

Korea Travel Guide #2

Must-visit place in Korea

 

Korea has a history of 5,000 years, and the period from 1392 to 1910 is called the Joseon Dynasty.

With the establishment of the Joseon Dynasty, palaces for the residence and life of the royal family were built,

and there are five palaces representing Joseon.
Today, I will introduce Changdeokgung Palace, the only palace in Joseon that has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also famous as a filming location for Kingdom on Netflix.

 

01

Fall and Winter of Changdeokgung Palace ⓒ 2016 문화재청 창덕궁관리소

Sources : https://www.cdg.go.kr/cms_for_cdg/process/photo/view.jsp?nowPage=1&show_no=28&check_no=5&c_relation=55&c_relation2=117&c_no=438

 

Introduction

 

SEOUL'S VIEWPOINT III : The Eastern Palaces in Seoul (filming site for #Kingdom) ⓒ Seoul City

※ This video shows Changdeokgung Palace and Changgyeonggung Palace together.

 

Changdeokgung Palace: A Glimpse into Korea's Royal History

 

Changdeokgung Palace, nestled in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, is a captivating destination that offers a fascinating journey through the country's rich royal history. Here are some key features and historical aspects to consider:

1. History: Built during the Joseon Dynasty in 1405, Changdeokgung served as a secondary palace, particularly favored for its harmony with the natural landscape. It became the principal palace after Gyeongbokgung was partially destroyed during the Japanese invasions.

2. Secret Garden (Biwon): One of the standout features of Changdeokgung is its enchanting Secret Garden. This beautifully landscaped area reflects the principles of traditional Korean garden design and served as a place for the royal family to relax and contemplate.

3. Architecture: Changdeokgung showcases exquisite examples of traditional Korean palace architecture, with wooden structures adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paint. Notable buildings include Injeongjeon (the main hall), Seonjeongjeon (the king's office), and Nakseonjae (a private residence).

4. Huwon (Palace Rear Garden): The Secret Garden, or Huwon, is a serene space characterized by pavilions, ponds, and walking paths. The careful integration of nature and architecture reflects the Confucian and Taoist principles prevalent in Korean culture.

5. Injeongjeon: As the main hall of Changdeokgung, Injeongjeon is where important state affairs and ceremonies took place. Its elegant and imposing structure symbolizes the majesty of the Joseon kings.

6. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Changdeokgung, along with the Secret Garden, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding preservation of traditional Korean palace architecture and its harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape.

7. Moonlight Tours: To enhance the visitor experience, Changdeokgung offers special Moonlight Tours, providing a unique opportunity to explore the palace grounds after sunset and appreciate its beauty in a different light.

8. Cultural Significance: The palace not only reflects the architectural prowess of the Joseon Dynasty but also holds cultural significance as a place where the rulers pursued scholarly and artistic endeavors.

Changdeokgung Palace stands as a testament to Korea's cultural heritage, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the splendor of royal life. Whether wandering through the Secret Garden or marveling at the grandeur of the palace halls, a visit to Changdeokgung promises a memorable and enriching experience.

 

Location

 

 

Changdeokgung Palace is close to "Exit 3" of "Anguk Station" on Seoul Subway Line 3.
If you come out of "exit 3" and go straight in the same direction, you will find the entrance to Changdeokgung Palace, and you will arrive in about 5 minutes on foot.

 

It is also located close to Gyeongbokgung Palace.
It takes about 20 minutes to walk from Gwanghwamun, the main gate of Gyeongbokgung Palace, to the main gate of Changdeokgung Palace.
There are many art museums, hanoks, cafes, and restaurants between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, so it would be a good idea to schedule a day of your trip as a tour plan for Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace.

 

Visiting hours and fees

 

Visiting Hours:

- Regular Hours: From 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Nighttime Admission (April to October, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays): From 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM (Last admission at 8:00 PM)
- Nighttime admission may also be available on weekends and public holidays, so it's advisable to check the official operating schedule.

Admission Fees:

- General Admission: 3,000 KRW
- Youth Admission (ages 7-18): 1,500 KRW
- Children and National Merit Beneficiaries (under 6 and 65 and older): Free

 

Note:
For nighttime admission, advance reservations may be required, and you can check the availability on the official website or on-site.
Operating schedules may be subject to change due to special events or maintenance, so it's recommended to verify the latest information on the official website or with relevant authorities before your visit.

 

I hope this helps, and I wish you an enjoyable visit to Changdeokgung Palace!