Changdeokgung Palace is the second oldest of the Five Great Palaces of Korea's most famous royal dynasty, the Joseon.
Located to the east of the main Gyeongbok Palace in a large forested park, Changdeokgung was the most popular residence for many members of the royal family due to its natural surroundings.
Along with other Joseon Dynasty palaces in Seoul, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History and harmony with nature
Changdeokgung Palace was built with the flourish of the Joseon Dynasty between 1405 and 1412 on more than 55 hectares. The main pavilion is considerably smaller than that of Changdeokgung Palace, but it is still one of the largest of all the pavilions of the Five Great Palaces.
The architecture of the Changdeokgung complex is somewhat different from that of the Changdeokgung Dynasty's main residence. The buildings are much more crowded and follow the landscape. They are more in harmony with nature, creating a very pleasant environment.
The large forest park behind the palace is called the Forbidden Garden and there is a separate entrance fee.
The Changdeokgung area is closely adjacent to another of the Five Palaces: Changgyeonggung.
Admission fees and opening hours
Open every day except Mondays throughout the year from 9:00am. Closing time varies according to the season from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, with the last entry allowed one hour before closing.
The ticket price is 3 000 krw. You can pay by card or cash. For children aged 7 to 18, admission is at 1 500 krw.
An integrated ticket to all five palaces + secret gardens is also available for 10 000 krw (save 4,000 won).
Official website: www.cdg.go.kr
Transportation to the palace
Changdeokgung is located on the northern edge of downtown near the Bukchon Hanok district. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes on foot from Changdeokgung Palace just across Bukchon Hanok to get here.
- Subway - Anguk station of orange line 3 (use exit 3)
- Buses - lines 109, 151, 162, 171, 172, 272, 710, 7025
Accommodation at Changdeokgung
The neighborhood around the palace will offer a fairly sleepy tranquility yet proximity to the big city center, at least by subway or bus. What's more, you'll find really cheap hotels right at the entrance to the palace, with prices starting from 27 eur per night.
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