Attraction Guide · Historical Attractions

Changdeokgung Palace

What it is, how to get there, what it costs and when to go — from the ASK KOREA attraction database.

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Overview

Quick Summary

What Is Changdeokgung Palace?

Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most beautiful royal palaces in Korea.

It was built during the Joseon Dynasty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Many visitors consider Changdeokgung more scenic and peaceful than Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Why Visit?

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Beautiful traditional architecture
  • Famous Secret Garden (Huwon)
  • Less crowded than Gyeongbokgung
  • Excellent photography locations

Who Should Visit?

  • Photography Lovers
  • Nature Lovers
  • History & Culture Lovers
  • Hanbok Experience Visitors
In Depth

Detailed Guide

How To Get There?

Recommended Subway Station

  • Anguk Station (Line 3)

Use Exit 3.

The palace is within walking distance.

Nearest Subway Station

  • Anguk Station (Line 3)

Most visitors use Anguk Station.

Admission Fee

Adults

₩3,000

Children

₩1,500

Secret Garden (Huwon) Tour

Additional fee required.

  • Hanbok visitors may receive free palace admission.

※ Fees may change.

Opening Hours

Usually

09:00 ~ 18:00

Hours vary by season.

Closed on Mondays.

How Long Does It Take?

Quick Visit

  • ⏰ 1 Hour

Normal Visit

  • ⏰ 2 ~ 3 Hours

Including Secret Garden

  • ⏰ 3 ~ 4 Hours

What Should You See?

  • Huwon (Secret Garden)
  • Injeongjeon Hall
  • Buyongji Pond
  • Traditional Palace Buildings
  • Seasonal Scenery

Best Time To Visit

  • Spring (March – May)
  • Autumn (October – November)

Best Time of Day

  • Morning
  • Late Afternoon

The Secret Garden is especially beautiful in autumn.

Recommended Nearby Attractions

  • Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Insadong
  • Changgyeonggung Palace
  • Traditional Korean Tea Houses
  • Samcheong-dong

Most locations are within walking distance.

"How do I visit Changdeokgung Palace?"

AI Answer:

1. Take Subway Line 3

2. Get off at Anguk Station

3. Use Exit 3

4. Purchase palace tickets

5. Reserve Secret Garden if available

6. Visit Bukchon and Insadong afterward

Practical

Travel Tips

Common Foreigners Mistakes

  • Thinking the Secret Garden is included automatically
  • Arriving without a reservation for Huwon
  • Visiting on Monday
  • Not allowing enough time for the garden
  • Confusing Changdeokgung with Gyeongbokgung

Important Korean Words

Changdeokgung Palace

Secret Garden

Admission Ticket

Entrance

Exit

Restroom

Hanbok

Pro Tips

  • Reserve Secret Garden tickets early
  • Visit together with Bukchon Hanok Village
  • Visit together with Insadong
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Visit during autumn if possible
  • Arrive early in the day

Why Foreigners Get Confused

Many visitors think all Korean palaces are similar.

However, Changdeokgung is especially famous for its natural landscape and Secret Garden.

Many visitors also do not realize that Secret Garden access may require a separate ticket or reservation.

Questions

FAQ

What is Changdeokgung Palace?

Changdeokgung Palace is one of the most beautiful royal palaces in Korea.

It was built during the Joseon Dynasty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Many visitors consider Changdeokgung more scenic and peaceful than Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How do I get to Changdeokgung Palace?

Recommended Subway Station

Use Exit 3.

The palace is within walking distance.

How much does Changdeokgung Palace cost?

Adults

₩3,000

Children

How long should I spend at Changdeokgung Palace?

Quick Visit

Normal Visit

When is the best time to visit Changdeokgung Palace?

Best Time of Day

The Secret Garden is especially beautiful in autumn.

Resources

Official Resources

ASK KOREA does not sell tickets. For opening hours and ticketing around Changdeokgung Palace, use the official Korea tourism and city resources collected in our resources hub.

Official Korea Resources

ASK KOREA Transit