Changdeokgung (창덕궁, 昌德宮; literally, "Prospering Virtue Palace") is the palace favored by many Joseon princes, as its architecture blends in with the natural topology of the site. One key feature of the palace is the Huwon (후원, 後苑, Rear garden), or 'Biwon' (비원, 秘院, Secret garden), as it is known to Koreans today.
The garden was originally constructed for the use of the royal family and palace ladies. Many ceremonies hosted by the King were held in this garden.
Today, the garden is opened to public. However, you must join the guided tour for a visit of the beautiful palace garden which is in harmony with the natural environment! That being said, it means you should be prepared with a good pair of walking shoes for the tour!
Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon (창덕궁과 후원 / 昌德宮) [UNESCO World Heritage]
Seoul-si Jongno-gu Yulgok-ro 99
(For more information, visit here.)
Changdeokgung is easily accessible from either Anguk Station (Subway Line 3), Exit 3. Go straight for 5min or Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station (Subway Line 1, 3 or 5), Exit 7. Go straight along Donhwamun-ro Street for 10min.
Reservation of the tour can be done on the Changdoekgung website. Reservations start from the second Tuesday of the prior month. Each tour allows 50 - 75 participants, but the tours are quite popular, so be sure to reserve early. Once you are done with reservation, print out the receipt and collect the tickets on the day of the tour.
Huwon (Secret Garden) Course
Hamyangmun Gate → Buyongji Pond area → Uiduhap Building → Bullomun Gate → Aeryeonji Pond area → Yeonggyeongdang House → Jondeokjeong area → Ongnyucheon → Donhwamun Gate
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| Buyongjeong pavilion on the left was under restoration during my visit. It was re-opened in September 2012 after a long period of restoration. |
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| 不老门 - Forever Young gate - Myth or not, it's a definite tourist thing to do to pass the gates at least once :) |
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| Gate of Happiness |
The garden is surrounded by plentiful tree cover and magnificent buildings and structures. Even though it was a hot day during spring, the foliage was sufficient to cool us down from the walking and climbing!
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| Our humorous tour guide, who paused to let the group of tourists with clicking cameras in hand take photos of her, so that there won't be only unglam photos of her uploaded online |
Pavilion after pavilion in the midst of greenery, it's no doubt why it's a favourite among the royal family.
For me, I really like the bright colours of the palaces!
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