If you only have time for one palace in Seoul, make it Changdeokgung (창덕궁). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s often considered the most authentic and best-preserved of Seoul’s royal palaces. What makes it extra special is the Secret Garden (Huwon) — a serene hideaway once reserved for kings, queens, and scholars of the Joseon Dynasty.

Originally built as a secondary palace, Changdeokgung rose to power in 1607 and became the heart of the dynasty for nearly 270 years. From its grand gates and elegant wooden halls to the sprawling garden that transforms with every season, this palace is a perfect blend of history, architecture, and nature.

How to get there

• Subway: Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 3 → 5 min walk.

• Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 율곡로 99).

• Naver map: https://naver.me/xExWbXgP

Tickets & Prices

• Palace Entry: ₩3,000 (US$2.30) adults | ₩1,500 children (7–18).

• Secret Garden (Huwon): ₩5,000 (US$3.80) adults | ₩2,500 children.

  • Requires a palace ticket first.

  • Entry only by timed ticket; max 100 people per slot (50 online, 50 in person).

• Royal Palace Pass: ₩10,000 adults | ₩5,000 children. Covers 5 palaces + Jongmyo Shrine including Changdeokgung + Secret Garden.

• Discover Seoul Pass: Includes all palaces free, great value if visiting multiple attractions.
  

How to reserve the Secret Garden

1. Go to the official site: ticket.uforus.co.kr.

2. Choose date + time slot (English tours at 10:30, 11:30, 14:30, 15:30 — last one not offered Dec–Jan).

3. Select tickets (up to availability).

4. Create account + pay (international cards accepted).

5. Save your QR code.
   

Tips:

• Arrive 20–30 minutes early to pick up tickets and walk to the Garden entrance (10 minutes inside the palace grounds).

• If sold out online, go in person right when the ticket office opens.

• FWIW: Travelers often snag day-of tickets at the palace office — try checking again even if online says “sold out.”

• Struggling to book? Use a VPN set to Korea if the website isn't working.

• Palace grounds: self-guided, open hours 9:00–18:00 (closed Mondays).

• Secret Garden tours: ~60–90 mins.

• Best to visit spring (blossoms) or autumn (foliage).

• Always buy both tickets: Palace + Secret Garden. General admission is only available on-site.

• Hit the Secret Garden first (tickets are timed), then explore the palace at your own pace.

• Palace grounds are less crowded in the morning—ideal for photos.

• If short on time, prioritize the Secret Garden tour; it’s the real highlight.

• For autumn foliage or spring blossoms, book as early as possible—these seasons sell out fastest