Audio Guide of Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon Secret Garden

Changdeokgung Palace opens at 9:00 AM and closes between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM, depending on the season. You can visit the palace on your own (although some areas have restrictions) or join a guided tour, which is highly recommended for the Huwon Secret Garden. Entry to the garden is only allowed with a guide, so plan ahead! You can find more details about opening hours, closures, and how to get there on the official palace website: Official Changdeokgung Palace

Admission to Changdeokgung Palace costs 3,000 KRW for adults (about 2.5 USD). The Huwon Secret Garden visit, which is separately guided, has an additional cost of 5,000 KRW for adults (about 4 USD). There are discounts for children and seniors, and there is also an Integrated Royal Palaces Pass if you plan to visit several sites. Exact prices and exceptions are available here: Changdeokgung Ticket Prices

For a full experience, I recommend setting aside at least 2 to 3 hours for Changdeokgung Palace. If you include the Huwon Secret Garden, which has a guided tour of about 90 minutes, the total visit can easily extend to 3.5 or even 4 hours. There is plenty to see and enjoy in both places!

Changdeokgung was the favorite palace of many kings of the Joseon Dynasty and one of Seoul’s Five Grand Palaces. Its significance lies in its harmonious design with nature, unlike other palaces that follow more rigid layouts. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architecture, which respects the surrounding landscape, especially in its remarkable Huwon Secret Garden, a jewel of traditional Korean garden design.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) offer the most pleasant weather and stunning scenery with cherry blossoms or fall foliage. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning just after opening. For the Secret Garden, book your tour in advance, as group capacity is limited. Sunsets can also be magical, but be sure to check closing times!

Changdeokgung Palace has made efforts to improve accessibility. Many of the palace’s main areas have relatively flat paths. However, the Huwon Secret Garden has some sections with slopes and stairs, which can make wheelchair access difficult in certain parts. For detailed information and specific recommendations, I suggest contacting the palace directly before your visit at +82-2-762-8262 or checking the accessibility section on their website.

Changdeokgung is perfectly located for exploring on foot the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, with its traditional Korean houses, and the vibrant Insadong district, famous for its craft shops, art galleries, and tea houses. It is also close to Gyeongbokgung Palace, Deoksugung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine. The area offers a full day of cultural exploration!

Absolutely! First, book your Huwon Secret Garden tour in advance, as spaces are limited and sell out quickly. Arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy the calm of the morning. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will do quite a bit of walking. Consider bringing water, especially in summer. And of course, don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of this historic place!