Changdeokgung Secret Garden

Need to reserve a place for a guided tour in advance to access the secret garden. Visitors are required to follow the tour guide in the garden and free exploration is not allowed on the tour. However, after the tour ends, visitors can stay and freely explore the area. The tour guide was very professional, knowledgeable and eloquent. She introduced the political history of the Joseon dynasty, which included the life of its emperors and its relations with neighboring countries (primarily China and Japan). I highly recommend booking the guided tour.

The Secret Garden is a historical haven, offers a captivating glimpse into royal life and serene landscapes. It is a separate admission section of the palace, with timed-entry tickets and re-entry is not allowed. We bought our tickets here for the English guided tour. The guide speaks good English. There were 2 guides helping with crowd control, which was necessary. Highlights: * Buyongji Pond (芙蓉池 부용지): A small, historically lotus-filled pond symbolizing "square earth, round sky," once enjoyed by royalty for fishing and boating. * Yeonghwadang Pavilion (영화당 暎花堂) : Beautiful hip-roofed pavilion by the pond, a former site for royal banquets and exams, once surrounded by vibrant flowers. * Eosumun Gate (어수문 魚水門): Exquisite gate to the Royal Library, symbolizing the King's bond with his people ("like fish and water"), sadly inaccessible to the public. * Juhamnu Pavilion (주합루 宙合樓): The Royal Library on top of the hill. * Aeryeonji Pond (애련지 愛蓮池): True to its name ("love lotus"), this pond is filled with lotus, reflecting purity and integrity, with a small, secluded pavilion. * Jondeokjeong Pavilion (존덕정 or 尊德亭): The garden's grandest pavilion with unique double hexagonal roofs and dragon carvings, signifying "respect virtue" and royal authority. * Pyeomusa Pavilion (평우사 or 砭愚榭): Once a study spot for the Crown Prince ("enlighten the foolish"), its pillars feature a poem beautifully describing the Secret Garden's charm. The Secret Garden isn't just a stroll, it's a carefully curated experience. Embrace the history, appreciate the symbolism, worth spending the hour for an unforgettable journey through royal tranquility.

When the tour guide tells you Korea loves their trees she wasn't kidding. Trees are superior! Worth the ticket to enjoy a palace garden. It's not like a western garden, it's hilly!

The garden is obviously very pretty, but I'm not sure whether it's worth the additional money and having to book the ticket in advance (especially when you can be there for only an hour). Also, it's pretty small and if you don't do the guided tour, you can check out the whole place (even with doing a lot of stops for pictures) in around 15 minutes. I'd recommend separating from the guided tour, viewing the garden yourself (there will be no crowd in the photos which is a plus) and then joining the tour again, to make the most out of the hour you get there :) The photos you see below are of the only somewhat interesting parts of the garden, in my opinion

The Secret Garden (Huwon) of Changdeokgung Palace is truly the highlight for many visitors, especially during the autumn. As mentioned, it's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of traditional Korean landscaping, designed to harmonize with the natural terrain rather than impose a strict, artificial layout. Here's what makes it so special, particularly in autumn: * Autumn Foliage: In November, the garden bursts into a vibrant display of fall colors. The maples, ginkgos, and other trees transform into brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a stunning backdrop for the traditional pavilions and ponds. It's considered one of the best places in Seoul to experience autumn leaves. * Unique Design: Unlike more formal gardens, the Secret Garden embraces the existing topography. You'll find pavilions nestled into hillsides, ponds reflecting the changing leaves, and winding paths that encourage a sense of discovery. Key areas include Buyongji Pond, Aeryeonji Pond, and the Ongnyucheon Stream area. * Guided Tours: To preserve its natural beauty and historical integrity, access to the Secret Garden is typically only permitted through guided tours. These tours provide valuable insights into the history, architecture, and symbolism of the garden.

An absolutely magical walk through a series of secret gardens, masterfully maintained. A must when in Seoul. There are times entry tickets, but you don't have to stay with your guide. If you want to explore on your own, don't worry about the guide's language.

Wonderful tour! Thank you to TN! Highly recommend the guide for a great insight. Shame it’s only a tiny tiny tiny portion of this 86HA UNESCO listed garden!

Such a beautiful garden. Can imagine how the royal family enjoy the peaceful and calmness here. Just relax and enjoying the wind caress our face and listening to the sound of nature. Advice to buy ticket in advance because they have limited visit time daily.