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Castles & palaces

Changdeokgung

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Changdeokgung

Changdeokgung Palace

Located in Seoul, this Joseon-era royal palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is preserved in its original form, allowing visitors to see the architecture and layout of the royal court. The site is particularly known for its rear garden, which was designed to blend with the natural topography of the land.

Getting There

The palace is situated in the central district of Seoul. From the city center, it is accessible via the Seoul Metropolitan Subway (Lines 3 and 5) or local buses. Depending on your starting point in the center, the journey typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Time Allocation

Allow approximately 2 to 4 hours to explore the main palace grounds and the rear garden. Note that access to the garden often requires a separate guided tour, which may affect your total time on site.

When to Visit

The palace is popular year-round, with high visitor numbers during the autumn foliage season and spring blooms. It can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. Visiting early in the morning typically avoids the largest crowds.

Nearby Attractions

The palace is located within walking distance of several other historical sites:

  • Changgyeonggung: 0.4km
  • Jongmyo: 0.6km
  • Unhyeongung: 0.6km
  • Bukchon Hanok Village: 0.8km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Changdeokgung

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Seoul 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

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Good to visit alongside

Changgyeonggung

Castles & palaces

Changgyeonggung

Changgyeonggung Palace was built in 1483 during the reign of King Seongjong of Joseon and stands adjacent to Changdeokgung Palace. Strolling through its quiet halls and gardens, visitors can sense the atmosphere of the old royal court.

0.4 km away
Jongmyo

Temples & religious sites

Jongmyo

Jongmyo Shrine, located in Jongno, Seoul, is where memorial tablets of Joseon's kings and queens were enshrined and ceremonies were held. It sits just south of Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung palaces, making it easy to visit together with the palaces.

0.6 km away
Unhyeongung

Museums & galleries

Unhyeongung

Unhyeongung Palace is the former residence in Seoul of the Heungseon Daewongun, where King Gojong spent his childhood before ascending the throne. After Gojong became king, the Daewongun led affairs of state from here, and it was even directly linked to the royal palace.

0.6 km away
Bukchon Hanok Village

Shopping & districts

Bukchon Hanok Village

A traditional hanok village located between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces, spanning the Gahoe-dong and Samcheong-dong neighborhoods. Strolling its alleys lined with galleries and unique cafés, visitors can soak up the atmosphere of traditional Korean houses.

0.8 km away
Wongaksa Pagoda

Temples & religious sites

Wongaksa Pagoda

A Joseon-era stone pagoda in Tapgol Park, featuring a three-tiered base and a ten-story body carved with intricate designs. Designated a National Treasure, it can be viewed through a protective glass enclosure.

0.9 km away
Tapgol Park

Parks & gardens

Tapgol Park

Located in Jongno, Seoul, this downtown park was formerly known as Pagoda Park. As Seoul's first public park, it holds historic significance that visitors can sense while strolling through it.

1.0 km away