Exploring Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung: Seoul Palace Must-Knows - Korea Travel Diary

Hello, global explorers! I’m the Traveling Designer Traveler, your local Korean guide behind Korea Travel Diary. Today, I’m thrilled to take you on a journey through two of Seoul’s most enchanting royal sites: 'Changdeokgung' and 'Changgyeonggung'.

Nestled in the heart of Jongno, these UNESCO-listed treasures showcase Korea’s royal past, elegant architecture, and peaceful gardens. Whether you’re a passionate history lover or simply looking for a serene escape in the middle of Seoul, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from public transportation tips to hidden gems within the palace grounds.

Contents

1. How to Get There
2. Walking Between the Palaces
3. Changdeokgung vs. Changgyeonggung
4. The Western-style Greenhouse: A Hidden Gem
5. Travel Tips
6. Why You Should Visit

Getting to Changdeokgung and
Changgyeonggung: Public Transportation

Seoul’s public transportation is efficient and foreigner-friendly, making it easy to reach both palaces. Since the two are located right next to each other in Jongno, you can plan your trip to explore both in a single day.

By Subway

The closest station is Anguk Station (Line 3, Orange Line), just a 5–10 minute walk away.

• From Incheon Airport: Take the AREX (Airport Railroad Express) to Seoul Station (40–50 min). Transfer to Line 4 toward Chungmuro, then switch to Line 3 to Anguk Station (about 1 hr 10 min total). From Exit 3, walk straight along Yulgok-ro for 5 minutes to reach Changdeokgung. Changgyeonggung is connected by a short pathway from there.
• From Myeongdong or Hongdae: Ride Line 4 to Chungmuro, transfer to Line 3, and get off at Anguk. Follow Exit 3 as described above (20–30 min).

Tip: Download Naver Map or KakaoMap in English for real-time navigation. Subway fares are 1,250–2,000 KRW (about $1–2 USD) with a T-money card, available at subway stations or convenience stores.

By Bus

If you prefer buses:

• Blue Bus 109 or Green Bus 7025 stop right at Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung.
• From Seoul Station: Take Blue Bus 402, about 20–30 minutes.

Tip: Bus stops include English signs, and you can use your T-money card for easy payment (same price as the subway).

Walking Between the Palaces

One of the best things about visiting these palaces is how close they are. Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung are connected by a short 5–10 minute path. The walk is scenic, with English signage along the way, making it perfect for travelers who want to enjoy both in one trip.

Changdeokgung vs. Changgyeonggung:
What Makes Them Unique?

Both palaces are part of Seoul’s five grand palaces from the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), yet they each have their own character.

Changdeokgung: The Palace of Harmony

• History: Built in 1405 as a secondary palace, later became the main royal residence after Gyeongbokgung was destroyed during the Japanese invasion (1592–1598).
• Design: Unlike the symmetrical style of Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung blends with nature, following the contours of the land.
• Highlight: The Huwon Secret Garden, 78 acres of serene ponds, pavilions, and ancient trees. Access requires a separate guided tour—book early in spring or autumn.
• Vibe: Refined and elegant, perfect for those who love history intertwined with nature.

Changgyeonggung: The Palace of Family and Serenity

• History: Built in 1483 for queens and concubines, later used as a residence for dowager queens. During Japanese rule (1910–1945), it was sadly turned into a zoo.
• Design: Smaller and cozier than Changdeokgung, with residential-style courtyards.
• Highlight: The Western-style Greenhouse (Korea’s first) and the beautiful Chundangji Pond, especially photogenic in autumn.
• Vibe: Intimate and warm, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Quick Comparison:

• Changdeokgung = main royal palace, large scale, Secret Garden.
• Changgyeonggung = family palace, cozy scale, greenhouse + pond.
• Crowds: Changdeokgung is busier, Changgyeonggung quieter.

The Western-style Greenhouse: A Hidden Gem

Inside Changgyeonggung lies a unique treasure: Korea’s first Western-style greenhouse, built in 1909.

• Architecture: A beautiful glass-and-iron Victorian-inspired structure, contrasting with traditional palace buildings.
• Plants: Inside, rare tropical plants and orchids, with English plaques explaining their significance.
• Experience: Small but magical, with sunlight streaming through glass—ideal for photos.

Visiting Info: Admission is included in the Changgyeonggung ticket (1,000 KRW). Guided tours in English are sometimes available.

Practical Information for Visitors

• Changdeokgung: 3,000 KRW (about $2.50). Secret Garden tour: 5,000 KRW extra. Open 9 AM–6 PM, closed Mondays.
• Changgyeonggung: 1,000 KRW (about $0.80). Open 9 AM–6 PM, closed Mondays.
• Palace Pass: 10,000 KRW (~$8), access to all five palaces + Jongmyo Shrine within one month.

Travel Tips

• English signage + audio guides are available.
• Comfortable shoes are essential (Secret Garden terrain is uneven).
• Rent a hanbok near Anguk Station—palace entry is free if you wear one.
• Best seasons: spring (cherry blossoms) & autumn (fall colors). Winter offers quieter, snow-dusted views.
• Nearby spots: Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong, Jongmyo Shrine.

Why You Should Visit

Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung aren’t just historical landmarks. They are windows into Korea’s royal life and resilience.

• Changdeokgung draws you in with the enchanting Secret Garden, an oasis of royal serenity.
• Changgyeonggung charms you with its greenhouse, ponds, and intimate courtyards.

Together, they tell a story of beauty, strength, and cultural evolution.

As your guide at Korea Travel Diary, I encourage you to wander slowly, take photos by the greenhouse, and lose yourself in the Secret Garden’s tranquility. Seoul’s palaces embody Korea’s soul, and I’m excited to share them with you.

Have you visited these palaces before, or are you planning a trip? Share your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for more Korean adventures!

*Today’s post was a brief introduction to Changgyeonggung and Changdeokgung. I’ll soon be sharing my own photos and personal visit review, so stay tuned!