Changdeokgung Huwon, commonly known as Biwon (Secret Garden), is a hidden gem in the heart of Seoul that allows visitors to feel as if they have embarked on a journey through time. This hidden gem gained even more recognition when featured in the 2021 hit historical drama ‘The Red Sleeve,’ drawing attention to its mysterious beauty. This article will examine Changdeokgung Huwon, its historical significance, and how you can experience this enchanting place.
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| Changdeokgung Donhwamun Gate, Seoul Korea [Photo Credit] Wikimedia Commons, Josh Hallett |
🌍 Introduction to Changdeokgung Huwon
Located in the heart of Seoul, Changdeokgung
Huwon is one of the Joseon Dynasty's most historically significant palace
gardens. Initially, this garden was reserved exclusively for the king, queen,
and royal family members, serving as a private retreat where nature
and architecture harmoniously blend to create an artistic masterpiece.
※ The Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897) was a
Korean dynastic kingdom that ruled for over 500 years, shaping Korea’s culture,
governance, and traditions.
Huwon means "back garden," and it is situated
behind the main palace buildings. During the Joseon era, it functioned as
a royal leisure space, a hunting ground, and an ornamental
garden. Unlike other palace gardens, Huwon remains remarkably
well-preserved in its original form, making it a beloved destination where
visitors can witness its beauty through the changing seasons.
Recognizing its cultural and
historical significance, Changdeokgung—including Huwon—was designated a UNESCO
World Heritage Site in December 1997. Today, it is one of Korea’s
most treasured landmarks, representing its rich history and architectural
heritage.
Changdeokgung Huwon Opening Hours & Admission Fees
Planning to visit Changdeokgung Huwon? Be
sure to check the schedule and ticketing details in advance! The admission
hours and fees for Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon are different, so verifying
them before your visit is essential.
Entry is available through 50% online
reservations and 50% on-site ticket purchases, especially for Huwon.
There is a strict limit of 100 visitors per session. Guests must
join a guided tour at designated times.
🔗 ReserveYour Changdeokgung Huwon Ticket Here
The table below provides a detailed
breakdown of Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon admission fees,
categorized by age group.
Changdeokgung Palace (Main Complex) Visiting Hours
l February – May, September – October:
09:00 – 18:00 (Last entry: 17:00)
l June – August: 09:00 – 18:30 (Last
entry: 17:30)
l November – January: 09:00 – 17:30 (Last
entry: 16:30)
Changdeokgung Huwon Visiting Hours & Guided Tours
The tour starts at the Huwon entrance, and
it takes about 15 minutes on foot from the Changdeokgung entrance to the Huwon.
Be sure to account for this walking time when planning your schedule.
l Korean
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 (March–October)
- Friday to Sunday: 10:00, 11:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 (March–October)
l English
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:30, 11:30, 14:30, 15:30 (March–November only).
l Chinese (汉语)
- Every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 12:30.
l Japanese (日本語)
- Every Wednesday, Friday, Sunday: 13:30.
Additional Notes:
l Entry Limits: Up to 100
participants per session (50 tickets reserved online + 50 on-site sales).
l Restrictions: Only foreign visitors
are allowed during foreign language time slots (Korean visitors may join only
when accompanying a foreign guest, up to 2 people).
l Duration: Approximately 70 minutes.
l Special Notes: Some areas, like the
Okryucheon Heritage Zone, are under maintenance and closed until 2026 (April
13, 2023–2026).
Detailed Guide to Changdeokgung Huwon
① Donhwamun Gate
② Injeongjeon Hall
③ Seonjeongjeon Hall
④ Huijeongdang Hall
⑤ Daejojeon Hall
⑥ Seongjeonggak Hall
⑦ Gwollaegaksa (The Offices Inside the
Palace)
⑧ Former Seonwonjeon Shrine
⑨ Nakseonjae Complex
⑩ Buyongji Pond and Juhapru Pavilion
⑪ Aeryeonji Pond and Uiduhap Pavilion
⑫ Yeongyeongdang Residence
⑬ Jondeokjeong Pavilion
⑭ Ongnyucheon Stream
1.⑩ Buyongji
Pond & Buyongjeong Pavilion
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| Buyeongi Pond and Buyongjeong Pavilion, Changdeokgung Huwon [Photo Credit] Wikimedia Commons |
Buyongji is a rectangular pond, and to its south stands Buyongjeong Pavilion, which beautifully appears to float on the water—befitting its name, Buyong, which means lotus. The king used this location to discuss academic matters with his officials or to host grand banquets.
2.⑩ Juhapru
& Gyujanggak
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| Juhapru, Changdeokgung Huwon [Photo Credit] Cultural Heritage Administration, ROK |
Juhapru is a two-story structure, with
its first floor serving as Gyujanggak, the royal library. King
Jeongjo established this space to promote scholarly learning and became a
significant center of knowledge and culture.
3.⑫ Yeongyeongdang
Residence
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| Yeongyeongdang Residence, Changdeokgung Huwon [Photo Credit] Flickr, Pietro Motta |
Yeongyeongdang is the largest traditional Korean-style building within Huwon. It is where the king and his officials held banquets and took respite.
4.⑬ Jondeokjeong
Pavilion
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| Jondeokjeong Pavilion, Changdeokgung Huwon [Photo Credit] Flickr, Travel Oriented |
Jondeokjeong Pavilion, meaning "to elevate virtue", was a tranquil retreat where the king could relax and deeply contemplate.
5.⑭ Changdeokgung
Huwon Ongnyucheon (Jade Stream)
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| Rice Planting, Ongnyucheon, Changdeokgung Huwon [Photo Credit] Flickr Republic of Korea |
Deep within Huwon, Ongnyucheon is
a picturesque valley where crystal-clear water flows through the
serene landscape. It is one of the most scenic spots in the garden.
"Why not capture a photo in front
of Buyongji, just like the protagonists in historical dramas?"
These sites are among the most iconic
locations in Changdeokgung Huwon. When visiting, please take a moment to
appreciate their historical significance, making your experience even more
meaningful.
🌍 How to Get to Changdeokgung Huwon
Changdeokgung Huwon is conveniently located about
a 5-minute walk from Exit 3 of Anguk Station on Subway Line 3. Since
parking spaces in the area are limited, it is highly recommended to use public
transportation.
l By Subway
Ø Line 3: Walk about 5 minutes from Anguk
Station (Exit 3).
Ø Lines 1, 3, and 5: Walk about 10
minutes from Jongno 3-ga Station (Exit 6).
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| The way from Anguk Station to Changdeokgung Palace [Photo Credit] Flickr, EunHo Sung |
l By Bus
Multiple bus routes stop near Changdeokgung Huwon:
Ø Anguk Station Bus Stop: Walk for about
3 minutes.
Ø Changdeokgung Bus Stop: Walk for about
5 minutes.
🌍 Recommended Teahouses Near Changdeokgung Huwon
The area around Changdeokgung Huwon offers
a variety of dining options. Traditional hanok teahouses are among them, providing
the perfect setting to relax after your tour.
"Wrap up your visit to Changdeokgung
Huwon by savoring a cup of tea in a serene hanok teahouse."
Cha Ddeul (차마시는 뜰, 차뜰)
📍 26,Bukchon-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Located in Bukchon Hanok Village, this traditional
teahouse offers a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of Korean
teas paired with freshly steamed traditional rice cakes. A cup of tea
accompanied by warm rice cakes provides a truly authentic and memorable experience.
Fritz Wonseo Branch (프릳츠 원서점)
📍 83,Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Situated next to Changdeokgung, this
hanok café blends traditional Korean architecture with a modern aesthetic.
The café is known for its freshly baked bread and high-quality
coffee, and guests can enjoy a view of Changdeokgung from the outdoor
seating area.
Hanok Teahouse (한옥찻집)
📍 12,Insadong 14-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Located in Insadong, this cozy teahouse is set in a renovated hanok,
providing a warm and peaceful ambiance. It serves carefully brewed
traditional teas and a variety of traditional Korean desserts.
These teahouses near Changdeokgung
offer an excellent opportunity to extend your cultural experience while
unwinding in a historical atmosphere. Be sure to check their operating
hours before visiting.
🌍 Places to Visit Near Changdeokgung Huwon
Several fascinating attractions are near Changdeokgung
Huwon.
Changgyeonggung Palace, located next door,
offers another glimpse into Korea's royal heritage.
Just a short walk away, Insadong is
a fantastic place to experience Korean culture and history. It is famous
for its traditional crafts, souvenirs, and unique shops, which attract
many tourists.
Additionally, Bukchon Hanok Village is
another must-visit spot near Changdeokgung Huwon. Walking through its narrow
alleys lined with traditional hanok houses, visitors can enjoy a beautiful
blend of past and present, making it a truly memorable experience.
If you're interested in staying in a
traditional hanbok, check out the post below! It contains useful information
about hanok stays in Bukchon Hanok Village.
🌍 Visitor Guidelines
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| Autumn in the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung [Photo Credit] Flickr, Wjl Yyc |
Changdeokgung Huwon limits the number of
daily visitors to preserve this cultural treasure. Advance reservations are
recommended to secure your ticket.
l No outside food or drinks are allowed inside.
l Smoking is strictly prohibited.
l Some areas within Huwon have steep pathways, so it’s best to
wear comfortable walking shoes.
📌 "Every
small effort helps protect our cultural heritage—please remember this during
your visit!"
Final Thoughts
Why not step into history by
visiting Changdeokgung Huwon, imagining scenes from historical dramas as
you walk through its serene landscapes? Strolling along the same paths once
walked by Joseon kings, you can embark on a timeless journey back to
the royal past.
I hope this guide has helped you appreciate Changdeokgung Huwon's charm. I’d love to hear about your experiences and impressions when you visit!
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