Changdeokgung Palace (Secret Garden)
I was planning to visit Changdeokgung Palace for a hanbok photo shoot and went online to make a reservation. That’s when I stumbled upon an event called “Muwon Jajeok.” Curious, I looked it up and it turns out to be a special early-morning tour of the Secret Garden before the palace officially opens to the public. It sounded too interesting to miss, so I booked it right away and went!
Since Donhwamun, the main gate of Changdeokgung, is currently under renovation, entry was through Geumhomun Gate after showing ID and the admission ticket.
It was quite surreal to see Changdeokgung so empty, completely free of crowds. We walked quietly while listening to our guide’s explanations. Along the way, beautiful peonies were blooming all over the grounds.
It had rained heavily the day before, and the morning of the visit was clear and sunny. Mist rose gently from the trees, creating a breathtakingly serene scene. The temperature was perfect, not too hot, not too cold.
Walking leisurely along the forested path under the guidance of our leader was such a peaceful and refreshing experience.
After a short uphill walk, we reached the area behind Buyongji Pond. From beyond the wall, we could glimpse Heeujeong Pavilion.
We began the guided tour at Seohyanggak. Inside, both Seohyanggak and the first floor of Juhamnu were open for visitors to freely explore or relax. Cushions had been thoughtfully placed for guests to sit and take in the surroundings, and it felt like such a rare privilege.
Looking out at Buyongji from Seohyanggak was such a unique perspective, one you’d never experience during a regular visit. I felt lucky to see this familiar place from a new angle.
From Juhamnu, the view of Buyongji was equally stunning.
Behind Juhamnu, there’s a quiet space that leads to Cheonseokjeong Pavilion, tucked away in the back.
Around Buyongjeong and Buyongji, camping chairs were set up so visitors could sit and enjoy the peaceful scenery at their own pace.
I never paid much attention to the view of Juhamnu and Seohyanggak before, but seeing them from this new angle made me think I’ll experience them differently every time I return.
Being able to sit down and drink tea at Yeonghwadang was such a rare and calming experience.
We were told that we could go up to Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, so we made our way there. The view of Aeryeonji Pond from the pavilion, something you can’t usually see, was incredibly beautiful.
It was such a joy to experience these rare, otherwise inaccessible views of the Secret Garden.
After completing the tour, we returned to Yeonghwadang once more. I sat there sipping tea just like a guest from another time; it felt so peaceful.
As the free exploration time came to an end, we made our way back. The time felt far too short. We exited through the Secret Garden’s gate.
Once you reach the entrance of the Secret Garden again, the guided portion of the event ends. From there, you’re free to explore the rest of Changdeokgung Palace at your own pace.
I took a quiet stroll around Nakseonjae before the general public arrived.
I noticed a group of foreign tourists in front of Injeongjeon Hall. it was lovely to see how popular Changdeokgung is with international visitors.
This was my second time joining the early-morning Secret Garden event at Changdeokgung. I went last summer, and this year it was held in beautiful May weather. It was such a pleasant and memorable experience. Since the tickets are hard to get, I truly hope you get the chance to join if you're interested!
Address : 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Phone : +82-2-3668-2300
Operation Hours : Tuesday-Sunday : 09:00 - 18:00 (Mon Closed)
Instagram : Check out more photos
Website : royal.khs.go.kr
Source : https://blog.naver.com/ahg0717/223870453860
Writer : ahg0717
Special thanks to ahg0717
changdeokgung palace secret garden seoul