Seoul is a captivating city where modernity and history coexist in harmony. Amidst the complex urban landscape, serene palaces seamlessly blend together to create a unique charm. Let us travel back in time to the majestic "Changgyeonggung Palace," which exudes a subtle grandeur and restrained beauty.
Small but cozy charm
Changgyeonggung Palace
Reference: shutterstock.com

Reference: shutterstock.com

Reference: shutterstock.com

Reference: shutterstock.com

This palace was built to supplement insufficient residential space in Changdeokgung Palace. After Gyeongbokgung Palace was destroyed during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592, this palace served as the main palace along with Changdeokgung Palace. It is on a smaller scale than the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, but it has a modest and restrained beauty. The buildings are constructed in harmony with the surrounding mountains and hilly terrain, showcasing a nature-friendly atmosphere. It is recommended to explore both Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung Palaces because they are adjacent and separated by a fence. Crossing the Yulgok-ro Pedestrian Overpass will also lead you to Jongmyo Shrine.
Recommended route for a seamless exploration
Recommended sightseeing course
Honghwamun Gate → Okcheongyo Bridge → Myeongjeongjeon Hall → Munjeongjeon Hall → Gwancheondae Observatory Area → Sungmundang Hall → Haminjeong Pavilion → Tongmyeongjeon Hall → Jagyeongjeon Hall Site → Chundangji Pond → Grand Greenhouse → Gwandeokjeong Pavilion
· Estimated time: 90 minutes
Reference: shutterstock.com

Not to be missed
Major spots in Changgyeonggung Palace
- Reference: shutterstock.comHonghwamun GateIt is the main gate of Changgyeonggung Palace. Unlike most main gates, it faces east rather than south. It is difficult to appreciate the full view of Honghwamun Gate from the front due to its proximity to the road. The view from within the palace is more stunning.
- Reference: shutterstock.comMyeongjeongjeon HallIt is the main hall of Changgyeonggung Palace and the only national treasure. It was destroyed during the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1592 but was reconstructed in 1616, making it the oldest surviving main hall among all the Joseon palaces.
- Reference: Korea Tourism OrganizationMunjeongjeon HallIt is the council hall of Changgyeonggung Palace. It is the office where the king conducted daily duties with his officials. It is well-known as a place where King Yeongjo confined his son, the Crown Prince, in a wooden rice chest.
- Reference: shutterstock.comHaminjeong PavilionThis small pavilion was used by the king to host honored officials who had passed state examinations. It's a great spot to unwind and take in the view from the wooden balcony. A plaque on the ceiling displays a poem called "Sasi" that beautifully describes the charm of each season.
- Reference: shutterstock.comTongmyeongjeon HallThis is the sleeping quarters of the queen, and it is known as the most prestigious chamber among the living spaces located in the inner part of the palace. One of the most famous stories about this place is that of Huibin Jang, the concubine, who was envious of Queen Inhyeon and buried hideous objects in the vicinity of Tongmyeongjeon Hall to curse her.
- Reference: shutterstock.comJagyeongjeon Hall SiteJagyeongjeon Hall was built by King Jeongjo for his mother shortly after his coronation. A fire destroyed the structure, leaving only the site. A pine tree forest path connects it to Chundangji Pond, making it popular as a walking trail.
Taking place in front of a tranquil palace
Changgyeonggung Palace photo spots
- Reference: shutterstock.comGrand GreenhouseThis is Korea's first Western-style greenhouse, and its contemporary and elegant interior design makes it a popular photography location. It was built by the Japanese during their colonial rule to degrade the palace's dignity, and it stands as a testament to its beautiful and poignant history.
- Reference: shutterstock.comChundangji PondIt is a pond located in the backyard of Changgyeonggung Palace. It is popular for its beautiful autumn foliage, which attracts a large number of visitors each year for photos. There are benches around the pond that are ideal for relaxing and taking in the scenery.
- Reference: shutterstock.comOkcheongyo BridgeIt is a bridge that connects the main gate, "Honghwamun Gate," to the middle gate, "Myeongjeongmun Gate." Beginning in early March, this bridge is surrounded by various spring flowers, such as Japanese apricot blossoms, apricot blossoms, and plum blossoms that bloom in succession.
- Reference: Korea Tourism OrganizationBinyangmun GateIt is the back gate of Myeongjeongjeon Hall that connects the workspace, Oejeon, and the living space, Naejeon. You can take unique photos using the "Cheonrang" Corridor built between Myeongjeongjeon Hall and Binyangmun Gate.
- Reference: shutterstock.comHwagye in the living quarters areaIt is a garden set up inside the living quarters. It can be seen after passing through Binyangmun Gate. In spring, white Japanese apricot blossoms, pink azaleas, and yellow forsythias bloom vividly, lending a different feel to Okcheongyo Bridge.
Making Changgyeonggung Palace even more special
How to enjoy Changgyeonggung Palace to the fullest
Free guided tour of Changgyeonggung Palace - The sorrowful history of Changgyeonggung Palace
When it comes to palace tours, the more you know about their history, the more enjoyable the experience. This is especially true for the painful history of Changgyeonggung Palace. Let us hear stories about the palace, such as the story of Huibin Jang, Queen Inhyeon's concubine, the reason why the stone pagoda from Gyeonggi-do was moved to Changgyeonggung Palace, and why Changgyeonggung Palace was once known as Changgyeongwon Park. There is no need to make a separate reservation; simply show up at the designated departure time.
Useful tips!
If you can't make it on time for the guided tour, you can also rent an audio guide (3,000 won).
Brief information
· Operating hours: Please refer to the website.
· Duration: Approx. 1 hour
· Location: In front of Okcheongyo Bridge
Changgyeonggung Palace night tour: Changgyeonggung Palace open all year round at night
The "Palace Night Tour" is a must-see experience that allows you to see the tranquil beauty of the palace shine brightly under colorful lights. Each season, this popular attraction sells out quickly, so get your tickets as soon as they go on sale. The palace welcomes visitors every night of the year, and there is no need to make a separate reservation to enjoy the nighttime beauty of Changgyeonggung Palace. So, go to the palace and spend the night as you please.
Reference: shutterstock.com

Reference: shutterstock.com

Reference: shutterstock.com

Brief information
· Operating hours: 09:00 AM - 09:00 PM (last admission at 08:00 PM)
· Fee: 1,000 won
K-Royal Culture Festival - Experience the Palace Like Never Before
Every May, Korea's largest traditional cultural festival is held. It is an annual event that takes place at five grand palaces in Seoul, including Changgyeonggung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Changdeokgung Palace, as well as Jongmyo Shrine and Sajikdan Altar. It is especially popular among families because it coincides with Family Month, which includes Children's Day. Various programs such as theater performances, concerts, and traditional ceremonies that are difficult to see on a regular basis are featured to highlight these palaces.
Reference: chf.or.kr/brd/board/644/L/SITES/202/menu/530?brdType=R&thisPage=1&bbIdx=111054&searchField=&searchText=

Reference: chf.or.kr/brd/board/644/L/SITES/202/menu/530?brdType=R&thisPage=1&bbIdx=111054&searchField=&searchText=

Reference: chf.or.kr/brd/board/644/L/SITES/202/menu/530?brdType=R&thisPage=1&bbIdx=111054&searchField=&searchText=

Reference: chf.or.kr/brd/board/644/L/SITES/202/menu/530?brdType=R&thisPage=1&bbIdx=111054&searchField=&searchText=

Brief information
· Date: Every May (subject to change each year)
· Location: Five major palaces in Seoul, as well as Jongmyo Shrine and Sajikdan Altar
Don't miss out!
Useful tips to know before visiting!
✓ Closed every Monday
✓ Free admission for children under 6 and senior citizens over 65
✓ Free admission on the last Wednesday of every month
✓ Free admission when wearing a Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing)
✓ Enter directly by tapping your transportation card at the entrance, without the need for a separate admission ticket