Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden

Seoul, South Korea

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Changdeokgung Palace is a famous royal palace in Seoul, South Korea. It was built in 1405 during the Joseon Dynasty and is one of the best-preserved palaces in the country. The palace name means "Prospering Virtue Palace" and it was often the favored home of Joseon kings. It stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique design and historical importance.

The palace blends with its natural surroundings. Unlike other palaces that had strictly designed layouts, Changdeokgung follows the shape of the land, placing buildings and halls around beautiful hills and gardens. The buildings are made mainly of wood, set on stone platforms, and have graceful, tiled roofs. There are large gates, main halls for ceremonies, cozy living quarters, and peaceful courtyards.

The grounds have several important buildings, including Injeongjeon Hall, Daejojeon Hall, Seonjeongjeon Hall, and Nakseonjae Hall. These were used for official events, administrative work, and as homes for the royal family. Throughout history, Changdeokgung was heavily damaged, especially during the Japanese invasion in 1592, but it was restored and continued to be used by kings and royal families for centuries.

Behind the main palace buildings lies the Secret Garden, called Huwon in Korean. This garden was a private refuge for the king and royal family. It makes up almost 60% of the palace grounds and is famous for its natural beauty, including centuries-old trees, lotus ponds, streams, and pavilions.

The Secret Garden was carefully designed to keep its original landscape as natural as possible. Pavilions, bridges, and small halls were added only when needed, creating a peaceful place where the royal family could relax, write poetry, or hold small gatherings. Some famous spots in the garden are Buyongjeong Pavilion, Buyongji Pond, Juhamnu Pavilion, and Aeryeonjeong Pavilion. The garden looks especially beautiful in autumn, with colorful leaves reflecting in the ponds.