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Discover a serene escape in the heart of Seoul with Changgyunggung Palace, a historic hidden treasure nestled in bustling Jongno district. As one of Seoul’s must-visit palaces, it shines during spring cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and popular night openings. Here's your complete guide for a cultured and sensory-filled day out.
🏯 Quick History of Changgyunggung
- Established: 1483 by King Seongjong for his three queens
- Function: A living space for Joseon royalty, later served as an auxiliary palace to Changdeokgung
- Japanese Occupation: Converted into a zoo and botanical garden
- Restoration: Returned to its original splendor after Liberation
📍 Top 5 Highlights Inside the Palace
- Okcheon Bridge – The oldest bridge in Changgyunggung, perfect for photos
- Myeongjeongjeon Hall – The central throne hall used for royal ceremonies
- Chundangji Pond – Romantic pavilion setting, stunning in spring & autumn
- Gyeongchunjeon Hall – Queenly quarters showcasing court lifestyle
- Night Opening Views – Lit-up palace architecture under serene lights
🎟️ Ticket Info & Hours
- Admission: KRW 1,000 (free for seniors 65+)
- Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM (last entry 8 PM); Closed Mondays
- Combo Ticket: KRW 10,000 for access to Cheonggyunggung, Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung, Jongmyo, and Changgyunggung. Great value!
🌙 Night Opening Highlights
- When: Limited spring and fall seasons (advance booking sometimes required)
- Must-See Spots: Illuminated views at Chundangji Pond, Myeongjeongjeon, and Honghwamon Gate
☕ Palace Amenities
- Small café and souvenir shop inside—grab postcards, traditional crafts, or a drink
- Lockers available for storing bags and belongings during your visit
🚗 How to Get There
- By subway:
- Hyehwa Station (Line 4), Exit 4 → ~10-minute walk
- Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 3 → ~15-minute walk
- By car: On-site parking (KRW 150 per 5 minutes for small vehicles)
📸 Tips & Visitor Notes
- Bring your camera—it’s packed with photo-worthy spots (pond, pavilions, bamboo groves)
- Free admission when wearing a hanbok—great for stunning photos!
- Best time to visit: Spring (cherry blossoms) or fall (red foliage)
- Pair with Changdeokgung Palace for a full heritage walking route—reserve the Secret Garden in advance
- Summer tip: Shade is scarce—bring a hat, parasol, and water; avoid midday visits
🗺️ Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
- Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden – UNESCO-listed, tranquil royal garden (reserve online)
- Seosun-La-gil (near Seoul National University Hospital) – Hidden alley lined with book cafés and artisanal shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll (~5 min walk)
- Hyehwa / Daehangno – Theater district with performances, art, cafés, and indie bookstores (~10 min walk)
- Jongmyo Shrine – UNESCO heritage site with sacred royal rituals and peaceful garden paths (~7 min walk)
- Changsin-dong Sewing Village & Eum Pium Sewing Museum – Traditional crafts, workshops, cozy artisanal lanes (~15 min walk or 2 bus stops)
✨ Final Thoughts
Changgyunggung Palace isn’t just beautiful—it’s the start of a cultural route that weaves Seoul’s lesser-known treasures into one day. Begin with a peaceful palace stroll, then dive into the vibrant alleyways of Seosun-La-gil, Hyehwa’s artistic buzz, or the craft-filled Changsin-dong. Say hello to a day of mindful exploration and Seoul’s best-kept secrets.
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