So, little did you guys know, but I took a trip in the TARDIS and found myself in the Joseon Dynasty.
Stepping back in time
When you visit Changdeokgung Palace and find yourself surrounded by its gardens, its structures, and the people dressed in Hanbok, that is exactly how you will feel – like you’ve stepped back in time.
You can almost imagine what it would be like to be a resident of this palace back in the 1400s.
The best time to go
I would suggest getting to Changdeokgung Palace earlier during the day, so as not to be surrounded by too many tourists and visitors. That way, you can immerse yourself in the calm environment and feel a sense of ease and serenity. It will just be you, the palace, and the few birds singing in the distance.
Interesting details
Unlike Gyeongbokgung, this palace is much smaller in size. My guess is it’s because the King lived in Gyeongbokgung and not this palace.
What I found very interesting was that in one section of the palace (in which the houses were of a different colour), they demonstrated Ondol heating, a heating system hidden beneath the floor, to visitors.
You could go inside the house (granted, you had to take off your shoes – but they did provide slippers) and see what Korean heating looked like back in the day!
More information for visiting
Hours of operation
The palace is closed Mondays. Hours also vary during the year, but it’s typically open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Can my wallet afford this?
Adults (25-64): ₩3,000 (~$3)
Children (under 24): Free
I didn’t know it was free for me because no one told me and in the spur of the moment at the palace I didn’t realize… so make sure if you’re under 24 to go in for free! (Unless they’ve changed their rules)
How do I get there?
Take the subway to Anguk Station and get out at Exit 3. Keep walking straight and you won’t miss the palace. I would say it’s approximately a 5 minute walk.
For more information about this beautiful palace, please refer to Visit Korea’s page.
Interested in exploring more of Seoul? Check out more of my adventures in South Korea here!
xx
I went there last new year on winter, less tourist, amazing place. U capture the moment very well on your photos…
Thank you very much for your sweet comment! And I am glad you also got to visit this beautiful palace – it’s such a wonderful place 🙂
Your welcome, anyway I’m Max, Nice to meet you,
http://www.poshpackerteam.wordpress.com
Nice to meet you as well! I’m Iman^^
These are beautiful. I love Korean palaces. I never get tired of them.
I completely agree with you on that! The palaces and the palace grounds are always so beautiful and give off a sense of sereness