SEOUL GUIDE
Changdeokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s most rewarding historic sites, but visiting its famous Secret Garden requires more planning than entering the main palace grounds. The palace buildings and the garden use separate tickets, and Secret Garden admission is limited to specific time slots.
The garden, also called Huwon or the Royal Garden, contains wooded paths, ponds, pavilions, residential buildings, and sloped terrain behind the main palace complex. Visitor numbers are restricted to protect the landscape and historic structures.
This Changdeokgung Secret Garden guide explains how to reserve a time slot, how much each ticket costs, when same-day tickets are released, how foreign-language sessions work, how long it takes to reach the garden entrance, and what happens when a visitor arrives late.
1. Changdeokgung Secret Garden at a Glance
Changdeokgung was constructed as a royal palace during the Joseon period and is especially admired for the way its buildings follow the natural terrain. Behind the main palace halls lies the Secret Garden, a large royal landscape designed around hills, forests, ponds, pavilions, and quiet residential areas.
The main palace area and the Secret Garden should be treated as two connected but separate attractions. Visitors can explore the palace buildings with a standard admission ticket, while entry into the Secret Garden requires an additional ticket for a designated time.
| Area |
Admission Style |
Suggested Time |
| Palace Buildings |
General admission and independent viewing |
1–1.5 hours |
| Secret Garden |
Separate timed ticket required |
About 70 minutes inside the garden |
| Complete Visit |
Palace ticket plus Secret Garden ticket |
3–4 hours including movement and waiting |
Two tickets are required
A Secret Garden reservation does not replace the palace admission ticket. Visitors must have valid admission to the palace buildings before walking to the Secret Garden entrance.
The official reservation page limits each Secret Garden session to a maximum of 100 people. Fifty places are allocated to online reservations and fifty are allocated to same-day on-site sales.
2. How to Get to Changdeokgung Palace
Anguk Station on Seoul Subway Line 3 is the most convenient subway station for many visitors. From the station area, follow current signs or a map application toward Changdeokgung Palace and Donhwamun, the main entrance gate.
The walk from the station to Donhwamun is only the first part of the journey. Visitors with a Secret Garden reservation must still purchase or validate the palace ticket and walk through the palace grounds to the garden entrance.
| Journey Stage |
Planning Time |
Possible Delay |
| Subway platform to street |
5–10 minutes |
Station transfer, elevators, crowds |
| Station area to Donhwamun |
About 5–10 minutes |
Traffic lights, navigation, weather |
| Ticketing and palace entry |
10–20 minutes |
Seasonal ticket queues and document checks |
| Palace entrance to garden entrance |
At least 15 minutes |
Photography, wrong turns, slow walking |
For a reserved garden session, plan to reach Donhwamun at least 30 to 45 minutes before the starting time. During spring and autumn peak periods, arriving even earlier is safer.
Use the garden entrance as the deadline
Your reservation time refers to arrival at the Secret Garden entrance, not arrival at Anguk Station, Donhwamun, or the palace ticket counter.
3. Palace Tickets and Secret Garden Tickets
Changdeokgung uses separate admission fees for the main palace buildings and the Secret Garden. International visitors should check the age category carefully and carry proof when requesting free or reduced admission.
| Ticket |
Foreign Visitor Category |
Official Price Checked July 29, 2026 |
| Palace Buildings |
Adult, age 19–64 |
₩3,000 |
| Palace Buildings |
Child or youth, age 7–18 |
₩1,500 |
| Secret Garden |
Adult, age 19–64 |
₩5,000 |
| Secret Garden |
Child or youth, age 7–18 |
₩2,500 |
| Secret Garden |
Senior, age 65 or older |
₩5,000 |
Under the standard foreign-visitor adult category, the combined palace and Secret Garden cost is ₩8,000. Children under age seven are among the listed free-admission categories, but reservation and proof procedures may still apply.
Free palace admission does not automatically mean free Secret Garden admission. The official fee page lists narrower free-admission conditions for the garden, so confirm the current rule for each visitor rather than assuming the two areas use identical exemptions.
A palace pass does not guarantee garden entry
Even visitors using a palace combination pass must secure a separate Secret Garden place because garden capacity is limited.
Check Official Palace Admission Fees
4. How to Reserve the Secret Garden
Online reservation is the most reliable option during weekends, public holidays, spring blossoms, and autumn foliage. The official system opens reservations at 10:00 six days before the desired visit date, excluding the visit date itself.
- Open the official Changdeokgung Secret Garden reservation page.
- Create or access the required reservation account.
- Select the visit date.
- Review available time slots and language labels.
- Select the visitor categories and number of tickets.
- Confirm the visitor and contact information.
- Complete payment before the payment deadline.
- Check the reservation confirmation and cancellation conditions.
- Prepare a separate palace admission ticket on the visit date.
The official system allows a maximum of ten visitors in one reservation and one reservation per visit date. Available sessions close when the allocated online inventory is sold out.
Payment must normally be completed within 24 hours of the reservation. When booking on the day before the visit, payment must be completed by 23:59 on the booking date. An unpaid reservation is automatically cancelled after the deadline.
Reservation opening example
For a Saturday visit, count backward six days without counting Saturday itself. Be ready at 10:00 on the resulting reservation-opening date.
Save access to the reservation account rather than depending only on an email screenshot. The mobile ticket is generated inside the reservation system close to the entry time.
Open the Official Secret Garden Reservation Page
5. Online Reservations and Same-Day Tickets
Each garden session has a maximum capacity of 100 visitors. The official allocation is divided evenly between online reservations and same-day on-site sales.
| Booking Method |
Inventory |
Sales Start |
Main Risk |
| Online Reservation |
50 visitors per session |
10:00, six days before the visit date |
Popular sessions sell out quickly |
| Same-Day Purchase |
50 visitors per session |
09:00 on the visit date |
Preferred time may be unavailable |
All same-day sessions begin selling at 09:00 rather than becoming available shortly before each tour. Visitors who arrive later in the morning may find that afternoon sessions are already sold out.
The garden ticket can normally be purchased only until 15 minutes before the relevant session. This sales deadline should not be treated as a recommended arrival time because the visitor must still reach the garden entrance.
Same-day tickets are not guaranteed
In April, May, October, and November, both online reservations and same-day tickets can sell out very quickly.
6. Foreign-Language Tours and Time Slots
Secret Garden sessions may be labeled by language or visitor category. Always read the current reservation calendar instead of using a timetable from an older article, because session times and languages can change by season or operational conditions.
The official rules state that Korean visitors cannot reserve foreign-visitor garden sessions unless they are accompanying an international visitor. In that situation, up to two Korean companions may enter with the international visitor.
Visitors enter at the reserved time and may explore individually after admission. Joining the official commentary is optional, but the timed-entry requirement still applies even when a visitor does not follow the guide.
| Tour Type |
Reservation Requirement |
Important Note |
| Secret Garden Session |
Timed ticket required |
Commentary participation is optional |
| Foreign-Visitor Session |
Select the correct visitor category |
Korean-only reservations are restricted |
| Palace Buildings English Commentary |
Separate from the garden reservation |
Official page currently lists 10:15 and 13:15, subject to change |
Palace commentary and garden entry are different
An English palace-building commentary session does not include automatic admission to the Secret Garden. Reserve the garden separately.
7. Getting from Donhwamun to the Secret Garden Entrance
The official reservation page warns that walking from the palace entrance to the Secret Garden entrance takes at least 15 minutes. This estimate assumes that the visitor already has the necessary tickets and moves without long stops.
First-time visitors often lose time photographing Donhwamun, checking the map, buying the palace ticket, using the restroom, or entering the main throne-hall route. When the garden reservation is early, walk directly toward the garden entrance and return to the palace buildings afterward.
Safe Arrival Schedule
- Reach Anguk Station about 45–60 minutes before the garden session.
- Reach Donhwamun about 30–45 minutes before the session.
- Complete ticketing immediately.
- Use the restroom before walking farther into the palace.
- Reach the Secret Garden entrance at least 10–15 minutes early.
Do not tour the main halls first when time is short
Missing a palace building does not cancel your garden ticket. Missing the garden starting time can result in refused entry without a refund.
8. Secret Garden Route and Main Highlights
The official standard route checked on July 29, 2026 was listed as the Secret Garden entrance, Buyongji Pond, Aeryeonji Pond, Yeongyeongdang, Gwallamji Pond, and a return toward the garden entrance. The route takes approximately 70 minutes.
The exact course may change because of weather, daylight, restoration, safety conditions, or administrative decisions. A famous location shown in an older photograph may not be included on the visit date.
Buyongji Pond
Buyongji is one of the best-known garden scenes, with a rectangular pond, pavilions, wooded slopes, and architecture reflected in the water. Because many visitors stop for photographs, remain aware of the group’s movement and do not block narrow paths.
Aeryeonji Pond
Aeryeonji offers another pond-and-pavilion landscape with a quieter scale. Seasonal plants, shadows, and reflections make the area look different throughout the year.
Yeongyeongdang
Yeongyeongdang presents a residential and ceremonial environment different from the formal throne-hall area. The buildings appear modest in scale but reveal how architectural spaces were arranged around courtyards and daily royal life.
Gwallamji Pond
Gwallamji is located deeper within the garden route and combines water, woodland, and pavilion views. The surrounding slopes and uneven ground make suitable walking shoes important.
| Garden Area |
Main Feature |
Visitor Tip |
| Buyongji Pond |
Iconic pond and pavilion view |
Take photographs without delaying the route |
| Aeryeonji Pond |
Intimate pond landscape |
Watch uneven edges and stone paths |
| Yeongyeongdang |
Royal residential architecture |
Respect restricted doorways and interiors |
| Gwallamji Pond |
Wooded inner-garden scenery |
Save energy for the return walk |
Ongnyucheon, sometimes written as Ogyucheon in romanized travel content, may be excluded because of restoration or seasonal route adjustments. Check the route displayed for the actual visit date.
9. How Long to Spend at Changdeokgung
The official palace-building route is approximately one kilometer and takes around 60 minutes without long photography stops. The Secret Garden route takes approximately 70 minutes, but the complete garden commitment is longer when walking and waiting are included.
| Visit Plan |
Recommended Time |
Included Areas |
| Palace highlights only |
1–1.5 hours |
Donhwamun, Injeongjeon, selected halls |
| Secret Garden commitment |
1.5–2 hours |
Entry walk, waiting, 70-minute route |
| Palace and garden |
2.5–3.5 hours |
Main palace route and garden |
| Detailed visit |
3.5–4.5 hours |
Photography, rest, Nakseonjae, full route |
Do not schedule another timed attraction immediately after the garden. The route may change, the group can move slowly, and exiting the palace takes additional time.
10. Best Time and Season to Visit
Spring and autumn are the most popular seasons because of fresh leaves, blossoms, and changing foliage. They also create the greatest ticket competition.
| Season |
Main Advantage |
Main Concern |
| Spring |
Fresh greenery and mild weather |
Fast ticket sales and pollen |
| Summer |
Dense green forest |
Heat, humidity, rain, shorter commentary during heat alerts |
| Autumn |
Famous foliage and cool temperatures |
Highest reservation competition |
| Winter |
Quieter atmosphere and clear structure views |
Cold, ice, bare vegetation, shorter daylight |
Morning sessions are useful during summer because temperatures are lower. Afternoon sessions may offer softer light in spring and autumn, but the garden closes earlier during shorter winter days.
The official palace-building schedule checked on July 29, 2026 was 09:00–18:00 from February through May, 09:00–18:30 from June through August, 09:00–18:00 in September and October, and 09:00–17:30 from November through January. Final palace admission closes one hour before each listed closing time.
Monday closure rule
Changdeokgung is normally closed on Monday. When Monday is a public or substitute holiday, the palace may open and close on the next non-holiday day instead.
11. Weather, Walking and Accessibility Tips
The Secret Garden is an outdoor landscape with slopes, stone surfaces, soil paths, stairs, and long walking sections. It should not be approached like an indoor museum.
- Wear stable shoes: Smooth soles can become slippery on wet stones and leaves.
- Carry water: Summer heat and humidity make the route tiring.
- Use the restroom first: Facilities may be limited once the timed route begins.
- Travel light: Large luggage and heavy shopping bags are unsuitable.
- Check rain conditions: Umbrellas can be difficult on narrow group paths.
- Protect against insects: Wooded areas can have mosquitoes during warm months.
- Allow recovery time: Older visitors may need rest after the garden route.
The official reservation page states that commentary may be shortened during heat advisories. The garden commentary may be reduced to approximately 35 minutes during a heat advisory and approximately 25 minutes during a heat warning.
Wheelchair users, visitors with limited mobility, and families using strollers should check current accessibility conditions before booking. Some historic paths and slopes may not be fully accessible, and route modifications can occur.
Weather can change the route
Heavy rain, snow, ice, strong wind, extreme heat, restoration work, and safety inspections can shorten or alter the normal garden course.
12. Recommended Changdeokgung Routes
Early Garden Reservation Route
Anguk Station → Donhwamun → Palace Ticket Check → Secret Garden Entrance → Garden Route → Palace Buildings
Walk directly to the garden entrance after entering the palace. Explore Injeongjeon, Seonjeongjeon, Huijeongdang, Daejojeon, and Nakseonjae afterward.
Afternoon Garden Reservation Route
Donhwamun → Injeongjeon → Selected Palace Buildings → Restroom and Water Break → Secret Garden Entrance → Garden Route
Stop touring the palace at least 30 minutes before the garden session. Do not attempt to finish every building when the reservation time is approaching.
Complete Palace and Garden Route
Donhwamun → Geumcheongyo Bridge → Palace Offices → Injeongjeon → Seonjeongjeon → Huijeongdang → Daejojeon → Secret Garden → Nakseonjae
Allow at least three to four hours and schedule a short rest before the garden.
Mobility-Conscious Route
Donhwamun → Injeongjeon → Short Palace Route → Rest → Secret Garden → Direct Exit
Prioritize the reserved garden experience and reduce optional palace detours. Confirm current accessibility before purchasing the garden ticket.
No Garden Ticket Route
Donhwamun → Main Palace Buildings → Nakseonjae → Palace Exit
A sold-out Secret Garden does not make the palace visit worthless. The main buildings remain a substantial attraction and normally require no garden reservation.
13. Cancellation, Late Arrival and Ticket Rules
The official reservation system applies cancellation penalties according to the time remaining before the reserved session.
| Cancellation Time |
Official Penalty |
| Until two hours before the session |
No penalty |
| From two hours before the session until the starting time |
10% penalty |
| After the session begins |
Cancellation unavailable and 100% penalty |
Visitors who fail to reach the Secret Garden entrance by the reserved starting time may be refused entry and may not receive a refund. Staff cannot normally delay the entire session for a late visitor.
The mobile ticket button is generated approximately 30 minutes before the admission time. After the ticket has been scanned, it cannot be reused or refunded.
Visitors who prefer a paper ticket can present the reservation information at a ticket machine or staffed counter. Allow additional time for this process during peak seasons.
- Do not resell palace or garden tickets.
- Carry proof for age-based or free admission.
- Confirm the visitor nationality category.
- Check the payment deadline after reserving.
- Cancel early when travel plans change.
- Do not assume an unused ticket will be refunded automatically.
14. Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Changdeokgung Palace?
A general reservation is not normally required for independent palace-building admission. The Secret Garden requires a limited timed ticket.
Can I enter the Secret Garden with only a garden ticket?
No. You must also have valid admission to the palace buildings because the garden entrance is inside the palace grounds.
When do Secret Garden reservations open?
Online reservations open at 10:00 six days before the desired visit date, excluding the visit date itself.
Are same-day Secret Garden tickets available?
Yes. Fifty tickets per session are allocated to same-day sales beginning at 09:00, but availability is not guaranteed.
How much is the Secret Garden ticket?
The official price checked on July 29, 2026 was ₩5,000 for adults and seniors and ₩2,500 for visitors aged seven through eighteen. A palace ticket is additional.
How long is the Secret Garden route?
The official standard route takes approximately 70 minutes. Allow additional time to reach the entrance and leave the palace.
Is the Secret Garden tour guided?
Visitors enter at a designated time, and official commentary may be available. Participation in the commentary is optional, but timed admission is mandatory.
What happens when I arrive late?
Visitors who miss the session starting time may be refused entry without a refund. Reach the garden entrance at least 10 to 15 minutes early.
Can Korean visitors reserve a foreign-language session?
Korean-only reservations are restricted during foreign-visitor garden times. Up to two Korean companions may enter when accompanying an international visitor.
Is the Secret Garden suitable for strollers?
The route includes slopes, stone paths, soil surfaces, and stairs. Check current accessibility conditions before reserving and consider a baby carrier when permitted and practical.
Is Changdeokgung open on Monday?
Monday is the standard closing day. When Monday is a public or substitute holiday, the palace may open and close on the next non-holiday day.
Check Secret Garden Reservations
Check Official Palace Information
Final planning reminder
Reservation times, language sessions, ticket prices, palace hours, route access, weather procedures, and restoration areas may change. Confirm the official information before visiting.
