If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, chances are you’ve already added at least one of the royal palaces to your itinerary. But with multiple options, many travelers ask the same question: Should I visit Changdeokgung Palace or Gyeongbokgung Palace?
Both are iconic, steeped in history, and stunning in their own way. Yet, they offer distinctly different experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Korea or a returning traveler looking to explore more deeply, this post will help you understand the key differences between Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung, so you can decide which best suits your travel interests.
A Quick Overview of Korea’s Two Most Famous Palaces
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and arguably the most famous of Korea’s five grand palaces. Built in 1395, it was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty and served as the central hub of royal life.
Changdeokgung Palace, built slightly later in 1405, became a preferred residential palace for many Joseon kings. It’s best known for its harmonious integration with nature and its secluded Secret Garden.
Both are UNESCO-listed and beautifully preserved, but they serve different roles in Korean heritage — one symbolizes political power and royal authority, while the other reflects introspection and natural elegance.
Size and Layout
Gyeongbokgung Palace:
Massive in scale, with wide open courtyards, ceremonial halls, and high stone walls
Designed based on Confucian and Chinese geomantic principles
Imposing front gate (Gwanghwamun) facing central Seoul
Houses museums: National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum
Great for photography, especially wide-angle shots of architecture against Bukhansan mountain backdrop
Changdeokgung Palace:
More intimate, asymmetrical, and nestled into the forested hillside
Prioritizes natural topography — buildings are integrated into nature
Famous for its Secret Garden (Huwon), which takes up over half of the palace grounds
Feels quieter, more meditative — ideal for a slow, immersive experience
If you’re looking for grand palace architecture, Gyeongbokgung wins. If you prefer a palace that feels like a peaceful retreat, Changdeokgung is the place to go.
Historical Significance
Gyeongbokgung:
First and largest royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty
Symbol of national pride and the political center of Joseon Korea
Destroyed during Japanese invasions and rebuilt multiple times
A symbol of Korea’s restoration efforts and national resilience
Changdeokgung:
Became the de facto main palace after Gyeongbokgung was destroyed in the 16th century
Served as the home to the last monarchs of Korea, including Emperor Sunjong
Famous for its Secret Garden, where kings studied, wrote poetry, and held private meetings
Recognized by UNESCO for its outstanding example of Far Eastern palace architecture in harmony with its natural setting
In short, Gyeongbokgung reflects Korea’s outward identity and power, while Changdeokgung reveals its inward elegance and refined court life.
Secret Garden vs Guard Ceremony
One of the biggest decision points between the two palaces is what type of experience you want:
Changdeokgung’s Secret Garden (Huwon):
Requires a guided tour (limited daily slots)
Features ponds, pavilions, and wooded paths
Offers an almost spiritual, nature-immersive experience
Takes around 90 minutes to walk through
Best visited in spring and autumn for seasonal colors
Gyeongbokgung’s Royal Guard Changing Ceremony:
Takes place twice daily (10:00 and 14:00) at Gwanghwamun Gate
A colorful reenactment of historical military protocols
Great for families, photographers, and anyone interested in royal pageantry
No extra ticket required — just arrive on time and watch from outside the main gate
If you’re more interested in history with nature, go for Changdeokgung’s garden. If you want dynamic visuals and ceremony, Gyeongbokgung offers more.
Hanbok Access and Photo Opportunities
Both palaces allow free entry if you wear hanbok (traditional Korean dress), and each offers fantastic photo spots. However, the vibe differs.
Gyeongbokgung:
Dramatic architecture, massive gates, wide courtyards
Ideal for large group photos or full hanbok styling
Often more crowded due to popularity
Iconic backdrops like Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and Heungnyemun Gate
Changdeokgung:
Serene settings, forested backdrops, and softer natural light
More romantic, especially around the Secret Garden
Less crowded, better for casual or candid photos
The garden has less architectural drama, but more poetic elegance
If you’re dressing up and want that bold, postcard shot, Gyeongbokgung is better. If you want relaxed, dreamy photo vibes, go to Changdeokgung.
Accessibility and Location
Both palaces are located in Jongno-gu, the heart of Seoul’s historic center, and can easily be visited on the same day if you’re up for it.
Gyeongbokgung:
Subway: Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station (Exit 5)
Easy access from Gwanghwamun Square, Cheonggyecheon, and Blue House
Good combination with National Palace Museum or Bukchon Hanok Village
Changdeokgung:
Subway: Line 3, Anguk Station (Exit 3)
10-minute walk from Gyeongbokgung or Bukchon
Easy to pair with Insadong, Changgyeonggung Palace, or the Hanok alleys
If you’re short on time, Gyeongbokgung is more centrally located and straightforward to visit. But both are walkable from each other — just a 15-minute scenic stroll apart.
Admission Fees and Hours
Gyeongbokgung Palace:
Open 09:00 to 18:00 (Closed Tuesdays)
Entry: 3,000 KRW (free with hanbok)
Guard Ceremony: Free to watch, no ticket needed
Museums inside are free with palace admission
Changdeokgung Palace:
Open 09:00 to 18:00 (Closed Mondays)
Palace admission: 3,000 KRW
Secret Garden: 8,000 KRW (requires guided tour reservation)
Plan your visit based on the day of the week — if it’s Monday, Gyeongbokgung is open and Changdeokgung is closed, and vice versa on Tuesday.
Which Palace Is Better for You?
Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
| Feature | Gyeongbokgung | Changdeokgung |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Largest and grandest | Smaller, more intimate |
| Style | Formal, symmetrical | Natural, integrated with nature |
| Garden Access | No major garden area | Secret Garden is a highlight |
| Crowd Level | Busier, especially weekends | Quieter, more relaxed |
| Best Photo Ops | Gates, courtyards, hanbok shots | Forest paths, ponds, pavilions |
| Cultural Activities | Guard ceremony, museum visits | Guided historical garden tour |
| UNESCO Recognition | No (as of 2025) | Yes (World Heritage Site) |
You Don’t Have to Choose Just One
If time allows, visiting both palaces gives you the full picture of Korea’s royal legacy — the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung and the serenity of Changdeokgung. But if you must choose:
Pick Gyeongbokgung if you want impressive scale, royal symbolism, and cultural performances
Pick Changdeokgung if you prefer elegance, nature, and a quieter, more reflective experience
Either way, you’re walking through centuries of living history in the heart of Seoul — and that’s worth every step.