Connect With Nature And History At Seoul's Changdeokgung Palace

Explore the magnificent throne hall

After passing through the two-story tall main gate and walking for a few minutes, you will come upon Injeongjeon, the Throne Hall and most important part of the palace. This was the main meeting place for conferences between the king and his visitors. The original structure was completed in 1405, but was destroyed and subsequently rebuilt twice in the 16th and 19th centuries. From a distance, the decor looks rather simple, combining a red exterior with a green trim and a black roof; however, as you get closer, you’ll be amazed by the intricate details adorning the pavilion roof. Brilliant yellow, blue, and pink paint form dizzyingly beautiful designs.

As you approach the Throne Hall, you will notice stone markers on the walkway. These markers are inscribed with different rankings and designed where the king’s staff stood during meetings. The most powerful stood closest to the king.

The only thing more spectacular than the exterior is the interior. Wood floors lead up to the king’s throne, a magnificent seat adorned with spectacular carvings and paintings. Yellow lamps are suspended from high ceiling and curtains dress the windows making it easy to imagine what the castle looked like centuries ago.

Admire the other palace buildings

While Injeongjeon is certainly the main highlight, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t other buildings worth checking out. Seonjeongjeon, or the King’s Council Hall, is one such example. Like the Throne Hall, this building was used by the king and his officers to discuss political affairs. This is the only remaining palace building with a blue roof. Interestingly enough, the blue palace roofs inspired the current designs of the South Korean president’s residence, appropriately named the Blue House.

Another building worth visiting is Daejeon, the Queen’s Residence. It is located behind the King’s Residence but it is no less spectacular. The building is filled with historically accurate furniture and decorations, helping to create a lived-in impression

Enjoy the tranquility of the Secret Garden

If you’re not too tired from exploring the main palace, venture behind the Queen’s Residence to the Secret Garden. The garden is huge, taking up 60% of the palace’s grounds. Because of its dipping valleys and meandering paths, it is impossible to see the entire garden at once. It’s definitely worth your time to wander around and enjoy the beautiful ponds and lush greenery. This garden was designed as a place of relaxation for the royal family, but it was also used to host various outdoor events such as military exercises and archery competitions. The king occasionally used the land to raise grains while the queens attempted silk farming. Centuries ago tigers could be seen wandering around. While that is no longer the case, the garden remains a paradise for birdlife.

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