Seoul's Five Royal Palaces: A Local's Complete Guide to History, Tickets, and Hidden Beauty
After living in Seoul for more than 30 years, I've visited all five royal palaces countless times.
At first, I saw them simply as famous tourist attractions. But over the years, these historic palaces became places where I could escape the fast pace of city life and enjoy a few quiet hours surrounded by history and nature.
Among them, Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden (Huwon) has always been my favorite.
Even though it's located in the heart of Seoul, the atmosphere feels surprisingly peaceful. Walking slowly past centuries-old trees, lotus ponds, and elegant pavilions, it's easy to forget that you're standing in one of Asia's busiest cities.
Whenever life felt overwhelming, I often reserved a guided tour of the Secret Garden and spent an afternoon wandering its quiet paths. Watching the changing seasons reflected in the ponds always helped me slow down and clear my mind.
If you're planning your first trip to Seoul, I highly recommend spending at least one day exploring its royal palaces. They offer one of the best opportunities to experience Korea's history, architecture, and traditional gardens beyond the city's modern skyline.
In this guide, I'll introduce all five royal palaces in Seoul, including their history, admission fees, transportation, highlights, and practical travel tips based on my own experiences.
Why Visit Seoul's Royal Palaces?
When most visitors think about Seoul, they picture skyscrapers, K-pop, shopping districts, and street food.
However, the city's royal palaces reveal another side of Korea.
Built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), these palaces served as the political and cultural heart of Korea for over 500 years.
Today, they offer visitors an opportunity to experience:
Traditional Korean architecture
Beautiful palace gardens
Centuries of Korean royal history
Quiet walking paths in the middle of Seoul
Excellent photography locations throughout every season
One of the biggest advantages is their accessibility. Every palace is easy to reach by subway, making them ideal for both first-time visitors and independent travelers.
Seoul's Five Royal Palaces at a Glance
Seoul's five officially recognized royal palaces are:
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace
Changgyeonggung Palace
Deoksugung Palace
Gyeonghuigung Palace
Although they were all built during the Joseon Dynasty, each palace has its own unique history and atmosphere.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace (경복궁)
The Largest and Most Famous Royal Palace in Korea
Built in 1395 by King Taejo, Gyeongbokgung was the first and largest royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty.
Although much of the palace was destroyed during the Japanese invasions of the late 16th century, extensive restoration projects have brought many of its magnificent buildings back to life.
Today, it remains Seoul's most visited palace and one of Korea's most recognizable landmarks.
Main Highlights
Geunjeongjeon (Throne Hall)
Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
National Folk Museum of Korea
How to Get There
By Subway
Line 3 — Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 5 (5-minute walk)
Line 5 — Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 2 (about 10-minute walk)
Admission Fee
Adults: KRW 3,000
Free admission for visitors wearing traditional Korean hanbok
Additional discounts or free admission may apply depending on age and eligibility.
Why Visit?
Korea's most iconic royal palace
Spectacular traditional architecture
Famous Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
Excellent location near Bukchon Hanok Village and Insadong
2. Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site That Blends Beautifully with Nature
Among Seoul's royal palaces, Changdeokgung feels the most harmonious with its natural surroundings.
Completed in 1405, it was designed to follow the existing landscape instead of reshaping it. This thoughtful design later earned the palace recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Following the Japanese invasions, Changdeokgung became the primary royal residence for many Joseon kings.
How to Get There
By Subway
Line 3 — Anguk Station, Exit 3
About a 5-minute walk
Admission Fee
Palace Admission: KRW 3,000
Secret Garden Tour: Separate admission fee (advance reservation recommended)
Changdeokgung Secret Garden (Huwon)
This is my favorite place anywhere in Seoul.
Unlike carefully landscaped gardens, the Secret Garden was designed to preserve the surrounding forest as naturally as possible.
Walking through its quiet paths, visitors discover peaceful ponds, traditional pavilions, ancient trees, and beautifully preserved woodland.
Every season transforms the scenery, but spring blossoms and autumn foliage are particularly unforgettable.
Why I Keep Returning
One of Seoul's most peaceful walking destinations
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Beautiful traditional Korean garden design
Perfect for photography and quiet reflection
3. Changgyeonggung Palace (창경궁)
A Peaceful Palace That Reflects Daily Royal Life
Originally built for members of the royal family, Changgyeonggung offers a quieter atmosphere than many of Seoul's larger palaces.
During Japan's colonial occupation, the palace was unfortunately converted into a zoo and botanical garden, but extensive restoration has restored much of its original appearance.
Today, it remains one of Seoul's most relaxing palace gardens.
How to Get There
By Subway
Line 4 — Hyehwa Station, Exit 4 (15-minute walk)
Line 3 — Anguk Station (15-minute walk)
Admission Fee
Adults: KRW 1,000
Highlights
Historic Grand Greenhouse
Peaceful walking paths
Beautiful evening openings during special seasons
Easy to combine with Changdeokgung
4. Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁)
Where Traditional Korea Meets Western Architecture
Unlike the other royal palaces, Deoksugung reflects Korea's transition into the modern era.
It served as the residence of Emperor Gojong during the Korean Empire and features both traditional Korean buildings and elegant Western-style architecture.
This unique combination makes it one of Seoul's most distinctive historical sites.
Main Attractions
Seokjojeon Hall
Junghwajeon Hall
Daehanmun Gate
Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
How to Get There
By Subway
City Hall Station (Lines 1 & 2), Exit 2
Approximately a 2-minute walk
Admission Fee
Adults: KRW 1,000
Why Visit?
Beautiful nighttime illumination
Western-style royal architecture
Easy walk to Jeongdong-gil and Seoul Plaza
One of Seoul's most photogenic palaces
5. Gyeonghuigung Palace (경희궁)
Seoul's Quietest Royal Palace
Compared with the other royal palaces, Gyeonghuigung receives far fewer visitors.
Although only part of the original palace has been restored, its peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent place for travelers looking to avoid crowds.
I often recommend it to visitors who enjoy slow travel and quiet photography.
How to Get There
By Subway
Line 5 — Seodaemun Station, Exit 4 (8-minute walk)
Or Gwanghwamun Station (approximately 10-minute walk)
Admission Fee
Free
Highlights
Quiet walking environment
Beautiful historic architecture
Conveniently located beside the Seoul Museum of History
Suggested One-Day Palace Itinerary
Morning
Gyeongbokgung Palace
National Palace Museum of Korea
National Folk Museum of Korea
Lunch near Gwanghwamun
Afternoon
Changdeokgung Palace
Secret Garden Tour
Changgyeonggung Palace
Evening
Deoksugung Palace
Walk along Jeongdong-gil
Enjoy Seoul's evening city lights
Save Money with the Royal Palace Integrated Pass
If you plan to visit several palaces, consider purchasing the Integrated Palace Pass.
The pass typically includes admission to:
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace
Changgyeonggung Palace
Deoksugung Palace
Availability and operating policies may change, so it's worth checking current information before your visit.
Estimated Budget for a Palace Tour (Per Person)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Integrated Palace Pass | KRW 10,000 |
| Lunch | KRW 12,000–20,000 |
| Coffee | KRW 6,000–8,000 |
| Subway Transportation | Around KRW 3,000 |
| Snacks | Around KRW 5,000 |
Estimated Total
Approximately KRW 35,000–50,000
Helpful Tips for Visiting Seoul's Royal Palaces
Visit Early in the Morning
The palaces are quieter, cooler, and better for photography before large tour groups arrive.
Wear a Hanbok
Visitors wearing traditional Korean hanbok often receive free admission at participating palaces and enjoy an even more memorable cultural experience.
Reserve the Secret Garden in Advance
Changdeokgung's Secret Garden requires a separate guided tour, and tickets frequently sell out during weekends and peak travel seasons.
Spring and Autumn Offer the Best Scenery
Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful maple leaves in autumn make the palace grounds especially beautiful.
Final Thoughts
Although Seoul is famous for its modern skyline, shopping districts, and vibrant nightlife, its royal palaces reveal the city's quieter and more historic side.
I've visited every palace many times over the years, yet Changdeokgung's Secret Garden remains the place I return to whenever I need a peaceful walk. Sitting beside its lotus ponds or strolling beneath ancient trees reminds me that even in one of the world's busiest cities, moments of calm still exist.
If this is your first trip to Seoul, begin with Gyeongbokgung to experience Korea's grandest palace. Then take time to explore Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung at a slower pace.
Each palace tells a different chapter of Korea's royal history, and together they offer one of the richest cultural experiences you'll find anywhere in Seoul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which royal palace in Seoul is best for first-time visitors?
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the best starting point because it is the largest palace, hosts the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, and is close to many other major attractions.
Which palace is the quietest?
Gyeonghuigung Palace is generally the least crowded, while Changdeokgung's Secret Garden offers one of the most peaceful walking experiences in Seoul.
Do I need to book Changdeokgung Secret Garden in advance?
Yes. The Secret Garden can only be visited through guided tours, and advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during spring and autumn.
How many palaces can I visit in one day?
Most visitors can comfortably explore three palaces in one full day. If you prefer a slower pace, two palaces plus the Secret Garden make an ideal itinerary.
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