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Published on March 26, 2026

The Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace: A Royal Retreat

Nestled behind the grand halls of Changdeokgung Palace lies a serene landscape known as Huwon, or the Secret Garden. This exquisite royal retreat offers visitors a tranquil escape, showcasing a masterful blend of traditional Korean landscaping and natural beauty. Discover a hidden world where history, nature, and royal elegance intertwine.

Changdeokgung Palace: A UNESCO Masterpiece

Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as one of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). Unlike its more geometrically structured counterpart,Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung was designed to harmonize with the surrounding natural topography, following the principles of Pungsu-jiri (geomancy). This design philosophy is most evident in its spectacular rear garden, the Huwon, which served as a private sanctuary for the royal family.

The Huwon: A Glimpse into Royal Serenity

The Secret Garden, or Huwon (literally "Rear Garden"), spans approximately 78 acres, making up about 60% of the entire palace grounds. It was originally calledBukwon(North Garden) orGeumwon(Forbidden Garden) because access was strictly limited to the king and his royal family. Here, they engaged in various activities, from leisurely strolls and picnics to archery and quiet contemplation, all amidst meticulously preserved natural landscapes.

What makes the Huwon truly special is its design philosophy. Instead of imposing artificial symmetry, the garden embraces the existing valleys, hills, and trees. Pavilions, ponds, and streams are strategically placed to complement the natural environment, creating a sense of understated elegance and profound tranquility that changes with every season.

Did you know?The Secret Garden's design is considered a prime example of traditional Korean garden landscaping, prioritizing harmony with nature over artificial manipulation. Many of the trees are hundreds of years old, some dating back to the palace's construction.

Exploring the Four Main Areas of Huwon

A guided tour through the Secret Garden reveals several distinct areas, each with its own charm and historical significance. While the entire garden flows seamlessly, these sections highlight different architectural and natural features:

Buyongji Pond Area

This is often the first significant stop on a Secret Garden tour. The Buyongji Pond is a rectangular pond with a small circular island in its center, symbolizing the heavens (circle) and the earth (square). Dominating the pond is the exquisiteBuyongjeong Pavilion, a cross-shaped structure built on stilts, seemingly floating on the water. Nearby, theJuhamnu Pavilion, a royal library, and theYeonghwadang Hall, where state exams were sometimes held, complete this picturesque scene. This area was a popular spot for the king to relax, read, and enjoy the views.

Aeryeonji Pond Area

Further into the garden, you'll encounter the smaller, more intimate Aeryeonji Pond. TheAeryeonjeong Pavilionstands gracefully beside it, offering a peaceful spot for quiet reflection. The name "Aeryeon" means "love of lotus," reflecting the pond's historical presence of beautiful lotus flowers during the summer months. This area provides a sense of seclusion and natural beauty, perfectly embodying the garden's tranquil ethos.

Gwanramji Pond Area

The Gwanramji Pond area is notable for its unique fan-shapedGwanramjeong Pavilion, which is one of the few pavilions built directly over the water. This design allowed the royal family to enjoy the surrounding scenery from a privileged vantage point. Adjacent to this area is the famousOngnyucheon Stream(Jade Stream). Here, a small waterfall flows into a stream, around which five small, distinctively styled pavilions are built. Kings would often hold poetry contests here, floating wine cups down the stream and composing verses as the cups passed by.

Jondeokjeong Pavilion Area

This area houses the largest and most ornate pavilion in the Secret Garden, theJondeokjeong Pavilion. Featuring a distinctive hexagonal roof and interior decorations, it served as a place for the king to contemplate and reflect. Nearby, theGyeongsajeong PavilionandPyeomusa Pavilionadd to the area's historical charm. The Jondeokjeong area is surrounded by ancient trees and lush foliage, creating a majestic and timeless atmosphere.

Architectural Harmony with Nature

One of the most striking aspects of the Secret Garden is its harmonious integration of man-made structures with the natural world. Unlike many European gardens that emphasize geometric precision, the Huwon celebrates the organic beauty of its landscape. Pavilions are built with minimal disruption to the existing terrain, often incorporating natural elements like rocks and trees into their design. The changing seasons bring dramatic transformations to the garden, from the vibrant blossoms of spring and lush greens of summer to the fiery reds and golds of autumn and the quiet, snow-dusted serenity of winter.

Historical Significance and Royal Life

For centuries, the Secret Garden was the heart of royal leisure and contemplation. It bore witness to countless moments in Joseon history, from kings seeking solace and inspiration to queens enjoying afternoon tea. It was a place for intimate banquets, scholarly discussions, and even agricultural lessons, where the king would symbolically plow a field to encourage good harvests. The garden provides a tangible link to the daily lives and inner world of the Joseon monarchs.

Planning Your Visit to the Secret Garden

A visit to the Secret Garden is an essential part of the Changdeokgung Palace experience, but it requires careful planning due to its unique access policy.

Guided Tours Only

To preserve its delicate ecosystem and historical integrity, access to the Huwon is restricted to guided tours only. These tours are offered in various languages (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese) at specific times throughout the day.

  • Booking in Advance:It is highly recommended to book your tour tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn) or if you require an English-guided tour, as spots are limited and can sell out quickly.
  • Duration:Tours typically last about 90 minutes and involve a moderate amount of walking over uneven paths and gentle slopes.

Best Time to Visit

While beautiful year-round, the Secret Garden truly shines in certain seasons:

  • Spring (April-May):Witness cherry blossoms and various spring flowers in bloom, bringing vibrant colors to the landscape.
  • Autumn (October-November):Arguably the most popular time, when the garden explodes with breathtaking autumn foliage, painting the hillsides in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows.
  • Summer (June-August):Lush green foliage provides cool shade, though it can be humid.
  • Winter (December-March):A serene, tranquil experience, especially after a snowfall, offering a stark beauty.

What to Wear and Bring

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves considerable walking. Dress in layers, especially during spring and autumn, as temperatures can vary. Bring water, particularly during warmer months.

Beyond the Secret Garden: Exploring Seoul's Royal Heritage

After immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Huwon, take time to explore the rest of Changdeokgung Palace, including its grand throne halls and residential quarters. Seoul is rich with royal history, offering other magnificent palaces like Gyeongbokgung Palace, each with its own unique story and charm. For those interested in traditional Korean architecture and culture, consider also visiting sites like Jeonju Hanok Village for a deeper dive into Korea's rich heritage.

A Royal Retreat Awaits

The Secret Garden at Changdeokgung Palace is more than just a garden; it is a meticulously preserved piece of history, a testament to royal aesthetics, and a tranquil oasis in the heart of modern Seoul. Its natural beauty, historical depth, and serene atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination for anyone seeking to connect with Korea's rich cultural past. Plan your visit to this royal retreat and discover the hidden beauty that once captivated kings and queens.