Complete Guide to Seoul’s 5 Palaces & Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Opening(Second Half of 2025)
Seoul is a city where the legacy of the Joseon dynasty still lives. Among its heritage, Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung are the core sites of traditional Korean culture, offering hands-on cultural experiences and rich sights. This guide summarizes essential info like admission fees, highlight attractions, night openings, hanbok rentals, and transportation at a glance.
1) Gyeongbokgung – The Heart of Royal Seoul
Step through the imposing gates of Gyeongbokgung and you’ll be instantly transported into the heart of Korea’s royal legacy. Built in 1395 as the official residence of Joseon dynasty kings, Gyeongbokgung is Seoul’s largest and most majestic palace, where centuries of history meet graceful architecture and serene gardens. The palace is a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore Seoul's storied past and vibrant culture.
Essential Details
- Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- What makes it special: The first and grandest main palace of the Joseon era
- Admission: Adults 3,000 KRW (subject to change) · Free for those 24 and under or wearing hanbok
Don’t Miss
- Stroll beside the peaceful pond at Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
- Catch the colorful Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at the front gate
- Combine with a visit to the National Palace Museum of Korea
Travel tip: Time your visit for the changing of the guards—camera at the ready—and elevate your experience with a hanbok rental for timeless photos.
**Gyeongbokgung Palace Night Opening(Second Half of 2025) ticket booking site**
2) Changdeokgung – Korea’s Harmony with Nature
Set gracefully within woodland hills, Changdeokgung Palace stands as a testament to harmony between human ingenuity and nature. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace’s beautifully preserved architecture and enchanting Secret Garden draw visitors in every season. Changing foliage and peaceful pavilions offer a tranquil retreat right in the heart of the city.
Essential Details
- Location: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- What makes it special: Seamlessly blends palatial buildings with lush natural landscapes
- Admission: Adults 3,000 KRW · Secret Garden requires a separate ticket (~5,000 KRW)
Don’t Miss
- Marvel at Buyongjeong Pavilion and historic Yeongyeongdang Residence
- Stroll through the changing scenery in the Secret Garden, famed for spring blossoms and fall colors
- Book a docent-led tour for deeper insights
Travel tip: Secret Garden entry typically requires advance reservations—visit during spring or autumn for unforgettable landscapes.
3) Changgyeonggung – Tranquility in Spring Blossoms
For those seeking moments of serenity, Changgyeonggung Palace offers a peaceful escape amidst flowering trees and thoughtfully restored halls. Built as a residential palace for queens, its grounds are especially stunning during the spring cherry blossom season. Once transformed into a zoo and botanical garden, today Changgyeonggung invites visitors to discover its revived royal grandeur.
Essential Details
- Location: 185 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- What makes it special: Unique blend of historical palace life and traces of a bygone greenhouse era
- Admission: Adults 1,000 KRW
Don’t Miss
- Admire Myeongjeongjeon Hall and the elegant old greenhouse
- Stroll the cherry blossom paths for magical spring evenings
- Easily pairs with Changdeokgung for a day of discovery
Travel tip: Spring’s night openings create a dreamy, unforgettable atmosphere among the illuminated blossoms.
4) Deoksugung – Where Old Meets New
Deoksugung is beloved for blending royal tradition with modern city life. Here, stately Korean halls neighbor grand European-style buildings—a rare sight in Seoul’s palatial landscape. Famous for its atmospheric stone wall path, Deoksugung is the place to soak in romantic night strolls and dramatic tales from Korea’s era of change.
Essential Details
- Location: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung-gu, Seoul
- What makes it special: Elegant blend of East and West, plus the only palace with a neoclassical hall
- Admission: Adults 1,000 KRW
Don’t Miss
- Step inside the resplendent Seokjojeon on open days
- Enjoy a moonlit walk along the famous stone wall path—a local favorite
Travel tip: Deoksugung is usually closed on Mondays—plan ahead!
5) Gyeonghuigung – Seoul’s Hidden Royal Gem
Often overlooked by visitors, Gyeonghuigung offers a peaceful stroll through the remnants of a once-grand palace. Built as a secondary residence for kings of the Joseon dynasty and reimagined many times after wars and urban redevelopment, this tranquil spot invites reflection and quiet discovery—plus free entry for everyone.
Essential Details
- Location: 45 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- What makes it special: Historic “Western Palace,” now a hidden corner for history lovers
- Admission: Free
Don’t Miss
- Discover the story of Sungjeongjeon Hall and wide open courtyards
- Combine your visit with the adjacent Seoul Museum of History
Travel tip: Combine Gyeonghuigung with Gwanghwamun Square or Seodaemun Prison History Hall for an off-the-beaten-path half-day tour.
Local Tips – Hanbok, Tickets & Night Tours
- Hanbok rental: Embrace tradition—rental shops surround Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Wear a hanbok for free entry (confirm locally).
- Combo Ticket: One pass covers the four main palaces (not Secret Garden), costing roughly 10,000 KRW. Check details before travel.
- Night Openings: Spring and autumn offer magical evening tours—many require advance booking.
- Photo hot spots: Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, Buyongjeong at Changdeokgung, Myeongjeongjeon at Changgyeonggung, Seokjojeon at Deoksugung, Sungjeongjeon at Gyeonghuigung.
- Etiquette: Be mindful of preservation rules; tripods and drones may be restricted—check in advance.
Recommended Itineraries & Getting Around
Day itinerary A: Morning at Gyeongbokgung → Lunch amid Bukchon Hanok Village → Secret Garden tour at Changdeokgung → Relax in a cozy Insadong café
Day itinerary B (evening): Evening stroll at Changgyeonggung → Dinner at a Jongno eatery → Night walk along Deoksugung’s romantic stone wall
Subway Connections
- Gyeongbokgung: Line 3 – Gyeongbokgung Station
- Changdeokgung/Changgyeonggung: Line 3 – Anguk Station
- Deoksugung: Lines 1 & 2 – City Hall Station
- Gyeonghuigung: Line 5 – Seodaemun Station
Frequently Asked Palace Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is there a multi-palace ticket?
- Absolutely! Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, and Deoksugung (excluding Secret Garden) can be accessed with a combo pass. Prices and terms change frequently—consult official sources.
Q. Is entry free if I wear a hanbok?
- Most palaces offer free admission for hanbok wearers, but policies may vary, so confirm before visiting.
Q. When are the night tours?
- Special evening events run mainly in spring and autumn; check ahead for reservation requirements.
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