Secret Garden (Huwon) Seoul
Huwon, the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a tranquil escape with pavilions, ponds, and lush landscape...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, pleasant weather
Secret Garden (Huwon) Seoul
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Huwon, the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a tranquil escape with pavilions, ponds, and lush landscapes.
"A truly magical and serene escape, the Secret Garden is a must-visit for its breathtaking beauty and historical charm."
🎟️ Book Huwon Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the Secret Garden tour in advance via the official ticketing website.
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Join a guided tour for deeper insights into the garden's history and significance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Huwon (Secret Garden)
Changdeokgung Palace
A tranquil oasis with pavilions, ponds, and lush greenery, once reserved for royalty.
Buyongjeong Pavilion
Huwon
An iconic pavilion reflected in a serene pond, offering picturesque views.
Aeryeonji Pond
Huwon
A beautiful lotus pond surrounded by elegant structures, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Huwon Tour in Advance
Consider a Combined Palace Ticket
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Huwon Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the Secret Garden tour in advance via the official ticketing website. +1
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Join a guided tour for deeper insights into the garden's history and significance.
🧥 Dress for the Season
Be prepared for temperature changes; it can feel cooler inside the garden.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Huwon Tickets Online
Secure your spot for the Secret Garden tour in advance via the official ticketing website. +1
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
Join a guided tour for deeper insights into the garden's history and significance.
🧥 Dress for the Season
Be prepared for temperature changes; it can feel cooler inside the garden.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The garden offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during spring and autumn.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Secret Garden (Huwon) for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape within Seoul. Many highlight the historical significance and the picturesque scenery, making it a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and a glimpse into royal Korean history. However, some find the ticketing process and the requirement for guided tours to be a bit restrictive.
"This attraction was less a garden and more of a historical insight to the former kings and the architecture of the ancient buildings on site.
While beautiful on it's own, I would recommend a tour, which require a reservation. This is deep inside the palace structures so get their early and wear comfortable shoea."
Michael Motzny
"Need to reserve a place for a guided tour in advance to access the secret garden. Visitors are required to follow the tour guide in the garden and free exploration is not allowed on the tour. However, after the tour ends, visitors can stay and freely explore the area. The tour guide was very professional, knowledgeable and eloquent. She introduced the political history of the Joseon dynasty, which included the life of its emperors and its relations with neighboring countries (primarily China and Japan). I highly recommend booking the guided tour."
CHEUNG YH
"The Secret Garden is a historical haven, offers a captivating glimpse into royal life and serene landscapes. It is a separate admission section of the palace, with timed-entry tickets and re-entry is not allowed.
We bought our tickets here for the English guided tour. The guide speaks good English. There were 2 guides helping with crowd control, which was necessary.
Highlights:
* Buyongji Pond (芙蓉池 부용지): A small, historically lotus-filled pond symbolizing "square earth, round sky," once enjoyed by royalty for fishing and boating.
* Yeonghwadang Pavilion (영화당 暎花堂) : Beautiful hip-roofed pavilion by the pond, a former site for royal banquets and exams, once surrounded by vibrant flowers.
* Eosumun Gate (어수문 魚水門): Exquisite gate to the Royal Library, symbolizing the King's bond with his people ("like fish and water"), sadly inaccessible to the public.
* Juhamnu Pavilion (주합루 宙合樓): The Royal Library on top of the hill.
* Aeryeonji Pond (애련지 愛蓮池): True to its name ("love lotus"), this pond is filled with lotus, reflecting purity and integrity, with a small, secluded pavilion.
* Jondeokjeong Pavilion (존덕정 or 尊德亭): The garden's grandest pavilion with unique double hexagonal roofs and dragon carvings, signifying "respect virtue" and royal authority.
* Pyeomusa Pavilion (평우사 or 砭愚榭): Once a study spot for the Crown Prince ("enlighten the foolish"), its pillars feature a poem beautifully describing the Secret Garden's charm.
The Secret Garden isn't just a stroll, it's a carefully curated experience. Embrace the history, appreciate the symbolism, worth spending the hour for an unforgettable journey through royal tranquility."
Jo Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Secret Garden is part of Changdeokgung Palace. You can reach Changdeokgung Palace via subway lines 3 (Anguk Station, Exit 3) or 5 (Jongno 3-ga Station, Exit 4). From there, it's a short walk.
Yes, Changdeokgung Palace is a major landmark in Seoul and well-signposted. It's conveniently located near other historical sites.
Absolutely! The subway is the most efficient way to get to Changdeokgung Palace, which houses the Secret Garden.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at Changdeokgung Palace, but using public transportation is often recommended due to potential traffic and parking fees.
The Secret Garden is centrally located within Seoul, making it accessible from many other popular tourist spots. It's a great addition to a day of exploring historical sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the Secret Garden (Huwon) requires a separate ticket or participation in a guided tour. You may also need a ticket to enter Changdeokgung Palace itself. +1
It's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance through the official ticketing website (https://ticket.uforus.co.kr/web/main?shopEncode=). Walk-in tickets may be limited. +1
While sometimes possible, on-site ticket availability for the Secret Garden is limited and can sell out quickly. Booking online is the safest option. +1
The Secret Garden is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Children under 7 are generally free. For older children (7-18), youth tickets may apply. Check the ticketing website for specific pricing details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A guided tour of the Secret Garden typically lasts about 60-90 minutes. You can spend additional time exploring the palace grounds.
The terrain in the Secret Garden can be uneven in places, with steps and natural paths. It may be challenging for strollers and wheelchairs in some areas.
Access to the Secret Garden is generally restricted to guided tours to preserve its delicate ecosystem and historical significance. +1
Mornings or late afternoons can offer a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds. The light can also be beautiful for photography during these times.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the Secret Garden, but it's important to be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for picturesque pavilions like Buyongjeong, serene ponds like Aeryeonji, and the lush natural landscapes. The changing seasons offer unique photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in historical sites and palaces in Seoul to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light, ideal for capturing the garden's beauty without harsh shadows.
While tripods are generally allowed, be mindful of other visitors. Avoid using flash photography in enclosed pavilion areas if it might disturb others.
Yes, you can capture views of the palace architecture from various vantage points within the Secret Garden, offering a unique perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
For families looking for a more relaxed experience, exploring the main grounds of Changdeokgung Palace might be more suitable. The palace itself offers open spaces and historical structures that can capture a child's imagination. If you do opt for the Secret Garden tour, ensure your children are aware of the need for quiet and respectful behavior to not disturb other visitors or the garden's tranquility.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Key spots to focus on include the Buyongjeong Pavilion reflected in its pond and the picturesque Aeryeonji Pond. The interplay of light and shadow through the trees, the reflections in the water, and the traditional Korean architecture create a truly magical setting. While tripods are generally permitted, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Respectful photography is encouraged to preserve the garden's peaceful ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Huwon
During the Joseon era, access to Huwon was strictly limited to the royal family and their guests, hence its name 'Secret Garden.' This exclusivity contributed to its mystique and preserved its pristine condition for centuries. Many scenes from popular Korean historical dramas, such as 'Kingdom,' were filmed here, further adding to its allure for visitors seeking to experience a piece of Korean history and culture.
Today, visiting Huwon offers a glimpse into the aesthetic sensibilities and lifestyle of the Joseon royalty. The garden's design emphasizes natural beauty and tranquility, with each pavilion and pond carefully placed to create a sense of balance and harmony. The guided tours provide valuable context, explaining the architectural features, the symbolism behind the garden's elements, and the historical events that took place within its serene confines.
Navigating Ticket Purchases and Tours
While some Reddit users mention the possibility of purchasing tickets on-site, this is often discouraged due to limited availability. It's also worth noting that a ticket for the Secret Garden may be separate from the general admission ticket for Changdeokgung Palace, or it might be included in a combined ticket package. Clarifying this when booking or upon arrival is advisable.
Guided tours are the standard way to experience Huwon. These tours are offered in various languages, including English, and provide essential historical context and information about the garden's features. The tours are typically about an hour long and follow a set route. It's important to check the schedule for English tours, as they may have specific timings, especially during different seasons.
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