Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden – A Serene Royal Retreat in Seoul

Stepping through the gates of Changdeokgung Palace, I was immediately struck by its harmony with nature—the traditional pavilions, layered rooftops, and quiet courtyards all seemed woven into the surrounding greenery. But it was the Secret Garden (Huwon) that truly captured my heart. Accessible only by guided tour, it felt like entering a living painting: moss-draped pines, shaded ponds lined with stone, and hidden gazebos tucked amid the trees. The air was noticeably cooler and fresher, and the guided walk—around 70–90 minutes—lent rich context to each sight, from mulberry trees used for hanji paper to secluded meditation pavilions  . Depending on the season, the garden shifts moods—spring brings cherry blossoms, autumn lights up with fiery foliage, and in winter, a quiet layer of snow turns it into a minimalist, meditative escape . The contrast to the city around is uncanny—one moment you’re surrounded by bustling streets, the next you’re enveloped by centuries-old trees and the soft trickle of water. The palace itself also charms—elegant halls and courtyards that once served royalty now invite you to wander at your own pace. Simple wooden signage, low tourist traffic (thanks in part to the garden’s controlled access), and the option to join free general tours created a relaxed, almost mysterious ambiance . I left feeling like I’d discovered a secret corner of Seoul—not hidden, exactly, but certainly tucked away. It’s a rare place where architecture, landscape, history, and calm merge so naturally that time seems to pause—if only for a moment. #seoulattractions