Seoul’s royal palaces are popular attractions where visitors can experience the history and culture of the Joseon Dynasty.
The city has four major palaces—Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Deoksugung, and Changgyeonggung—each with its own distinctive character.
“What is the difference between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung?”
“Which palace is best for a first-time visitor?”
“Which palace is easy to include in a short itinerary?”
If you are wondering which one to visit, this guide compares the main features and highlights of Seoul’s four major palaces and helps you choose the palace that best suits your interests.
What Is the Difference Between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung?
Many visitors find it difficult to choose between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung.
Gyeongbokgung was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.
Its spacious grounds and grand royal buildings make it an excellent choice for first-time visitors.
Changdeokgung, on the other hand, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed in harmony with the natural landscape.
Its architecture, wooded grounds, and Secret Garden are its greatest attractions.
Choose Gyeongbokgung if you want to experience the grandeur of a traditional royal palace. Choose Changdeokgung if you are more interested in gardens, nature, and architecture that blends into the surrounding landscape.
Let’s take a closer look at the unique features of each palace.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Features
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung was the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty.
It is the largest of Seoul’s four major palaces, with spacious grounds, ceremonial halls, pavilions, and imposing gates.
Recommended for
First-time visitors to a Korean palace and anyone who wants to explore representative examples of Joseon royal architecture.
Main highlights
- Geunjeongjeon Hall
- Gyeonghoeru Pavilion
- Hyangwonjeong Pavilion
- Gwanghwamun Gate
- Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
The National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea are also located within or beside the palace grounds, making it possible to learn more about Korean history and culture during your visit.
Suggested visit time
Approximately 2–3 hours
Allow additional time if you would also like to visit the museums.
In a few words
The classic royal palace for first-time visitors
▶ Explore Gyeongbokgung’s highlights and visitor information
Changdeokgung Palace
Features
Changdeokgung was built in 1405 as a secondary palace to Gyeongbokgung.
Its buildings and gardens were designed to follow the natural terrain. This harmony between architecture and nature helped earn Changdeokgung its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For many years, it also served as the principal residence and seat of government for Joseon kings.
Recommended for
Visitors who enjoy gardens, nature, and historic architecture.
Main highlights
- Injeongjeon Hall
- Donhwamun Gate
- Nakseonjae Complex
- Secret Garden (Huwon)
The Secret Garden is one of Changdeokgung’s most celebrated areas, with ponds, pavilions, trees, and buildings arranged in harmony with the landscape.
Access arrangements differ from those for the general palace area, so check the latest booking and admission information before visiting.
The seasonal Changdeokgung Moonlight Tour is another popular experience.
Suggested visit time
Approximately 1–1.5 hours for the general palace area
Approximately 2.5–3 hours when including the Secret Garden
In a few words
A UNESCO World Heritage palace where architecture meets nature
▶ Explore Changdeokgung’s highlights and visitor information
Deoksugung Palace
Features
Deoksugung is known for its unusual combination of traditional Korean palace buildings and Western-style architecture.
The palace reflects Korea’s transition from the Joseon Dynasty to the Korean Empire. Its central location near Seoul City Hall also makes it easy to combine with sightseeing, shopping, or a walk through the city.
Recommended for
Visitors interested in modern history and architecture, travelers with limited time, and anyone who would like to experience a royal palace in the evening.
Main highlights
- Junghwajeon Hall
- Seokjojeon Hall
- Jeonggwanheon Hall
- Deoksugung Stone Wall Road
- Royal Guard Changing Ceremony
The opportunity to see traditional Korean buildings and Western-style architecture in the same palace is one of Deoksugung’s most distinctive features.
Suggested visit time
Approximately 1–1.5 hours
In a few words
A palace where traditional architecture meets modern history
▶ Explore Deoksugung’s highlights and visitor information
Changgyeonggung Palace
Features
Changgyeonggung has a long history as a residential space for members of the royal family.
Its green grounds and relatively peaceful atmosphere make it a pleasant place for a relaxed walk.
Recommended for
Visitors who prefer fewer crowds, enjoy walking through green spaces, or would like to explore a palace in the evening.
Main highlights
- Myeongjeongjeon Hall
- Tongmyeongjeon Hall
- Chundangji Pond
- Grand Greenhouse
In addition to its palace buildings, visitors can enjoy the pond, gardens, and historic greenhouse.
Changgyeonggung is located next to Changdeokgung, so travelers with enough time and energy can combine the two palaces in one day.
Suggested visit time
Approximately 1–1.5 hours
In a few words
A peaceful palace for a relaxing walk surrounded by greenery
▶ Explore Changgyeonggung’s highlights and visitor information
Which Palace Is Best for You?
For your first visit to a Korean palace
Choose Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Its grand buildings and spacious grounds provide a classic introduction to the royal architecture of the Joseon Dynasty.
For a UNESCO World Heritage Site and beautiful gardens
Choose Changdeokgung Palace.
The palace is known for its architecture following the natural landscape and its beautiful Secret Garden. Check the latest admission and booking information if you plan to visit the garden.
For traditional and Western-style architecture
Choose Deoksugung Palace.
Here, you can see traditional Korean palace buildings alongside Western-style architecture. Its central location also makes it easy to add to another day of sightseeing.
For a quiet and relaxing walk
Choose Changgyeonggung Palace.
Its peaceful grounds, pond, and Grand Greenhouse make it a good choice for visitors who want to explore at a slower pace.
For an evening palace visit
Consider Deoksugung or Changgyeonggung, both of which are generally open into the evening on regular opening days.
Evening admission to Gyeongbokgung and special nighttime programs at Changdeokgung are usually offered as limited seasonal events. Check the official announcement for current dates and booking requirements.
Gyeongbokgung or Changdeokgung: Which One Should You Choose?
If this is your first palace visit in Seoul or you want to see grand and iconic royal architecture, choose Gyeongbokgung Palace.
If you prefer gardens, nature, and buildings that blend into the surrounding landscape, choose Changdeokgung Palace.
Neither palace is better than the other. The right choice depends on the scenery and experience you want.
- For grand scale and a classic palace experience: Gyeongbokgung
- For a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gardens: Changdeokgung
- For modern architecture, convenient access, and evening visits: Deoksugung
- For greenery and a peaceful walk: Changgyeonggung
If your itinerary allows, visiting two or more palaces will help you appreciate their different histories and atmospheres.
Conclusion: Choose the Palace That Suits Your Trip
Each of Seoul’s four major palaces offers a different experience.
Choose Gyeongbokgung for a classic first palace visit, Changdeokgung for nature and gardens, Deoksugung for modern history and evening viewing, or Changgyeonggung for a peaceful walk surrounded by greenery.
Consider your interests and available time when choosing which palace to visit.
For current opening hours, closing days, booking procedures, and seasonal events, please see our individual palace guides.