Changdeokgung Palace Complex [UNESCO World Heritage Site] (창덕궁과 후원 [유네스코 세계문화유산]) - Area information - Korea travel information

Changdeokgung Palace Complex [UNESCO World Heritage Site] (창덕궁과 후원 [유네스코 세계문화유산])

Changdeokgung Palace Complex [UNESCO World Heritage Site] (창덕궁과 후원 [유네스코 세계문화유산])

5.1Km    2025-01-17

99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Changdeokgung Palace was the second royal villa built following the construction of Gyeongbokgung Palace in 1405. It was the principal palace for many kings of the Joseon dynasty, and is the most well-preserved of the five remaining royal Joseon palaces. The palace grounds are comprised of a public palace area, a royal family residence building, and the rear garden. Known as a place of rest for the kings, the rear garden boasts a gigantic tree that is over 300 years old, a small pond and a pavilion.

The palace gained importance starting from the time of Seongjong, the 9th king of Joseon, when a number of kings began using it as a place of residence. Unfortunately, the palace was burned down by angry citizens in 1592 when the royal family fled their abode during the Imjin War. Thanks to Gwanghaegun, the palace was restored in 1611. Even today, it houses a number of cultural treasures, such as Injeongjeon Hall, Daejojeon Hall, Seonjeongjeon Hall, and Nakseonjae Hall.

Changdeokgung Palace’s garden behind the inner hall, called the "Secret Garden," was constructed during the reign of King Taejong and served as a rest area for the royal family members. The garden had formerly been called Bugwon and Geumwon, but was renamed Biwon Garden, or Secret Garden, after King Gojong came into power. The garden was kept as natural as possible and was touched by human hands only when absolutely necessary. Buyongjeong Pavilion, Buyongji Pond, Juhamnu Pavilion, Eosumun Gate, Yeonghwadang Hall, Bullomun Gate, Aeryeonjeong Pavilion, and Yeongyeongdang Hall are some of the many attractions that occupy the garden. The most beautiful time to see the garden is during the fall when the autumn foliage is at its peak and the leaves have just started to fall.

Though it has been treasured by Koreans for centuries, Changdeokgung Palace and its complex was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site by the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Committee in December of 1997 during the committee meeting in Naples, Italy.

Myeong-dong Ttungttungi Jokbal (명동뚱뚱이족발)

Myeong-dong Ttungttungi Jokbal (명동뚱뚱이족발)

5.1Km    2024-10-15

9, Toegye-ro, 20-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
+82-2-778-8998

One of the old restaurants in Myeong-dong featured in Korean gourmet programs. This Korean dishes restaurant is located in Jung-gu, Seoul. The most famous menu is braised pigs' feet.

E-Mart - Hawolgok Branch [Tax Refund Shop] (이마트 하월곡)

5.1Km    2024-04-22

167, Jongam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul

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Whoo (后) SPA (후(后)스파)

Whoo (后) SPA (후(后)스파)

5.1Km    2017-07-22

52, Hakdong-ro 21-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

Whoo SPA is loved by celebrities throughout Asia. The spa uses advanced spa facilities and techniques for a powerful and peaceful healing experience. The treatments range from targeted areas to full body. Each treatment package comes with an expert spa therapist and a 1:1 spa consultation to provide the best service for each individual. Homecare samples may also be given for certain after-service treatments.

Exabra (엑사브라)

Exabra (엑사브라)

5.1Km    2024-05-16

132, Dosan-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
+82-2-6085-9017

Exabras are handmade under garments specialized for functional bridal wear. Exbaras’ product “Grow Night,” an industry first, is a line of sleeping bras to help the reshaping process for breast implant patients.

The store located in Nonhyeon-dong provides consultations, fitting services, as well as refreshments. Reservation is advised since the store has been drawing lots of visitors after featured in the cable TV show “Get it Beauty.”

Allsso (올쏘)

Allsso (올쏘)

5.1Km    2021-08-26

30, Jong-ro, 14-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
+82-2-722-9222

A barbecue specialty restaurant located in Cheonggyecheon Stream, Seoul. A Korean BBQ restaurant. The most famous menu is grilled beef.

Harmony Mart Myeong-dong Station Branch (하모니마트 명동역점)

Harmony Mart Myeong-dong Station Branch (하모니마트 명동역점)

5.1Km    2024-12-23

58 , Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
+82-2-752-2269

Harmony Mart Myeongdong Station Branch is a discount supermarket specializing in Korean products popular with foreign tourists. It’s on the 1st basement floor of the Shinil Building annex, just a minute's walk from Exit 8 of Myeongdong Subway Station, Jungu, Seoul. Shop here for kimchi, seaweed, ginseng products, tea, ramen, handicrafts, daily necessities and souvenirs. English, Chinese, and Japanese are spoken, and payments can be made in yen and yuan. With purchases of KRW 50,000 or more, there’s free delivery to accomodations within a 5km radius.

Myeong-dong Mart - Myeong-dong Branch [Tax Refund Shop] (명동마트 명동)

Myeong-dong Mart - Myeong-dong Branch [Tax Refund Shop] (명동마트 명동)

5.1Km    2024-04-18

B1F, 58, Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul

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Achasan Mountain (아차산)

Achasan Mountain (아차산)

5.1Km    2024-03-07

Acheon-dong, Guri-si, Gyeonggi-do
+82-2-450-1655

Achasan Mountain is a 295m-high mountain that stretches across Seoul and the city of Guri. Its proximity to the city makes it an accessible destination for hiking in Seoul. The hiking trails are maintained quite well, so even beginners can enjoy hiking in the mountain. From the summit of Achasan Mountain, one can enjoy the beautiful view of Seoul and the Hangang River. In fall, the mountain is famous for its fall colors as well.

Myeongdong Kyoja (명동교자)

Myeongdong Kyoja (명동교자)

5.1Km    2024-03-25

29 Myeongdong 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul
+82-2-776-5348

Since 1970, Myeongdong Kyoja has been a staple in Myeongdong for its kalguksu (noodle soup), believed to be the progenitor of the Myeongdong-style kalguksu known for its rich broth and delicious gyoja (mandu). The restaurant's hallmark dish, kalguksu, features handmade noodles served in a deep, flavorful broth. In addition to its famous noodle soup, other beloved dishes include mandu and bibim guksu (spicy noodles).