Seoul sights
Why Changdeokgung Palace Feels So Comfortable: A Palace Following the Terrain
Read about Changdeokgung Palace's layout, which follows natural terrain rather than rigid axes, along with the mood of its rear garden, accompanied by video scenes.
Selmit · Updated
Based on a YouTube videoSource videoExpedia · Play from the related sceneWatch video ↗If Seoul's palaces all seem similar to you, take a closer look at the paths in Changdeokgung. The buildings and walls in the video don't just stretch in a single, ruler-straight direction. Gently bending and opening along the slopes and forests, the palace doesn't reveal the next landscape all at once to those walking through. That joy of small discoveries is the true character of Changdeokgung.
1. A Layout That Doesn't Push Away Nature
Established in 1405 and rebuilt in 1610, Changdeokgung served as a key royal space for a long time. A feature that repeatedly appears in official guides and UNESCO evaluations is its layout tailored to the natural topography. Even in the Expedia video, forests closely hug the backs of the royal halls, giving the impression that the palace and the gardens seamlessly flow into one another.
2. Different Paces for the Hall and the Rear Garden
Official spaces like Injeongjeon Hall showcase royal rituals and the order of power. As you enter the Rear Garden (Huwon), ponds, pavilions, and forests take center stage, and your pace naturally slows down. Neither of these two areas feels like a mere afterthought. Personally, I find Changdeokgung most fascinating when you first observe the architectural order in the front, and then compare how that order unfolds within nature in the back.
3. Sightseeing Hints from the Video
In places like the Buyongji Pond scene where water and architecture appear together, try capturing the surrounding forest and water surface rather than zooming in tightly on just the pavilion. In Changdeokgung, the spacing between buildings and the flow of your line of sight are more important than individual structures. Because access methods and admission conditions for the Rear Garden can change, you should check the official ticketing information in advance.
Video Viewing Tip
If Changdeokgung in the video feels exceptionally calm, it might not be due to a lack of buildings, but rather because of how it treats nature. It’s a palace worth exploring by following the sequence led by the paths rather than rushing to find answers.
Quick Summary
| Perspective | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Palace Hall Area | Observe ritual spaces and the order of royal architecture |
| Rear Garden Area | Observe the connected landscape of ponds, pavilions, and forests |
| Viewing Points | Observe winding paths rather than straight lines and the relationship between buildings |
Verified Official Sources
Official sources and public videos were verified on September 8, 2026. Please check the latest announcements from the venue regarding operating hours, fees, and event schedules before visiting.