Hotels near Changdeokgung Secret Garden

Changdeokgung, built in the early 15th century, is the best preserved of Seoul's five Joseon-dynasty palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Behind it lies Huwon, the Secret Garden, a wooded royal retreat of pavilions, lotus ponds and old trees laid out to follow the natural landscape. The Buyongji Pond, framed by maples and a pavilion on stone pillars, is one of the classic autumn views in Korea.

The Secret Garden can only be visited on timed guided tours, including tours in English, with limited places that sell out quickly during foliage season. Colour usually peaks in early November, a little later than in the mountains. Palace grounds are closed on Mondays.

The nearby Bukchon Hanok Village, with traditional wooden houses, makes an easy extension, though residents ask visitors to keep noise down.

Pro Tip: Book the Secret Garden tour online as soon as slots open for your dates, and wear a hanbok to get free palace entry. Visit on a weekday morning in the first week of November for peak colour.