Changdeokgung Palace
Very close to Geonggokgung Palace is Changdeokgung; which was actually built as a “secondary” palace for the Joseon empire in the 14th century. The palace was the primary residence for Joseon emperors from 1600-1800, as it was the first one rebuilt after Japanese invasions in the 1500s. This palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and uniquely was built to be in harmony with the natural surrounding landscape instead of sticking to a set layout.
Unfortunately the palace’s world famous Secret Garden was closed for winter when we visited – fortunately the palace itself is impressive enough on its own.
