Seoul - Day 6 Changdeokgung Palace

We saved the final two palaces and secret garden for our last full day in Seoul. It stormed last night but the skies have cleared this morning. The storm brought cooler temperatures with it. A beautiful day to visit the secret garden. 

Changdeokgung was built as a back-up palace of the Joseon Dynasty in 1405. It was reconstructed by in 1610 and has served as the main palace for 270 years. We can see the grounds from our apartment at Fraser Suites and it is a 10 minute walk. Electricity and western style were introduced in the rebuilding. The King's office has a blue tile rooftop which is wonderful when the sunlight hits it. Parts of the palace were actually lived in until 1960s. The grounds offer homes to the King & Queen, King's mother, Royal Children, and Crown Prince - oh yeah, and the King's Concubines. It was added to UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997. 

Main gate

Kings Throne - notice western style electric lamps

Throne Room and Royal Court

Blue tiled roof of King's office building

Only the King's mother could live behind the King's residence and the North Mountain - This walkway allowed the King to visit

Royal Residence

Crown Prince Residence