Deoksugung Palace (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Deoksugung Palace?
What makes it 89% Couple-Friendly: Couples can stroll the tree-lined Stone-wall Road, watch the colourful guard ceremony, and enjoy night lighting; scenic spots and on-site café create a calm, romantic date with little physical strain.
Positives:
- Free Hanbok Entry: Wearing a hanbok waives palace admission for free photos and walking
- Central Location: Right outside City Hall Station makes it easy to combine with nearby sights
Challenges:
- Monday Closure: The palace is closed every Monday; plan accordingly
- Limited English Signage: Some pavilions lack English descriptions; use a guide or app for details
- Cobblestone Paths: Uneven surfaces require comfortable shoes, especially at dusk
What is Deoksugung Palace?
- A 15th-century royal palace and one of the five grand palaces constructed by the Joseon dynasty in central Seoul
- A complex of hanok-style halls, elegant pavilions and manicured courtyards exemplifying traditional Korean palace architecture
- A distinctive architectural fusion showcased by the Western-style Seokjojeon Hall set amid classical Joseon structures
What is so special about Deoksugung Palace for couple trip?
- Hand-in-hand stroll along Doldamgil’s tree-lined path
- Vibrant Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony
- Free hanbok or guard uniform photo op
- Tea and snacks at Jeonggwanheon Café
- Evening palace illumination until 21:00
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time to explore the grounds, catch the guard ceremony, and relax at the café
Couple-Friendly Activities in Deoksugung Palace
Stroll Stone-wall Road (Doldamgil):
Walk the 1.2 km tree-lined path encircling the palace grounds
Tip: Visit on weekends to catch live street performances along the route
Changing of the Royal Guard Ceremony:
Watch guards in Joseon-era uniforms march at Daehanmun Gate
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early for a front-row view at the 14:00 show
Free Hanbok or Guard Uniform Photo:
Don a hanbok or guard uniform for a quick photo session at the main gate
Tip: Reserve your 5-minute slot at the booth before the 11:00 ceremony
Tea at Jeonggwanheon Café:
Enjoy tea and traditional snacks in a restored royal pavilion
Tip: Order the herbal tea and sit by the window for courtyard views
Evening Palace Illumination:
See the palace buildings lit by colored lights after sunset
Tip: Stay until dusk; last entry at 20:00 gives you an hour of illumination
When is the best time to visit Deoksugung Palace (Seoul, South Korea)?
Spring features cherry blossoms along the stone-wall road; autumn brings vibrant foliage around the palace. Summer can be hot—start early. Winter nights offer magical illumination but pack warm layers.
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Reviews of Deoksugung Palace (Seoul)
Bhanu Pravadanvita
I really liked the art gallery inside. The palace was good, you can chill a whole day and have a picnic, ensure you take some water with you.
Rowena Alvarez
Deoksugung Palace has a beautiful mixture of western and Korean architecture. We went here in the evening so we missed out on the museum. It is smaller compared to the other palaces but I liked how this palace isn't too crowded.
Hso
In my opinion, if you can only visit one palace in Seoul, this is the one you should choose. It’s less crowded compared to others and even has a museum on-site. A really enjoyable experience!
Shawn Pendley
Very nice palace and green space. We didn't see the changing of the guards or see it at night, and I've heard it is beautiful then, but it's lovely on a warm spring day with the sun shining too. Great for kids and families, but we also saw lots of couples strolling the grounds. There is not a great deal of historical information provided here at each building compared to other places -- it's just ...
Mia Vera
Deoksugung Palace wraps history in quiet elegance right in the center of Seoul. The soft stone paths the graceful rooftops and the blend of old and modern architecture make it feel like a gentle pause in time. It is not the biggest palace but it has heart and beauty. A peaceful place to wander reflect and take in the city from a calmer angle..
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Palace Admission (2 Adults) | KRW 2,000 |
| Jeonggwanheon Café (2 drinks) | KRW 8,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 10,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Deoksugung Palace
- Time Guard Ceremony: Check the official schedule online and arrive 10 minutes early for best spots
- Join Free Guided Tour: Meet at the ticket booth for a free English tour at 10:30 or 13:30
Map of Deoksugung Palace
Address: 99 Sejong-daero, Jung District, Seoul, South Korea
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About Deoksugung Palace
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+82 2-771-995110 BEST nearby Activities
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