Huwon Secret Garden is a stunning 78-acre garden located at Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea. The garden is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Seoul, attracting visitors from all over the world. It is a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and nature.
What is Huwon’s Secret Garden?
Huwon Secret Garden is a rear garden at Changdeokgung Palace that was used as a place of leisure by members of the royal family. The garden is known for its natural beauty and harmonious design, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including trees, flowers, ponds, and wildlife. Visitors can explore the garden’s many paths and trails and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views.
History of Huwon Secret Garden
Huwon Secret Garden was first created in the early 15th century during the Joseon Dynasty. It was designed as a private retreat for the royal family and was used for various purposes, including relaxation, meditation, and hunting. Over the years, the garden underwent several changes and renovations, with each new ruler adding their own unique touches and features. Today, the garden is a testament to the creativity and skill of the Joseon Dynasty’s architects and landscapers and is a valuable cultural heritage site.
In conclusion, Huwon’s Secret Garden is a fascinating and beautiful place that offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of South Korea. Visitors can explore the garden’s many paths and trails and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Huwon Secret Garden is well worth a visit.
Features
Huwon Secret Garden is a Korean garden design masterpiece located at the rear of Changdeokgung Palace. The garden is spread over an area of 78 acres, which is about 60% of the palace grounds. It was used as a leisure place by members of the royal family. The garden has a natural flow that blends seamlessly with nature, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.
Layout of Huwon Secret Garden
The garden is divided into two main sections: the Geumwon (Forbidden Garden) and the Buyongji (Lotus Pond). The Geumwon is the inner part of the garden that was exclusively used by the royal family and their closest associates. The Buyongji is the outer part of the garden that was open to the public.
The garden has several paths that lead visitors through its various sections. The paths are designed to give visitors a sense of discovery and surprise as they explore the garden.
Pavilions and Buildings
Huwon Secret Garden is home to several pavilions and buildings that are scattered throughout the garden. These structures were built during the Joseon Dynasty and were used for various purposes, including entertaining guests, holding meetings, and enjoying the scenery.
Some of the notable pavilions and buildings in the garden include the Buyongjeong Pavilion, the Juhamnu Pavilion, and the Aeryeonjeong Pavilion. These structures are excellent examples of traditional Korean architecture and are a must-see for anyone visiting the garden.
Plants and Landscaping
Huwon Secret Garden is home to a wide variety of plants and trees that are native to Korea. The garden is designed to showcase these plants’ beauty and blend them seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
The garden has several areas that are dedicated to specific types of plants, such as the lotus pond, which is home to several species of lotus flowers. Visitors can also see several types of trees, including pine, maple, and cherry trees.
Water Features
Water is an essential element of Huwon Secret Garden, and there are several water features throughout the garden. The most notable of these features is the Buyongji, which is a large lotus pond that is home to several species of fish and water plants.
There are also several streams and small waterfalls throughout the garden that add to its natural beauty. These water features are designed to create a sense of tranquility and peace, making Huwon Secret Garden the perfect place to escape the city life’s hustle and bustle.
Visiting Huwon Secret Garden
Huwon Secret Garden, also known as Biwon, is a beautiful garden located at Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea. It was originally built for the use of the royal family during the Joseon Dynasty and is now open to the public. Here are some important things to know before visiting Huwon’s Secret Garden.
Hours and Admission
Huwon Secret Garden is open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, and it is closed on Mondays. The garden has two tours per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The morning tour starts at 10:00 am, and the afternoon tour starts at 1:30 pm. Visitors are advised to arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled tour.
The admission fee for Huwon Secret Garden is 8,000 won for adults, and 5,000 won for children. Visitors can purchase tickets at the ticket booth located near the entrance of the garden. It is important to note that the admission fee for Changdeokgung Palace is separate from the fee for Huwon Secret Garden.
Guided Tours
Visitors are required to take a guided tour of Huwon Secret Garden. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and is conducted in English, Korean, Japanese, and Chinese. Visitors can either book a tour online or purchase tickets on-site at the ticket booth. It is recommended to book a tour in advance to ensure availability.
The guided tour takes visitors through the various parts of the garden, including the lotus pond, the pavilion, and the royal library. The tour guide provides information about the history and significance of each area of the garden.
Tips for Visitors
Here are some tips to help visitors make the most of their visit to Huwon Secret Garden:
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no food or drink vendors inside the garden.
- Be respectful of the garden and its surroundings. Do not touch or remove any plants or objects.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
In conclusion, visiting Huwon’s Secret Garden is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Seoul. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and knowledgeable guides, it is an experience not to be missed.
