Changgyeonggung Palace: Dark secrets of the Royal Family
Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
● The beautiful scenery of the Night Palace
● Ghosts, mysteries, legends, and other bizarre stories of Changgyeonggung Palace
● An audio-drama experience at the very place where a historical event occurs
● A guide dressed up as a court figure explaining Changgyeonggung Palace
This is not an exploration of historical facts.
It's a time trip that invites you to the time of the historical event.
Munjungjeon where Crown Prince Sado cried for his life
Tongmyungjeon where concubine cursed the queen
Hwangyungjeon witnessing Crown Prince’s mysterious death
A dark night, a conversation of historical figures heard right there where a bizarre and frightening event took place.
You can look forward to it.
(This is a storytelling tour that provides audio dramas recorded by professional voice actors with a guide explaining historical editorials)
* Tour points may vary depending on the weather or circumstances.
Available options
Changgyeonggung Palace: Dark secrets of the Royal Family
What's included
Certified tour guide(certification no. 2024-01-0381)
All Fees and Taxes
Audio guide system and earphones
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
It's the first gate we meet at Changgyeonggung Palace. It has a stone statue chasing away evil spirits in the sky
2
Unlike other palaces, the water from the mountains still flows.
Look for a stone statues that drives away evil spirits that follow the water.
3
This is where King Yeongjo, who was the father of Crown Prince Sado, enjoyed reading.
Here, let's meet King Yeongjo who is distressed after hearing Crown Prince Sado's eccentricity.
4
Myeongjeongjeon, where the important event of Joseon's royal family took place, was rebuilt in 1616 as the oldest structure in Joseon's palace.
5
It's a space for women, and it's mostly used as a queen's bedchamber.
Let's meet the curse story of one concubine who lived here.
6
Let's meet a father who wants to lock up his son in the rice chest and a son who cries for his life.
7
Let's find a view of the pond where you can enjoy the beauty of the palace at night.
What's not included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Tour insurance
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tour points may vary depending on the weather or circumstances.
Meeting point
Outside of main gate(Honghwamun) of Changgyeonggung.
The address is 185 Changgyeonggungro, Jongnogu, Seoul.
You'll find a guide dressing in traditional clothe, holding Time Crossing logo.
About Seoul
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Known for its vibrant street life, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural heritage, Seoul offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that captivates every traveler.
Top Attractions
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.
Historical
2-3 hours
3,000 KRW (free for those wearing hanbok)
Bukchon Hanok Village
A traditional Korean village nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean life.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (some cultural experiences may have fees)
Namsan Seoul Tower
Located atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and is a popular spot for couples to lock love locks.
Viewpoint
2-3 hours
10,000 KRW (observatory), 1,500 KRW (cable car)
Myeongdong
A bustling shopping district known for its street food, fashion, and beauty products, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Shopping
Half-day
Varies widely, from budget to luxury
Hongdae
A lively and youthful neighborhood near Hongik University, famous for its nightlife, street performances, and trendy cafes.
Entertainment
Evening or night
Varies widely, from budget to upscale
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kimchi
Fermented spicy cabbage, a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with every meal.
Side dish
Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)
Bibimbap
A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and gochujang (spicy paste), often served with a fried egg.
Main dish
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Bulgogi
Marinated grilled beef, often served with rice and side dishes.
Main dish
Contains meat
Tteokbokki
Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a popular street food often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs.
Snack
Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Bukhansan National Park
Biking along the Han River
Water sports at Seokchon Lake
Visiting traditional tea houses
Enjoying a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) experience
Strolling through scenic gardens and parks
Participating in a traditional hanbok photo shoot
Attending a traditional Korean performance
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Korean
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places
Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
Time Zone
Korea Standard Time (KST, GMT+9)
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Seoul is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or assistance, as they may be trying to scam you
Getting there
By air
- Incheon International Airport • 52 km from city center
- Gimpo International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Seoul Station, Yongsan Station
By bus
Seoul Express Bus Terminal, Central City Bus Terminal, East Seoul Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It operates from 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM, with frequent trains.
Taxis
Available • Apps: KakaoTaxi, T-money
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jongno
Gangnam
Hongdae
Itaewon
Insadong
Day trips
DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone)
50 km from Seoul • Half day to full day
A unique and fascinating day trip, the DMZ offers a glimpse into the history and current status of the Korean Peninsula, with tours visiting various historical sites and observation points.
Nami Island
56 km from Seoul • Half day to full day
A picturesque island known for its beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and filming locations for popular K-dramas like 'Winter Sonata'.
Suwon
30 km from Seoul • Full day
A historic city known for its well-preserved fortress, traditional markets, and cultural attractions, offering a mix of history, culture, and local cuisine.
Festivals
Seoul International Fireworks Festival • Mid-October (annual)
Seoul Lantern Festival • Late November to early December (annual)
Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Korean phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use a T-money card for convenient and discounted public transportation
- Try street food and local specialties for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore Seoul's diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more unique and immersive experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
