Changdeokgung's palace buildings and Secret Garden require different admission arrangements. The Garden has limited timed entry, so start with the separate booking process.
1. Online booking The official heritage booking page says reservations open at 10:00 a.m. six days before the visit (excluding the visit date) and remain available through the previous day, while supplies last. Register for a simple account. Card payment is due within 24 hours; a booking made the day before the visit must be paid for by 23:59 that day.
2. Capacity and same-day tickets The official limit is 100 visitors per session: 50 online tickets and 50 walk-up tickets. Same-day counter sales begin at 9:00 a.m. but may sell out.
3. A palace ticket is also needed The Garden entrance is reached through the palace building area, so a separate palace-building admission ticket is also needed; check any exemption or discount documentation. A Garden booking alone does not automatically secure palace admission.
4. On arrival Use a paper ticket or mobile QR code as directed. Walking from the main palace gate to the Garden entrance takes approximately 15 minutes. Missing the assigned time may mean no admission or refund, so allow extra time.
5. Language sessions Korean, English, Japanese and other language schedules have their own entry restrictions. Verify the actual session, availability, weather-related changes and access restrictions on the official booking page before travelling.