The Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s most enchanting cultural experiences, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore a UNESCO World Heritage palace at night. Unlike daytime palace visits, this exclusive guided night tour allows participants to experience the palace’s majestic architecture, serene gardens, and historical atmosphere under the soft glow of the moonlight. The tour includes traditional music performances, storytelling, and access to restricted palace areas, making it a must-see event for history lovers and culture enthusiasts visiting Seoul in the fall.
📍 Event Details & Schedule
📅 Event Period: September 12, 2024 – November 10, 2024
🕖 Performance Times: 7:20 PM / 8:00 PM
📍 Venue: Changdeokgung Palace (창덕궁)
🎟 Tickets: Paid event (Online reservations required)
📌 Changdeokgung Palace Address:
99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 종로구 율곡로 99)
🌐 Website: https://www.kh.or.kr/
📞 Inquiries: +82-1522-2295
🚇 How to Get to Changdeokgung Palace
🚇 By Subway (Most Convenient for Tourists)
- Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 3) → Walk 5 minutes to the palace entrance.
- Jongno 3-ga Station (Line 1, 3, or 5, Exit 6) → Walk 10 minutes to the palace.
🚌 By Bus
- Take bus 109, 151, 162, 171, 172, or 7025 and get off at Changdeokgung Palace stop.
🚖 By Taxi
- Tell the driver: “창덕궁 달빛기행 가는 곳으로 가주세요” (“Please take me to the Changdeokgung Moonlight Tour entrance.”)
🎭 What to Expect on the Moonlight Tour
The Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace is more than just a night visit—it’s a fully immersive cultural experience that allows visitors to walk through the beautifully illuminated palace while enjoying traditional Korean music, performances, and historical storytelling.
✨ Highlights of the Moonlight Tour:
✔️ Walk Through Secret Palace Areas – Explore sections of the palace normally closed to the public, including secluded pavilions and hidden gardens.
✔️ Traditional Korean Performances – Watch live pansori (narrative singing), traditional instrument performances, and royal court dances under the moonlight.
✔️ Guided Storytelling – Learn about the palace’s royal history, architecture, and hidden legends from expert guides.
✔️ Stunning Night Views – The reflection of the palace on the ponds creates a breathtaking scene, perfect for photography.
The tour starts at Donhwamun Gate, leading visitors through key palace areas such as Injeongjeon Hall, Nakseonjae, Buyongji Pond, and the Secret Garden, all beautifully illuminated at night.
🎟 Ticket Information & How to Book
Since this is a highly popular event, tickets usually sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to reserve online in advance.
💰 Ticket Prices:
- General Admission: ₩30,000 per person
- Discounted Tickets: Available for seniors, students, and groups (check website for details)
🌐 Where to Buy Tickets:
- Official website: www.kh.or.kr/kha
- Korean travel platforms such as Interpark and Naver Booking
📌 Important Notes:
✔️ Reservations are required (No on-site ticket purchases available).
✔️ Limited spots per session – Only a small number of visitors are allowed per tour to maintain an intimate and peaceful atmosphere.
✔️ The tour is conducted in Korean, but audio guides in English, Chinese, and Japanese are available for international visitors.
🌟 Best Time to Experience the Moonlight Tour
🍂 Autumn (September – November) is the best season for the Moonlight Tour, as the cool weather and autumn foliage in the palace gardens create a magical atmosphere.
✔️ Recommended time to visit: The 7:20 PM tour offers a transition from sunset to night, while the 8:00 PM tour provides a full nighttime experience with the palace completely lit up.
✔️ Weather tip: Bring a light jacket or scarf, as nights can be chilly in autumn.
🎯 Suggested Evening Itinerary Before or After the Moonlight Tour
🕕 6:00 PM – Have an early dinner at a traditional Korean restaurant in Insadong (5 minutes from Changdeokgung).
🕖 7:20 PM – Start the Moonlight Tour and explore the beautifully lit palace.
🕘 9:00 PM – After the tour, take a night walk in Samcheong-dong, where you can find cozy cafés and small galleries.
🕙 10:00 PM – Relax at a hanok-style tea house before heading back to your hotel.
💡 Why You Should Experience the Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace
Unlike daytime palace visits, the Moonlight Tour at Changdeokgung Palace offers a rare and exclusive opportunity to see the palace in a completely different light—literally! With its romantic, historical, and immersive atmosphere, this event is perfect for couples, history lovers, and anyone looking for a unique night experience in Seoul. Walking through the quiet, illuminated courtyards, listening to traditional music performances, and gazing at the moonlit reflection on Buyongji Pond will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the Joseon Dynasty.