Secret Garden

Created at the same time the main palace was built, the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung, could be accessed by both palaces and is composed of a number of small gardens. Until recently, entrance was limited to the royal family or their guests. The garden is now in the process of being restored. It was designed to keep artificial landscaping to a minimum, consequently, the garden adapts itself to the topography of the area. Originally, lions, tigers and monkeys roamed the grounds. Palace guards always accompanied royalty for protection. It's a secluded area at the rear of the palace and was used by the royal family for composing poetry, fishing, boating on the ponds, practicing archery skills, firework displays, banquets, study, private retreats, and "contemplation". Originally, two royal libraries were located here, the king and queen experimented with farming, and raised silkworms, as well. Don't look for a garden filled with flowers. This is a wooded garden (translation - a huge woods - that seems to go forever and is dotted with lovely small buildings and spaces to escape. As Doug often reminds me, "It's good to be King"!

Visitors are only allowed in the garden if they take a scheduled walking tour. That tour takes about two hours and only covers a small portion of the actual garden grounds.

Path looks flat in these pictures, but in fact, is always heading "up". (No surprise in Korea! You're always  either going up or down.)

Servants Quarters

Note the lack of color. Colored buildings were only for the royal family.

Buildings were consructed for relaxing, writing poetry, entertianing, reading.

A building for entertaining dignitaries.

This particular building was initially the king's library. (Not too handy - it took a while to get here.) 

Notice the height (or lack there-of) of the two smaller doors. Purpose - having to bow before the king as you enter.

Symbolic designs in the brick work are commonly seen all over the country.

A little private get-a-way ( there are a number of these) where the prince studied or contemplated.

Paper-paned windows and/or doors are the norm in any older building The paper, handmade from the mulberry tree, is incredibly strong.

Hooks are to secure windows/doors when open.

There are several of these on the small lakes in the garden - just in case you're in the mood to sit and reflect.

Whimsical water spout.

These waterways, designed to carry away water flowing down the mountain, are everywhere.

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