My Happiest Memory in Seoul- Chankdeokgung
On 14th July 2015, I stepped for the first time through the gates of Changdeokgung. Full of excitement, I felt my heartbeats being in harmony with my footsteps, a symphony created by my thoughts and emotions. The joy of being there was given by the fact that, for many years, I had had a deep interest in Korean culture and its history and it all started when I watched my first historical Korean drama, Dae Jang Geum or Jewel in the Palace. Since parts of Changdeok Palace were used to film this K-drama, I felt even more overwhelmed by the chance of being there.
Chandeok Palace or Changdeokgung is one of Seoul's finest gems that impresses the viewers with its majesty and the harmonious structure of its buildings blending with the natural landscape that surrounds them. Being part of the "Five Grand Palaces" that were built during the Joseon Dynasty(1392–1897), Changdeokgung was constructed in 1405 as a second palace after Gyeongbokgung and it was the favorite palace of many kings and princes of Joseon.
I firstly visited the Secret Garden( Biwon 비원) or the Garden behind the Palace( Huwon 후원), an enormous place constituted of elegant pavilions, ponds, trees and flowers. It was initially created for the use of the royal family but also for those who worked in the Palace. Banquets, contests and military exercises were held in this garden that occupies around 60% of the entire surface of Changdeokgung.
From the first moment I entered the path to the first attraction, the Buyongji pond, I was greeted by the beautiful green trees that were guarding the pathway. The king’s pond, Buyongji, was reflecting the Juhamnu building and a few pavilions, the whole scene being like a painting hanging in front of me.
The next stop was at Aeryeonji Pond and Aeryeonejong Pavilion, the names signifying “love of lotuses”. The view was very relaxing and it transposed me into a reverie state. Then, I stopped by the YeonGyeongDang Residence, and Seonhyangae study that were built by the order of the Crown Prince Hyomyeong in the 19th century. In their vicinity, there was another peaceful lotus pond that was beautifully decorating the area.
Another interesting spot to see was Ongnyucheon stream where the king used to hold gatherings or parties. Poems were recited, songs were sung and wine cups were floating down the stream while the guests could rest and enjoy the view of the garden from inside the pavilions.
After visiting the Secret Garden, I entered the site of Seonwonjeon Hall where the ancestral rites were performed and Inseongjeon Hall where I could see the majestic throne of the king. I also saw the queen’s residence, the Daejojeon Hall and Nakseonjae, the Hall that was built for the beloved concubine of King Heonjong. As I walked out of the Palace, I noticed a really beautiful Chinese juniper tree that is said to be over 750 years old, older than Changdeokgung itself.
Overall, I was really impressed by Changdeok Palace and its Secret Garden, the refined architecture and the natural landscape creating a picture that will forever remain in my memory. My visit there was one of the happiest memories that I made in Seoul and I would definitely wish to see it again if I have the chance.
