Monday, January 28, 2013

Jondeokjeong Area, Secret Garden

Further away from the main palace buildings and deeper into the Secret Garden area of Changdeok Palace in Seoul is the area known as Jondeokjeong. Due to modifications made by the Japanese during occupation, its ponds are larger and consolidated. The tour guide I had on my first visit here was quick to point out that the large pond known as Gwallamji was in the shape of Korea.  (Considering that the Japanese changed the shape of this pond, I rather doubt that any resemblance to Korea' was not their intention). Slightly overhanging the pond was the pavilion Gwallamjeong. With the fall trees overhanging the still water, the scene was quite tranquil.

Up a small hill from the pond is a small square pavilion known as Seungjaejong. 

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