Travel Korea (3) Bukchon Hanok Village: Experience Traditional Korean Living in the Heart of Seoul

 

사진: Unsplash의Y K

🏯 Travel Korea (3) | Bukchon Hanok Village: Experience Traditional Korean Living in the Heart of Seoul

Thanks for joining us again on the Travel Korea series!
This time, we're stepping away from the busy streets and diving into a peaceful neighborhood full of history and tradition.
Let’s explore Bukchon Hanok Village, where you can experience the charm of Korea’s past right in the heart of Seoul. 🇰🇷🏯

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📍 What is Bukchon Hanok Village?

Located in the heart of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is a picturesque neighborhood that offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life. Home to over 900 hanoks (traditional Korean houses), this area preserves the architectural style and ambiance of the Joseon Dynasty. Today, many of these hanoks serve as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Korean heritage.

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🚇 How to Get There

• Subway: Take Line 3 to Anguk Station, Exit 3. From there, it's about a 7-minute walk to the village.

• Walking Route: Start from Anguk Station and head straight along Bukchon-ro. Turn left onto Bukchon-ro 11-gil before the Nature Republic store. This path leads you to the most photographed stretch of the village, offering views of the iconic N Seoul Tower.

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🕒 Opening Hours

• General Access: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Restricted Hours: From 5:00 PM to 10:00 AM the following day, entry is restricted to residents, guests, and shoppers. Visitors during this time may face fines starting March 2025.

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💰 Admission Fee

Free – Exploring the village itself is free of charge. However, some cultural workshops or experiences within the hanoks may require a fee.

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📸 What to See & Do

• Photo Spots: Don't miss the iconic photo spot where Bukchon-ro 11-gil meets the alley leading to the village's upper section. The backdrop of hanoks with the N Seoul Tower in the distance is perfect for photos.

• Walking Courses: Consider following the "Classic Course," which includes eight scenic photo stops throughout the village. Alternatively, the "Gourmet Course" takes you through the lower half of Bukchon, known for its Michelin-rated restaurants and trendy cafes.

• Cultural Experiences: Participate in traditional Korean craft workshops, tea ceremonies, or calligraphy sessions offered by various hanoks.

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🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink

• Knotted Anguk: A cozy café known for its donuts and pastel-colored décor. Located at 6-3 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last order at 8:30 PM).

• Hwangsaengga Kalguksu: Famous for its knife-cut noodle soup (kalguksu), this restaurant offers a taste of traditional Korean comfort food.

• London Bagel Museum Anguk: A unique café that combines a bagel shop with a museum experience, showcasing various bagel-related artifacts.

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🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

• Hanbok Rentals: Experience wearing traditional Korean attire by renting a hanbok. Many shops along Bukchon-ro offer rentals, and wearing a hanbok grants free admission to nearby palaces like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung.

• Craft Shops: Explore local shops selling handmade crafts, pottery, and traditional Korean textiles.

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🏨 Where to Stay

• Hanok Guesthouses (Traditional Korean Houses)

1. Rakkojae Seoul
   💰 ~$250–350 USD/night
   📍 5 min walk
   A luxury hanok guesthouse offering a peaceful, authentic Korean traditional experience with elegant, beautifully restored buildings.

2. Bukchonmaru Hanok Guesthouse
   💰 ~$70–100 USD/night
   📍 10 min walk
   A budget-friendly option for guests who want to experience living in a traditional Korean house without breaking the bank.

🚶‍♂️ Travel Tips

• Respect the Residents: Bukchon is a residential area. Keep noise levels down and be considerate of the local residents.

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The village's hilly terrain and cobblestone paths can be challenging, so wear comfortable footwear.

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🗺️ Nearby Attractions

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: A short walk from Bukchon, this grand palace offers a glimpse into Korea's royal history.

• Changdeokgung Palace & Secret Garden: Another nearby palace known for its beautiful gardens and historical significance.

• Samcheong-dong: A trendy neighborhood adjacent to Bukchon, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and cafés.

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Thanks for joining us on our first stop in the Travel Korea series!
Next, we’ll head to another cultural gem. Stay tuned! 🇰🇷✨