Visiting Bukchon Hanok Village
Hanok, the traditional Korean homes, are an escape from the bustling city life, not to be confused with hanbok, their traditional clothing. The most popular Hanok village in Seoul is the Bukchon Hanok Village. This area, with its over 900 traditional homes dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, is a popular destination in the heart of Seoul. It's located in a residential area, so when you walk around, you will notice signs reminding you to speak with your voices lowered to respect the people who reside there. Though there are residents still living there, most of the homes have been converted into guest houses, tea rooms, shops and small museums, adding to the peaceful charm of the village.
Views looking up they alley in Gahoe-dong
Getting There
We took a standing-room-only train car from AK Plaza in Pyeongtaek into Seoul Station. From there, you can continue with public transportation with an estimated thirty minutes more to commute. We opted to hop in a cab since the distance wasn't far. Even with the traffic, arriving at the bottom of the hill near the village only took twenty minutes.
By Metro: Anguk Station (line 3, exit 2). 10 minute walk.
Bus: Routes 109, 151, 162, and 171 all stop near Bukchon.
Street inside Bukchon Hanok Village
We arrived at 10:45 on a Friday, and it was getting crowded, though not as crowded as the weekend would be. If you want to avoid the crowds and tour groups, arrive at 9:00 when they open. We spent thirty minutes walking around, then sat at the observatory enjoying tea and coffee on the beautiful day, looking out over Seoul. It's 6,000 won per person to enter, including a complimentary beverage of your choosing. I opted for an iced peach tea, and my husband chose an iced coffee. The observatory has seating throughout inside and even some traditional seating options in the garden, but if you can snag a spot on the roof, this will provide you with the best views (if you have a clear day). When you walk to the top of Gahoe-dong, you will see signs for the observatory to the right.
The streets offer many places for photos, and you will see people walking around in traditional Korean hanboks.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Address: 서울특별시 종로구 계동길 37 (계동) | 37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Cost: Free
Hours: 9-17:00 | Closed Sundays
It's not a complete visit to Seoul without finding a new eating spot. We opted for Oreno Ramen Insa, and it did not disappoint. The place is tiny, so you may wait in line to grab a seat. We waited thirty minutes for our seats. Once inside, you place your order (two options, regular or spicy ramen) through the ordering machine and pay. You are directed to your seat by the hostess.
Oreno Ramen Insa
Oreno Ramen Insa
Address: 49-4 율곡로 Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Hours: 10:30-21:00 7 days a week
After lunch, we decided to walk with no real direction. We found ourselves at the recently opened Yeolrin Songhyeon Green Plaza. This vast open space had been walled off and not in use for over a hundred years but reopened to the public in the fall of 2023. The beautiful park has large art installations that rotate and stunning wildflowers that are currently in bloom. The location is in central Seoul near Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, making it a popular spot for people to meander while visiting the museums and galleries in the area.
Yeolrin Songhyeon Green Plaza
Yeolrin Songhyeon Green Plaza
Address: 48-9 Songhyeon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Hours: Open 24 hours
Though we didn't visit Gyeongbokgung Palace on this trip since we have been previously, it would be a great addition during your to your visit in this area.
Changing of the guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Hours: 9-18:00
Admission: Free if you are wearing a hanbok. 3,000 won for adult if in normal clothing attire.
Parking: Deck underground on palace grounds
Changing of Guard Times: 10 & 14:00
If you are looking for a fun few hours to get out and explore Seoul, save this itinerary, and if you have more time, explore the other art galleries and museums nearby. This area offers so much to do; you can't go wrong with spending the day there!
