Experience the Charm of Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul

Name: Bukchon Hanok Village
Address: Seoul, 110-270, KR
Rating: 4.4

Home
Destinations
Seoul
Experience the Charm of Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul

Overview

Bukchon Hanok Village is a charming area in Seoul showcasing traditional Korean architecture known as hanoks. This unique village provides visitors with a rare opportunity to step back in time and witness life during the Joseon Dynasty, roughly 600 years ago. Unlike other tourist-oriented hanok villages, Bukchon is a genuine residential area that has been preserved over the years, with its homes dating back to the 1920s and 30s. Nestled between the grand Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, the village features narrow streets lined with beautifully crafted hanok homes. Visitors can enjoy cultural centers, quaint cafes, and shops while respecting the privacy of the residents. The most notable area to explore is Gaehoe-dong, where the tightly-knit clusters of hanoks create a picturesque atmosphere. For an enhanced experience, join a walking tour or navigate the labyrinth of alleys independently, stopping at designated view points to capture stunning photos. Bukchon Hanok Village is more than just a tourist attraction; it is a vibrant celebration of Korean heritage.

Reviews

Jin Soo

South Korea

The views from high up in the village are stunning. Every corner you turn is absolutely picturesque. We visited last May 2024 during the hot weather, and we loved it so much. Please be respectful and maintain quiet as there are residents living here.

Min Joon

South Korea

This is listed as one of the main attractions in Seoul according to all travel guides. However, I didn’t find it particularly thrilling. It has some nice ancient-style houses, and the streets are steep and winding, but overall, it doesn’t live up to the hype. Note that it opens at 10 AM, so be cautious when advised to arrive early in the morning.

Yuna Lee

South Korea

The village is open to tourists from 10:00 to 17:00 to minimize disturbance to the locals. To enjoy the calm and take photos with fewer people, it's best to arrive shortly after 10:00 AM. It’s especially beautiful when it snows. After your visit, you can enjoy tea and desserts at Osulloc.

Ahn Joo

South Korea

You can walk around for free as no ticket is required. There are several blocks featuring traditional buildings currently used for residence or business. Along the way, you can find many coffee shops, restaurants, and hanbok rentals, as well as hidden collectible stores in side alleys. Enjoy the architecture, but it can be crowded with not much else to see.

Sung Min

South Korea

This is a must-visit place if you're in Seoul. Stretching over a hillside, these traditional Korean houses (Hanoks) once blanketed the city. It's a restricted residential area allowing visits on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, where local volunteers ensure quiet visits. I suggest going solo rather than in a group tour, as they tend to crowd. Exploring alone allows you to find the quieter and more beautiful areas of the village. Keep in mind, there are some modern buildings encroaching on the outskirts, but there are still stunning views towards the national park if you trek to the far side of the village.