Beautiful Hanok Village in Downtown Seoul

Welcome to Bukchon.

Bukchon, which is located near Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, refers to the upper town of Jongno and Cheonggyecheon Stream. In the early days of the Joseon Dynasty, the northern and southern towns of the area were called “Bukchon” and “Namchon,” respectively. Now, Bukchon is one of the most famous tourist spots in Seoul. The question is why?

It is home to about 1,000 hanoks that represent the traditional beauty of Korea. These hanoks are located in old alleys. Bukchon is also called a “museum in the urban core,” with lots of historic sites, cultural properties and folk relics. You can learn and experience Korean traditional culture at various exhibition halls, museums and craft workshops.

Guess who lived in these hanoks? In the Joseon Dynasty, royal and upper class families lived there, as Bukchon was near two palaces. It was also the ideal place to live according to the Feng Shui theory, with Cheonggyecheon Stream in front and Bukaksan Mountain behind it.

You can plan your trip to Bukchon around “Eight Scenic Views,” the best photo spots with beautiful scenery. This guide will focus on these eight spots.

Before starting your trip, please keep in mind that people live in these hanoks. Please do not peep into a house or make noise in the alleys. Now let’s begin our journey to Bukchon!