Bukchon Hanok Village: Attractions, Shopping, Restaurants

So, I finally went to Bukchon Hanok Village, and OMG, it felt like stepping into a historical K-drama set!

Imagine walking between beautiful hanoks (traditional Korean houses) that are over 600 years old. Yep, SIX. HUNDRED. YEARS. Feels like time travel, but make it aesthetic.

The village is on a hill. So, get ready for some walking! But trust me, the views are worth it. You can see the whole city from up there.

Bukchon Hanok Village is split into different areas. Each one has its own vibe. Some parts are really quiet. Others are buzzing with tourists and shops.

You can actually stay in a hanok here. It’s a great way to experience traditional Korean life. Just book in advance. These places fill up fast!

There are lots of little museums and workshops in Bukchon Hanok Village. You can learn about Korean culture hands-on. I tried making my own hanji (Korean paper). It was harder than it looks!

Don’t forget to try the street food. There are vendors selling all sorts of yummy Korean snacks. I loved the hotteok (sweet pancakes). Perfect for a quick energy boost while exploring!

Bukchon Hanok Village Map

Attractions Near Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village is surrounded by a variety of exciting destinations that are perfect for exploring on foot. 

Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit spots within walking distance.

1. Samcheongdong Street (6-minute walk)

Highlights: Charming cafes and art galleries. I spent an entire afternoon hopping between coffee shops.

A charming area lined with cozy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. Perfect for a relaxing stroll while sipping on a handcrafted latte. I once found a hidden book cafe here—it felt like stepping into a Ghibli movie!

2. Insadong (14-minute walk)

Highlights: Ideal for traditional Korean souvenirs. I found beautiful handmade fans here.

If you’re hunting for unique souvenirs, this is the place. Traditional Korean crafts, calligraphy brushes, and stunning handmade fans fill the shops. Plus, the street food here is 🔥, don’t miss the honey-filled kkultarae!

3. Gyeongbokgung Palace (20-minute walk or one subway stop)

Highlights: A massive palace worth exploring. Allocate at least a couple of hours for a thorough visit.

One of the most iconic palaces in Korea. The changing of the guard ceremony is a must-see, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some K-drama filming happening around the palace. (Yes, this palace has been featured in Goblin and Kingdom!)

4. Ikseondong Hanok Village (18-minute walk)

Highlights: A modern area with trendy shops and restaurants housed in traditional hanoks.

A mix of old and new—traditional hanok buildings turned into trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and artisan dessert cafes. The vibes here are unbeatable, especially at night when the fairy lights come on.

5. Changgyeonggung Palace (18-minute walk)

Highlights: Less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience compared to other palaces.

Often overlooked, but that’s a good thing—it’s way less crowded! The greenhouse inside is a hidden gem, and in spring, the cherry blossoms here are breathtaking.

6. Changdeokgung Palace (12-minute walk)

Highlights: The closest palace. Don’t miss the Secret Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Secret Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage site for a reason. You need a guided tour to enter, but it’s absolutely worth it. The scenery changes with the seasons—think vibrant reds in fall and dreamy pinks in spring.

Tip: Purchase a combination ticket if you plan to visit multiple palaces to save money.

Restaurants Near Bukchon Hanok Village

Looking for a bite to eat after exploring Bukchon? Here are some awesome spots you should check out! (Bonus: Some of these places are K-drama famous 😉✨)

• 🍞 London Bagel Museum Anguk Main Store – The bagels here are HUGE and super fluffy. This place went viral, so be ready for a line!
• 🥟 Bukchon Son Mandu Bukchon Branch – If you love dumplings (mandu), this is a must-visit! Crispy outside, juicy inside. Perfect snack while exploring.
• 🍖 Keungiwajip – Craving some real Korean BBQ? This spot serves up delicious grilled meat, perfect for sharing with friends.
• ☕ Onion Anguk Branch – The vibe here is straight out of a K-drama. Think rustic hanok + modern café. Their bread is chef’s kiss 😘.
• 🐔 Baengnyeon Tojong Samgyetang – Famous for its traditional ginseng chicken soup. A comforting, healthy meal, especially if you need an energy boost!
• 🍵 Tea Therapy – A cozy spot where you can sip on traditional Korean herbal teas. Great for chilling and unwinding.
• 🍜 Maeumeul Damanaemyeon – Ramen but make it Korean. Their noodles are rich and flavorful – great for a chilly day!
• 🍚 Jirisan Restaurant – If you want an authentic Korean home-cooked meal, this is the place. Feels like eating at a grandma’s house.
• 🍲 Nwijo – A hidden gem serving up delicious Korean traditional dishes with a modern twist.
• 🥢 Insadong Sagwanamu – Great spot for traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap and kimchi jjigae.
• 🍝 Italyjae – K-pop idols LOVE this place. A mix of Italian and Korean flavors, making it super unique.
• 🍛 Bukchon-ri Dullegol – If you’re into hanok-style dining, this place gives you the full experience. Their Korean stews are 🔥.
• 🌸 Kkotbabe Pida – A super aesthetic café that looks straight out of a K-drama. Perfect for cute Insta pics! 📸
• 🍚 A Flower Blossom on the Rice – Beautiful plating, delicious food. Traditional Korean meals with a modern presentation.

Also read:

• 7 Best Restaurants in Gangnam (Seoul) Michelin Guide
• Tourist? Try 7 Best Cafe in Seoul 2025, Instagrammable and Popular!

Accommodations Near Bukchon Hanok Village

For those planning to stay close to Bukchon Hanok Village, there are several accommodations that offer a blend of traditional charm and modern amenities.

Here are some recommended places to stay:

• Rakkojae Seoul Bukchon Hanok Hotel 
• The Place Seoul 
• Cheong Yeon Jae
• DAHMSOJUNG
• Roomin Bukchon
• Yeonwoohouse
• Moonguesthouse
• 121 Bukchon
• Inwoohouse 
• Go-un 
• Bukchonmaru hanok guesthouse 
• Hotel Crown Insadong 
• Sieunjae
• SAEWHA HOSTEL
• Hwa-un
• Hostel Tommy 

Shopping Near Bukchon Hanok Village

When shopping in Korea, many stores offer tax refunds for international visitors, making it easier to enjoy your purchases while saving money. 

Here’s a guide to help you navigate these shopping destinations.

• Jigum – Jongno Branch (Tax Refund)
• Tanello Jewellery (Tax Refund)
• Isae – Gahoe Branch (Tax Refund)
• Suestar.1 (Tax Refund)
• Fibreno – Jongno Branch (Tax Refund)
• Olive Young – Anguk Branch (Tax Refund)
• Donggwol Maru – Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation Branch (Tax Refund)
• Eunnamu (Not Tax Refund)
• Insa Art Plaza (Not Tax Refund)
• Supremes – Jongno Branch (Tax Refund)
• Saint James – Samcheong Branch (Tax Refund)
• KongKongY Gallery (Tax Refund)
• Bachi Ring (UMC Jewelry) (Tax Refund)
• Gukje Embroidery – Insa-dong Branch (Not Tax Refund)

Final Thoughts?

100% YES! Just wear comfy shoes, charge your phone for endless pics, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll feel like the lead in your own K-drama. 💕

Have you been to Bukchon? Tell me your fave part! 👇