If it’s your first time in Seoul and love the history of Korean culture you might want to spend some time exploring the Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을) and its vicinity. Unlike many other hanok villages, Bukchon wasn’t established as a tourist spot; rather, it’s an authentic residential neighbourhood housing around 900 hanoks. As you navigate through the narrow streets flanked by 600-year-old houses, you catch occasional views of the modern cityscape in the distance. It truly immerses you in the sensation of strolling through a slice of living history suspended in time.
Eating at Sam Cheong Dong Area
A highly popular samgyetang specialty restaurant near Gyeongbokgung Palace beckons with its steaming hot stone pots of ginseng chicken soup. As we traversed the city in the chilly spring air, our minds were consumed by thoughts of warm, comforting meals. The dining experience commenced with kimchi and a shot of ginseng liquor, although I found the latter too intense and quickly set it aside after a single sip. Contrarily, the signature ginseng chicken soup (priced at 14,000 won) offered a more subtle ginseng flavor, appealing to a wider range of palates. Conveniently located just ten minutes from Gyeongbokgung, why not make this restaurant your lunch destination before exploring the historical palace?
Tosokchon Ginseng Chicken Soup 토속촌삼계탕
85-1 Chebu-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours:10 am-10 pm
While Blue Bottle doesn’t offer the best coffee it is “not bad” if you need a cup of dose. This space boasts proximity to the cultural and historic Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbokgung Palace, along with a standalone three-storey café, making it highly Instagram-worthy. To locate it, simply head over to the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA); the café is situated just opposite. For guidance, customers place their orders on the ground floor, and collect their drinks on the second floor, and the third floor offers the best views of the palace and distant hills, making it a rewarding experience.
Blue Bottle Coffee – Samcheong
76 Bukchon-ro 5-gil, Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm (Mon – Sun), Closed Lunar New Year, Chuseok
Artisan Perfume at Granhand
Nestled within the cluster of residences are a handful of hanoks that have been repurposed into quaint shops, eateries, cafes, guesthouses, and museums. Situated within a picturesque white and grey hanok adorned with vibrant lacquered wooden details and a striking steel-blue tiled roof, the shop immediately captivates passersby with its inviting aroma. The enticing scent of the fragrances beckons visitors even before the store itself comes into view. Drawn in by the alluring fragrance, I found ourselves naturally gravitating towards the store, following the meandering pebbled path that led us inside.
Inside, the interior matched the charm of the exterior, simple yet traditional with touches of greenery. The compact space showcased the products neatly against the wall. Granhand offers around 12 fragrances in sachets, candles, fabric sprays, perfumes, and oils.
Granhand – Hanok Village
19, Bukchon-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea
Opening Hours: 10:30am~7:30pm
Shopping at Bukchon Hanok Village
If you are a New Balance lover like me you have to visit the store at Bukchon Hanok Village, great location and lovely interior design by using the old building here at Hanok Village to present their products. Small but charming and delightful to walk around this store. Great selection from made in USA to General Release one.
New Balance (Grey House)
18-3 Bukchon-ro 5ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours: 11 am – 8 pm
While Tamburians boasts multiple branches scattered throughout Seoul, this particular 4-level establishment offers a unique experience. Each level houses a mini museum, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the brand’s story while browsing their extensive selection of products. Whether you’re in search of traditional Korean instruments or seeking to enrich your musical knowledge, Tamburians provides an all-encompassing experience.
Tamburins
84 Yulgok-ro 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening Hours: 11 am – 8 pm
With its blend of tradition and modernity, this area encapsulates the essence of Seoul’s vibrant culture. As you bid farewell to the day, carry the memories of Samcheong-dong with you, knowing that its allure will beckon you back time and time again.
xoxo, Joe
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