If you’re planning a trip to South Korea and want to go beyond the usual big cities, there’s one place that combines history, food, and architecture in a truly unique way:
Jeonju Hanok Village (전주한옥마을).
Located in Jeonju, a city known as the birthplace of bibimbap and traditional Korean culture, this village is a living museum of over 700 hanok houses, preserving the charm of the Joseon Dynasty right in the heart of a modern city.
Why Jeonju Hanok Village is a must-visit in Korea
1. Over 700 traditional hanok houses in one place
Unlike other hanok clusters scattered around the country, Jeonju Hanok Village is one of the largest and best-preserved. These traditional houses are still lived in, operated as guesthouses, or used as cafés, museums, and galleries.
Walking through the stone-paved alleys, you’re immediately transported to Korea’s past—where tiled roofs curve gracefully, paper-paneled doors creak gently, and warm hospitality welcomes you at every corner.
2. A hub of Korean culture: food, crafts, and history
Jeonju is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and it’s easy to see why.
- 🍲 Try Jeonju Bibimbap, the original version of Korea’s famous mixed rice dish.
- 🖌️ Take a workshop on hanji (traditional Korean paper) making.
- 🏺 Visit the Jeonju Crafts Exhibition Hall to see master artisans at work.
- 📷 Dress up in hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) and snap pictures in front of centuries-old architecture.
The village also includes key cultural sites like Gyeonggijeon Shrine, which houses the portrait of King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty.
3. Perfect blend of old and new
What makes Jeonju Hanok Village so appealing is the balance between tradition and trend. You’ll find retro-style cafes, handmade gelato shops, and even craft beer pubs nestled among ancient hanoks.
It’s the perfect place to experience modern Korea through a traditional lens.
Useful information for visiting Jeonju Hanok Village
- 📍 Location: Gyo-dong, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
- 🎟️ Admission: Free entry to the village; some attractions have separate fees
- ⏰ Best time to visit: Spring (cherry blossoms), Autumn (colorful leaves), or weekends with cultural events
- 💡 Opening hours: Most stores and galleries are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
How to get to Jeonju Hanok Village
🚄 From Seoul
- Take the KTX or SRT from Yongsan Station to Jeonju (about 1.5–2 hours)
- From Jeonju Station, take a taxi or local bus to Hanok Village (15 minutes)
🚌 From other cities
- Intercity buses run from Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju to Jeonju frequently
What to do in Jeonju Hanok Village: A sample itinerary
Morning
- Arrive at the village and rent a hanbok
- Visit Gyeonggijeon Shrine and stroll through the Jeondong Cathedral
Afternoon
- Try Jeonju Bibimbap or kongnamul gukbap (bean sprout soup) for lunch
- Enjoy hands-on crafts like fan painting or calligraphy
- Visit the Omokdae Pavilion for a panoramic view of the hanok rooftops
Evening
- Grab a cup of tea or traditional dessert at a hanok teahouse
- Stay overnight in a hanok guesthouse for a full traditional experience
What to bring for the best experience
- Comfortable walking shoes (some roads are uneven)
- Camera or smartphone with lots of storage—this place is photogenic!
- Cash, as some shops may not accept foreign credit cards
- Travel translator app or phrasebook (English is limited in small shops)
Why Jeonju Hanok Village leaves a lasting impression
Jeonju Hanok Village isn’t just a tourist spot—it’s a gateway into Korea’s cultural soul. Whether you’re tasting your first bite of authentic bibimbap, trying your hand at traditional crafts, or waking up to the scent of pine in a hanok room, every moment here connects you to centuries of Korean heritage.
It’s also extremely welcoming to solo travelers, couples, and families alike. With peaceful walking paths, great food, and interactive activities, there’s something for everyone.
So if you’re asking yourself:
“Where can I experience real Korean culture in a short trip?”
The answer is simple: Jeonju Hanok Village.
🎯 Will you walk through Korea’s past to understand its present?