Guides + Tips

Eunpyeong Hanok Village: Your Ultimate Guide to A Hidden Gem of Seoul’s Heritage

by Ploy

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When planning a trip to Korea, visiting a Hanok Village is a top recommendation on every travel website. And rightly so, as these villages offer a glimpse into the captivating world of Korean traditional homes and culture.

While Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul is undoubtedly popular and attracts hordes of tourists due to its rich history and government investments in tourism promotion, the influx of visitors has resulted in overcrowding, even on weekdays. This situation has taken a toll on the current residents of the Hanok houses, leaving them fatigued from the constant tourism impact.

In this post, we want to introduce you to a hidden gem within the city, offering an alternative and wiser choice for experiencing a Seoul Hanok Village: Eunpyeong Hanok Village (은평한옥마을). Here, you can delve into the true essence of Korean tradition and charm without the overwhelming crowds. Let’s uncover the allure of this undiscovered Korean traditional village!

Jump To:

    Discover Eunpyeong Hanok Village:

    Nestled in the tranquil northwestern region of Seoul lies Eunpyeong District, home to Bukhansan, the city’s highest mountain. At the base of this majestic peak, the serene beauty of Eunpyeong Hanok Village unfolds.

    Originally established as part of a Hanok subsidizing project, the village stands as a testament to the commitment to preserving and promoting traditional Korean culture. Within its charming streets, numerous residential hanok houses exude the essence of Korean heritage. 

    Getting to Eunpyeong Hanok Village:

    Option 1: From Seoul Station (서울역) 

    • Board bus 701 at the bus stop number 02006, conveniently located in front of exit 9-1 of Seoul Station (Seoul subway line 1 and 4).
    • Disembark at the “Hanago.Samcheonsa.Jinwansa Temple Entrance” bus stop (stop number 12437). The journey takes approximately 50 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.

    Option 2: From Gupabal Station (구파발역)

    • Catch Bus number 7723 at exit 4 of Gupabal Station on Line 3.
    • Get off at the “Hanago.Samcheonsa.Jinwansa Temple Entrance” bus stop (stop number 12437). This route takes around 20 minutes, providing a quick and convenient route to the village.

    The Best Time to Visit Eunpyeong Hanok Village:

    Regardless of the month you choose to visit Eunpyeong Hanok Village, you can expect magnificent sights of traditional Korean houses framed against the breathtaking backdrop of Bukhan Mountain. However, each season adds a unique charm to the village, making the best time to visit dependent on the time of year:

    Spring: Late March to the end of May offers the perfect weather for a leisurely stroll. The village comes alive with the vibrant colors of spring blossoms, especially in April when cherry trees bloom along the streets, adding to the enchantment.

    Summer: June to August can be scorching hot and humid, making it less enjoyable for outdoor activities. However, visiting during this period has a silver lining – you can have the village almost to yourself as the heat discourages many visitors.

    Autumn: From September to November, the mild weather makes autumn the ideal time to explore the village. In September, tiny but lovely fields of cosmos flowers bloom, adding a touch of beauty. For a truly awe-inspiring experience, visit in late October to early November when the autumn leaves paint the village in a vibrant array of colors.

    Winter: While December to February may be bitterly cold, this season brings its own charm to Eunpyeong Hanok Village. Witness the splendor of traditional hanok houses and Bukhan Mountain tucked under a pristine white blanket of snow. If you plan to visit during January, the peak month for snowfall in Korea, check the weather report beforehand to ensure you catch the magical snow-covered landscape.

    Things to Do in Eunpyeong Hanok Village:

    Stroll Around and Capture Stunning Shots of Hanok Houses:

    Embrace the charm of Eunpyeong Hanok Village by taking a leisurely stroll through its winding alleys. With over 160 hanoks to explore, you’ll never run out of picturesque scenes to capture and cherish.

    Enjoy a Relaxing Coffee in One of the Charming Cafes:

    Indulge in the inviting ambience of the village by visiting its charming cafes. Many of these cafes are lovingly converted hanok houses, offering the perfect spot to savor a cup of coffee while immersing yourself in the village’s beauty. Don’t miss these must-visit cafes during your Eunpyeong Hanok Village adventure:

    Visit the Eunpyeong History & Hanok Museum:

    Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Eunpyeong at the Eunpyeong History & Hanok Museum (은평역사한옥박물관). Though the exterior may not match the hanoks’ beauty, the museum houses intriguing exhibits spread across three floors. Delve into Korean history, then head to the top floor for an enchanting exhibition hall dedicated to hanoks. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop for a breathtaking view of Eunpyeong Hanok Village and Bukhansan.

    Experience Serenity in Charming Hanok Guest Houses:

    Enhance your visit by staying in one of the serene hanok guest houses. These accommodations strictly adhere to the principles of nature and topography, providing an unforgettable experience closely connected to nature. Consider these hanok guest houses for an authentic stay:

    Discover Tranquility at Jingansa Buddhist Temple:

    A short journey up the marked road, Jingwan-gil (진관길), from the village’s second entrance leads to Jingwansa Temple. As one of Seoul’s four major and renowned temples, Jingwansa Temple offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, nestled deeper within Bukhan Mountain. For an immersive experience, you can participate in the temple stay program, where you’ll enjoy delicious home-cooked meals and learn about the temple’s history.

    Engage in Cultural Workshops:

    Unleash your creativity and learn traditional Korean arts and crafts at various cultural workshops in Eunpyeong Hanok Village. Many of these workshops take place within art galleries and exhibition halls, displaying stunning art pieces. Here are some spots to consider for enriching cultural experiences:

    • Samgaksan Geumam Art Museum | 삼각산금암미술관 [map]
    • Set Iseo Literary Museum | 셋이서문학관 [map]
    • Gallery Io | 갤러리이오 [map]
    • Neonadeuli Center | 너나들이센터 [map]
    Enjoy a Cosmos Wonderland:

    Imagine this: late September in Eunpyeong Hanok Village. It’s a magical time when the cosmos burst into a vibrant array of sweet colors! If you happen to visit during this time, you’re in for a treat as you’ll find these lovely flowers in full bloom all around the village. You won’t have to search too hard, as cosmos have popped up in various nooks and crannies. But if you’re on the hunt for the biggest clusters, here’s a list of spots in Eunpyeong Village where you’ll strike gold with these beautiful cosmos fields:

    Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of this ultimate guide to Eunpyeong Hanok Village. I sincerely hope this comprehensive information helps you shape your travel plans and inspires you to explore this hidden gem. No matter when you decide to visit, may your time in Eunpyeong Hanok Village be filled with joy and unforgettable experiences. Happy travels!

    Gallery: Captivating Eunpyeong Hanok Village

    Access Map:

    Quick Info About Eunpyeong Hanok Village:

    Address: 서울 은평구 진관동 193-14
    Naver Map: Link
    Hours: Open 24 hours
    Admission Fee: Free
    Website: https://eptour.kr/

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    Last Update: October 06, 2023