The stunning Eunpyeong Hanok Village is increasingly becoming popular with tourists, and it’s one that we highly recommend if you’re visiting Korea for the first time and want the most whimsical, memorable, awe-inspiring hanok village.
Unlike many other traditional Korean villages, Eunpyeng Hanok Village did not descend from centuries of history. Rather, the village itself was a massive marketing attempt from the district of Eunpyeong to create a traditional Korean experience unlike any other.
Bukchon Hanok Village may be the most popular hanok village in Seoul right now, but it is often teeming with tourists. Add to that, the residents who get sick and tired of the crowds and sometimes protest along the streets, and you may not be able to immerse yourself into the hanok village the way you’d like.
Eunpyeong Hanok Village is located on the outskirts of Seoul, boasting a backdrop of the stunning Bukhansan mountain range. It’s arguably the most picturesque hanok village, we think!
Because its primary purpose is to provide a traditional cultural experience, you will find that it’s easy to immerse yourself into the surroundings quickly. The village has been built so that it is easy to walk around and access different places and activities. Many residents have moved into the hanoks, but they did so by knowing that it is first and foremost a tourist-oriented area, so you won’t find anyone protesting the visitors there.
There are a whopping 158 hanoks and counting, so don’t think you’ll find a measly number of hanoks to explore here! Prepare yourself for a full day of exploring.
Let’s look at the different things you can do in Eunpyeong Hanok Village.
The 7 Best Things To Do In Eunpyeong Hanok Village
1. Walk around and simply take in the sights
It’s not often that a stunning hanok village boasts a breathtaking mountain range in the background, and it’s precisely for this reason that we recommend walking around and just taking in the sights at first. The village is still relatively new, so the colors are popping and the structures look like they were built yesterday.
On a good day, when you can also capture Bukhansan Mountain in the background, it’s as though you’ve stepped back into the Joseon Era. It’s simply magical the way it can teleport you back in time.
Breathe in the fresh air, take in the peaceful surroundings, and enjoy the countryside feel that’s still situated right next to the city.
2. Visit 1-In-1-Jan Cafe (1인1잔)
This gorgeous cafe is likely one of the first things you’ll see if you search for things to do in Eunpyeong Hanok Village. It’ll be on the list of one of the most breathtaking cafes you’ll visit in Seoul.
It’s situated within a 5-story hanok and it comprises a cafe on the first two levels, a gallery of a furniture brand on the 3rd floor, a restaurant on the 4th floor, and a rooftop outdoor area on the top floor.
It became popular for its aesthetics but also because it boasts stunning views of the mountains and hanok homes from every window, so you won’t miss out regardless of where you sit.
The cafe serves coffee, tea, drinks, sweets, pastries, and even traditional treats. The restaurant serves a fusion of modern-traditional food. Please note that because of the high-quality furniture display, children are not permitted on the third floor.
- Address: 534 Yeonseo-ro, Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Hours: 10:00am-9:30pm
If you like this place, make sure you also read our selection of the best Hanok cafes in Seoul.
3. Visit Jingwansa Buddhist Temple
Jingwansa Buddhist Temple is located on the outskirts of Eunpyeong Hanok Village, but it’s still one of the most popular attractions in the area. Jingwansa Buddhist Temple is one of the big four temples of Seoul, which additionally comprises Bulamsa, Sammaksa, and Seunggasa.
This temple was originally ordered to be constructed by King Hyeonjong of the Goryeo Dynasty, in honor of the great Buddhist monk Jinkwan who saved King Hyeonjong’s life when he was younger.
What makes Jingwansa Buddhist Temple so popular is the fact that it is simply stunning. Peppered with colored lanterns throughout, with historical architecture that screams “Take photos of me!”, this is one place you want to bring the camera out. It comprises several buildings, more notably including Daeungjeon Hall and Myeongbujeon Hall.
If you want to fully immerse yourself in the experience, Jingwansa also offers a temple stay program where you can eat delicious home-cooked meals and learn about the history of the temple. Find out more in the link below.
- Address: 73 Jingwan-gil, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Website (for temple stay): https://eng.templestay.com
4. Explore the Eunpyeong History & Hanok Museum
Even if you’re not a history buff, we highly recommend popping by the Eunpyeong History and Hanok Museum for a visit. It’s one of the more vibrant and interesting places to learn about a slice of history in Korea.
The museum has been set up to allow visitors to explore and experience a little bit of Eunpyeong’s history, as well as learn interesting facts about hanok villages.
There are three floors in total. The ground floor comprises a toy library, education room, and rest area. The first floor comprises an extensive library as well as the Eunpyeong History Hall which details the rich cultural heritage of Eunpyeong. The second floor includes the Special Exhibition Hall and Hanok Exhibition Hall.
Finish off your visit with a quick photoshoot on the rooftop, which boasts stunning views of the entire village and Buksanhan in the distance.
- Address: South Korea, Seoul, Eunpyeong-gu
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 9:00am-6:00pm
- Price: Adults – 1000won, Children – 500won
5. Hike in Bukhansan National Park
If you’re a nature buff, a trip to Eunpyeong Hanok Village won’t be complete without a hike through the stunning mountain range nearby.
Bukhansan National Park is one of the more popular hiking spots near Seoul. If you ever go on a weekend, you’ll witness crowds of Korean people of all ages descending the trails, decked out in the latest hiking gear, looking to tackle a difficult hike with rewarding views.
There are several ways to hike up to the peak of Bukhansan, commonly known as Baegundae Peak. The most popular trail would be the Bukhansanseong Course, which is supposedly the easiest.
There are lots of signs pointing towards the start of this trail, but if you’re ever confused, simply follow the larger crowds as they’ll likely be heading towards this trail as well.
This hike starts relatively easy, but gets harder and steeper, and ultimately finishes with a rocky climb that will have you using railings and chains to complete the trail.
Make no mistake, the Bukhansan hike is hard. It’s rocky at times, steep at others, and you would generally need to be wearing proper hiking gear to comfortably complete it. However, don’t be afraid, as you’ll witness everyone from children to grandparents out and about hiking this trail on any given day of the year.
We’d give this hike a comfortable 4-6 hours, depending on how fast and fit you are – but also, don’t forget to relax and enjoy the views at the top, because they are simply stunning.
Our tip would be to organize this hike for the early morning, finish just before lunch, and head to the numerous cafes in Eunpyeong Hanok Village to relax and enjoy the rest of the day.
To get to the start of the hike, take the subway orange line (no. 3) towards Daehwa and alight at Gupabal Station. Take Exit 1, and hop onto bus no. 704. Alight at Bukhansanseong Fortress Entrance.
Address: 262 Bogukmun-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea
6. Eat Hotteok Croffles at Cafe Volgasim
Don’t be put off by the long lines on the weekend – this place does one of the most unique desserts you’ll find in Eunpyeong Hanok Village – hotteok croffles.
For the uninitiated, hotteok is a small Korean pancake that is stuffed with black sugar syrup and various other fillings such as grounded nuts. Croffles, on the other hand, are a hybrid dessert made with a croissant presented as a waffle.
At Bolgasim, they combine these two into a delicious dessert comprising croffles topped with fresh ice cream, honey, and mixed ground nuts. You get the best of both worlds!
- Address: 127-22 Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Hours: 10:00am-10:00pm
7. Have High Tea Set at Space Helena (스페이스헬레나)
If you’re looking for a space where you can get more than just a cup of coffee, consider the high tea set at Space Helena! This adorable little cafe situated within a stunning hanok boasts huge windows that let in lots of natural light, pops of greenery, and traditional wooden furnishing mixed with Victorian-era decor.
Their three-tier lunch sets are extremely popular; however, they have a great menu to select individual items as well if that’s what you’re after.
They offer bench seating, wooden furniture seating, and outdoor seating with stunning views of the mountain range. There’s even a fireplace going on for those chilly winter breezes!
- Address: 128-27 Jingwan-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
- Hours: 10:00am-9:30pm
Where To Stay Near Eunpyeong Hanok Village
Hanok IRIRU Boutique Guesthouse
If a hanok stay is on your bucket list, prepared to be blown away by the sheer beauty of the IRIRU Boutique guesthouse hanok.
This traditional house has been constructed to leave little to the imagination. Bright wooden exteriors, stunning timber frames, large windows, sliding doors, timber flooring, traditional furniture – it’s got the works.
However, they didn’t skimp on comfort, either, with all rooms getting access to free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.
Book It Now: IRIRU Boutique Guesthouse
Guesthouse The Kims
This guesthouse will feel like you’re staying with a loving, exuberant aunty who just wants you to have a good time. The Kim family is a joyous, warm crowd who love to welcome people from all over the world into their homes.
The rooms they provide are comfortable, large, and cozy. They provide a delicious breakfast daily, and their food has been described as simply divine. Stay at this guesthouse if you’re looking for a quiet ‘village-style’ home within the hustle and bustle of the city of Seoul.
Book It Now: Guesthouse The Kims
How To Get To Eunpyeong Hanok Village
Eunpyeong Hanok Village is easily accessible from Seoul. Simply hop on the 701 bus heading north from Seoul Station. The ride will take just over 40 minutes (23 stops), and it will drop you off right in front of Eunpyeong Hanok Village.
If you’re coming from Gupabal Station, take bus 7723 (near exit 4), and it will take you to Eunpyeong Hanok Village.
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Eunpyeong Hanok Village is where you’d go if you’re looking for two things: a) an authentic hanok experience in a village whose beauty will transport you back in time and b) somewhere that lacks the crowds you’d expect of such a place.
Eunpyeong Hanok Village has proven time and time again, with hundreds of thousands of visitors, that it’s definitely worth the day trip.
From the simplicity of the beauty of the hanok homes to the breathtaking mountains in the distance; from the delicious cafe experiences to the interesting historical displays at the museum – Eunpyeong Hanok Village is a fantastic well-rounded experience to add to your itinerary.
To find out more about other hanok villages in and around Seoul, have a look at some of our other hanok village articles below. We’ve detailed the best information so you can get the most out of your experience.