Hanok Stays in Seoul
One of the best ways to experience Seoul is to stay in a hanok, or traditional Korean wooden home.
There are only a couple hundred left in Seoul today – Korea’s capital is a city of relentless innovation.
After all, this is the city that rebuilt itself from rubble in a single generation, turned rice paddies into skyscrapers and releases a new skincare trend every year.
So Korean hanoks are like a beautiful window into Seoul’s past.
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Similar to Ryokans in Japan, Hanoks are preserved historic houses, with some dating back to the 14th century.
Dark timber beans, curved clay tile roofs, white paper walls – it’s an austere but gorgeously simple aesthetic and the houses are designed to blend in with nature.
I got a glimpse of Korea’s traditional architecture while wandering Changdeokgung palace, but nothing compared to actually staying in one!
Best Hanok Stays in Seoul
- Hanok Danji – best luxury hanok
- Blue Dot Hanok – best for couples
- Awik Hanok – best for families
I love unique architecture and beautifully designed spaces.
My friends joke that I will wander into any homeware store and get lost in thought, which is exactly why a hanok stay is one of my favorite types of accommodation in Seoul.
Read more: Where to Stay in Seoul
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Hanok Blue Dot
Check rates: Booking.com, Agoda
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AWIK Hanok Stay
Check rates: Booking.com, Agoda
Check reviews: TripAdvisor
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Hanok Danji
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Hanok Chaeha
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Hanok Hotel DAAM
Check rates: Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia & Agoda
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Unwadang Hanok
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Inwoo Guesthouse
Check rates: Booking.com, Hotels.com, Agoda
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Rakkojae Hanok
Check rates: Agoda
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Hanok Onyou
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Hanok Cloudscape
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What Is a Hanok
Korea’s traditional wooden homes have been the backbone of Korean architecture for over six hundred years, and the design of a hanok is anything but arbitrary.
The word itself simply means ‘Korean house’, but the philosophy embedded in its construction runs deep.
Hanok were built according to the principles of pungsu (the Korean interpretation of feng shui), meaning their placement and orientation were carefully considered in relation to the surrounding mountains, water, and wind.
The thought is that energy flows through nature and the structure of a home effects the wellbeing of its residents.
So, most hanok face south to catch the winter sun, with mountains ideally to the north as a windbreak.
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the peaceful inner courtyard of a hanok
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From the outside, the roofline is a hanok’s most iconic feature.
It looks like a graceful curve of clay tiles, turned upwards at the corners. The shape is so distinctive it’s become synonymous with Korean heritage.
Step inside and you’ll immediately notice the natural materials: dark timber beams, white paper walls (hanji), and stone or earthen floors.
Hanok, like many Eastern interiors, are organized with rooms surrounding an open inner courtyard.
The courtyard serves as the social and spiritual hub, where guests can gather for breakfast or a quiet afternoon tea.
It also promotes a sense of connection with nature and the surrounding landscape.
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traditional wooden floors in a hanok. also, make sure to remove your shoes before going inside!
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Meanwhile, there are two types of rooms in a hanok, designed for Seoul’s sweltering summers and brutally cold winters.
Some have a raised wooden floor (maru), open to the breeze for summer socializing.
Other rooms (nodal) have stone floors heated from below to act as cozy spaces in the heart of winter.
There’s nothing more satisfying than coming in from the brutal Korean cold to sink onto a floor-level mattress and heated wooden floors.
I think spring or autumn would also be a great time to stay in a hanok – seeing the cherry blossoms or fall foliage right outside your bedroom window.
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a hanok with modern bedding. traditional hanoks used floor mattress pads, called yo, which are believed to be better for your back
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One thing to note
Traditional Korean living calls for sleeping on pallets on the floor, and sitting close to the ground for meals.
Modern hanoks often have beds for a more Western-style experience, but read the listing carefully to see which bed style suits your preferences.
Also, traditional hanoks had shared bathrooms.
Many of the more modern hanoks have been retrofitted with luxurious private bathrooms, but this is also something to check in the listing.
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Where to Stay: The Best Hanok Neighborhoods
As I mentioned, Seoul is very much a modern city so few hanoks remain today.
Most are concentrated in 3 neighborhoods at the heart of Seoul’s cultural landmarks. So while there are limited hanok hotel options, the good news is they’re conveniently located!
Bukchon Hanok Village
The most iconic and well known, Bukchon is a well-preserved neighborhood in between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces in central Seoul.
The homes here used to belong to aristocratic families and royal courtiers of the palace and today, hundreds of hanks have been preserved.
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The neighborhood has rolling hills and narrow, steep alleyways so the view from the top is a very pretty cascade of curved clay roof tiles, cascading down to the city below.
It’s a popular spot for photos even for those who don’t stay here!
Staying in Bukchon conveniently places you within walking distances of two royal palaces, the craft galleries of Insadong, and the upscale boutiques of Samcheong-dong.
It’s the most in-demand hanok area, so book well in advance.
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Ikseon-dong
Just south of Bukchon, this neighborhood has become more popular in recent years as one of Seoul’s most stylish hanok neighborhoods.
Many of the traditional homes here have been converted into independent cafes, wine bars, flower shops, and restaurants.
It’s a very lively, atmospheric neighborhood that feels both historic and modern.
Ikseon-dong is a fantastic base if you want the hanok aesthetic alongside easy access to Seoul’s food and nightlife scene.
Plus, it connects seamlessly to the lively nearby neighborhood of Jongno.
Tongin-dong and the Gyeongbokgung area
For a slightly quieter, more residential hanok experience, check out the neighborhood just west of Gyeongbokgung Palace.
This area has fewer tourists and more of a neighborhood feel, with local families, small grocery stalls, and cozy restaurants.
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a beautiful modernized hanok with a spacious private bath
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Tips for Booking a Hanok Stay
Book early
Most hanok have between two and six rooms, which means they fill up fast.
The most popular periods to travel to Korea are spring (late March to early May) and autumn (October to November).
If you have specific dates, don’t wait.
Some of the most popular guesthouses are booked out weeks, even months, in advance.
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Plan Your Transportation
Seoul’s traditional hanok villages are typically in hilly neighborhoods.
If you don’t want to deal with hauling luggage and carry-on bags uphill, I’d recommend booking a private transfer from the airport which will drop you off right at your accommodation.
Cabs and private transfers are quite affordable in Korea, about ~$35 (and Incheon airport is quite far, typically a 90 minute drive).
It’s especially helpful if you’re traveling in a group of 2+ people, because a train ticket from the airport is already ~$18 per person.
Book an airport transfer here.
Ask about Breakfast
Most hanok guesthouses include a homemade Korean breakfast, but not all do.
I’m usually not a hotel breakfast person, but it’s one of the highlights of staying in a hanok!
It’s also a must if you’ve never tried Asian breakfasts before. They tend to be more savory and less sweet, and kind of similar to what you’d eat for lunch or dinner.
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Read the House Rules Carefully
Hanok guesthouses are small, often family-run homes.
Many have relatively early quiet hours, strict no-smoking policies, and specific check-in windows that require coordination with the host.
A hanok isn’t the right fit if you want late-night party nights or have unpredictable arrivals.
On the plus side, if you message ahead, most are accommodating if you need to drop your bags off before check in hours.
Ask about laundry too – many will allow you to do laundry, perfect if you’ve been traveling around and need a clothing refresh!
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I love how these modern, airy hanoks make it feel like you’re living in nature
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Nearby Things to Do
One of the best parts of staying in a hanok is that Seoul’s historic sights are literally right outside your door.
Here are some must-do’s during your trip to Seoul.
You can also check out my Seoul travel guide for more practical tips and my Seoul itineraries.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
The grandest of Seoul’s five royal palaces and the one to visit if you only have time for one.
Built in 1395 as the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty, it’s a vast, stately complex of gates, pavilions, and ceremonial halls.
Arrive in the early morning to beat the crowds and make sure to stay for the changing of the royal guard ceremony held at the main gate.
Book a tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace here.
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Changdeokgung Palace and the Secret Garden
Quieter than Gyeongbokgung, this is often considered the most beautiful of Seoul’s palaces.
The rear Secret Garden (Huwon) is a UNESCO-listed landscape of pavilions, lotus ponds, and ancient trees that requires a separate guided tour ticket, but is absolutely worth it.
Book a guided tour of Changdeokgung here.
Insadong
This is Seoul’s traditional arts and crafts district, a 10-minute walk from most Bukchon guesthouses.
The main pedestrian street is lined with tea houses, calligraphy shops, antique dealers, and vendors.
Insadong is a great place to pick up gifts that aren’t mass-produced. There are lots of ceramic shops and independent jewelry stores.
If you see a street stand selling hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts), try it! It’s one of my favorite street snacks.
Or, if you’re visiting in summer, cool down with a hojicha latte from one of the cute cafes lining the street.
Book a guided tour of Insadong here.
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Rent a hanbok
Dozens of small rental shops around Gyeongbokgung and Bukchon offer hanbok, Korea’s traditional dress.
Wearing one isn’t just a fun photo opportunity – it also grants free entry to several of the royal palaces!
On my first visit to Seoul, I didn’t do this because it sounded gimmicky and touristy.
But then I saw so many cute girls in billowing silk hanboks at the palace I regretted not trying it at least once.
Book a hanbok rental and photoshoot here.
Ikseon-dong
After a day of palace-hopping and alley-wandering, Ikseon-dong is the perfect place to wind down.
The neighborhood transforms magically at dusk with twinkling street lights, small lively bars and cozy restaurants.
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Seoul Travel Vlog
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Visiting Korea – Travel Checklist
Flights | Direct flights from NYC to Seoul can be limited, but I like budget Korean airline Air Premia. I also recommend taking direct flights to Japan (more flight options), then making a short stopover tip to Seoul. Check here for flight deals here and set an alert for your dates.
Hotels | Seoul is a large city, with lots of great neighborhoods for sightseeing, shopping and activities. I recommend staying North of the Han River in Myeongdong if you primarily want to sightsee and South of the river in Gangnam if your priority is skincare, shopping or beauty treatments.
Check here for deals on Seoul hotels and definitely book in advance if you’re traveling in the spring or fall.
E-Sim | Download a couple Korea-specific apps before your trip, like Naver Maps and Kakao Talk as Google Maps isn’t really up to date in Seoul. I highly recommend getting an e-sim so you can stay connected, translate menus & signs and hail a taxi. Jetpac offers affordable esims with daily packages as low as $1/ day.
Insurance | Lastly, be sure to visit Korea with travel insurance.
Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, your phone gets stolen, or a flight delay leaves you with nothing but the clothes on your back, travel insurance will help when you need it most.
Flight delays and lost baggage happen frequently and are always a pain, especially if you don’t have insurance to get quickly reimbursed! Get a quote for your trip here.
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Where to Stay in Seoul (tips for first time visitors)
10 of the Best Hanok Stays in Seoul
Seoul in Style: The Perfect 5 Day Girl's Trip Itinerary
How to Plan the Ultimate Korea Glowup Beauty Trip
A 7-Day Beauty Focused Seoul Itinerary (jam packed!)
How to Get Around Seoul using Public Transportation
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