A hanok village with Namsan view
Located right under Namsan Seoul Tower, Namsangol Hanok Village is the perfect addition to your itinerary when in Seoul. Although it is not popular, it is worth your time. Quite hidden in the busy streets of Chungmuro, the park has a lot to offer.
Introduction
Namsangol Hanok Village is an ancient village from Joseon period (1392-1910), located on the northern side of Namsan Mountain. It opened to the public with free admission in 1998.
The place was formed by relocating and restoring five hanok houses, which are designated as folk materials by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, to shed new light on the Korean ancestors’ way of life. Seoul Namsan Gukakdang is the very first special theater for “gukak,” Korean classical music. Visitors can enjoy a different kind of beauty, along with the surrounding natural environments.
Why you should visit Namsangol Hanok Village
Many tourists go for the popular attractions such as Bukchon Hanok Village but how about you visit something new and underrated. In fact, Tourists often give a miss to Namsangol Village but this place has nothing to envy others. With its perfect location, a walking distance from Myeongdong Station, its scenery and cultural heritage will prove to be a rewarding stop. It was a famous summer vacation spot during Joseon Dynasty and called Cheonghak-dong, the place where the gods live due to its beautiful scenery.
Scenery worth every season
This place never fail to amaze me as its scenery changes with every season.
You can visit the village during the Cherry Blossom Season and admire the Pinkish backround:
Or if you prefer you can enjoy the autumn foliage, you can take a walk around the colorful trees.
Cultural Heritage at Namsangol Hanok Village
Namsangol Hanok Village is a place full of history, it was known for its five hanoks (traditional Korean houses) from Joseon Dynasty that were located in various parts of the city until the City of Seoul moved and restored them here
Hanok Houses of Important Figures from Joseon Dynasty
The hanoks reflect different unique characteristics of their owners’ background from the Carpenter in charge of constructing Gyeongbokgung Palace, Military General, Son-in-law of King Cheoljong (1831-1864), Parents of Empress Sunjeonghyo (wife of Emperor Sunjong, 1874-1926) to Uncle of Empress Sunjeonghyo (1894-1966).
Cafe and souvenir shops
The Hanok Village has two coffee shops that reflect well the atmosphere of the place. You can not only have coffee but also shop for souvenirs in these places.
Café Dalgang
At Café Dalgang, you can enjoy traditional tea, coffee (Hanok Village Blend, etc.), traditional snacks, rice cakes, and more.
Operating Hours:
- Summer Season(April – October) 10:00~20:00 (Last Order 19:30)
- Winter Season(November ~ March) 10:00~19:30 (Last Order 19:00)
- Closed Every Monday
Cafe 1890s
Operating Hours:
- Summer Season(April – October) 10:00~20:00 (Last Order 19:30)
- Winter Season(November ~ March) 10:00~19:00 (Last Order 18:30)
- Closed Every Monday
The Time Capsule
Besides the five heritage hanoks, there are cafe, souvenir shop, traditional garden, pavilions, pond, performance arts stage (Gukakdang) and a time capsule plaza at Namsangol Hanok Village.
A little bit of history, In 1994, to mark Seoul’s 600th anniversary as the capital of Korea, 600 items thought to best represent the city were buried to be opened on November 29, 2394, which will mark the city’s 1,000th anniversary. Also, The square is built in the shape of a meteorite crater, symbolizing perpetuality, while the Time Capsule is made in the shape of the Bosingak Bell.
Finally, I hope that you would enjoy walking around Namsangol as much as i do. It has many hidden gems and on top of that it is free. Bonus, you can even walk at night here and enjoy Namsan and the hanoks being lighted.
Location
Address:
37, Samcheong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Chungmuro Station (line 3/4, exit 4). Go forward and turn right onto the lane next to GS25 convenience store and go straight. 4 mins walk.
Operating Hours:
- Apr-Oct: 9:00-21:00
- Nov-Mar: 9:00-20:00
- Seoul Namsan Gukakdang (Traditional Theater) & Cafe Dalgang: Closed on Monday.
You can visit their website for more information: www.hanokmaeul.or.kr
