Fodor's Expert Review Bukchon Hanok Village

With its labyrinthine street and rustic stone and clay houses, Bukchon is one of the few places to get a glimpse of old Seoul. This hilly neighborhood is one of the most picturesque and charming places in the city. Historically home to the upper crust of Korean society, in recent years Bukchon has become a cultural center for residents and tourists alike. Mixed in with the traditional Hanok houses are numerous galleries, cafes, small museums, and guesthouses. To best experience this area, visitors can stay at a traditional hanok guesthouse, such as Gongsimga. The top of the hill offers beautiful views of the city and palaces below, making it a great place to visit at sunset or sunrise. For rest and refreshment, stop by one of the many cafes along Samcheong-gil, which forms the eastern border of the neighborhood.