Bukchon Hanok Village — rooftops over the city
A traditional hanok neighbourhood on the hill between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung. Climb the lanes and Seoul's downtown unfolds beyond layer upon layer of tiled roofs — one of the most quintessentially Korean views in the city. People actually live here, so explore quietly.
History
In the Joseon era this district north of the Cheonggyecheon stream (hence ‘Bukchon,’ north village) was an upper-class quarter for royals and the scholar-official class. The lane structure around Gahoe-dong and Samcheong-dong is nearly 600 years old, though many of today's hanok are 1920s–30s urban houses. Sitting between the two palaces, it has long been a neighbourhood of the powerful.
Getting there
Walk uphill from Exit 2 of Anguk Station (Line 3). The most famous viewpoint lane is Bukchon-ro 11-gil, with the ‘Bukchon Eight Views’ photo spots signposted throughout. Note the visitor time limits put in place to protect residents — daytime visits are best.
Tips
- ·Bukchon-ro 11-gil (Red Zone) is off-limits 5pm–10am; fines apply
- ·It's a residential area — keep photo-taking quiet; early morning is calmest
- ·Walk up from Anguk Station Exit 2; pair it with nearby Insadong & Samcheong-dong
Photos
