In Seoul, Hanoks aren’t just an old museum space — you can book a stay and experience a glimpse of what Korea used to be.
If you’re seeking to explore Korean culture, try going beyond the typical Hanbok experience, where you twirl about in traditional Korean costumes. It’s a rightly well-loved activity, but let me introduce a lesser-known yet more immersive way to appreciate Korea’s rich heritage! 🎎⭐
Bukchonmaru Hanok Guesthouse. Photo credit: Booking.com
These ain’t your grandma’s lodgings — they’re the hippest, coolest, and quirkiest Hanoks in town, promising an experience that’s part time travel, part modern-day awesomeness.
Bonum 1957 Hanok and Boutique. Photo credit: booking.com
Waking up in a Hanok may feel like a step back in time — from ancestral architecture to serene courtyards, you’ll find yourself enveloped by centuries-old elegance the moment your eyes open. And bunking together with friends will whittle costs to as low as ~S$30/night!
Here are our picks for the top nine Hanok stays in Seoul. I’ve split them up into three groups:
– Quaint and Quiet: for those who want that humble countryside feeling
– Contemporary Solace: for those who prefer modern interior design
– Castle on a Hill: for those who want to live like royalty
*Note: Depending on the arrangement of the Hanok house, some places only accommodate groups.
Read more: 11 Bucket List Japan Accommodations incl. Traditional Ryokans and Quirky-Themed Hotels
Quaint and Quiet
1) Gongsimga Hanok Guesthouse
Photo credit: Booking.com
Charming and humble, Gongsimga Hanok Guesthouse is great for anyone who’d like to fantasise about living a little life in Korea. The pottery pieces at its doorway hint at the Hanok’s homely character.
Photo credit: Booking.com
Nostalgic details throughout the place like decorative trinkets and colourful pillows come together to give a lived-in cosiness. Its warmth extends beyond interior design — the owner prepares home-cooked breakfast to make guests feel welcome!
Photo credit: Booking.com
Single, double, and triple rooms are available. All rooms face either the courtyard or garden, so expect to wake up to some greenery! 🌱
Cost: From ~S$70/night (2 pax)
How to get there: 10min walk from Anguk train station (Naver Map)
2) Sohyundang Guesthouse
Photo credit: Booking.com
Sohyundang Guesthouse looks straight out of a fairytale. With rows of flower pots outlining the courtyard and dainty kerosene lamps overhead, have the dreamiest time sitting here with loved ones and chatting the day away. 🪴🌷
Photo credit: Booking.com
There are also multiple galleries and museums a mere walk away, such as the Kukje Gallery, Kumho Museum of Art and Museum of Korean Straw Handicrafts.
Photo credit: Booking.com
The Hanok features a variety of rooms, with the biggest one accommodating up to six people.
Cost: From ~S$286/night (1 pax)
How to get there: 6min walk from National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Naver Map)
3) Hanok Guesthouse Suni
Photo credit: Booking.com
Built in the 1940s, Hanok Guesthouse Suni is snug with a touch of class. Its dark wood tones and oasis-green glass make the place feel inviting and comfortable.
Photo credit: Booking.com
Traditional breakfasts are also served here to give you a taste of authentic Korean cuisine!
Photo credit: Booking.com
Past guests have also expressed their happiness for the owner’s kindness and generosity, like going out in -14°C weather to personally guide them to the nearest train station!
Cost: From ~S$277/night (1 pax, min. 2 nights)
How to get there: 10min walk from Bomun train station (Naver Map)
Contemporary Solace
4) Hanok Residence Hotel Side
Photo credit: Klook
While keeping the charming architecture of Hanoks, Hanok Residence Hotel Side also features present-day comfort indoors.
Photo credit: Klook
I can only describe this place as a sight for sore eyes. Wide windows allow natural sunlight to flood throughout the lodging. Its graceful, soothing interior is perfected by a palette of warm neutrals.
Photo credit: Klook
From the sloping leafy tree to the simple statement furniture, everything about this accommodation is an inspiration for my dream home. Especially the room with the mountain view! ⛰️
Cost: From ~S$183/night (2 pax)
How to get there: 9min walk from Gyeongbokgung train station (Naver Map)
5) Seoul Story Hanok
Photo credit: Booking.com
Seoul Story Hanok embraces a peaceful concept while infusing it with a sunnier disposition! Its bright and minimalistic hues are bound to freshen you up after long days of adventuring around.
Photo credit: Booking.com
For the epitome of relaxation, I present to you… an in-house sauna! 🧖🏼♀️ Easily the most attractive feature of this place.
And in warmer seasons, the summer amenities open up — a BBQ pit and two pools. Who else can say they’ve had a pool party in a Hanok? ☀️
Photo credit: Booking.com
This accommodation is great for travellers who cherish their downtime. There’s a patio, a terrace and a garden, giving you plenty of excuses for some outdoor lounging. You can also do some quick laundry here if you’re on a longer trip.
Cost: From ~S$397/night (entire house for up to 11 pax)
How to get there: 3min walk from Anguk train station (Naver Map)
6) Luxury Hanok with private bathtub – Yoojundang
Photo credit: Booking.com
For some, luxury is a bare minimum for trips — you’re on holiday after all! If that’s you, this Hanok in Yoojundang is calling.
Photo credit: Booking.com
Here, you can admire the cultural beauty of Hanoks without sacrificing any indulgence. It’s refreshingly spacious and gorgeously furnished, even featuring a study and a tea room 🍵
Photo credit: Booking.com
Most enticingly, there’s a bath that overlooks the courtyard so you can relax against the cool stone — scent of nature and spa in the air — as you take in the views of the Hanok’s elaborate architecture 🛁🌿
Cost: From ~S$509/night (3 pax)
How to get there: 8min walk from Insa Art Space (Naver Map)
Castle on a Hill
7) Bukchonmaru Hanok Guesthouse
Photo credit: Booking.com
When you look out the window of the vintage Bukchonmaru Hanok Guesthouse, the sight of Korea’s vast cityscape will have you feeling like you’re in a time capsule.
Photo credit: Booking.com
The place is embellished with items that exude traditional beauty, from the wardrobe’s intricate design to the ink paintings on the walls. The amount of care put into these details is as if royalty once resided here!
Photo credit: Booking.com
There’s also a balcony where you can have a heartwarming Korean breakfast while soaking in the morning sun.
Although the train is not as easily accessible as other accommodations on this list, you don’t have to worry too much about the pain of dragging your luggage around — airport shuttle services are available!
Cost: From ~S$129/night (2 pax)
How to get there: 10min walk from Bukchon Traditional Museum (Naver Map)
8) Bonum 1957 Hanok and Boutique
Photo credit: Booking.com
Bonum 1957 Hanok and Boutique is regal from floor to ceiling. Where do I begin? A palatial chandelier, lavish bedding, a grand living room… the list is never-ending; this place was built for the monarchy 👑
Photo credit: Booking.com
You’ll find a coffeehouse and bar on-site. But if you prefer making your own cuppa coffee or tea, there’s a beverage maker in every room.
Photo credit: Booking.com
Most rooms cater for two, so this is a beautiful pick for couples looking for a romantic hanok stay in Seoul!
Cost: From ~S$196/night (2 pax)
How to get there: 8min walk from Anguk train station (Naver Map)
9) Dongmyo Hanok Sihwadang
Photo credit: Booking.com
Dongmyo Hanok Sihwadang strikes a balance between cosy and magnificent.
Its warm woodsy tones and spring-green plants stir a lighthearted joy, while sophisticated designs found all over the architecture and interior design demand a closer appreciation.
Photo credit: Booking.com
Something about the ornate furniture and imperial details on every surface (including the doors) reminds me of a palace from the past!
Photo credit: Booking.com
To further immerse yourself in Korean culture, check out the Dongmyo Flea Market (one of their oldest flea markets), just a 6-minute walk away.
Cost: From ~S$304/night via Booking.com (2 pax)
How to get there: 9min walk from Sinseol-dong train station (Naver Map)
Korea’s Hanok Accommodations
Photo credit: Booking.com
We all love Korea for its Hallyu wonders — after all, Kdramas and Kpop spark so much laughter and love. But don’t forget Korea’s mesmerising heritage when planning your itineraries!
Knowing now that sleeping over in a Hanok is an option, it’s hard to imagine settling for anything else. I mean, why pick any ordinary accommodation when your stay could be a whole cultural attraction in itself?
Read also: Where to Stay in Seoul — 13 Aesthetic Yet Affordable Accommodations In Rising Hipster Districts
Sohyeondang Hanok Guesthouse. Photo credit: Booking.com
So, even if you don’t have time to try other authentic Korean experiences, Hanok accommodations are the perfect compromise!
Which of these hanok stays in Seoul caught your eye? Let us know in the comments!
