8 Views Of Bukchon 북촌 8경

Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the most visited places in Seoul – and with good reason! It’s easy to get lost in the narrow streets of Bukchon but if you want a clear overview and route, you should check out the most beautiful photo spots in the village, also called the 8 views of Bukchon.

Bukchon Hanok Village should be on every Seoul itinerary as it is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Seoul. It is situated on the top of a hill between Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace, and Jongmyo Royal Shrine and consists of many narrow alleys, traditional Korean Hanok houses and showcases a 600-year-old urban environment. Bukchon used to be the residential quarter of high-ranking government officials and nobility during the Joseon Dynasty and comprises the neighborhoods of Wonseo-dong, Jae-dong, Gye-dong, Gahoe-dong, and Insa-dong.

Here are the 8 views of Bukchon, 북촌 8경, the best photo spots in Bukchon Hanok Village Seoul:

Start your tour of the 8 views of Bukchon with this amazing view of Changdeokgung Palace. This beautiful complex is one of the “Five Grand Palaces” built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897).

Changdeokgung Palace View

After the first view, you can follow along the palace walls but it’s more interesting to take the back alley. You will soon reach the second view of Bukchon: Gongbang-gil. This street was once home to craftsmen serving the royal family.

Gongbang-gil Street

This part of Bukchon Hanok Village used to exclusively inhabited by nobles, scholars, and government officials hence and was extremely well-maintained. Today, many of the hanok houses house cafes, restaurants and teahouses.

Gahoe-dong street

Following along the area, you’re making your way back down to view 4 and get this amazing view.

Beautiful hanok roofs

This is definitely the busiest area of Bukchon as it is also the most beautiful. Many tourists come here to take pictures in hanbok, traditional Korean dress. You can rent a hanbok at several places in Seoul but my favorite is One Day Hanbok.

Most iconic street in Bukchon Hanok Village

Standing at the top of this alley, you get the most iconic view of Bukchon. If you want to avoid the crowds, come here in the early morning or on a week day.

Downward view of the street

This is another gorgeous photo spot in Buckhon Hanok Village and a lot less busy than the previous two stops.

Gahoe-dong street

I have to admit, this last stop of the 8 views of Bukchon confused me the most and I wasn’t exactly sure what to look for but I think I have figured it out. Basically, there is a set of stone steps leading from the hanok village down to the Samcheong-dong area, Bukchon’s shopping area. The steps themselves are rather unimpressive, but what really takes the cake here is the amazing view. You get beautiful hanok roofs, trees, Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Korean Folk Museum and a beautiful mountain backdrop all in one shot. What more could you ask for as the final stop of the 8 views of Bukchon?

Spot Gyeongbokgung Palace in the distance

This is a beautiful viewpoint that isn’t part of the official 8 views of Bukchon but totally visiting. While you have to pay KRW 3,000 to access this lovely terrace, you will be rewarded with an amazing view over a lovely hanok neighborhood. This observatory is located on the 3rd floor of a small apartment building and seems to be run by the house owners. It’s also perfect for sitting down and taking a bit of a rest after all the walking in Bukchon. I recommend squeezing this stop in after view no. 7 and before the last view.

Bukchon Observatory

When visiting Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is a must-see attraction. The best part is that it’s also completely free to explore. For more free things to do in Seoul, be sure to check out these 25 free things to do in Seoul.

Check out the full article here: http://lindagoeseast.com/2018/11/19/8-views-of-bukchon-hanok-village-seoul/