Surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of traditional houses called ‘hanok’ that date back to the Joseon Dynasty. The name, ‘Bukchon,’ which literally translates to ‘northern village,’ came about as the neighborhoods that the village covers lie to the north of the two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno. Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants and tea houses, providing an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse in Korean traditional culture.
Icheon Ceramics Village produces traditional Korean ceramics, which are of high quality. The village became the center of traditional pottery during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) for about 500 years due to the easily obtainable materials in the areas. Icheon Ceramics Village was also the center of Joseon Baekja ceramics. Presently, about 80 pottery factories are congregated at the village, and about 300 pottery kilns are in use.
Visitors can observe the pottery production process, and purchase them directly. It is worthwhile to see the crafts of these potters known as Living Cultural Treasures of Korea for creating the highest quality handicrafts. Not only are the traditional Cheongja,Baekja, and Buncheong pottery produced here, but you can also view modern design pottery. The Haegang Ceramics Art Center is the only ceramics Art Center in Korea, where you can learn about ceramics. One of the must-see events at Icheon Ceramics Village is the internationally famous “Icheon Ceramics Festival” held every year. Displayed pottery as well as, pottery classes, traditional kiln handling, pottery character show, and even parades are held.
The newly opened Cheongwadae Sarangchae, which opened to the public on January 5th, 2010, is a history center that gives visitors a chance to follow in the footsteps of presidents of Korea and gain insight into the history of Seoul.
On the first floor is the Korea Center, which presents the Korean UNESCO World Heritage Sites and items in the Memory of the World Register. The Hi Seoul Center introduces major tourist attractions, famous restaurants, festivals, Seoul history and, of course, the famous Hangang River. On the second floor is Presidential Center where visitors can about the presidents of Korea. A mock presidential office is set up so visitors can take photos of themselves and pretend to be a Korean president. Guests can also learn about climate change at the Green Growth Center and catch a sneak peak of the G20 summit with the G20 Lounge on the 2nd floor.
The Cheongwadae Sarangchae encompasses the past, present and even the future of Seoul as well as the entire nation. It serves as a tourist information center that offers detailed information on World Cultural Heritage sites and assets.
Sarangbang is also an exhibition center where a diverse display of artwork is displayed. There is a Korean traditional craft atelier and special exhibition center that presents items such as children’s work and public campaign ads.
The center is open from 9 am to 6 pm, with no reservations required. Please note that the center is closed Mondays.
Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 4.
From the exit, turn around, and then left at the subway station elevator.
Go 800m forward to arrive at Cheongwadae Sarangchae.
Insa-dong Street is one of the most memorable attractions in Seoul and represents the focal point of Korean traditional culture and crafts.
Stores in Insa-dong specialize in a wide variety of goods that can only be purchased or appreciated in Korea: hanbok (traditional clothing), hanji (traditional paper), traditional teas, pottery, and folk crafts.
Insa-dong Street stretches over 700 meters between the Anguk-dong Rotary and Tapgol Park (Jongno 2-ga). During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), the street was dominated by Dohwawon, a place of study for painters.
The area is still a center for the arts, and painters, craftsmen, and art lovers continue to set up shop along the narrow alleys, making it a unique place full of folk crafts, pottery and paintings.
The street offers rich opportunities for visitors to experience Korean traditional culture and arts. Various art events and festivals are regularly held along the street.
Approximately 40% of Korean crafts are exchanged in Insa-dong. Some products even trace back to the Three Kingdom Period (57 B.C.-668 A.D.). The most popular items are Korean ceramics ranging in price from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars. Other items sold in Insa-dong include earthenware, calligraphy materials, antique furniture, hanji, hanbok, teas, souvenirs, and cute accessories. Nearby shops include cafés, restaurants, ateliers, and galleries specializing in a diversity of items.
Vehicles are not permitted on the street during weekends, making it more amenable for visitors to look around. Insa-dong is also close to other tourist attractions such as Cheonggyecheon Stream and Gyeongbokgung (the royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty).