Gangneung‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, known as Seongyojang Hanok Village, is a must-see destination for tourists visiting the city of Gangneung, as it offers a unique glimpse into the traditional Korean culture and history, as well as a chance to experience the traditional Korean way of living through the beautiful hanok (traditional Korean houses) and the picturesque streets lined with cherry blossoms and maple trees, making it an ideal place for a day trip.
Morning in Seongyojang Hanok Village
As you make your way to the village, located just a short distance from the city center, the first thing you’ll notice is the beautiful traditional architecture of the hanok houses, which are made of natural materials such as wood and stone, and are characterized by their unique curved roofs and spacious courtyards. As you walk around the village, you’ll also see traditional Korean gardens and ponds, as well as various traditional Korean crafts on display and for sale, making it a great place to find souvenirs.
Exploring the Hanok Houses
One of the highlights of the village is the opportunity to step inside some of the traditional hanok houses and experience the traditional Korean way of living. Some of the houses have been converted into museums, where you can learn about the history and architecture of the hanok, and see traditional Korean furniture and household items on display. Others have been converted into guesthouses, where you can stay overnight and experience the traditional Korean lifestyle firsthand.
Lunch in the Village
There are several traditional Korean restaurants in the village, where you can try some of the local specialties such as bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables and meat) and kimchi (spicy fermented vegetables). If you’re looking for something a little more casual, there are also several street food vendors selling traditional Korean snacks such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar and nuts).
Afternoon Activities
After lunch, you can take a stroll along the village’s picturesque streets and enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms and maple trees in spring, or the colorful leaves in fall. If you’re interested in traditional Korean culture, you can also visit the village’s cultural center, where you can learn about traditional Korean music, dance, and martial arts, or try your hand at some traditional Korean crafts such as pottery or calligraphy.
Evening in the Village
As the sun begins to set, the village takes on a whole new atmosphere, with the traditional Korean lanterns and the soft glow of the hanok houses creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. If you’re staying overnight in the village, you can enjoy a traditional Korean dinner at one of the guesthouses, and then take a walk around the village to see the lanterns and enjoy the night views of the village.
Conclusion
Overall, Seongyojang Hanok Village is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Gangneung, offering a unique glimpse into the traditional Korean culture and history, as well as a chance to experience the traditional Korean way of living. Whether you’re interested in traditional Korean architecture, food, or culture, there’s something for everyone in this charming village, making it the perfect day trip destination.
