Destination: Seochon - Seoul's Serene Charm, Traces of Time Flowing Along Alleyways
Free Image Search Keywords: Seochon, Seochon Hanok Village, Seochon Alleyways, Seochon Cafe, Seochon Restaurants, Seochon Date, Seochon Scenery, Seochon Art
Located west of Gyeongbokgung Palace in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Seochon is a neighborhood with a charm distinct from Bukchon. Old hanoks (traditional Korean houses) and modern shops with a contemporary feel, cozy cafes, and unique restaurants blend harmoniously along its narrow, winding alleyways. Walking along the old stone walls and narrow paths, you can feel a serene atmosphere as if time has stopped. As a place where many artists once resided, the artistic sensibility found throughout Seochon is also a defining characteristic.
What Travelers Say:
Many travelers who have visited Seochon express positive reactions such as "The charming and serene alleyway scenery was impressive!", "I liked that there were many cute and pretty cafes and restaurants", and "The quiet and relaxed atmosphere, different from Bukchon, was attractive". In particular, many comment that "It was fun to slowly walk through the alleyways and discover hidden gems", "I liked the unique atmosphere where old hanoks and modern shops blend together", and "It was quite fun to browse the galleries and workshops with an artistic feel". In the simple and friendly atmosphere rather than extravagance, many also share that "I was able to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and have a comfortable time", and evaluate it as "one of my favorite neighborhoods in Seoul".
Celebrity Visits to Seochon:
Seochon has historically been a place where many artists and writers resided and blossomed their artistic spirit. Artists such as painter Lee Jung-seop, poet Yoon Dong-joo, and novelist Yi Sang lived and worked in Seochon. Even now, many artists have their studios in Seochon, and various galleries and workshops are operated, allowing visitors to feel the artistic atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Seochon:
Seochon has its own charm in all four seasons, but it is best to visit during spring (April to May) when the weather is pleasant for walking and autumn (September to October) when you can enjoy the serene atmosphere with a cool breeze. The narrow alleyways can feel somewhat hot in summer and cold in winter.
How to Get There:
- Subway: Get off at Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), use Exit 2 and walk.
- Bus: Get off at the Gyeongbokgung Station or Tongin Market bus stop (various bus routes available).
- Car: Search for '서촌' or the area around '서울특별시 종로구 자하문로' on your navigation system. Seochon has narrow alleyways and very limited parking space, so we strongly recommend using public transportation. You may need to use a nearby paid parking lot.
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EzCSQkJE7oFawDrh7
Estimated Visiting Time: To slowly explore the alleyways, shops, and cafes of Seochon, it can take at least 2 to 3 hours. You should plan for more time if you want to spend time at a place you like or have a meal.
Estimated Costs:
- You can explore Seochon itself for free.
- Costs will vary depending on your use of cafes, restaurants, and shopping expenses.
Recommended Restaurants near Seochon (within 3km, by rating):
- Seochon Kimssi: 16, Jahamun-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Seochon Restaurant, Seochon Italian
- Chebu-dong Janchijip (as seen on Tasty Guys): 24, Jahamun-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Seochon Janchi Guksu, Chebu-dong Janchijip
- Yeongchunjjae: 32, Jahamun-ro 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Seochon Korean Table d'hote, Yeongchunjjae
- Hermes Bakery: 17, Jahamun-ro 5ga-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Seochon Bakery, Seochon Bread
- Simply Kitchen: 18, Jahamun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Seochon Sandwich, Simply Kitchen
Recommended Hotels near Seochon (within 3km, 3-star or higher, by rating):
- LaCasa Hotel Seoul: 19, Dosan-daero 11-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Sinsa Station Hotel, LaCasa Hotel (somewhat distant)
- Best Western Premier Gangnam: 125, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Gangnam Station Hotel, Best Western (somewhat distant)
- Hotel Peyto Gangnam: 517, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Samseong Station Hotel, Hotel Peyto (somewhat distant)
- GLAD Gangnam COEX Center: 606, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: COEX Hotel, GLAD Gangnam (somewhat distant)
- Alcob Hotel Seoul: 10, Teheran-ro 51-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Search Keywords: Yeoksam Station Hotel, Alcob Hotel (somewhat distant)
Interesting Points: While strolling through the alleyways of Seochon, you can encounter various cultural spaces such as galleries, workshops, and bookstores. It's enjoyable to browse the unique shops created by renovating old hanoks or to appreciate the artwork painted on the alleyway walls. Also, don't miss the special experience of tasting various street foods at Tongin Market using yeopjeon (old Korean coins).