The capital city of South Korea, Seoul has plenty to offer to tourists. Whether you are here to work, study, or holiday, you will definitely end up making cherishing memories from your Seoul trip. Seoul is abundant with various fun activities to do, sights to see, and places to visit; Jongno-gu being one of them. Located in the downtown of the city, Jongno-gu (means bell street) is a district that receives a huge footfall of tourists every year from every nook and corner of the world. The region is dotted with some of the best attractions of Seoul that are worth every effort. This post consists of Jongno-gu points of interest and things To Do in Jongno-gu that you should look to explore while vacationing in Seoul.
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Samcheong-dong
Samcheong-dong is one of the most popular tourist places in Seoul located around Jongno-gu. Here in Samcheong-dong, you will get to see some of the best tourist attractions including Gyeongbokgung Palace (the home of royals during the Joseon Dynasty), Changdeokgung Palace (another popular palace during the Joseon Dynasty), and Cheong Wa Dae (the president’s office). The place is also known as the home to distinctive cafes, galleries, and accessory shops. The area is dotted with European-style cafes that are beautifully blended in the traditional culture of South Korean. Cafe Bora, Cafe Breezin, Dodo Cafe, and Jiyugaoka Cafe are some popular cafes in the region.
Kukje Gallery
If you are an art lover, then Kukje Gallery has to be one of the top places to visit around Jongno-gu. It built to bring international contemporary art to the tourism scene of Korea. The gallery showcases beautiful Korean art to the general public. The gallery consists of three art spaces K1, K2, and K3. Each of these spaces has its own style and architecture.
Address for Kukje Gallery
54 Samcheong-ro, Sogyeok-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Operating Hours for Kukje Gallery
Sunday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Bukchon Hanok Village
Often touted as the best-kept secret of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is dotted with oodles of hanoks – the traditional Korean houses. These houses date back to the Joseon Dynasty. At present, many of these houses operate as guest houses, cultural centers, tea houses, and restaurants. You can enjoy a unique dining experience at any of these restaurants. This is the perfect place to be a part of the rich history, culture, and architecture of Korea.
Address for Bukchon Hanok Village
South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Gahoe-dong
Operating Hours for Bukchon Hanok Village
Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday & Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
** If you have extra time don’t miss all the top attractions in Myeongdong and the incredible nightlife of Itaewon for endless fun!**
Jongno Tower
Jongno Tower is one of the most iconic attractions in Jongno-gu district. Designed by Rafael Vinoly, Jongno Tower is a 33 story distinctive edifice which is known for its unique architectural design. It is a triangular, steel tower that is topped with oval floating above stories. The tower also has a bronze bell which rang 33 times in the morning and 28 times during the night. Well, there is no public observation deck at the top, however, there is a bar/restaurant at the top where you can savor one of the best gastronomic experiences in Seoul. Though you’ll not get cheap Korean food at this restaurant, the unique experience itself makes this place an important part of Korean food culture.
Address for Jongno Tower
51, Jong-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03161, South Korea
Operating Hours for Jongno Tower
Sunday to Saturday from morning to evening
Huwon Secret Garden
A rear garden at Changdeokgung Palace which is dotted with the abundant greenery in Seoul is Huwon Secret Garden around Jongno-gu district. The park was once a leisure place for royal people during the Joseon Dynasty. Also known as Bukwon, Biwon, and Geumwon, the garden sprawls over a large area of 78 acres. One of the best things about this place is that the design of the park flows naturally with the surrounding nature. The beautiful design of the park is adapted to the geography, topography, and ridges of the Mount Bugaksan. The artificial landscaping is very minimal, and hence, the charm of this place is still untouched. You would be amazed to know that the trees in Huwon Secret Garden are more than 300 years old.
Address for Huwon Secret Garden
Myeongnyun 3(sam)ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Operating Hours for Huwon Secret Garden
Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Insadong and Insadong street
A not-to-miss place around Jongno-gu is the neighborhood of Insadong. The place has everything from shopping, food to amazing attractions. However, I would personally recommend you to go for a food tour in Insadong. The neighborhood is dotted with some amazing cafes, some of the best restaurants in Seoul, and even street food stalls. Just like Myeongdong street food some must-try street foods in Insadong and on Insa dong street are King Dessert and Corn Cookie. Besides, here you can also savor the experience very much Korean BBQ. Cha Iyagi is one such popular place where you can go for Korean BBQ dinner. More like Hongdae, the food culture in Insadong is quite enticing and amazing. Besides, you can also go for a shopping tour in Insadong. Here you can find some best quality traditional Korean items like ceramics and handicrafts. Like Hongdae, Insadong also has an amazing nightlife experience to offer to tourists.
Places to Visit in Insadong
Alive Trick-eye Museum, Shin Old Tree House, Tea Museum, and Pagoda Park.
Insa dong Ssamzigik
Ssamzigik is yet another shopping hub around Jongno-gu district. It is a four-story retail center in the Insa dong region. The retail center sells from anything to everything including clothes, accessories, shoes, and miscellaneous items. One of the best things to buy from this place is hand-crafted soap. The basement area is reserved for glassblowing and poetry making. However, the first floor is known as the trick-art gallery. On the whole, this shopping center is the best place to get some souvenirs for friends and family.
Whether you are on the first trip to Seoul or looking for where to eat in Seoul, the fact is Jongno-gu district will leave you astounded with its array of experiences. For more such amazing posts on South Korea, you can check out our blog section which covers everything from food to shopping to attractions to interesting facts.
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