Bukchon is the name of a traditional Korean village nestled just outside Seoul’s bustling metropolis. To experience authentic Korean culture, we visited this dreamy oriental village. We fell in love with South Korea, Particularly with Bukchon , Seoul’s peaceful rustic cousin.

As travelers we love complete cultural immersion in the heritage of exotic destinations around the world. We enjoy everything local -food, stay, traditions, clothing, artifacts and customs. If you are anything like us then you will appreciate exploring the few villages around Seoul. Bukchon is our most favorite of all , with Seoul’s largest concentration of Hanoks, the traditional homes.

These areas are living open air museums. The homes date back to the Josean dynasty that ruled Korea centuries ago. A walk in these lanes takes you back in time and gives you a real sense of authentic Korean culture. Its a great place to be enveloped in traditions & history of Seoul.

In the days of Josean dynasty, high ranking noblemen and officials lived here. Today the soul of Seoul lives on in these quaint neighborhoods. Plenty of chic cafes and home run kitchens serving authentic food add to the lovely atmosphere of this rustic hamlet.

When we visited there were hardly any tourists. The weather was cool, misty and sprinkled with a few showers. Numerous winding alleys, quaint old homes and quiet whispers lend a charismatic vibe to the place. Seoul was quite a contrast from other places we visited. A surprisingly lovely one!

 Experience Authentic Korean Culture

1. Forget the pretentious restaurants and dine in local style here

The Koreans love subtle minimalism. To me living  in a Hanok was a gentle reminder that less is more. Its amazing how something so sparse, simple and unfussy can be so brilliant in design. Like many other Asian traditions, one of  authentic Korean cultures is the custom of sleeping on floor and eating meals sitting down. Its also customary to take your footwear off before entering homes, as a sign of respect.

 2.Traditional ceremonies and Royal costumes

Korea’s national costumes are characterized by full bodied silk garments in vibrant colors. While in Seoul, try out their traditional clothings and enjoy practicing their customs during your stay.

3.Old world charm

A few clusters of antique homes still survive outside the big cities. Their elegant curved roofs and wooden beams lend great aesthetic value to these houses. The interiors are lovely too. Attractive tile roofs, wooden columns, traditional breathable rice paper windows, make Hanoks a must try for those who love to embrace other cultures.

4.Authentic food & drinks

No mention of authentic Korean culture is complete without mention of their food! We absolutely loved Korean cuisine! I cannot rave enough about it. Mild, aromatic & simultaneously packed with bold flavors.

On chilly afternoons, one of the unique things to do in Seoul is to slurp steaming chicken and rice soups called samyetangs. Korea’s famous fermented cabbage Kimchi is lip-smacking – it elevates simple dishes to complex flavors. Ginseng liquor and tea and very popular local drinks.

5.Slice of peaceful-tranquility

Escape the demanding intensity of urban life and live in this oasis of peace.The atmosphere here is almost meditative – very peaceful very zen. Leafy central courtyards where you can wrap your fingers around a warm cup of tea and sip away your worries.

6. Humor yourself and live like an aristocrat, atleast for a day !

While Seoul is an ultra modern city, it’s not uncommon to find glimpses of the past. In the days gone by, nobles of Korean royalty and high ranking aristocrats lived in these hanoks. While they deceptively  look simple , they can be opulent and luxurious. To truly experience authentic Korean culture, stay in one of these plush Hanoks. Plenty of boutique upscale hanoks let you live in imperial style!

Visit this stunning country for a refreshing and unusual holiday. Korea is gorgeous, off the beaten track and loaded with cultural beauty. How was your experience in this country, share with me your experiences and even your misadventures 😉 ! Happy traveling !