Cecelia ChangSouth Korea has always been regarded as a fashionable city. But aside from that, its traditional culture is also extremely beautiful and fascinating. However, when it comes to deciding where to stay in South Korea, traditional houses (hanok) are usually not the first choice, especially for first-time travellers. Not only are hanoks pleasant to look at and stay in, but they also make for an environmentally friendly option, as they are built with natural materials like wood and stones.
Fortunately, looking for an ideal hanok stay in South Korea is easy through Airbnb. Why not consider these 10 stunning hanoks in Seoul or other places in South Korea where you can experience the culture like a true local?
Also read: 26 Seoul Airbnb Stays in Popular Areas & Neighbourhoods
Gorgeous hanoks in Seoul for a unique experience
1. This traditional house in a famous hanok village
Listing name: Korean traditional house in Bukchon Hanok Village
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 7
No. of bedrooms: 3
Located in the Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, this hanok stay is perfect for those who want easy access to the city and to spend a peaceful night at the same time. A cultural district with nice restaurants and shopping places like Insa-dong Street is just a seven- to 12-minute walk from the house. Besides, you can expect a sauna, a garden, and other traditional house elements like futon beds in this award-winning hanok Airbnb.
2. This minimalist hanok space in Seongbuk-gu
Listing name: Private hanok with garden, old alley next to Hanyang City Naksan Park, SpaceMODA
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
One of the more modern hanoks in Seoul is this cosy hanok with a small yard and a simple Korean house design. It’s located in an old residential neighbourhood in Seongbuk-gu, instead of a bustling tourist area, so you can experience what it’s like to live like one of the locals. A five-minute walk will take you to riverside cafes and bars. You can also walk up the hill to reach Naksan Park, a park that offers magnificent panoramic city views.
3. This sophisticated hanok with a bathtub and cherry blossoms
Listing name: Private Hanok • Hanok Stay Sister House • Unnie house
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 2
This minimalist accommodation called Unnie House is another place where you can experience a traditional hanok stay in Seoul. Here, you are welcomed by a pretty cherry tree and other modern amenities like a bathtub, coffee machines, a tea room, and board games. It only takes a three-minute walk to arrive at the Sinseol-dong subway station, and it’s also conveniently located near the bus stop.
4. This hanok Airbnb with a contemporary touch
Listing name: Modern Hanok ‘ZIKM ‘
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 5
No. of bedrooms: 2
ZIKM is among the award-winning hanoks in Seoul with nearly a hundred years of history. Although this place still retains the traditional architecture — like the rooftop, wooden doors, and windows — the furniture and amenities are all given a contemporary touch. These make it a perfect place to experience both traditional Korean and modern western tones.
5. This classic and cosy hanok house
Listing name: (강방)TraditionalHouse&3minJongno3gaStation(Exit7)
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
Dajayon Hanok guesthouse is a comfy hanok stay in Korea that will make you feel at home. It’s situated near many popular attractions in Seoul, with places like Insa-dong, Buckchon Hanok Village, and the historical Changdeokgung Palace just a 10-minute walk away. The guest house also has a small yard, a tiny garden, and a classic Korean house vibe, making you feel like you’re stepping into a K-drama scene.
6. This hanok house near the palace and cherry blossom viewing spots
Listing name: Todaki Korean Traditional House
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 3
There are a handful of reasons to consider Todaki for your hanok rental in Seoul. A small but well-equipped accommodation, Todaki has all the basic amenities and even a tiny garden. You will definitely feel warm and at ease here, especially when sunshine illuminates the entire hanok. What’s better, it’s located close to the Anguk subway station, cafes, restaurants, as well as cherry blossoms viewing spots like the Jungdok Library, Samcheong Park, and Changdeokgung Palace.
7. This traditional Korean house that feels like home
Listing name: Traditional House /Anguk station 8min YB
Listing type: Private room in home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
In the heart of Bukchon Hanok Village in Jongno-gu is where you’ll find this homey traditional hanok. You’ll be greeted by a friendly host lady once you arrive. Although the hanok Airbnb is not the most spacious, it has everything you need, including an air conditioner for summer and a heater for winter. The location is also perfect for tourists, as it is near several popular attractions such as Changdeokgung Palace, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Myeong-dong shopping area.
8. This hanok with astonishing mountain views
Listing name: Beautiful traditional hanok “Hwawoon”
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
This premium hanok stay is situated in Samcheong-dong, the same neighbourhood where Bukchon Hanok Village is. Guests get to enjoy the scenic views of the city, including the mountains Bugaksan and Inwangsan right from the windows.
Best believe it’s one of the hanoks is Seoul with finely decorated interiors. For instance, there is a round moon-like artwork in the bedroom, and the bathroom has a grey rocky wall with an illuminating mirror which makes you feel like you’ve landed on the moon. There is also a private pool in the accommodation, perfect for a taking healing bath.
9. This gorgeous hanok which allows you to stargaze
Listing name: STAY256 Hanok Guesthouse_RM6
Listing type: Private room in home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
This hanok stay in Seoul looks even more beautiful at nighttime with its romantic orange lights. A century-old traditional Korean house, it offers antique rooms and furniture, along with a huge courtyard. Aside from experiencing living in a hanok with modern facilities, you can also relish stargazing in the courtyard at night with your partner. How romantic!
10. This cosy hanok that looks beautiful inside and out
Listing name: #Cozy2_Analog_Hanok_ 2인실
Listing type: Private room in home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
Another of the prettiest hanoks in Seoul is this classic Korean guesthouse. There is a tiny zen garden in the middle of the courtyard, and the interior integrates a minimalistic style. While staying here, you get to savour delicious Korean-style breakfast every morning, prepared by the host. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants around, easily accessible by walking.
11. This elegant hanok with a private bathtub
Listing name: Luxury Hanok with private bathtub – SW09
Listing type: Entire home
Max. no. of guests: 3
No. of bedrooms: 1
If you prefer a more luxurious hanok experience, consider this lavish hanok rental home. Unlike other hanoks in Seoul on the list, this house features ornate carvings on the doors, windows, and walls, making it stand out. What’s more, it has an extravagant contemporary look, and is equipped with all the basic amenities. There is even a private bathtub and a beam projector for you to watch your favourite shows, how cool!
Also read: 15 Useful South Korea Travel Tips if It’s Your First-Time
Other pretty hanoks in South Korea to book on Airbnb
12. This spectacular hanok in Jeonju Hanok Village
Listing name: Use of the entire accommodation space in the private house for a day
Listing type: Entire cabin
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
When searching for where to stay in South Korea, this accommodation inside Jeonju Hanok Village is not to be missed if you’re travelling to North Jeolla Province. This Jeonju hanok stay is actually over 105 years old, but renovated to suit modern living. Landmarks such as the Omokdae historical site, Jeondong Cathedral, and the Gyeonggijeon shrine are only five minutes away. Since it’s on the main street, getting nice food or shopping around is also very convenient.
13. This hanok-style villa in Jeju
Listing name: YUGAHUN-Korean Style Villa Near City Center
Listing type: Entire villa
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 2
If you’re travelling to the famous Jeju Island, consider this charming hanok-style villa. It is spacious, has a large courtyard, and is surrounded by fruit trees and camellia shrubs. Moreover, this villa is also built with handpicked Jeju basalt stones and red pine woods, which make it strong and sustainable. Although it’s situated near the city centre, its location in a quiet neighbourhood allows guests to enjoy a serene stay without any disturbance.
14. This adorable hanok cottage in Gangwon
Listing name: Pine loess gudaljang hanok solitary house, Seorak Beach 5 minutes on foot, Naksan Temple Seoraksan
Listing type: Entire cottage
Max. no. of guests: 5
No. of bedrooms: 2
Tucked away in a forest next to the sea, this hanok in Ganghyeon-myeon is one of the most stunning hanoks in South Korea. It is only a five-minute walk to Seorak Beach, a family-friendly destination where visitors can indulge in activities like swimming and surfing.
The hanok is surrounded by pine trees, loess plants, and other adorable flowers, allowing you to get in touch with nature fully. There is also a barbeque area right in front of the house. During wintertime, the scene of snow blanketing the cottage makes for a uniquely captivating vista.
15. This stunning hanok house away from the city
Listing name: Free parking, outdoor barbecue facilities, and Korean beauty with large lawn in an elegant and cool traditional hanok
Listing type: Entire cottage
Max. no. of guests: 8
No. of bedrooms: 3
If you’re looking for where to stay in South Korea, escape the tireless urban life and stay in this quaint Korean hanok in Gimhae. This massive hanok stay can fit up to eight guests and is equipped with an outdoor barbeque area and a huge garden.
It is only 15 minutes from Gimhae Airport and Busan Sasang Terminal, so the location is suitable for both local and foreign travellers. It’s nestled on the top of a hill, where you can camp outside to catch the sunrise and sunset, or watch the night sky accompanied by relaxing forest sounds. There’s also a bathtub with an outside view — how cool is that?
16. This huge and lovely Jeonju hanok stay
Listing name: Arang Palace (Traditional Hanok Experience) Novel Room ♥ Cozy Lovers Room ♥ Complimentary Breakfast/Complimentary Parking/1 minute walk to public parking [ENG/中 文]
Listing type: Private room in cabin
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
This quaint hanok called Arang Palace is almost a century old. The design of the entire house is simple yet classic. Surrounded by plants and flowers, there is also an open-sky backyard that allows guests to sit and relax. Since the hanok is conveniently located in Jeonju Hanok Village, you can easily walk to famous destinations such as Gyeonggijeon and Jeondong Cathedral.
17. This simple and homey hanok at a B&B
Listing name: Jeonju Hanok Village Annex sarang 4 in tosarang guest house
Listing type: Private room in bed and breakfast
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
This simple and unadorned hanok with a welcoming atmosphere will make you feel like you’ve just entered the house of your closest friends. The rooms and the courtyard are wide and spacious, and the interior adopts a plain, woody design. At night, you can have a fun barbecue session with your friends here in the courtyard, or enjoy a simple meal in the shared kitchen with free access to board games and some food.
18. This hanok Airbnb surrounded by a garden and lush greenery
Listing name: Hanok Bed & Breakfast Healing Spot
Listing type: Private room in home
Max. no. of guests: 3
No. of bedrooms: 1
Wondering where to stay in South Korea for absolute tranquillity? Look no further than this hanok in Gwangyang-si. Away from the city, this place has a natural recreational forest and valleys surrounding it, making it the perfect place to stay if you’re craving a more relaxing and healing trip. Simply look outside the window or take a stroll outdoors to catch the serene view of the mountains and the blue skies.
19. This stand-alone hanok with a massive garden
Listing name: Dam Nur Floor Roof
Listing type: Entire guesthouse
Max. no. of guests: 4
No. of bedrooms: 1
Dam Nur Floor Roof is a stand-alone hanok pension encircled by the woods of Damyang County. It is built at the foot of the mountains, and there is a massive garden right in front of the guesthouse that’s filled with pretty plants and flowers. The windows are also large enough for you to look out at the amazing scenery. Enjoy a cup of hot coffee and a homemade breakfast while immersing yourself in the peaceful surroundings.
20. This hanok Airbnb with a cool museum concept
Listing name: Trega Hanok Village Lodging Bond 1
Listing type: Private room in home
Max. no. of guests: 2
No. of bedrooms: 1
Trega is a very unique hanok in Wansan-gu, Jeonju. Among the hanoks in South Korea on this list, this will perhaps appeal most to travellers who are into art and culture. It boasts a museum concept that will make you feel like you’re travelling back in time. Expect plenty of traditional Korean artwork and antiques stored in its exhibition spaces, both indoors and outdoors.
Due to its great location, you can walk to famous tourist attractions once you’re done admiring the impressive works. For instance, Nambu Market and Jeonju Hyanggyo Bridge are just five minutes away.
Also read: 15 Underrated Places in South Korea That You Should Experience
Now you know where to stay in South Korea if you’re looking for a traditional, close-to-local experience. These gorgeous hanoks in Seoul and beyond are definitely going to make your trip even more memorable!
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