Last Saturday, March 13, I decided to meet up with my co-worker, Holly, for a historical and educational city walk. We took the metro to Anguk Station, and then about 17,000+ steps and hiked about 52+ stories (according to my FitBit).
Bukchon Hanok Village is a Korean traditional village in Seoul with a long history located on the top of a hill between Gyeongbok Palace, Changdeok Palace and Jongmyo Royal Shrine. The traditional village is composed of many alleys, hanok and is preserved to show a 600-year-old urban environment.
We walked through gift, art and carpentry shops set up in courtyards. I may have 'accidentally' bought some gifts for my family. The village also features cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants, and tea houses, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.
All that walking makes you very thirsty, so I enjoyed a blueberry banana smoothie to go from a Tropical Phillipines themed cafe. We explored alley ways and open back yards that were on display by local residents...yes people live here in these cool houses (see pictures below).
We walked back towards a different metro stop, through Insadong, a vibrant neighborhood full of more outdoor shopping. I may have been tempted again. South Koreans like their shopping. If you ever come visit me, best to bring another empty luggage bag. Last Saturday wore me out, but it was a lot of fun. Plus Holly is a great Instagram photographer.
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