Quick Facts About Andong South Korea

Andong is a city located in the southeastern part of the Korean Peninsula, with a history that dates back over 1,500 years. It was once the capital city of the Goguryeo Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC–AD 668), and later became an important cultural center during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910).

Andong is known for its preservation of traditional Korean culture, particularly its folk villages, traditional architecture, and cuisine. The city also played a significant role during the Korean War, serving as a major base for the UN forces.

Today, Andong continues to be a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts, who come to explore its rich cultural heritage and experience the traditional way of life in Korea.

• Andong city claims to be the capital city of ‘Korean Spiritual Culture’, as it has more than 280 cultural assets scattered around the city.
• At the beginning of 2000, Andong started to become a tourist destination, mainly because of it’s Hahoe Village.
• The local specialty is Jjimdak, a dish prepared with chicken and glass noodles.

The Best Things To Do In Andong

As Andong is the Korean Spiritual Culture, you will find many historic and religious sites all around the city, like temples, an Confucian academy, the traditional hanok village and many museums.

1. The Andong Hahoe Folk Village

The UNESCO Andong Folk Village located in the outskirts of Andong is the main reason most people travel to Andong. The village dates back to the Koryo period (918-1392) and belonged to the Ryu clan. The stunning village is filled with traditional Korean hanok houses, small shrines and beautiful walking trails.

The Hanok village lies just next to the Nakdong river and is surrounded by mountains. This provided a sort of natural protection to the inhabitants of the village.

The village is also home to the yearly Andong Mask Dance Festival, which is a 10 day festival with all sorts of activities and performances. Even if you can’t make to Andong during the festival, you can watch a Mask Performance in Andong Hahoe Village on the following days:
January–February: Saturdays & Sundays 14:00
March–December: Wednesday-Sunday 14:00

Next to the folk village is the Hahoe mask museum. A small museum displaying the beautiful colourful Hahoe masks.

– ANDONG HAHOE VILLAGE GUIDE –

Opening Times: Summer season: 09:00-18:00 and Winter season: 09:00-17:00
Entrance Fee: 2500 won
Address: 40, Jongga-gil, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

2. The Mammoth Bakery

Mammoth bakery, a French style bakery, is Andong’s most famous coffee & dessert shop. This shop has been recommended by both the Michelin Green Guide South Korea and Lonely Planet.

The shop is divided into two sections. On ground level you can find the bakery and cafe. Here you can buy all sorts of bread and cakes, which you can take out or eat in the cafe. If you’re looking to buy a drink, you MUST try the peanut butter milk shake. It is the best you’ll ever have! In the basement is a small chocolate, which sells all kinds of pralines and chocolate bars. This is a little bit more pricey but the chocolate is absolutely delicious, so definitely worth it!

Opening Hours: 08:30-22:00
Address: 34, Munhwagwangjang-gil, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

3. Bongjeongsa Temple

The buddhist temple Bongjeongsa was built by King Munmu in the 7th century. King Munmu, was a ruler during the Silla Kingdom based in Gyeongju. It is the largest temple in the Andong area and holds the oldest wooden building remaining in Korea. Old trees are surrounding the temple grounds, which adds to the unique atmosphere on the temple grounds.

Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
Entrance Fee: 2000 won
Address:222, Bongjeongsa-gil, Seohu-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
How To Get There: from Andong Bus Terminal or Andong Train station take bus 51 to Bongjeonsa Temple (45 minute ride).

Bus 51 Info: 06:10, 08:25, 10:40, 12:50, 14:50, 17:20, 19:00
More Info:here

4. The Stunning Gounsa Temple

Gounsa temple is a quiet temple located in the beautiful mountains of Deungun. It was built by Monk Uisang in 681 during the Silla Dynasty. The small temple belongs to the Branch Temple Number 16 of the Korean Buddhist order. Gounsa Temple literally translates to Solitary Cloud Temple. During the Imjin War, the temple was used as a military base for the the warrior monks.

Opening Hours: 09:00 – 17:00
Entrance Fee: Free
Address:34, Munhwag415, Gounsa-gil, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
How To Get There: 4 busses a day run from Andong Bus Terminal at 09:10, 10:40, 13:15, 16:40

5. Hakbong Traditional Hanok Stay

Hakbong hanok stay is a traditional hanok house located in the country side of Andong, close to Bongjeongsa temple. The stay is perfect if your looking for a traditional hanok experience which is easily accessible by public transport. The hanok stay has 6 different rooms: double room, triple room, and family rooms. Please be aware that the bathrooms are in a different building and are shared with the other guests.

** We stayed one night in this accommodation and totally loved it, as when we arrived we received traditional Korean snacks. In the morning a delicious breakfast is served. **

Book:here
Address:856-1, Geumgye-ri, Seohu-myeon, 760-822 Andong, South Korea
How To Get There: from Andong Bus Terminal or Andong Train station take bus 51 to Bongjeonsa Temple (30 minute ride).

Bus 51 Info: 06:10, 08:25, 10:40, 12:50, 14:50, 17:20, 19:00

6. Andong Traditional Market & Jjimdak Restaurants

The Andong traditional market is famous for its Jjimdak. Which is a traditional dish from Andong made with steamed chicken, glass noodles and potatoes. The dish can be served spicy or non spicy. The best restaurant to try Andong Jjimdak is Yongga (영가), which is a small restaurant opposite the tourist information center.

Address:55 Beonnyeong 1-gil, Seobu-dong, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do
More info:here

7. Wolyeonggyo Bridge

Woryeonggyo Bridge or better known as the moonlight bridge first opened in 2003 and is the longest pedestrian bridge in South Korea. The legend behind the bridge tells the story about a wife who made a pair of shoes out of her own hair in condolence for her husband who passed away.

The bridge is especially beautiful at night when all the lights are turned on. This bridge and the area around is also the location of the moonlight festival. Around the bridge you can find Andong Folk Museum, a small Hanok Village and beautiful walking trails.

Address: Area between Sanga-dong & Seonggok-dong, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
How to get there: from Andong Train station take bus 3-1, this should take 15 minutes. Get off at Wolyeonggo bus stop.

How To Get To Andong

Andong is a city located in the southeastern region of South Korea. There are several transportation options available to reach Andong. The most common way to get there is by taking a train or a bus from Seoul. The KTX train runs regularly from Seoul to Andong and takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Alternatively, one can take a bus from the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, which takes around 3 hours. Another option is to take a domestic flight from Seoul to Daegu and then take a bus or a train to Andong. Once in Andong, public transportation such as buses or taxis are available to get around the city. It’s recommended to plan ahead and book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to avoid any last-minute hassle.

1. Seoul To Andong

From Seoul Express Bus Terminal in Gangnam you can take the bus to Andong Bus Terminal. This takes around 2h30 and costs around 14 000 won. Check prices and bus timetables here.

2. Busan To Andong

Every hour there is a direct bus running from Nopo Express bus terminal in Busan to Andong. The travel time takes around 2h30 and costs 16 000 won. Check prices and bus timetables here.

3. Daegu To Andong

Buses run between Dong-Daegu and Andong. The ride takes 1h30 and only costs 7000 won. Check prices and bus timetables here.

Recommended Accommodation And Hotels In Andong, South Korea

Andong offers various accommodation options for visitors. One of the most popular options is to stay in a traditional Korean house, known as a hanok. These hanoks have been restored and transformed into guesthouses, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors. They offer comfortable and authentic rooms with traditional Korean bedding, and guests can enjoy traditional Korean meals.

Alternatively, visitors can choose to stay in modern hotels located in the city center, which offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a range of dining options. Another option is to stay in a temple stay program, where visitors can experience the life of a Buddhist monk, practice meditation, and participate in temple activities. Whichever option you choose, Andong has something to offer for every visitor’s taste and budget.

• The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
• Suaedang Hanok Stay
• Andong House near Hahoe Village

Frequently Asked Questions

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Have you been to any of these places in Andong South Korea? Are there more things to do in Andong that should be added to the list? Have any questions about any of these places? Let me know in the comment section below.

Things To Know When Visiting Jeju

• When to visit Jeju: the best time to visit Jeju Island is mid/late spring and early/mid autumn. During those periods it is not too hot to enjoy going around the island.
• What to pack for Jeju: weather and temperatures in Jeju are much milder than the rest of Korea, but there are 4 different seasons. Winter temperatures can reach 0 or below and in summer it is extremely hot and humid. Luckily the sea breeze helps with the summer heat. Check what to pack here.
• Discount Activities: There are many things to do all around the island, make sure to check out Klook or Trazy for many discounted activities.
• Getting around: there are a couple of ways to get around the island, by renting a car in Jeju or using public transport. When using public transport, make sure to purchase a transport card in advance. This is an electronic ticket which makes it easy to get around. Buy transport card here.
• Data & WiFi: Rent a portable WiFi egg upon arrival in the airport, so you never loose connection while traveling. Check more info here.
• Horse Park: Riding a horse in Jeju is a must when visiting the island. Don’t miss out on this unique experience!

Best Location To Stay In Jeju Island

There are two main districts in Jeju Island – Jeju City and Seogwipo City, this is where you’ll find the best hotels in Jeju island. These two cities are well connected and are easily accessible by car or bus.

Jeju city lies in the north of the Island and is located next to Jeju Airport and Jeju Port, which most people will be arriving at. From Jeju Airport to Jeju city it is just a 10 minute taxi or bus ride, which is perfect if you’re arriving late at night or have an early flight. This is a great area to stay in for shopping, finding nice restaurants and historic sites.

Seogwipo City, which lies in the south of the island is a smaller and more laid back city. Most of Jeju’s museums, Jeju Island resorts and hiking trails are located in the south part of the island, which makes Seogwipo City a great base.

Another area to stay at Jungmun Area, which is also located in the south and filled with big resort hotels. Perfect if you just want to relax.

How To Choose The Best Place To Stay In Jeju Island

Choosing the best area to stay in mainly depends on the amount of days you’ll be staying in Jeju Island. Here are some quick tips to choose between a stay in Jeju City or Seogwipo!

• You are staying 3 nights or less in Jeju Island. Stay in Jeju city and explore the city from here. Check a 3 day Jeju itinerary here.
• Break up your stay when you’re spending more than 3 nights in Jeju. Stay a couple of nights in Jeju city and explore the north part of the island. The rest of the time stay in Seogwipo City and explore the south.
• This is your second time to Jeju Island? Stay in a unique accommodation in between Jeju city and Seogwipo.

Hope this helped you decided the best area to stay in Jeju? If not let me know in the comment section below.

Best Hotels and Accommodations In Jeju City

Where to stay in Jeju City? Jeju city is the capital of the Jeju independent province and it is also the largest city on the island. It has a mild climate all during the year. The city is just located next to the Airport and has around 10 million people from Seoul flying in. Making it the busiest airport for domestic flights. Staying in this area is by far the most convenient place to stay in Jeju. Below is a breakdown of some of the best Jeju Island hotels located in Jeju city.

1. Budget Accommodation Jeju City

Mir Guesthouse is an affordable but stylish guesthouse with an observation deck, restaurant and bar. The modern ‘designer’ building has both shared and private rooms, all bookings include a free drink in the bar and a daily simple breakfast. Prices starting at 25 000 won per night making this the perfect Jeju Island guest house. Check prices and info for this cheap guesthouse in Jeju.

BJ Stay has a score of 9.8 on Booking and prices for this Jeju Island hostel are starting at 16 000 won per night in a dorm. This is rated as the best hotel in Jeju Island and is great if looking for cheap accommodation in Jeju Island. Check prices and info.

Maro is located only 5 kilometers from the airport and is a cute budget hotel. Rates are starting at 34 000 won per night for a private room. Check prices and more info.

2. Mid Range Jeju City Hotels

Lotte City Hotel is an affordable 4 star hotel which has a stunning rooftop pool looking out on Jeju City. The breakfast buffet is located on the 22nd floor of the building. This is a hotel near Jeju airport, maximum a 5 minute taxi ride away. Check prices and info here.

Hotel The One Jeju is located in central Jeju and is known for having stunning views from the terrace. The modern design of the hotel and the comfort of the rooms make this a great place to stay when in Jeju! Check prices and info here.

Value Hotel Jeju is a well known chain which is located all over the world. The hotel has a coffee shops and bar for guest to enjoy during their stay. The breakfast buffet is served daily and is included in the hotel fee.

3. Top Range Accommodations Jeju City Hotels

Vista Resort Jeju lies a 6 minute walk from the beach and offers modern studio rooms for up to 3 people per room. All the rooms look out on the ocean. Check prices and info here.

Maison Glad Jeju is the perfect luxurious escape. Guests have access to the sauna, swimming pool, casino and the delicious buffet breakfast. Check prices and info here.

Jeju Island Accommodation In Seogwipo

Seogwipo lies south of the island and is the 2nd biggest city on Jeju Island. Right in the center of the city you can find the one of the three Seogwipo waterfalls; namely the Jeongbang waterfalls. 

1. Budget Accommodations

Mstay Hotel is located in central Seogwipo and looks out on the Saeyeongyo pedestrian bridge which connects the Seogwipo port and Birds Island. A beautiful swimming pool is located on a terrace looking out on the harbor. The hotel has different kind of rooms which are very affordable. Check prices and info here.

2. Mid Range Hotels

Orojeju is a beautifully decorated guesthouse which lies just next to the ocean. Some of the rooms are suitable for big families with up to 12 people. Guests can use the garden and each room has a private terrace. Check prices and info here.

Howard Johnson Hotel is a luxurious but affordable 4 star hotel. Some of the rooms have a private Jacuzzi available on the balcony.

3. Top Range Hotel Seogwipo

Podo Hotel was designed by the prestigious architect Itami Jun. The stylish traditional rooms are all constructed with eco-friendly materials. The hotel has a great view of the ocean and Jeju’s biggest mount, Halla. The water in the hotel comes from Arago Night Hot Spring, which is Jeju’s first discovered hot spring. If you are an architecture fan then you will not be disappointed! Podo Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in Jeju Island Check prices and info here.

Hyatt Regency Jeju is a luxurious hotel offering comfort and stunning ocean views. All guests have access to the outdoor pool and sauna facilities. Included in the stay is an airport transfer. Check prices and info here.

Unique Hotels In Jeju Island Korea

The Baume Couture Boutique Hotel located in Jeju City provides customized services to it’s visitors. Even though the hotel is located in the city centre, the guests are isolated from the street noise. The outdoor pool has great views over Hallasan.

Ato Pension looks like a colourful birds nest from the outside. With prices starting at 40 000 KRW per night, this is a very affordable guesthouse in Jeju.

The Blue Jeju is unique because of it’s covered swimming pool. Located in Seogwipo, most rooms look out on the sea. The hotel serves breakfast and dinner buffet style. Check prices and info here.

Hotel Nanta Jeju is part of the popular Nanta show. The hotel has a big life theater where the show is performed. Guests can join for an extra price. Check prices and info here.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Have you been to any of these hotels? Have questions about where to stay in Jeju Island? Do you know of great hotels which should be added to this list? Let me know in the comment section below.