Many Australians visiting the Republic of Korea are looking for accommodation with a wow factor, which might explain why more travellers are looking to stay in a traditional Korean house, or hanok.
Jennifer Doherty of the Korean Tourism Organisation said hanoks were available all over the country and provided a budget-friendly way to meet the locals and experience the real Korea.
“One of the best places to do this is in a hanok village which gives you a better understanding of the lifestyle of Korean ancestors who valued their sense of community,” she said.
Many of Korea’s historic villages are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, like Andong Hahoe Folk Village, Gyeongju Yangdong Village and the beautiful Jeonju Hanok Village (pictured above). In Seoul itself there is the Bukchon Hanok Village which is an area of traditional hanok in the northern part of the city.
While you might wave goodbye to a traditional western bed (in a hanok you will sleep on a quilt on the floor), most hanoks have under-floor heating so in cooler months you have your own built-in electric blanket underneath.
The Korea Tourism Organisation offers a free hanok guide, helping visitors select an authentic Korean experience.
