Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Samcheongdong・The Northern Part of the Seoul

The Bukchon Museum Old Fragrance displays items that have been collected from Bukchon, a historical village that was once home to the nation’s nobility. For hundreds of years, treasured items in each household were passed down from generation to generation, but since Korea’s rapid development in the second half of the 20th century many of these became obsolete. Opened in 2003, the Bukchon Museum Old Fragrance seeks to preserve artifacts and present them in a cozy, homey environment where visitors can get a sense of how each object was used in daily life. The museum is full of household articles that were absolutely essential parts of life in the past, such as ‘maetdol’ (millstones used for grinding beans or mung beans), ‘jangdok’ (crocks for soy sauce or red pepper paste), and ‘yogang’ (Korean chamber pots that were kept in rooms and used as urinals at night). Visitors are even allowed to touch items on display to better be able to imagine life in Korea before industrialization.From Samcheong-dong (near Gyeongbokgung Palace) to Wonseo-dong (near Biwon, a royal garden in Changdeokgung Palace), Bukchon is an area well-known for its hanok houses (traditional Korean houses). Thanks to the complex structure of hanok, collectors were able to unearth a wide range of articles hidden in storage rooms, under floorboards, and in attics.Visitors to the museum with 10-15 people in their party may participate in programs that allow them to make old-fashioned toys or take part in making ssukgaetteok (rice cake made using mugwort).Near the Bukchon Museum Old Fragrance there are many colorful attractions worth visiting: the Bukchon Hanok Village, Samcheong Park, The Owl Museum, ToyKino Museum, the World Jewelry Museum, and the National Palace Museum of Korea, as well as royal palaces such as Gyeongbokgung Palace. 


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Insa Art Space was established by the government to support artists who are experiencing financial difficulties. Opened on May 26th, 2000, the total exhibit maintenance fee is provided by the government. It is recognized as one of the more successful national art support policies. Mostly experimental and progressive artwork are exhibited here to activate the art. Curators research the present state of the art circles. Also various open exhibit projects are held to find new talented artists. The newly chosen artists for the events can exhibit their work here free of charge for two weeks. These events are held to help poor artists who cannot start their careers. You can visit without doubting the sincerity of the exhibited artwork. The displayed works are valued for their quality only. Annually 2~3 internal exhibitions and international exhibitions are held, and symposiums and “dialogues with artists” are also often held. Currently there is one curator and two assistant curators. Insa Art Space is a great place for travelers who want to have long day tours. Most galleries close between 5pm and 6pm, but Insa Art Space is open till 7pm or 8pm. It is also located in the traditional Korean street, Insadong, so there are plenty of things to do and see while visiting this gallery.


Seoul(Mapo-gu) , Yeouido・Yeongdeungpo・Mapo


Seoul(Gwangjin-gu)

Myongwolgwan is a charcoal-grilled galbi (marinated short ribs) specialty restaurant located at the Sheraton Grande Walkerhill Hotel. Housed in a building that gracefully combines traditional hanok (Korean-style house) architecture with elements of modern design, Myongwolgwan is renowned for its delicious galbi dishes. The restaurant’s galbi dishes are prepared with top-quality beef, marinated in a delectable mix of natural ingredients, and cooked to perfection on a traditional hardwood charcoal grill. Also boasting a wide assortment of wines and an outdoor garden overlooking the Hangang River, Myongwolgwan offers one of the area’s most exquisite fine dining experiences. The outdoor garden may also be booked for large gatherings and special events.  


Seoul(Seocho-gu) , Gangnam・Samseongdong(COEX)

The Yangjae branch of Costco opened in 2000 and is the largest branch of Costco. This branch offers a variety of domestic products, imported goods, and its own brand (PB), Kirkland, at wholesale prices. Costco’s most popular items are fashion apparel, fresh meats, wine, and frozen goods. The store is extremely popular with Koreans and foreigners alike.The Yangjae branch is open daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm, but is closed on January 1 and Chuseok.


Seoul(Yongsan-gu)

Salam is a small but popular Turkish restaurant located near the Seoul Central Masjid (Seoul Central Mosque) in Itaewon, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Traditional Turkish dishes like beef and lamb kebabs and lamb with vegetables are displayed on a large table next to the kitchen, allowing you to see the dishes before making your choice. The restaurant is particularly popular among Islamic diners.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Hamgyeong-do Wangsundae is open 24/7, welcoming guests with a warm and hearty bowl of sundaeguk (Korean sausage soup) prepared with care and additive-free ingredients. Though the space is limited, the place can accommodate up to 54 people. It's cozy atmosphere and top-notch food has earned Hamgyeong-do Wangsundae a good reputation among its customers.


Seoul(Yongsan-gu) , Itaewon・Yongsan

The Itaewon Antique Furniture Street was formed in the 1960s when North American soliders stationed in Yongsan sold their furniture before returning back to the States. Over the years, the area has grown into a major furniture street where shoppers can find pieces from all over the world. Along with furniture, there is a large selection of wall clocks, tea sets, and interior design items that are not readily available elsewhere.


Seoul(Jongno-gu) , Insadong・Jongnon

Arirang Master Crafts Shop is a comprehensive shopping center dealing with Korean traditional crafts. It covers traditional crafts by famous artists, pottery for daily use, decorative pottery, lacquer ware inlaid with mother-of-pearl, crafts made of Korean traditional paper and more. Every product has a fixed price. In addtion, customers can enjoy diverse works displayed in the Migak Museum (Migak means delicate sculpture for eyes to see), located in the shop.


Seoul(Yongsan-gu) , Itaewon・Yongsan

Located behind the Hamilton Hotel in Itaewon, Maple Tree House (Danpungnamujip, 단풍나무집) is a meat restaurant where diners can enjoy grilled meat in an elegant, wine bar-like ambience. The restaurant's main dish is Cheongyeop, which is pork grilled over a charcoal fire and wrapped in fermented sesame leaves. There are many repeat customers (including international guests) who come back for the succulent grilled meat, unique sauce, and great service. Though the restaurant in Samcheong-dong is the main restaurant, there are also two branch restaurants in Dogok-dong and Itaewon.