An authentic Korean experience doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg! Swap out your boujee boutique hotels for a stay in a Hanok! Check out our shortlist of 8 gorgeous Hanok stays that cost S$250/night and below for your next trip.
Every visit to Seoul is often earmarked by the same few cultural, food and shopping experiences. And while it’s these very activities that make the trip so comforting, we asked ourselves: Is there any way to make the trip a little more authentic? Enter Hanboks: one of the most authentic and traditional Korean experiences out there. More often than not, these experiences can cost quite a bit of money. But we’ve cut through the clutter and found 8 gorgeous and authentic Hanok stays in Seoul that won’t break the bank. Check out the full list below 👇
💜 Stay Up To Date:
– Best Travel Credit Cards In Singapore For Overseas Spending 2024
– 8 JR Pass Budget Alternatives 2024
– 10D9N New Zealand South Island Itinerary: Freedom Camping Edition
First Things First — What Is A Hanok?
For the uninitiated, a Hanok is a type of traditional house that was designed in response to the extreme hot and cold seasons in Korea. Some would say that Hanoks were the forerunners of the up-and-coming eco-architecture that has been making waves today, thanks to the way it incorporates nature into its design.
While the Hanoks have a rich and storied history, the term is often loosely used to denote any architectural work that retains the quintessential Korean structure and aesthetic, which is equal parts charming and cosy.
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Heading to Korea? Check out this 10-day Korea itinerary!
Why Should I Stay In A Hanok?
The answer is pretty simple, really! Beyond the hanbok-wearing, palace-exploring activities you can do in the day, staying in a traditional Korean house allows you to immerse in the culture while giving you the chance to live authentically like a local.
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Check out this guide for brands that are cheaper in Korea than Singapore
🇰🇷 Our Top Affordable Picks Of Hanok Stays In Seoul:
We’ve scoured the Internet to bring you some of our favourite accommodations!
1. Welcome Mistakes House
Starting our list off strong is an award-winning abode located in Buam-dong, where landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and Insadong are just minutes away.
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
This cosy double-story Hanok seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, as seen from its traditional wooden curved roofs, or chogajiboong, and its minimalistic interior — a vibe we’re obsessed with. It’s only fitting that this Hanok is located in a neighbourhood that offers a variety of old and new attractions, from beautiful art galleries to cute boutiques, and delicious eats in almost every corner.
Did we mention that it’s only a short 3 to 5-minute walk to the bus station?
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
We also love that the space is fully stocked and equipped with a variety of snacks and appliances so that you can fully focus on unwinding and recharging in a space that lets you be inspired by all that’s around you!
Price: From S$220/night
Address: 27 Changuimun-ro 7-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about Welcome Mistakes House here
2. Nujung
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
If you’re looking for a cosy, industrial aesthetic, then this place is for you. The Nujung Hanok is located within Nuha-dong, a quaint little neighbourhood that is home to many other guest houses.
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
Priding itself as a place to fully immerse in nature, Nujung focuses on creating a zen space that offers recovery and serenity in every nook and cranny. It also comes with a beautiful little bathtub that allows you to soak and admire the zen garden in peace.
When you’re not spending time in the space, there are plenty of traditional Korean cuisine and modern cafes peppered around the vicinity, so you know you’re in good hands. Plus, there’s even a small market just minutes away called Tongin Traditional Market, if you’re hoping to immerse in an authentic street food experience (or maybe for a supper run to enjoy back in your abode).
Price: From S$250/night (with a 10% discount if you stay over 2 consecutive nights on the weekdays)
Address: 19-13, Pirundae-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about Nujung here
3. Humijin
Another super aesthetically pleasing Hanok in the vicinity is Humijin — located right at the end of the Seochon Hanok Village, offering a quiet escape from the bustle of life.
Image credits: Dakeng Leisure Farm
What we love about this Hanok is that it prides itself on providing you with more than just an authentic stay. Rather, their focus is to incorporate the tenets of purification into your stay, making it an unforgettable experience for mind, body, and soul. Their focus? Offering an experience that purifies the five senses, going from emancipation to erasure. Pretty deep if you ask us.
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
To achieve this, the aesthetics are minimalistic and zen — water and stone materials with access to nature all in the same space. As it’s within the same vicinity as the other Hanoks, you can expect the same level of convenience to cafes, restaurants, museums and public transport, with the nearest station (Gyeongbokgung) just 13 minutes by foot!
Price: From S$250/night (with a 10% discount if you stay over 2 consecutive nights on the weekdays)
Address: 19-15, Pirundae-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about Humijin here
4. Side Hanok Guesthouse
Image credits: Seoul Hotels
Conveniently located in Gwanghwamun, Side Hanok Guesthouse offers spacious rooms and modern amenities for travellers of all stripes. We love that this space is super chic with its minimalist interior, while still retaining much of the traditional Hanok elements like a gorgeous zen garden and other communal spaces.
Image credits: Agoda
This space is also great if you’re travelling in bigger groups, as they have more rooms to accommodate more guests. And as usual, expect easy access to public transport and a wide variety of amenities and attractions!
Price on Agoda: From S$121/night (Enjoy an additional 7% off with YouTrip Perks)
Address: 27-5, Pirundae-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea, Gwanghwamun, Seoul, South Korea, 03039
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about Side Hanok Guesthouse here
5. adam hanok
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
If you prefer something that embodies a more rustic charm, then adam hanok would be your bet. Located in the Seochon Hanok Village, you’ll get to experience three levels of authentic Korean living in this humble abode.
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
Instead of being tucked away in the quaint laneways, this space is slightly more central, with its location prime for basking in the old-world charm of the village. With amenities all within close proximity, it’s a safe and great way for you to explore the nooks and crannies.
Price: From S$250/night (after a 10% discount if you stay over 2 consecutive nights on the weekdays)
Address: 48-1 Tongin-dong Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about adam hanok here
6. of.onebookstay
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
If you’re a bookworm, then you’re sure in for a treat! of.onebookstay is a book-themed Hanok, designed with the goal of creating a space that’s conducive for you to relax and unwind with a good book in hand — while giving you the space to eventually pen your thoughts as well.
Image credits: www.stayfolio.com
The space comes with a decent variety of books for you to peruse, and also offers many little corners for you to get cosy. They’ve even collaborated with a local bar to create a drink called the Juum Yadok that’s meant to be sipped and savoured as you read and write.
Not a fan of the books available? The Jeongdok Library is just a stone’s throw away, and gives you the opportunity to browse through an extensive collection of international books as well as Korean literature!
Price: From S$250/night (after a 10% discount if you stay over 2 consecutive nights on the weekdays)
Address: 11-1, Pirundae-ro 3-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about of.onebookstay here
7. Hanok Guesthouse Suni
Image credits: Booking.com
If you prefer something that’s a whole lot more traditional, then this Hanok is for you. Built in the 1940s, Hanok Guesthouse Suni is homely but with a touch of old-world elegance.
Image credits: Booking.com
The guesthouse comes with a wide variety of amenities, including a fully-functional kitchen if you choose to cook. Otherwise, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic breakfast spread every morning, prepared by the host herself!
With just four rooms available in the entire Hanok, be sure to make your reservations early if you wish to snag a stay in this space known for its hospitality.
Price on Booking.com: From S$119/night (Enjoy up to 15% cashback with YouTrip Perks)
Address: 42, Bomun-ro 32-gil, Seongbuk-gu, 02849, Seoul, South Korea
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about Hanok Guesthouse Suni here
8. Bonum 1957 Hanok and Boutique
Image credits: Booking.com
For a night or two in the lap of luxury, book your stay at the ever-regal Bonum 1957. Located right at the entrance of the Bukchon Hanok Village, this not-so-humble abode gives you the opportunity to experience life as the monarchs did.
Image credits: Booking.com
Instead of minimalistic decor, here you’d find majestic decor from floor to ceiling — and even a private coffee house and bar tucked away for your drinking pleasure. While you’re here, take time to explore the grounds and maybe take a morning stroll by the terrace, as royalty would and should! While this is a shared space, there are only nine rooms, making it an exclusive and intimate experience nonetheless!
Price on Booking.com: From S$197/night (Enjoy up to 15% cashback with YouTrip Perks)
Address: 53 Bukchon-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Affordable Hanok Stays In Seoul 2024: Find out more about Bonum 1957 Hanok and Boutique here
Your Authentic Korean Experience Awaits!
We hope that this shortlist of Hanok stays has been useful in helping you plan for that long-awaited trip to South Korea (or if anything, has awoken the wanderlust spirit in you)! While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our guides on how to go Seoul searching — from free things to do in Seoul to some of the most delicious Halal eats in the city, we’ve got you covered!
Just remember: Wholesale exchange rates await when you book your accommodation, purchase your tickets and everything in between with your YouTrip Card! Don’t forget to check out our YouTrip Perks to enjoy greater peace of mind and attractive discounts from our partners like Klook, Booking.com, Agoda, and the like. We’re firm believers in helping you save more so that you can spend more on the things that truly matter to you.
As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5 in your account! For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.
And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! 💜
Happy travels!
Related Articles
The Ultimate 10-Day Korea Itinerary 2024
How To Capitalise On The South Korean Won Right Now
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Korea
