My Hanok Stay in Jeonju

April 25th, 2025

Another first-time tourist I met on the plane recommended me a cool experience—a hanok stay.

A hanok is a traditional Korean house built using ancient techniques and natural materials such as wood, clay, and stone. These homes are characterized by their curved rooftops, open courtyards, and designs that maximize natural light and air circulation. They also have the floor-heating system that I think is ingenious. It’s called ondol. It utilizes heat from smoke produced by burning wood in a stove to warm the entire house. Hanoks embody the Korean philosophy of living in harmony with nature.

I was told that the best place to experience a hanok stay is in Jeonju, which has the largest and best-preserved hanok village in the country.

The room that I rented for my hanok stay was awesome. It overlooked a charming garden and had a modern bathroom. It smelled like wood, clay, and paper; I find this small scent soothing and pleasant, just like the distinctive aroma of Korean palaces (wood and paint).

The A/C, the TV, the kettle and a small fridge with free water were also here for me:

Some people find it difficult to sleep on a futon, but it was comfortable enough for me. On my last night, a typhoon raged outside. The hanok is not very soundproof, but I felt safe inside ;-)

The only thing that I missed was a full-sized table—I don’t like writing on my knees or sitting on the floor ;-P

A home like this feels harmonious and relaxing. It inspires and allows for the renewal of energy.

(The garden as seen from my room)

P.S. I didn't want to make a super long post, so more about Jeonju Hanok Village can be found here ;-)