Bukchon Hanok Village

Historic residential area with 900+ traditional houses. Good cultural experience and photos. New restrictions limit tourist hours to protect residents - visit 10am-5pm.

Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential area with 900+ traditional Korean houses (hanoks) from the Joseon Dynasty, but it's now a major tourist spot. The narrow alleys between wooden houses with curved tile roofs look old until you see all the tourists taking photos. The 8 viewpoints have good city views with traditional architecture. Real families live in most houses, which caused overtourism issues. The government restricts tourist access 5pm-10am in certain zones and fines people who break the rule, so visit during afternoon. Safe during the day with constant tourists, but respect the quiet hours and that people live here. Connects to Samcheong-dong at the bottom where there are modern cafes and boutiques. Best early morning (after 10am) or late afternoon for fewer crowds and photos.