상단카테고리

Enjoy the Past and the Present of Seoul with A'REX (Travel to Bukchon, Seoul)

1. Bukchon Hanok Village



  
"Bukchon Hanok Village", the famous attraction in Seoul, is known as the representative of Hanok Village in Korea that enables you to feel the past of Seoul. When spring comes, the weather becomes better and making it the best time to travel, many people will visit Bukchon Hanok Village.


Recently, Seoul Metropolitan City and Hanok Village work together and put in efforts to build new traditional houses, repair and decorate the houses to maintain the nice Hanok Village for the tourists. Many people heard about this and have shown their support.


Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential area with Korean traditional houses around Bukchon area that is located in between Gyeongbukgong Palace and Changdeokgong Palace. The name "Bukchon" came about as the village located in the northen part of Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno, and widespread to Gahoe-dong, Songhyeon-dong, Anguk-dong, etc. Moreover, Bukchon Hanok Village has 8 photo spots from Bukchon View 1 to View 8. It is recommended to visit all "Bukchon 8 views".


2. Bugak Skyway Palgakjeong Pavilion




If Bukchon Hanok Village is where you can feel the past of Seoul, Bugak Skyway Palgakjeong Pavilion is the attraction for you to enjoy the present of Seoul. At the peak of Bugaksan (324m), there is a Hanok style Pavilion built for you to enjoy the city night view.




There is a cafe in 1st floor, restaurants and observatory on the 2nd floor. There is also an interesting post box known as "slow mail box" which allows you to post letters but you will only receive the letter one year later.




Towards the northern part of Bugak Skyway, you can see the panoramic view of Pyeongchang-dong, known as the rich village of Seoul. You can also watch the sunset and enjoy night view here.




Towards the Southern part, you can enjoy the beautiful night view of Seoul and on days with clear sky, you can view not only Seoul, but also Bucheon and Ilsan. This makes it a cool observatory. Just like this, you can enjoy the past and the present of Seoul at the same time. How about planning a trip to both Bukchon Hanok Village and Bugak Skyway Palgakjeong Pavilion?


[Information about Bukchon Hanok Village]

Address:
37, Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Getting Here: Take Airport Railroad to Seoul Station > Transfer to Seoul Subway Line 1 at Jongno-3(sam)-ga Station > Transfer to Seoul Subway Line 3 > Get off at Anguk Station

Operating Hours:
Opens all year round

Admission Fee:
Free


[Information about Bugak Skyway Palgakjeong Pavilion]
Address:
Pyeongchang-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul

Admission Fee:
Fress (Parking fee: KRW300 per 10 mins)

Operating Hours:

11:00 - 23:00

Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market - Using Airport Railroad to Enjoy Seoul in Another Way


"Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market 2017" that was reopened on 24th March, is the special and new way to enjoy your night in Seoul. Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market has 73,000 visitors daily and 3,300,000 visitors annually, and it is emerging as the new "hot place" of Seoul.


#1. Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market 2017

Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market, which is hosted by Seoul Metropolitan City, started in 2015 and was held for two consecutive years. This is a type of cultural convergence program that is popular among the citizens, small enterprisers and entrepreneurs. Since Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market is a repeated event for 3 years and has accumulated the "know-how", this year, there are more themes, food and things to enjoy in different venues.


#2: Enjoy Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market 2017 in Four Themes

This year, Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market 2017 is happening on Fridays and Saturdays (6PM~11PM), from 24th March to 29th October (Cheonggyecheon Timeslip Market - Saturdays and Sundays). It will take place in four locations in Seoul, namely Yeouido, Banpo, Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Cheonggyecheon Stream)

Each night market has something in common - food truck offering delicious food and cute handmade goods. It is seperated into 4 different themes -- "Yeouido World Night Market", "DDP Youth Runway Market", "Cheonggyecheon Timeslip Market" and "Banpo Moonlight Romance Market" - whereby each theme has different programs. Because of that, you are able to enjoy all the four places in Seoul during this period.

#3: Yeouido World Night Market




Among the night markets located in four venues, we have visited the place with long history and highest floating population -- Yeouido World Night Market. This is a night market that brings you to travel the world in one night. Even on normal days, many people gather at Yeouido Hangang Park to enjoy chicken and beer while enjoying the night view and scenery by the river. You can feel the exciting festival atmosphere here. If you walk about 5 mins from the water light square under Mapo Bridge, you will be able to see Yeouido World Night Market.

 


The varieties of food trucks and handmade goods under the tent have caught the attention of the visitors in the crowded Yeouido World Night Market.

 


You can taste many traditional and fusion food of different countries in Yeouido World Night Market. Therefore, it matches the concept of this night market -- "Travel the World in One Night". For those who want to travel the world in one night while enjoying the breeze by the Hangang river, you will not regret coming to this place.

[Information about Yeouido World Night Market]

Getting Here: Take Airport Railroad to Gongdeok Station > Transfer to Seoul Subway Line 5 > Get off at Yeouinaru Station (walk approx. 5 mins)

Operating Hours: 18:00 - 23:00 (Every Friday and Saturdays)

Admission Fee: FREE





Seoullo 7017 - Sky Garden and Shoes Tree

Seoullo 7017 was opened on 20th May (Saturday). The elevated highway known as Seoul Station overpass has turned into a Sky Garden for pedestrians. Since December 2015, vehicles were prohibited on the highway for construction and repairing work to proceed. On 20th May 2017, it came back as a Sky Garden.



Let's find out what is the meaning of "7017". The meaning behind "7017" is that "the Seoul Station overpass that was built in year 1970 is reborn in year 2017 with 17 pathways". There are 17 pedestrian walkways with 17 entrances and exits to the Seoul Station Sky Garden. It is connected to subways, bus transit centers and markets, which allows people to come or go to other cities and regions. Moreover, it is also connected to Airport Railroad (A'REX) Seoul Station City Airport Terminal!




If you look at the picture, the Sky Garden is divided into three parts. If you walk down from the path on the right side, and cross the crosswalk to the left, walk about 5 mins and you will arrive at the entrance of Airport Railroad (A'REX) Seoul Station City Airport Terminal. Many types of trees have been planted in Seoullo 7017. Besides that, there are also cute cafes, trampoline playground, fountain, skywalk, etc. As it says in the name "Sky Garden", the trees planted in this place matches with nature in the city center.






In addition, there is a huge worn-out shoes sculpture in the square in front of Seoul Station. This sculpture (known as "Shoes Trees") is made of 30,000 pairs of worn-out shoes and you will see it when you walk on the Sky Garden. They wished that Seoullo 7017 would be the place to gather the citizens to walk and let them realize the preciousness of urban regeneration and environment. If you take a closer look, every shoe is planted with a plant that makes you ponder about many things when you look at it.





As we have taken the walk to Seoullo 7017 Seoul Station Sky Garden, the most convenient thing we found is the Airport Railroad (A'REX) train. If you get out from Seoul Station and walk towards the Seoul Square (towards Bus transit center), you will see Shoes Tree whereas Sky Garden is located in between them. However, if you get out from Airport Railroad (A'REX) Seoul Station City Airport Terminal (Exit 15), you can take a circular route from beginning to the end of Sky Garden, and lastly, visit the Shoes Tree.

Finally, there are some things that you should take note when you visit Sky Garden. As it is located above the frequently operating train railroad, do not throw rubbish outside the safety fence. Especially, the railroad that train passes by is installed in extra high voltage electric train line, thus you have to be very cautious.




How about taking the Airport Railroad (A'REX) to visit the new Seoullo 7017 Sky Garden?


[Information about Seoullo 2017]
Getting Here: Take Airport Railroad (A'REX) train to Seoul Station, Exit 15 (walk approx. 5 mins)

Shall We Travel to Incheon with Drama "Goblin"? - Filming Location of Goblin (Hanmi Bookstore, Jayu Park, etc)


From "Kim Shin", the Goblin who lives for thousand years, to "Kim Go Eun", Goblin's bride who is capable of seeing ghosts, to the Grim Reaper who had the emotions of love, tvN drama "Goblin" heats up the "home theater" recently. The main filming locations are located in Incheon and conveniently reachable by public transportation. Therefore, we went to search for the filming locations. Whether the day is good, the day is not good, when the day is good enough, let's travel to Incheon following Goblin's filming location.

1. Hanmi Bookstore - Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley

▲ Hanmi Bookstore

The place where Gong Yoo the "Goblin" strokes Kim Go Eun's head and read books, is located at Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley. The vivid-yellow color "Hanmi Bookstore" is a place where they sell used books. This place is different than other bookstores as it is filled with sentimental atmosphere, thus receiving love from many people.

▲ Used books in Hanmi Bookstore

Since this is a place where they sell books, how about go in and choose a few books that you like? If you search it carefully, you might be able to find good quality used books! They also display new books with good and competitive price. Occasionally, handicraft items are available too.

Getting here:
Take the AREX Line to Geomam Station and transfer to Incheon Subway Line 2 to Juan Station. At Juan Station, transfer again to Seoul Subway Line 1 and get off at Dong Incheon Station. From Dong Incheon Station Exit 4, walk on the right side for approximately 10 mins.

2. Songnim-dong and Songhyeon-dong

▲ Songnim-dong poor hillside village

The poor hillside village in the district of Songnim-dong and Songhyeon-dong has preserved its appearance since many years. Doesn't this place match the difficult life of Ji Eun Tak (Kim Go Eun)? The narrow alleys and stairs were used as filming locations.

▲ Mural Art of Poor Hillside Village in Sudoguksan Museum of Housing and Living
▲ Sudoguksan Museum of Housing and Living

After going to Hanmi Bookstore, how about visiting the alleys? Although it is not a special place or has pretty mural art, there is a museum that introduces the poor hillside village of Sudoguksan at the peak of the hill. You can either go to this place to see the life phase of the poor hillside village or survey around the district of Songnim-dong.

Getting here:
Follow the alley behind Hanmi Bookstore. After you come out from the alley, cross the road and walk towards the poor hillside village. The Sudoguksan Museum of Housing and Living is located at the peak of the hill.

<Information about Sudoguksan Museum of Housing and Living>
- Location : 51, Solbit-ro, Dong-gu, Incheon
- Operating Hours: 09:00 - 18:00 (last admission is 30 minutes before closing)
- Closed Every Sunday, 1st January, Seollal and Chuseok
- Admission Fee: Children KRW500, Youth & Militants KRW700, Adults KRW1,000)
- Inquiries: 032-770-6131~3
- Website: http://www.icdonggu.go.kr/open_content/museum/ (kor.)

3. Jayu Park, Chinatown

▲ In front of "Geu Mart", Jayu Park
▲ Jayu Park

The place where Kim Go Eun summons Gong Yoo. It was a short but impactful scene and many people have been interested to come here. The filming location is in front of "Geu Mart" in Jayu Park which is located next to Chinatown. It is recommended to visit Chinatown as well.

▲ Jjajangmyeon (Black bean sauce noodles) in Sinseungbanjeom Restaurant, Chinatown

▲ Jjajangmyeon (Black bean sauce noodles) in Sinseungbanjeom Restaurant, Chinatown

Chinatown is the starting point of Jjajangmyeon (black bean sauce noodles) in Korea. It has been an area where Chinese live since the opening of the port. The Chinese food specialty store has a long history and is considered as thriving business. Besides that, Chinese style desserts or souvenirs are also available. It is recommended to visit Chinatown and Jayu Park together!

Getting here:
Take the AREX Line to Geomam Station and transfer to Incheon Subway Line 2 to Juan Station. At Juan Station, transfer again to Seoul Subway Line 1 and get off at Incheon Station, Exit 1. Opposite Exit 1 is Chinatown. To get to Jayu Park, walk towards Junghwa Restaurant and take the stairs.

4. Songdo Central Park - Northeast Asia Trade Tower

Do you still remember the first appearance of Grim Reaper, Lee Dong Wook? I am referring to the scene that he got hit by the car but wasn't hurt at all. Then, the Grim Reaper made the driver to recognize himself as a wild boar. Remember? It was introduced as the center of Gangnam but it is actually in front of Songdo Central Park.

▲ Northeast Asia Trade Tower

The uniqueness of the structure of Northeast Asia Trade Tower (NEAT Tower) is that it is connected with the Central Park and a good place for a walk. During winter, only the thin branches will greet you but if it is not too cold, it is recommended that you take a walk around the area. When the sky turns dark, the lights that shine from the high-rise building nearby turn the place into a splendid night view.

Getting here:
Take the AREX Line to Geomam Station and transfer to Incheon Subway Line 2 to Incheon City Hall Station. At Incheon City Hall Station, transfer again to Incheon Subway Line 2 and get off at University of Incheon, Exit 4. You will be able to see Northeast Asia Trade Tower.


5. Cheongnaho Lake Park

There is a romantic scene between the main actor and actress with Cheongnaho Lake Park's night view as the background. You can easily find this place by taking the AREX train to Cheongna International City Station. Cheongnaho Lake Park is a hugely build park in Cheongna International City.

▲ Cheongnaho Lake Park

In Summer, there will be music fountain that dances along with the music. On the other hand, the atmosphere is a little lonesome during winter. However, the delicate shinning lights in the park and the splendid night view of the high-rise building create a beautiful view at anytime. How about taking a night walk at this place? Remember to dress up warmly.

▲ Cheongnaho Lake Park

Getting here:
Take the AREX Line to Cheongna International City Station. Then take bus no. 2-1, 40, 42-2, 46 and get off at Lake Park (about 15mins).


BONUS! Doldam-gil, Anguk-dong, Seoul
Let me introduce one place in Seoul! The place is where Kim Go Eun and Gong Yoo first bumped into each other. The beautiful stone-wall road (Doldam-gil) is located in Anguk-dong, in front of Duksung Girl's High School. If you get off at Anguk Station and walk towards Samcheongdong, you will come across this alley. For those who are walking towards to see the traditional culture and Hanok village, your excitement starts here!

▲ Doldam-gil, Anguk-dong

If you walk into the alley, there are many restaurants, cafes, art museums etc. You will also see people who rent Hanbok to enjoy Gyeongbukgong and Samcheongdong. Be sure to find a day to come here as it can be comparable to one day date course.

Getting here:
Take the AREX Line to Gongdeok Station. Transfer to Seoul Subway Line 5 to Jongno-3(sam)-ga. Then, transfer again to Seoul Subway Line 3 and get off at Anguk Station. Take exit 1 and walk to the alley next to it. You will see the stone-wall road (Doldam-gil) of Anguk-dong.


Beach Holiday in Suburbs of Seoul - Recommendations of Cafe in Masiran Beach

After the long winter, spring, the time for excursion, has arrived. To fully enjoy Spring, how about going for a beach holiday in the suburbs of Seoul? We have prepared 2 recommendations of cafe at Masiran Beach, Yeongjongdo Island, for those who want to enjoy the sea more leisurely.

▲ Family Outing in Masiran Beach
▲ Mud Experience in Masiran Beach

Even without a car, you get to Masiran Beach, which is located in Yeongjongdo Island, conveniently by taking the Korea Incheon Airport Railroad (AREX train). Moreover, it is popular because there is a way to walk to Eurwangni Beach, Jamjindo Island and Muuido Island without taking the ship. Although it is not the season yet, it is still possible to have mud flat experience.

1. Masiran Beach House

▲ Masiran Beach House

Masiran Beach House was renamed from "Marisan Patwi" since March this year. Its name has the meaning of "the house in front of the beach". It is not just a cafe, it transformed into a space where you can eat and drink in a casual atmosphere. Currently, they are selling sandwiches and drinks. From the month of April, the chef is expected to prepare pizzas, pastas and steak (weekday evening), and they will start selling pancakes and french toast too.

▲ Photos of Inside & Outside of Masiran Beach House
The biggest advantage is that you can enjoy the food and drinks while overlooking the sea, from indoor. Besides indoor, there are also tables placed outside and at the rooftop whereby you can enjoy some leisure time while looking at the sea. Because of that, many people who wish to rest at a quiet place often come here on weekdays too.

▲ Sandwich, strawberry tart, and drinks at Masiran Beach House
▲ Cream Shrimp Sandwich
There are two types of sandwiches available - namely, "B.L.T." and "Cream Shrimp", set at the same price - KRW12,000. "Cream Shrimp" Sandwich is the best seller with the taste of chewing crunchy thinly sliced apple and plump shrimp. The mashed boiled egg and caramelized onion jam add more taste to it. If you add extra KRW3,000, you can get fries and it is recommended to eat it with lemon and chili sauce.

▲ Strawberry Tart

The handmade strawberry tart in Masiran Beach House is available on weekends only. The fruits used in the tart are all fruits in season and there are three types of fruits, namely honey grapefruit, lemon meringue and strawberry. The cream pastry (vanilla custard cream) that is on top the tart adds softness to the taste.

<Information about Masiran Beach House>
·      Getting here: From Incheon International Airport (AREX line) > Transfer to Maglev Train Line > Get off at Yongyu Station, Exit 1 (Walk around 12 mins)
·      Address: (Masiran-ro 71) 134-10, Deokgyu-dong, Jung-gu, Incheon.
·      Price Range:
    Drinks: KRW3,500 - KRW6,800
    Cakes: KRW6,500 - KRW7,500
    Tarts: KRW6,500
·      Business hours:
    Weekdays: 10:00 - 21:00
    Weekend: 10:00 - 21:30
·      Inquiries: (032)746-9929

2. Masirang

▲ Photos of Inside and Outside of Masirang Cafe

Masirang Cafe is a bakery cafe that bakes its own bread. The bread is highly moisture because the bread uses sourdough, and is made after a day of dough fermentation. Thus, the texture of the bread is soft and moist.

▲ Photo zone of Marisang Cafe

Because the outdoor garden is well decorated, many visitors come with their family. In addition, there is a photo zone, which is famous on social media, at this place. If you take a picture when the sun begins to set, the best thing is that you will see the view of Masiran with the glow of sunset and sea.

▲ Representatives of Masirang Cafe
▲ Masirang and Mint Frappuccino

All the bread in Masirang is produced daily and sells on the day itself. "Masirang" is a kind of bread developed by Masirang Cafe. It is the representative menu in this place that is sold more than 200 during weekend, just like the blooming roses. Moreover, it is soft and pure milk bread made by milk-dough; the more you eat, the more you can feel its moisture.

▲ Garlic Cheese

Garlic Cheese is a type of garlic bread that is moist and not hard like the normal garlic baguette. When you eat it with the cream in the center of Garlic Cheese, you can feel a different taste though it is plain. It is recommended that you eat Garlic Cheese together with Americano. This place pays a lot of attention to the coffee beans as they determined that coffee beans hold 80% of the coffee taste. Due to that reason, people who dislike the bitterness of Americano can enjoy it without any worries.

<Information about Masirang>
·      Getting here: From Incheon International Airport (AREX line) > Transfer to Maglev Train Line > Get off at Yongyu Station, Exit 1 > Take bus no.204 > Get off at Masiran Beach (In front of gorcery store) and walk around 3 mins.
·      Address: (Masiran-ro 163) 615-5, Deokgyu-dong, Junggu, Incheon.
·      Price Range:
    Drinks: KRW4,000 - KRW8,000
    Bread: KRW2,500 - KRW4,000
    Cake: KRW6,000
    Cookies: KRW7,000 - KRW10,000
·      Business hours: 10:00 - 22:00 (Open all year round)
·      Inquiries: (032)746-5089