Just as Japanese Ryokan, Spanish Parador, and Italian Agriturismo, there is a traditional building utilized as accommodation in Korea – Hanok. However, there has been less light shedding on hanok as traveler’s accommodation for popular perception of hanok being inconvenient and old. On the contrary to this popular perception, more and more hanoks are modified to fit consumer desire to stay at comfortable and clean rooms while preserving the traditional vibe. Here are three hanoks where you can sleep in comfortable beddings, bathe in modern bathrooms, and still feel the environmental elegance as well as historic relevance.
Gyeongwonjae Ambassador Incheon
If you just landed on Korea through Incheon Airport and want to spend some time in this port city, Gyeongwonjae Ambassador has a lovely hanok room to offer. Gyeongwonjae is located in Songdo International City, the landmark of Incheon, and offers a number of attractions including the harmonious combination of technology and the natural environment. Public transportation including Incheon Metro Line #1 and M bus #6405 which runs to the Gangnam area of Seoul City is easily accessible to the property.
Address: 200 Technopark-ro, Yeongsu-gu, Incheon
Phone: 032 729-1101
Ragung
Ragung, meaning “Shilla Palace,” is a traditional deluxe hotel built on an area of 16,500 square meters. The Ragung, or Millennium Palace, with a floor space of 1,650 square meters consists of 16 separate houses that are connected with corridors. The Ragung bears special significance, as it is the first ever attempt to restore the legacy of the past for commercial purposes. It is a “modernization of tradition,” through which traditional houses are recreated for commercial applications. It is also the first time that an outdoor hot spring has been incorporated into the inner court of a traditional Korean house.
Address: 719-70 Shinpyeong-dong, Gyeongju
Phone: 054-778-2000
Goi
Located in Bukchon, the historic village in the heart of Seoul, Goi combines the traditional architecture of a hanok with elements of contemporary art and culture. Designed by three young artists in their 30s, Goi presents a space of art integrated with living space. With its intimate interior of wood, stone and paper, Goi offers a quiet, relaxing break from everyday life for guests traveling alone or as a couple.
Address: 13-12, Bukchon-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
Phone: 070-4116-8633
Original document available from http://news.joins.com/article/19593963#none
Translated by Heewon Kim
