Exploring Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을): Seoul’s Hidden Gem
Where Old Meets New: Bukchon Hanok Village Bukchon Hanok Village is a residential area north of central Seoul between Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces that contains Seoul’s largest concentration of hanoks in one area. Nine hundred beautifully maintained traditional hanoks to be precise. It is a great place to immerse yourself in traditional Korean culture and architecture right in the heart of Seoul. Bukchon (which means “North Town”) is situated at the foot of the mountain with valleys and steep hills, giving residents and visitors alike astounding views of the hanok houses and the city of Seoul, including N Seoul Tower. It is a …
Exploring N Seoul Tower, Love Locks and Alive Museum at Namsan Park
The Iconic N Seoul Tower, the Popular Love Locks & Alive Museum at Namsan Park Our next destination, after spending almost three hours at Namsamgol Hanok Village was Namsan Seoul Tower or N Seoul Tower which also includes the popular love locks and Alive Museum. Since it’s opening to the public in 1980, it recently got a name upgrade in 2005. With the new upgrade came a new name —Namsam was changed to N, which stands for ‘new’, after having received many renovations. An iconic of Seoul, the N Seoul Tower stands 479.7 m above Namsan hill and offers breathtaking views of Seoul. This …
A Folk Village in Seoul: Namsangol Hanok Village (남산골한옥마을)
Glimpse into Korean History and Culture at A Folk Village in Seoul: Namsangol Hanok Village Touring Seoul’s many grand palaces is a must for the history buff, it is an essential experience while in Korea. However, to truly experience Korean history and its culture, one must also visit a traditional folk village. And Namsangol Hanok Village is an excellent introduction to the life, and culture of the common Korean citizen during the Joseon era. Located at the northern foot of Namsan Mountain, this village was constructed so that visitors could get a glimpse into the lives of traditional Koreans. During …
Kariya Park Mississauga: Cherry Blossom Tree Viewing in Toronto Area
Cherry Blossom Tree Viewing: Finding Tranquility and Beauty in a Bustling City Kariya Park is a tranquil Japanese-inspired garden amidst the bustling city of Mississauga. Living in the city can be stressful, physically, and mentally. It gives me brain fatigue as I am constantly alert —always remaining vigilant of all the chaos around me. Once in a while, I like to turn off my thoughts and stare into space with quiet fascination. I just want to stare at something beautiful, breath fully, and sigh, ‘ahhhhh’. To take in the space around me. To renew. It’s hard to find such a space in …