Jeonju

What are the most recommended things to do in Jeonju?

  • Visit the Jeonju Hanok Village to experience traditional Korean architecture and culture.
  • Try the famous Jeonju bibimbap, a traditional rice dish mixed with vegetables, egg, and chili pepper paste.
  • Explore the Jeonju Traditional Korean Wine Museum to learn about the history and production of Korean wines.
  • Take a walk through the beautiful Deokjin Park, especially during cherry blossom season.
  • Visit the Jeondong Catholic Church, an iconic piece of architecture in the city.

Introducing Jeonju

Jeonju (Korean: 전주시), a city in southwestern South Korea, is located 232 kilometers south of Seoul. It serves as the seat of the North Jeolla Province government (전라북도), equivalent to the capital of a province in my country. With an area of ​​198.22 square kilometers and a population of 760,000, it stretches northwest-southeast and is the seventh-largest city in South Korea.

Jeonju is a renowned cultural and arts city in South Korea, home to municipal art groups such as the symphony orchestra, folk art troupes, choirs, and theater troupes. It also boasts cultural facilities such as the Jeonbuk Children's Center, the Jeonbuk Arts Center, and the Deokjin General Center. Traditional crafts include bamboo fans, taegeuk fans, and Korean rice paper. Major historical sites include the Jeonju Hanok Village, Gyeonggijeon, Jeonju Hyanggyo, Pungnammun Gate, Jeonju Guesthouse, Jogyeongmyo Temple, Jogyeongdan Temple, Omokdae, Hanbyeokdang Hall, and Jeondong Catholic Church.

Jeonju is a famous historical city in South Korea with a history of thousands of years. It was once the capital of Later Baekje, the birthplace of the Joseon Dynasty, and the third largest city on the Korean Peninsula after Hanyang and Pyongyang.

Jeonju is also a famous tourist city in South Korea and was named one of the most worthwhile tourist attractions in 2011. Jeonju Hanok Village, the largest traditional architectural complex in South Korea, has been designated a Cittaslow by Cittaslow International.

Climate and best time to travel

Southern inland climate; Jeonju is a famous historical city in South Korea, and it is also a famous tourist city in South Korea, suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Jeonju Hanok Village, Gyeonggijeon, Jeonju Hyanggyo Confucian School, Jeondong Catholic Church, Omokdae, Nambu Market;

It is recommended to visit for 1-2 days

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Jeonju

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Jeonju is renowned for its well-preserved Hanok Village, showcasing traditional Korean culture and architecture. It is the birthplace of bibimbap, one of Korea’s most famous dishes. The city also has a rich history tied to the Joseon Dynasty and is a cultural hub in Korea, celebrated for its arts, festivals, and culinary scene.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Jeonju is located in the southwest of South Korea, about 140 kilometers from Seoul. You can take a KTX (Korea Train Express) from Seoul to Jeonju, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, buses and taxis are available from surrounding cities.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Jeonju open between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant. Avoid summer weekends as they can be crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Many attractions in Jeonju are free to enter, such as the Hanok Village and Deokjin Park. For specific attractions like museums or cultural sites, entrance fees typically range from 2,000 KRW to 10,000 KRW. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online for some attractions.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not generally necessary to book tickets in advance, except for special events or during peak seasons. It’s best to book a few days ahead for any special tours or exhibitions to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Jeonju, including its historical sites, Hanok Village, and museums, you will need at least 1 to 2 days. If you're focusing on food and culture, one full day is usually enough.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Jeonju Hanok Village, a traditional village with over 800 hanok houses.
  • The Jeonju Traditional Korean Wine Museum for an immersive experience in Korean wine culture.
  • Deokjin Park, famous for its beautiful lotus pond and cherry blossoms in spring.
  • The Jeondong Catholic Church, known for its stunning architecture.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at various cultural sites, including the Hanok Village and Jeonju Traditional Korean Wine Museum. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, and Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The rooftop of the Hanok Village offers panoramic views of traditional rooftops and the surrounding area.
  • Deokjin Park’s lotus pond is a beautiful spot for photos, especially during the summer.
  • Jeondong Catholic Church is an iconic photography spot with its beautiful Gothic-style architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start your day with a visit to Jeonju Hanok Village, exploring the traditional houses and shops.
  • Visit the Jeonju Traditional Korean Wine Museum for a deeper understanding of Korean culture.
  • Take a break and enjoy a meal of Jeonju bibimbap at one of the local restaurants.
  • In the afternoon, explore Deokjin Park or visit the Jeondong Catholic Church before wrapping up the day with a relaxing stroll around the city.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available at some attractions like the Hanok Village, which is beautifully illuminated at night. Light shows and special cultural events are held during festivals, especially in summer and fall.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Jeonju can get crowded during weekends, especially in summer. The least crowded times are during weekdays in spring or fall. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can also help avoid crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

  • Toilets and rest areas are available at most major attractions, such as Hanok Village and Deokjin Park.
  • Food and water are readily available at local cafes and restaurants.
  • Shops around the Hanok Village sell local handicrafts, souvenirs, and Korean snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most attractions in Jeonju are accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with ramps and accessible paths in places like the Hanok Village and Deokjin Park. However, some of the traditional buildings may have limited accessibility due to their age.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in Jeonju, especially in restaurants and larger stores. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, particularly for small shops or street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Traditional Korean restaurants offering dishes like bibimbap and grilled meats.
  • Cafes around Hanok Village and the city center serving coffee and traditional Korean desserts.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants in Jeonju, especially around the Hanok Village. Halal food options are more limited but can be found at a few specialized restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Traditional hanok stays within the Jeonju Hanok Village.
  • Modern hotels and guesthouses near the city center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Gwangju, the 5th largest city in Korea, offers cultural experiences and museums.
  • The city of Iksan, home to the famous Mireuksaji Temple and historical sites, is a short trip away.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Jeonju offer traditional Korean goods, including ceramics, handmade crafts, local snacks like Jeonju bibimbap sauce, and traditional Korean fabrics.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • KTX trains from Jeonju to Seoul or other major cities in Korea.
  • Buses are available to surrounding cities like Gwangju and Iksan.