10 Best Things To Do In Andong, South Korea

1. Learn about the Joseon period at Hahoe Folk Village

Explore an iconic part of South Korean history with a visit to the Hahoe Folk Village, the home of famous scholars of the Joseon period. Although it has always been an important cultural site for the locals, it became a major tourist attraction after Queen Elizabeth of England paid it a visit in 1999. The destination is found in a tranquil location on the base of Hwasan Mountain, and it’s surrounded by a river. Its traditional buildings - massive tile-roofed structures in the center, surrounded by thatched roofed residences - are a beauty to behold. Don’t forget to savor mouthwatering local cuisines, and even explore other notable sites around, including the Buyongdae Cliff, Bongjeongsa Temple, and more.

Hahoe Folk Village

Address: South Korea, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Andong, Pungcheon-myeon,

Website: Hahoe Folk Village

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

2. Admire ancient Korean architecture at Bongjeongsa Temple

Bongjeongsa Temple is the most prominent place of worship in the town and home to the oldest surviving wooden structure, Geuknakjeon, in the country. It was constructed in the 7th century by King Munmu, the ruler of the Unified Silla Kingdom. Marvel at the beauty of the old Korean architecture in the temple complex, consisting of 10 buildings. This destination was also of particular interest to Queen Elizabeth II during her visit in 1999. The mature trees surrounding the sanctuary also create a perfect atmosphere to have a quiet time.

Bongjeongsa Temple

Address: 222 Bongjeongsa-gil, Seohu-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Website: Bongjeongsa Temple

Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)

3. Visit the fascinating Dosan Seowon

Korea is home to many Confucian academies, and Dosan Seowon is the most massive and renowned of them all. The site’s initial structures were built by a famous Korean Neo Confucian scholar, Yi Hwang, in 1561. The rabbi’s disciples enlarged it to an academy after his death. It is strategically perched above a river and surrounded by mountains, giving it a serene and dramatic setting. Within, you will find a museum, featuring significant philosophical schemata, a variety of Confucian texts, and descriptions of woodblock printing. Relax under one of the willow trees beautifying the frontage of the halls, or even stroll along its serene river.

Dosan Seowon

Address: 154 Dosanseowon-gil, Dosan-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Website: Dosan Seowon

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

4. Enjoy a romantic walk on the Woryeonggyo Bridge

If you are visiting with your romantic double, you can’t miss walking on the iconic Woryeonggyo Bridge or taking some beautiful shots of the surrounding panorama. It is the longest wooden pedestrian flyover in the country with a pavilion at the center, stretching 1269.7 feet (387 meters). The overpass is inspired by a Mituri (traditional hemp shoe), which a grieving woman made out of her hair after her husband passed away. This symbol of pure love has some of the most captivating vistas in the city, making it popular among photographers. It has also earned the name ‘The Moonlight Bridge,’ due to its stunning reflection of the river below.

Woryeonggyo Bridge

Address: 203 Seokju-ro, Myeongnyun-dong, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Price: Free

5. Check out the 99-room Imcheonggak House

If you are a history enthusiast, Imcheonggak House, the oldest civil structures in Korea, set close to the most significant and oldest pagoda in the nation - Sinsedong Pagoda - is a must-see. This 99-room complex was constructed by Yi Myeong of the Goseong Yi clan. It’s the birthplace of many prominent individuals in the country who fought for independence, including the first head of state of affairs, Seokju Yi Sangryong. The buildings here have apparent differences based on the rank and sex, and the guide will be happy to walk you through the great history of the three generations of family that once inhabited it. And if you are visiting during spring, the cherry trees all around are appealing. It has 99 rooms because only a king could have a 100-room house in those days.

Imcheonggak House/Estate

Address: 20, Beopheung-dong, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do 760-030 South Korea

Website: Imcheonggak House/Estate

6. Visit the Buddha statue of Jebiwon Seokbul

Visit and admire Jebiwon Seokbul, a 40.7-foot (12.4-meter) Amitabha Buddha statue standing on an old path, which used to be a shelter for travelers from and to the Sobaek Mountains. The statue is believed to date back to the 11th century due to the sculptural style and the explicit attributes of the face. It’s an impressive sight, emerging from the surrounding greenery. The hair and head are made from two different rocks, and beneath is a central temple hall, which is still a staple for worshippers.

Jebiwon Seokbul

Address: San 2, Icheon-dong, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Price: Free

7. Hike to the natural Buyongdae Observatory

If you are planning to explore the glamorous Andong’s outdoors, you can’t miss hiking up this 210-foot (64-meter) natural observatory, sitting at the extreme of the Taebaek Mountain range. Let the smell of nature help you loosen up as you soak in the constant panorama of the lush old pine trees and a sandy beach. This cliff is also the best place to get an eagle’s eye view of the famous Hahoe Folk Village, and all the vintage wonders it unveils.

Buyongdae Observatory

Address: 72 Gwangdeoksolbat-gil, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

8. Shop for souvenirs at Andong Traditional Markets

One of the best places to get close to the people and learn more about their culture and lifestyle is in the local markets, and Andong has three traditional markets — Yongsangsijang, Sinsijang, and the famous Gusijang Old Market. Although you will find the Andong department store in the Old Market, most of the products sold here are influenced by the Confucian culture, such as objects meant for sacrifice, sharks, and octopuses. You can also savor a variety of local cuisines in the 30 jjimdak restaurants lined in the 600-year-old marketplace.

Andong Traditional Markets

Address: 55 Beonnyeong 1-gil, Seobu-dong, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Website: Andong Traditional Markets

Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)

9. Discover a wide range of mask collections at Hahoe Mask Museum

Hahoe Mask Museum is a point of interest among history enthusiasts, exploring the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site — Hahoe Folk Village. Therein, you will discover Hahoe masks, and other varieties collected from Mexico, Italy, Nigeria, and other culturally diverse nations in Asia. Plan to spend some valuable time here, as there are six halls to uncover, combined with regular fascinating activities to engage in, including seeing mask trick art and trying out a range of masks. And of course, don’t forget to capture the memories on camera.

Hahoe Mask Museum

Address: 206 Jeonseo-ro, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Website: Hahoe Mask Museum

Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 2 - 3 USD

10. View cultural exhibits at Andong Folk Museum

Andong is home to Confucian culture and significant traditional programs, including ancestral worship, funerals, marriages, coming of age, and more. But since your time here may be limited, you can view cultural exhibits of the past and present in the Andong Folk Museum. This institution features over 3,700 relics and videos displayed in the three interior halls. It doesn’t end there; there is also an outdoor park complex, showcasing cultural treasures and folk structures, including a watermill and a stone house.

Andong Folk Museum

Address: 13 Minsokchon-gil, Yongsang-dong, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Website: Andong Folk Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

Price: Free

An adventure like never before awaits you

Whether you are a history buff, a religious enthusiast, or an outdoor lover, lots of adventures await you in this beautiful vintage city. The welcoming people will be proud to have you learn about their fascinating heritage, participate in their folk dances and other traditional activities, and discover their natural gems. Enjoy the best that this place has to offer with these top things to do in Andong, South Korea.