Jeonju is genuinely one of my favourite places in South Korea — and that’s saying a lot! 😊 It’s probably most famous for the Jeonju Hanok Village, but honestly the food alone is worth the trip. Jeonju is considered the culinary capital of Korea, and once you’ve had bibimbap there, no other bibimbap will quite compare. Here’s what to see and do!
How to get there
Getting to Jeonju is relatively easy, thanks to its convenient location and well-connected transportation options.
By Train: Jeonju has its own train station, Jeonju Station, well-connected to major cities. From Seoul, take a KTX high-speed train to Jeonju Station — this takes about 2-3 hours. Regular trains are also available for a slightly longer journey. From Busan, the trip takes about 3 hours 40 minutes through Daejeon.
By Bus: Jeonju has an extensive bus network, making it accessible from various cities. Express buses run regularly between Jeonju and Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Gwangju. Travel time varies by distance — roughly 2 hours 40 minutes from Seoul and 3 hours from Busan.
By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and travel to Jeonju via the well-maintained highways. From Seoul, you can take the Gyeongbu Expressway (Route 1) or the Honam Expressway (Route 25) to reach Jeonju. The journey time can range from 2-4 hours depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.
Once you arrive in Jeonju, the city has an efficient local transportation system, including buses and taxis, to help you navigate and explore the city easily.
How long should I spent in Jeonju
The ideal duration to spend in Jeonju depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. However, I’d recommend at least 2-3 days to experience the essence of Jeonju.
When is the best time to visit Jeonju
The best time to visit Jeonju is usually in spring (Apr-Jun). Spring in Jeonju brings mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a popular time for visitors. The city hosts the Jeonju International Film Festival during this season, offering a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
What food is Jeonju famous for
Jeonju is famous for its traditional and delectable cuisine. Jeonju Bibimbap is perhaps the most famous dish. It consists of steamed rice topped with various vegetables, seasoned beef, soybean sprouts, mushrooms, and a fried egg. Everything gets mixed with a spicy gochujang sauce before eating. It’s hugely popular with foreigners too, so don’t miss it!
Top places to visit in Jeonju
1. Gyeonggijeon Shrine
This revered shrine was built in 1410 to enshrine the portrait of King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty. Surrounding gardens and towering trees give it a tranquil atmosphere. The main hall, Jeongjeon, showcases stunning traditional architectural beauty. Inside, visitors can find the carefully preserved portrait of King Taejo. Gyeonggijeon Shrine is not only a religious site but also a beloved symbol of Jeonju’s cultural identity.
2. Jeonju Hanok Village
Jeonju Hanok Village is a captivating testament to Korea’s traditional architectural heritage. Walking through narrow alleyways lined with over 800 traditional hanok houses, visitors immerse themselves in the beauty of the past. The distinctive curving roof edges of the hanok buildings give the village its unique charm. These houses are typically divided into two parts: anchae and sarangchae — the latter for men, the former for women’s privacy deeper within the house.
3. Rent a hanbok
Renting a hanbok in Jeonju is a delightful experience that lets visitors embrace the city’s cultural heritage. Hanbok is the traditional Korean attire, known for its elegance. Rental shops are found throughout Jeonju, offering hanboks in various colors, styles, and sizes. The process is simple — browse, try on, and get help selecting the perfect one. Once dressed, you’ll feel transformed as you walk through Jeonju Hanok Village. Many shops also offer hairpieces and traditional footwear to complete the look.
4. Spent a night in Hanok: Korean traditional house
Spending a night in a Hanok is an extraordinary experience that offers a glimpse into Korea’s cultural heritage. Hanoks feature elegant wooden structures, intricate detailing, and serene courtyards. Staying overnight transports you to a simpler era. The peaceful atmosphere, traditional furnishings, and floor sleeping with comfortable bedding create a sense of serenity. Waking up in a Hanok is a peaceful, contemplative way to start the day.
5. Nambu market
Not only is the Nambu market the biggest market in Jeonbuk Province, it is also the oldest major market in Jeonju considering it is over 200 years old! 200 years guys!
With over 800 stores and 1,200 vendors, it sells almost anything we normally use in our daily life. No wonder there is a saying in Jeonju “no marriage unless you visit Nambu Market”.
You can easily find something you’d like to buy whether it is a souvenir, piece of clothing or some of mouth-watering Korean street food (I recommend ddeokbokki).
6. Jeonju Hyanggyo Local Confucian School
Originally established in the 15th century Joseon Dynasty, Jeonju Hyanggyo served as a Confucian educational institution. It played a key role in educating local scholars. The architecture reflects the traditional Confucian style, with serene gardens, pavilions, and lecture halls. Stone tablets with classical Chinese writings highlight the importance of education and moral values. Today, Jeonju Hyanggyo hosts various cultural events, performances, and ceremonies celebrating Confucian heritage.
7. Jeongdong Catholic Cathedral
Constructed to commemorate Roman Catholic martyrs, it stands on the very spot where Yun Ji-Chung (Paul) and Gwon Sang-Yeon (James) were executed. They lost their lives for burning the ancestral table and refusing ancestral rites after converting to Catholicism.
Jeongdong Catholic Cathedral played a significant role in growing the Catholic faith in Korea, serving as a spiritual and cultural center during a period of challenges and persecution. The cathedral witnessed important historical events, including the March 1st Movement in 1919, where it became a symbol of resistance against Japanese colonial rule.
8. Hike to the Omodae Viewpoint
Omodae viewpoint sits on top of a steep hill. It’s one of the spots where King Taejo rested on his way back from celebrating a victory at Hwangsan Mountain. From here, you can see the Jeonju Hanok Village and appreciate the beautiful Korean landscape.
9. Pungnam Gate
Built during the Joseon Dynasty in 1768, Pungnam Gate served as one of the four main gates to the city. It was a defensive structure to protect Jeonju from external threats. The gate features a magnificent arched entrance with intricate detailing and elegant rooflines. Today, it stands as a symbol of Jeonju’s rich heritage and is recognized as a National Treasure of South Korea.
10. Hanbyeokdang Pavillion
Perched on a hill, Hanbyeokdang Pavilion offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hanok rooftops, winding alleys, and the scenic landscape beyond. This pavilion holds historical significance as it was the study room of Lee Hang-bok, a renowned scholar during the late Joseon Dynasty.
11. Deokjin Park
Deokjin Park is a lovely local spot — it’s famous for the lotus flowers that bloom across the large lake in the centre of the park. It’s a bit less touristy than the Hanok Village area, which honestly makes it even nicer.
You can have a picnic by the lake, walk the paths, or just sit and enjoy the view. The park also hosts local events throughout the year, so you might get lucky and catch something!
12. Jaman Mural Village
Jaman Mural Village is a vibrant and artistic neighborhood transformed into an open-air gallery. Formerly a rundown residential area, it underwent a revitalization project in 2009, inviting artists to create captivating murals on house walls. Today, every corner features unique and imaginative artworks. The murals depict everything from whimsical scenes and nature motifs to cultural and historical references. Walking through the narrow alleyways feels like stepping into a living canvas. Inspired to explore more? Check out our guides to Jeju Island, Busan, and Gyeongju!