KoreaTravel Tips

Hotel and Lodging Options around National Folk Museum of Korea, Seoul

1. What types of accommodation are available near the National Folk Museum of Korea in Seoul?


There are several types of accommodation near the National Folk Museum of Korea in Seoul, including:

1. Hotels: There are numerous hotels within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the museum. These range from luxury 5-star hotels to more affordable budget options.

2. Guesthouses and Hostels: Seoul has a wide selection of guesthouses and hostels that cater to budget travelers. Many of these are located in the nearby area of Insadong, known for its traditional atmosphere.

3. Hanok Stays: A hanok is a traditional Korean house, and staying in one provides a unique cultural experience. There are several hanok stays located near the museum, offering comfortable and authentic accommodation.

4. Airbnb: For those looking for a home-away-from-home experience, there are many Airbnb options available near the museum. These range from private rooms within a local’s home to entire apartments or houses.

5. Traditional Korean Inns (Hanokjip): Hanokjip is a type of traditional Korean inn that offers simple but comfortable rooms with traditional furnishings and decor. There are several located near the museum.

6. Motels: There are also numerous motels scattered around the area, which offer basic amenities at affordable prices.

7. Homestays: For a more immersive cultural experience, visitors can opt for a homestay with a local family in Seoul. This allows you to live with locals and learn about their way of life.

8. Temple Stay: A temple stay allows visitors to experience Buddhist culture firsthand by staying overnight in a temple and participating in various activities such as meditation and tea ceremonies.

9. Capsule Hotels: For budget travelers who don’t require much space, there are capsule hotels available near the museum, offering small sleeping pods with shared bathroom facilities.

2. Is it better to stay in a hotel or a guesthouse near the museum?


It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and budget.

Staying in a hotel near the museum may offer more amenities and services, such as room service, concierge, and a gym or pool. Hotels also typically have larger rooms and common areas for relaxation or work. However, hotels can be more expensive and may be further away from local restaurants and shops.

Guesthouses are often smaller, family-run accommodations that offer a more intimate experience. They may also provide a closer connection to the local culture and community. Guesthouses tend to have fewer amenities but may be more affordable and closer to the museum.

Consider your priorities for your trip and choose an accommodation that aligns with them. Keep in mind the location, price, and any specific needs or preferences you have for your stay.

3. How far is the closest hotel to the National Folk Museum of Korea?


The closest hotel to the National Folk Museum of Korea is the Mini Hotel Insa in Jongno. It is approximately a 5-minute walk from the museum.

4. Are there any traditional Korean style lodgings near the museum?


Yes, there are several traditional Korean style lodgings (hanok guesthouses) near the National Museum of Korea, such as Bukchon Hanok Guesthouse and Hanok 24. These accommodations offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional Korean architecture, culture, and hospitality during their stay.

5. Is it possible to find budget-friendly lodging options within walking distance of the museum?

Yes, it is possible to find budget-friendly lodging options within walking distance of the museum. Some nearby budget hotels and Airbnb rentals may offer affordable rates for visitors on a budget. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance for the best deals and availability. Additionally, some hostels and guesthouses may also offer lower rates and may be located within walking distance of the museum.

6. What amenities can I expect from hotels near the National Folk Museum of Korea?


Some amenities that you can expect from hotels near the National Folk Museum of Korea include:
– Wi-Fi or internet access
– On-site restaurants or cafes
– Room service
– Fitness center or gym
– Business center or meeting rooms
– Concierge services
– Laundry facilities
– Complimentary breakfast
– On-site parking (may be for an additional fee)
– Air conditioning and heating in rooms

7. Are there any luxury hotels near the museum for those looking for a more upscale experience?


Yes, there are a few luxury hotels near the museum:

1. The St. Regis San Francisco – This 5-star hotel is located just a few blocks from the museum and features elegant rooms and suites, a spa, and restaurant.
2. Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Located about a mile from the museum, this historic hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
3. Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero – This 5-star hotel is situated right by the Bay and offers high-end accommodations, a spa, and access to an upscale shopping center.
4. Loews Regency San Francisco – Overlooking the city’s iconic skyline, this luxury hotel boasts contemporary rooms and suites, a rooftop terrace with sweeping views, and fine dining options.
5. Fairmont San Francisco – This grand hotel is located on Nob Hill near the museum and offers opulent rooms and suites, multiple restaurants and bars, as well as a fitness center with panoramic city views.

8. Can I book a room with views of the nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace at any of the hotels around the museum?


It is possible to book a room with views of Gyeongbokgung Palace at some of the hotels around the museum, but it may depend on availability and specific room types offered by each hotel. It is recommended to contact the hotels directly to inquire about their room options and views.

9. Are there any family-friendly accommodations available near the National Folk Museum of Korea?

Yes, there are several family-friendly accommodations available near the National Folk Museum of Korea. Some options include:

1. Hotel Peyto Samseong – This hotel offers family rooms with extra bedding and a children’s playground on-site.

2. The Plaza Seoul Autograph Collection – This hotel offers spacious family rooms and a kid’s club with various activities.

3. Aroha Guesthouse – This guesthouse offers family rooms and free rental strollers for children.

4. K-Star Road House in Myeongdong – This guesthouse offers family rooms and is conveniently located near shopping and dining options.

5. Doosan Guesthouse – This guesthouse offers family rooms and has a rooftop terrace with city views.

6. Glad Live Gangnam – This hotel offers family rooms, kids’ menus at the on-site restaurant, and a kid’s play area in the lobby.

7. K-Guesthouse Garosugil Luxe1 – This guesthouse offers spacious family rooms and is located near popular attractions like N Seoul Tower and Cheonggyecheon Stream.

8. Hotel PJ Myeongdong – This hotel offers deluxe family rooms and is located in the heart of Myeongdong shopping district.

9. Concierge H24 Service Apartment & Suite3B&Tower-A – This apartment-style accommodation offers multi-bedroom units perfect for families, along with a playground on-site.

10. Which hotels offer shuttle services to and from Incheon International Airport located about an hour’s drive away from the museum?


Some hotels that offer shuttle services to and from Incheon International Airport are:

1. Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul
2. Grand Hyatt Seoul
3. Lotte Hotel Seoul
4. Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun
5. InterContinental Seoul COEX
6. Novotel Ambassador Seoul Gangnam
7. Aloft Seoul Gangnam
8. The Westin Chosun Seoul
9. Best Western Premier Guro Hotel
10. Mercure Ambassador Seoul Gangnam Sodowe

11. Are there any pet-friendly lodging options near the National Folk Museum of Korea?

Yes, there are several pet-friendly lodging options near the National Folk Museum of Korea. Some options include Glad Live Gangnam Hotel, Imperial Palace Seoul, and Fraser Place Namdaemun.

12. What are some popular neighborhoods to stay in that are close to both the museum and other attractions in Seoul?


– Jongno-gu: This neighborhood is particularly popular for its traditional Korean market, Gwangjang Market, and its close proximity to popular attractions like Bukchon Hanok Village and Changdeokgung Palace.

– Myeong-dong: Known for its vibrant shopping streets and bustling nightlife, Myeong-dong is also close to popular attractions such as Namsan Tower and Namdaemun Market.

– Gangnam-gu: This upscale area is known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and shops as well as being home to the COEX Mall and Bongeunsa Temple. It is also accessible to other major attractions through the efficient public transportation system.

– Itaewon: A melting pot of cultures, Itaewon offers a diverse range of international cuisine, unique boutiques, and a thriving nightlife scene. It is also close to major tourist spots like Gyeongbokgung Palace and N Seoul Tower.

13. Can I find accommodations with English-speaking staff near the National Folk Museum of Korea?

Yes, there are many accommodations near the National Folk Museum of Korea that have English-speaking staff. Some popular options include:

1. Namdaemun Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located just 10 minutes away from the National Folk Museum and offers comfortable private rooms with English-speaking staff.

2. Lotte Hotel Seoul: This luxury hotel is within walking distance of the museum and has a team of multilingual staff, including English speakers.

3. Premier Hotel Myeongdong: Situated in the trendy Myeongdong neighborhood, this hotel has a helpful front desk staff who can assist with any questions or needs in English.

4. K-guesthouse Insadong: This modern guesthouse is just a short walk from the museum and has staff who can communicate in English, making it an ideal choice for international travelers.

5. Hotel Aventree Jongno: Located in the heart of Seoul’s cultural district, this hotel has a friendly and professional staff who speak multiple languages, including English.

It is always best to check with the hotel directly before booking to ensure they have English-speaking staff available during your stay.

14. How crowded do hotels get during peak tourist seasons at this popular tourist attraction?


The level of crowding at hotels during peak tourist seasons can vary depending on the popularity of the attraction and the availability of accommodations. In general, popular tourist attractions attract a large number of visitors during peak seasons, which means that hotels tend to fill up quickly and may become crowded. It is advisable to make reservations well in advance if planning to visit a popular attraction during peak season.

15. How safe is it to walk back to my lodging after visiting a few bars or clubs near Gwanghwamun Square, located just 10 minutes away on foot from here?


Walking back to your lodging after visiting bars or clubs near Gwanghwamun Square is relatively safe. Seoul in general is a safe city, but it is always important to exercise caution when walking alone at night. It is recommended to stick to well-lit and busy streets, avoid dark alleys, and be aware of your surroundings. Using public transportation or taking a taxi may also be safer options.

16. Do any hotels have fitness facilities or gyms available for guests’ use while visiting Seoul?


Yes, many hotels in Seoul have fitness facilities or gyms available for guests to use. Some examples include:
– The Westin Chosun Seoul: They have a fitness center equipped with treadmills, exercise bikes, and weight machines.
– JW Marriott Hotel Seoul: Their fitness center offers a wide range of equipment such as free weights, cardio machines, and yoga mats.
– Lotte Hotel Seoul: The hotel’s gym features a variety of workout equipment including strength training machines and free weights.
– Grand Hyatt Seoul: They have a modern gym with state-of-the-art equipment, including treadmills, elliptical machines, and weightlifting stations.
– Millennium Hilton Seoul: Their fitness center has a pool, tennis court, sauna, and gymnasium with various exercise facilities.
Overall, most upscale hotels in Seoul will have some kind of fitness facility available for guests to use. It is recommended to check the hotel’s website or contact them directly for more specific information about each hotel’s fitness amenities.

17. What’s special about staying at Hanok style guesthouses in Bukchon Hanok Village that sit between Changdeokgung Palace and Gyeongbokgung Palace, which are both next door to where this famous national folk art museum is located?


Staying at a Hanok style guesthouse in Bukchon Hanok Village allows visitors to experience traditional Korean culture and customs firsthand. The village itself is a well-preserved neighborhood with traditional hanok houses, giving guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of old Korea. This location also provides easy access to visit two of the most famous palaces in Seoul, Changdeokgung and Gyeongbokgung, as well as the National Folk Museum, which showcases various aspects of Korean heritage and daily life. Additionally, staying in this area allows guests to have a more authentic cultural experience compared to staying in modern hotels or accommodations.

18. Are there any lodging options with hot spring baths near the National Folk Museum of Korea, as I’ve heard this area has been popular for its natural hot springs since the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910)?


Yes, there are several lodging options with hot spring baths near the National Folk Museum of Korea. Some options include:

1. Hotel Ora Seoul – This luxury hotel is located within walking distance of the museum and features a natural hot spring spa on its premises.

2. The Shilla Seoul – Another upscale hotel near the museum, The Shilla also has a natural hot springs spa called “Yun Spa Club.”

3. Grand Ambassador Seoul associated with Pullman – This 5-star hotel offers hot spring baths at its SPA & Sauna zone.

4. IlSoom Forest Lodge – Located in Bukhansan National Park, about a 30-minute drive from the museum, this lodge offers traditional Korean-style rooms with private hot springs attached to each room.

5. Belle-Essence Seoul Hotel – Situated in the university district of Sinchon, this boutique hotel has a rooftop outdoor hot spring bath with city views.

Overall, there are plenty of lodging options with hot spring baths in the vicinity of the National Folk Museum of Korea for those looking to experience this long-standing tradition in Korean culture.

19. If I wanted to experience traditional cultural activities at Bukchon Hanok Village, would it be wise to reserve a room at a guesthouse around the same time?


Yes, reserving a room at a guesthouse within or near Bukchon Hanok Village would be a great way to fully experience traditional cultural activities in the area. This will allow you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the village and participate in various activities such as hanbok wearing, tea ceremonies, and traditional crafts. Staying at a guesthouse will also give you convenient access to the village’s attractions and events, allowing for a more authentic and unique cultural experience. It is recommended to make your reservations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.

20. What are some highly recommended eating joints that guests must try out nearby their chosen hotel or hostel close to the National Folk Museum of Korea during their stay?


1. Bukchon Sonmandu (traditional Korean dumplings)
2. Gwangjang Market (street food and traditional Korean dishes)
3. Myeongdong Kyoja (noodles and dumplings)
4. Tosokchon Samgyetang (Korean chicken ginseng soup)
5. Noryangjin Fish Market (fresh seafood market with on-site cooking)
6. Gaeseong Jip (traditional North Korean cuisine)
7. Sanchon (vegetarian Buddhist temple cuisine)
8. Tosokchon Insamhakgyo (ginseng chicken soup restaurant)
9. Halmeoni Kalguksu (handmade noodle soup)
10. Pimatgol Dakhanmari Street (variety of chicken dishes)