Presidential seat in Cheongwadae Sarangchae

I started my journey right away after I left my luggage at my hostel. I went to Cheongwadae Sarangchae through Changdeokgung Palace and Gyeongbokgung Palace. The Blue House, Cheongwadae, is right behind Gyeongbokgung Palace. While walking from my hostel to the Blue House you can feel how mixed and connected the traditional and modern life is in Seoul. You can see traditional houses and palaces on one side and beautiful modern skyscrapers on the other side. You can see people walking around in traditional clothes among well-suited office workers. You can feel the respect for ancient culture of their past, and also how modernized the life in Seoul has become.

Great view outside of Cheongwadae Sarangchae

You can feel the harmony of life in Seoul walking down small streets full of elderly people and young generations having a meal together in these areas.

Finally, I arrive at Cheongwadae Sarangchae. It was a bit of a cold day so there were not many visitors when I got there. There was no entrance fee, so I just walked into the museum, and was surprised to see many kids with parents, sitting and walking around. It left a really good impression on me because I could see how parents teach their kids about their country’s culture and history, which I think is important.

Kids with teacher at Cheongwadae Sarangchae

Part of a museum was under renovation so couldn’t enjoy it fully, but I had a really interesting walk around the opened areas of museum. The history that Korea has from the 19th century until now is really something to be proud of. I really was interested to see and learn all the information that I did not know before.

Blue House and fancy souvenir shop

There was a souvenir shop on the first floor, so you can buy something as a gift. Moreover, an employee at the information desk right in front of the entrance is always happy to assist and help with any questions that you may have.

Cheongwadae Sarangchae

More Information

Entrance to Tongin Market

After spending almost two hours in the museum, I decided to move on and search for a market nearby where I could have some food. The closest one was Tongin Market. It’s a 10-minute walk from the museum and easy to find. On my way to the market, I could see old-fashioned houses and architecture.

When I got to the market, the first thing I noticed was the smell of delicious food. I like to eat and enjoy my food, so I was happy from the savory smell in the air at Tongin Market.

Small streets of Tongin Market

I started walking down the street of the market, which was full of restaurants and small shops. You can find anything you want from fresh meat to vegetables and fruits at Tongin Market. My eyes were literally running from one side to another because of the variety of food.

Delicious food

Elderly lady preparing food for serving

What I noticed as I walked down the market streets was that 90% of the sellers and shop owners are elderly people, and most shops are family businesses. You can see how happy they are when there are costumers around. Probably for that reason, this market is the only source of family income, and I was happy to see many young people shopping around in the market. Therefore, I decided to have my dinner in one of the market’s restaurants so I can make a small contribution to make someone happy! I found a good mandu (dumpling) restaurant and went there. I had the most delicious dumplings in my life: they were so fresh and juicy. I enjoyed my dinner and even bought some to take with me to eat at the hostel.

After a great dinner at the restaurant and watching happy and smiling faces of elderly people in the market, I took the road back to my hostel, walking down the path that brings me to the Blue House.

Tongin market

More Information

Hostel sign outside of the entrance door

Café & bar sign of the hostel

I booked my hostel room through Booking.com just two days before of my arrival. It was super easy and convenient for me. I got a confirmation e-mail in two minutes. The hostel’s location was super easy to find. It’s close to Anguk subway station, taking around 10 min on foot, and an airport limousine bus stop, located within a 5-min walking distance. I arrived early at the hostel, around 12:00, so the reception informed me about the check in time and offered to keep my luggage until I come back after check-in time, which was 3 pm. I was happy to have such great service. I left my luggage and went to discover the area.

I came back to the hostel around 7 pm, after having a great dinner at the local market named Tongin Market. The receptionist was waiting for me to check in. She was super polite and gave me all the information about the hostel and facilities. Every piece of information needed for a tourist was just in front of reception (attractions, restaurants, entertainment, etc…).

Bathroom Photos

I paid for my room in cash at the hostel so it is super convenient when you make a booking. I checked in to my room. I booked a bed in a 4 bed male dorm. Therefore, the room was small, but at the same time, it had everything to feel comfortable. The bed sheets, pillows, and towels were all clean and white. The floors and the bathroom were clean and had all amenities necessary. The thing I liked best about my hostel was that there was a small café/bar on first floor. After checking in, I took a shower and went down to the café to work a bit. It was the best place to sit and relax after a long day of walking around.

Room photo

Cozy café at first floor