Why Visit Jeonju
Jeonju (전주), the capital of North Jeolla Province (Jeollabuk-do), is a city rich in history, culture, and food. Known as the birthplace of the Joseon Dynasty and home to Jeonju Hanok Village. It’s also recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Jeonju is the proud origin of bibimbap, a famous Korean dish made of rice, vegetables, egg, and gochujang.
The city is also a popular filming location for K-dramas, especially historical dramas (sageuk 사극). If you love Korean history, food, and culture, a day trip to Jeonju is a must!
Getting to Jeonju from Seoul
- By Train: KTX, ITX, or Mugunghwa from Seoul Station
- By Bus: Take an Express Bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Intercity Bus from Seoul Nambu Bus Terminal
- My Experience: I boarded the 9:45 AM KTX and arrived in Jeonju at 11:38 AM.
Getting around Jeonju
- By Bus: Consider the interval, waiting, and travel time
- By Taxi: Either hail directly or book through Kakao Taxi or Uber Taxi
- My experience: I walked to Jeonju Station Last Stop and took bus 79. After 18 stops, I got off at Jeondong Cathedral.Hanok Village.
My One Day Itinerary
First stop: Hankook Jib
A short walk from the bus stop led me to Hankook Jib (한국집), the first restaurant to serve Jeonju Bibimbap since 1952.
I ordered their signature bibimbap, served with a variety of side dishes. It was so delicious, and it’s easy to see why this restaurant has been thriving for three generations.
PNB Bakery: Famous for Chocopie
On my way to Jeondong Cathedral, I passed by PNB Bakery, a legendary bakery in Jeonju operating since 1951. Their famous handmade chocopies are a must-try and perfect goods to bring back home. Also, the bakery can only be found in Jeonju.
Second stop: Jeondong Cathedral 전동성당
This stunning Catholic church, completed in 1914, stands on a historic site where Christian martyrs were executed during the Joseon Dynasty. The cathedral’s architecture and history make it a must-see.
Behind the cathedral, I spotted a beautiful cherry blossom tree, adding charm to the experience.
I walked across to a very beautiful toilet that I have ever seen. It is inside a Hanok building.
Third stop: Gyeonggijeon Shrine 경기전
Located near the cathedral, Gyeonggijeon Shrine houses the royal portrait of King Taejo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. The entrance fee is KRW 3,000.
This is also a famous filming spot for historical dramas like Moonlight Drawn by Clouds starring Park Bo Gum and Kim Yoo Jung. Inside, you’ll find traditional pavilions and Hanok structures with rich historical details.
Hanok Village Streets and Hanbok Rentals
Jeonju Hanok Village is filled with cafes, souvenir shops, and restaurants. You can also rent a hanbok for a day to complete your historical experience.
Fourth stop: Jeonmang Cafe
I stopped at Jeonmang Cafe, a modern café with an overlooking view of the Hanok Village. The café has seating on the 4th floor, where you can also order, and more seats withan open area on the 5th floor, offering perfect photo opportunities and clearer, unobstructed view of the whole village. I took also the time to rest and charge my gadgets.
Jeonju Hanok Village Stone Signage
I saw a lovely family of four dressed in hanbok, happily taking photos together. I offered to take a picture for them, and after, I asked the mother if I could have a photo with her daughters. They looked so adorable in their hanbok, especially as they enjoyed their ice cream. She kindly agreed, and it became one of my favorite moments from Jeonju.
Fifth stop: Jeonju Nanjang 전주난장
A retro-style museum showcasing Korea’s modern folk history. It’s filled with vintage displays, old classrooms, and nostalgic items.
- Entrance Fee: KRW 7,500
- Opening Hours: 10 AM to 7 PM (9:30 AM on weekends)
It took me 30 minutes to explore the whole place. A highlight of my visit was singing in an old noraebang 노래방 and receiving a freshly grilled sweet potato from the staff.
Last stop: Photo Studio for souvenir!
I went to a self-photo studio and took a photo of myself as a remembrance that I was able to visit Jeonju.
Going back to Seoul
As the sun was about to set in the village, I went to the bus stop and took bus 535 going back to Jeonju Station. I arrived with enough time to spare before my trip back to Seoul at 7:30PM. I then arrived in Seoul Station at 9:20PM.
It was a long day but full of happy and fun memories. If you love traditional Korean culture, Hanok architecture, and delicious cuisine, Jeonju is the perfect place to be.
My dinner from the local restaurant outside the Airbnb.