Rakkojae Seoul Bukchon Hanok Village - Korean Traditional Hanok Hotel

The makgeolli bath was well worth trying after walking around in the cold. It started at the mud sauna, followed by a private bath with makgeolli, light snacks, and a bottle of it from a local provider. It tasted really good. There's a shower in the room to rinse off before or after. The bath was a little lukewarm, possibly because I'd just come from the hot sauna and they were playing it safe, but I could easily add hot water from the tap during the soak. The traditional hanok carries sound, though the evening quiet policy meant I slept without trouble. I did wake early, around 7-8am, when other guests had breakfast. Quiet hours in the morning would help light sleepers, though I can see that being hard to manage with breakfast service. I stayed for a weekend in late December and wish I'd had more time. The staff were incredibly attentive and went out of their way to help me feel comfortable. They welcomed me with tea and a treat, and let me check in early since my room was ready. I worried it might be cold, but the floor heating kept me toasty. Breakfast was included. I chose the Korean option, which was phenomenal, generous, and varied from day to day. The traditional room also had a closet, mini fridge, coffee pot, and complimentary snacks and drinks that were restocked daily. At departure they held my luggage, helped arrange an Uber to the airport, spoke with the driver so he wouldn't get lost, and offered me tea while I waited. It's within walking distance of the palaces and Bukchon village, about ten minutes from the subway, with a convenience store nearby.

The service was top notch and the amenities superb. Breakfast, delivered with a smile at your chosen time, was filling and traditional. I also recommend booking a sauna session and letting the heat build slowly. Rakkojae's main hanok sits in a quiet little back alley in a residential part of Bukchon, so it's private without being too difficult to reach by metro or bus. You may get to ride the number 2 green minibus, which is fun when it's not busy. It was very much worth the price and one of the best ways to experience a historic hanok in Seoul. Might as well go for the classic choice when hanoking, right?

I only stayed here for my last night in Seoul, but next time I'm in SK I'll definitely book for longer. The hospitality and food were both so good. They brought welcome tea to my room at check-in, then served a delicious traditional Korean breakfast there in the morning. The grounds were beautiful, and you can wear the Hanboks and take pictures for free. It's within walking distance of great bakeries, restaurants, and a viral attraction. I'd recommend it for a Seoul trip. It's worth it.

The neighborhood is quiet, with lots of shops nearby. The team were friendly and helpful, and the owner has preserved the building's original traditional hanok architecture.