Buam-dong is a tranquil neighborhood in the hills of northern Seoul, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Here, you’ll find scenic mountains and walking trails as well as a charming blend of nature, history, and art. There are historical landmarks, museums, cozy coffee shops, and independent restaurants.
To get to Buam-dong by public transport, you can take buses 7022, 1020, or 7212 from central locations like Gyeongbokgung Palace or Gwanghwamun Square. Get off at “The Literary Museum” or “Buam-dong Community Center” to bring you close to the main attractions.
Here are some spots you must visit if you’re in the neighborhood!
Contents
1. Must-See Attractions
2. Restaurants
3. Cafes
Must-See Attractions
1. Seoul Museum
| Address: 4-1, Changuimun-ro 11-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Wed-Sun 10:00-18:00 (Mon-Tues Off)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Located in a serene area surrounded by mountains, the Seoul Museum is a cultural gem, combining contemporary art exhibitions with historical charm. It showcases works by prominent Korean and international artists through curated exhibits, family-friendly programs, and audio guides. You can also access Seokpajeong Pavilion, a peaceful historical hanok (Korean traditional house) that served as a royal villa during the Joseon Dynasty.
2. Whanki Museum
| Address: 63 Jahamun-ro 40-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00 (Mon Off)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
The Whanki Museum is a private art museum dedicated to the life and work of Kim Whanki, one of Korea’s most renowned painters. The museum blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings at the foot of Bugaksan Mountain, featuring curved designs and materials like stone and lead-coated copper. Inside, you’ll find approximately 2,500 of Kim Whanki’s paintings, sketches, and personal relics. Exhibitions rotate every few months, showcasing different phases of his artistic journey.
3. Yoon Dong-ju Literature Museum
| Address: 119 Changuimun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00 (Break Time 13:30-14:00, Last Entry 17:30) (Mon Off)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Located at the foot of Inwangsan Mountain, the Yoon Dong-ju Literature Museum is a tribute to one of Korea’s most cherished poets, Yoon Dong-ju. Opened in 2012, it reflects his poetic legacy, celebrating the poems he wrote during Japanese colonial rule, expressing themes of longing, self-reflection, and patriotism. There are three exhibition spaces (Poet’s Hall, Open Well, and Closed Well) where you can view his manuscripts, photos, and poetry collections.
4. Mokin Museum
| Address: 46-1, Changuimun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10:30-18:00 (Mon Off)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
The Mokin Museum is dedicated to “mokin”, traditional wooden carvings used for decorative purposes on funeral carriages, temples, and other cultural artifacts. The carvings often depict human figures, animals, and mythical creatures that reflect Buddhist and shamanistic beliefs. You’ll find over 12,000 wooden folk sculptures that are primarily from the Joseon Dynasty but also from other parts of Asia. Along with indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces, there is also a serene rooftop garden.
Restaurants
1. Jaha Son Mandoo
| Address: 12 Baekseok-dong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 11:00-21:00 (Last Order 20:15) (Mon Off)
| Recommended Menu: Mandoo Soup (₩20,000), Ddeok Mandoo Soup (₩20,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
For over two decades, Jaha Son Mandoo has been attracting diners with its rustic dumpling recipe passed down through generations. It’s made the Michelin Guide for 2025 with a Bib Gourmand recognition (good quality and value cooking), and for good reason. Housed in a renovated traditional Korean house, their handmade dumplings are available in the form of soup in a delicious beef broth, vegetarian dumplings filled with mushroom and cucumbers, and casserole cooked with various vegetables.
2. Demitasse
| Address: 2F, 133 Changuimun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Wed 11:30-19:00 (Last Order 19:00) (Wed Off)
| Recommended Menu: Beef Chopsteak Rice (₩20,000), Basil Pesto Cream Pasta (₩19,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Demitasse is a charming restaurant with a super cozy interior of wood floors and chairs, huge windows, and delicate curtains. Located on the second floor of an old building and in business for over 15 years, this restaurant is run by a single chef, has only three tables, and blurs the lines between a restaurant and a cozy home. The menu includes dishes like curry, rice bowls, and pasta, all of which are cooked on the spot. Though it may take some time for the food to be served, you’ll be able to enjoy the view from the window and the calm space makes you feel tranquil.
3. Conte
| Address: 1F, 6-1 Changuimun-ro 5-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Wed-Sun 11:30-21:00 (Breaktime 14:30-17:30, Last Order 19:30) (Mon, Tues Off)
| Recommended Menu: Alio e Olio & Pepperoncino (₩21,000), Octopus Salad (₩28,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Conte is a charming Italian restaurant that offers authentic Italian home-style cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. Conte means “with you” in Italian, reflecting the philosophy of sharing meals and experiences. The restaurant is run by three sisters who lived in Italy for over 15 years and aims to bring the essence of Italian home cooking to Korea. You’ll feel cozy and at home inside, as the warm interior features rustic furniture, fresh flowers, and cozy table settings.
4. Sosohan Scenery
| Address: 75 Jahamun-ro 40-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 11:30-22:00 (Breaktime 15:30-17:00, Last Order 20:30) (Mon Off)
| Recommended Menu: A Course (₩26,000), B Course (₩38,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Sosohaan Scenery is the first restaurant in Korea to receive the prestigious Blue Ribbon Survey Award, highlighting its excellence in culinary offerings. It is situated in a beautifully renovated traditional Korean house with a charming courtyard. Signature dishes include spicy eggplant soup, wheat crepe with kimchi, dried bean curd wraps, and squid ink fried rice. If you’re looking for a great place for a refined dining experience, this is the place to check out!
5. Seokparang
| Address: 309 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Daily 12:00-15:00, 18:00-22:00
| Recommended Menu: Palace Sura (₩160,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Seokparang is a distinguished restaurant that specializes in authentic Korean royal court cuisine. Built from the “Sarangchae” (meeting room) of Heungseon Daewongun’s villa, originally part of Seokpajeong, the vacation home of the regent to King Gojong during the Joseon Dynasty, it preserves the architectural and cultural essence of this historic site. Highlights of the royal court cuisine include dishes like grilled marinated beef, fish dumplings, braised pork belly with fresh ginseng, hot pot with seafood, meats, and vegetables, and seasonal flower pancakes. Desserts include traditional sweets like crispy ginseng and jujubes with honey, along with fresh fruits and tea.
Cafes
1. Scoff Bakehouse
| Address: 1F, 149 Changuimun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 10:00-20:00, Sat-Sun 09:00-20:00
| Recommended Menu: Butter Scone (₩3,700), Brownie (₩5,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Scoff Bakehouse is a British bakery known for its delicious pastries and cozy atmosphere. They offer a wide range of traditional British-style baked goods and also have vibrant contemporary art pieces, creating a lively atmosphere. It’s a great stop for those exploring Buam-dong, offering a delightful blend of pastries and coziness.
2. The Tot
| Address: 1F, 285 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 08:00-19:00 (Sun Off)
| Recommended Menu: TT Bites (₩6,000), Egg Bites (₩3,500)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
The Tot is a cozy cafe known for its minimalist ambiance, making it the perfect spot for relaxing or catching up with friends. The simple yet stylish decor creates a welcoming environment, serving high-quality coffee alongside a selection of desserts. Popular items include handcrafted cakes and pastries that pair well with their beverages.
3. Eum Teahouse
| Address: 201, 3rd floor, 2nd building, 137 Changuimun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Daily 10:00-22:00 (Last Order 21:00)
| Recommended Menu: Tea Tasting Course (₩30,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Eum Teahouse is a serene and unique destination for tea enthusiasts, offering a carefully curated experience with Taiwanese teas and elegant tea sets. The experience is very intimate, allowing you to brew your own tea or enjoy a tea course at the bar. They also feature handmade pottery on the walls, adding an artistic touch to the peaceful ambiance.
4. Cafe Stammtisch
| Address: 1F, 1 Baekseok-dong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Fri, Sun 12:00-22:00 (Mon Off)
| Recommended Menu: Homemade Soup (₩7,500), Marshmallow Hot Chocolate (₩5,500), Mango Bingsoo (₩14,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Cafe Stammtisch is a delightful destination offering a mix of cozy ambiance, unique menu offerings, and a serene atmosphere. It is well-known for its hot chocolate and bingsu, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. They also cater to various dietary preferences with options like oat milk for lactose-intolerant guests. The handmade crafts and vintage-inspired decor add to the charm, making it a great spot to chill.
5. Zedo
| Address: 2F, 236 Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul (Kakao Map)
| Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10:00-20:00 (Last Order 19:30) (Mon Off)
| Recommended Menu: Jeju Blend (₩5,000), Custard Pudding (₩6,000)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Cafe Zedo is a cozy and artistic cafe that offers a peaceful retreat for visitors exploring Buam-dong. Offering a blend of coffee, tea, and desserts in a peaceful setting, it’s a perfect place to relax. There’s also a showroom where you can view their beautiful ceramics and purchase them too.
📌 Recommended Activities in Jongno-gu:
📌 Read more Trazy Blogs about Seoul’s Neighborhoods:
- Top Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars in Haebangchon You Can’t Miss
- What to Do in Samcheong-dong: Your Ultimate Seoul Itinerary
- An Insider’s Guide to Seochon Village
- Exploring Garosugil: Seoul’s Trendiest Street
- Top Things to Do in Apgujeong and Cheongdam
Tucked away from Seoul’s hustle, Buam-dong offers a perfect blend of charm, culture, and calm. Ready to explore it for yourself? Head to Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop, to plan your perfect trip!
