By Ashvinderjeet Kaur
When people think of South Korea, places like Seoul, Busan or Jeju Island often steal the spotlight. But let me tell you a little secret—some of the most rewarding travel experiences come from stepping off the tourist trail.
That’s why I want to share my personal journey of slow travel South Korea style with you. Let me take you to one of its hidden gems with my Jeonju Travel Guide. If you’re craving a more authentic, unhurried escape, this is your cue to pack light, go slow, and savour the quieter side of Korean culture.
Why Jeonju Stole My Heart
Jeonju is a small city in the southwest of the country, but it delivers big when it comes to charm. Famed as the birthplace of bibimbap and the beating heart of traditional Korean culture, Jeonju oozes history, art, and warmth. It’s where the past and present meet, wrapped in hanbok-clad locals, hanok rooftops, and heavenly food aromas.
Where Is Jeonju And How To Get There
Jeonju is located in North Jeolla Province (Jeollabuk-do), about 200km south of Seoul. It’s well-connected yet still tucked away enough to feel like a hidden gem. Getting there is surprisingly easy. From Seoul, I hopped on a KTX high-speed train from Yongsan Station, and in under two hours, I was stepping into another world.
Alternatively, you can take an express bus from Central City Terminal, which takes about three hours. Once in Jeonju, local buses and taxis make it easy to get around—but honestly, the best way to explore is on foot, especially if you’re embracing the slow travel vibe.
Wander The Timeless Hanok Village
I spent an entire afternoon getting lost in Jeonju Hanok Village, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. With over 700 traditional houses—called hanok—it’s like stepping into a living museum. One of the most charming things about Jeonju is how easy it is to immerse yourself in tradition. I rented a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) from a friendly local boutique and spent hours strolling through the village in full regalia. Locals greeted me with warm smiles and even offered to take my photo. I highly recommend dressing the part—it deepens your connection to the place and helps you understand their way of life.
Indulge In The Foodie Scene
Food is more than just sustenance in Jeonju—it’s a celebration. This city is recognised as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and I could taste why. The bibimbap here is legendary, but there’s so much more. At a bustling local eatery, I sampled crispy Jeonju-style chive pancakes, sweet makgeolli (rice wine), and comforting kongnamul gukbap (soybean sprout soup). Any good Jeonju travel guide will urge you to take your time exploring the local food scene. And make sure you bring your appetite!
Art And Culture
Beyond the historic core, Jeonju is buzzing with creativity. I stumbled across alleyways filled with murals, indie bookshops tucked into second floors, and the most delightful paper-making studio where I spent a few quiet hours crafting my own journal.
Take A Moment At Gyeonggijeon Shrine
Gyeonggijeon Shrine is a serene place nestled right in the Hanok Village. It’s where you can check out King Tae-jo’s portrait, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. The shrine’s grounds feel like a sacred pocket of stillness. I found a shady bench under a ginkgo tree and sat there, soaking up the peace.
Day Trips And Local Discoveries
While Jeonju itself has enough to fill your days slowly and sweetly, nearby attractions like Maisan Mountain or Jaman Mural Village are perfect mini adventures. I hopped on a local bus with no strict itinerary, and the freedom was liberating. Locals were eager to help, and every detour led to a story.
Where To Stay For A Truly Local Experience
For the full slow travel immersion, I stayed in a hanok guesthouse. The wooden floors creaked with history, and I slept on a cosy futon mattress, waking up to birdsong and the scent of pine. Breakfasts were home-cooked by the host—think porridge, kimchi, and freshly brewed tea.
I can’t recommend this enough if you’re considering crafting your own slow-travel Jeonju trip.
Jeonju may not be the most famous destination in South Korea, but it was the most memorable for me. If you’re tired of hurried holidays and are craving something more meaningful, this slow travel South Korea adventure in Jeonju is precisely what you need.
So, pack your curiosity, keep your schedule light, and let this beautiful little corner of South Korea work its quiet magic. You’ll leave with stories, stillness, and a heart full of wonder. I hope my Jeonju travel guide inspires you to slow down, travel deeper, and truly experience South Korea’s hidden gems.