Things To Do
in Hanam
Hanam is a growing city in Gyeonggi Province just east of Seoul, set along the Namhan River with a mix of modern residential districts and leafy public spaces. It blends well-planned neighborhoods, convenient transit to the capital, and a developing cultural scene with traditional markets and cafes. The city is known for family-friendly amenities, scenic riverfront paths, and easy access to Seoul's sights while maintaining a calmer pace than the metropolis.
Visitors will find a convenient base for day trips to central Korea while enjoying a distinct suburban atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Hanam Historic Center, where the rich history of the region is showcased through well-preserved architecture and artifacts. Stroll through the charming streets and admire the traditional Korean houses, known as hanoks, while soaking in the atmosphere of the past. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Korean breakfast, such as a bowl of congee or some fresh rice cakes.
After lunch, head to the Hanam Museum of History, where you can delve deeper into the area’s cultural heritage through engaging exhibits. Spend some time in the adjacent park, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and perhaps having a picnic surrounded by nature. Take a leisurely walk to the nearby Hanam Art Center to appreciate local art and crafts.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant to savor authentic Korean cuisine, such as bulgogi or bibimbap. After dinner, stroll through the illuminated streets of the historic district, where the ambiance becomes magical under the night sky. End your evening with a visit to a traditional tea house to sample various teas and relax.
Kick off your culinary adventure with a visit to the Hanam Traditional Market, where the vibrant colors and enticing aromas will awaken your senses. Browse through stalls filled with fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional ingredients, and chat with friendly vendors about their offerings. Be sure to try some freshly made street food, like tteokbokki or hotteok, as you explore the market's bustling atmosphere.
Attend a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you will learn how to prepare classic Korean dishes under the guidance of expert chefs. After the hands-on experience, enjoy the fruits of your labor during a communal lunch with your classmates. Spend your afternoon visiting specialty shops that sell unique Korean ingredients and cooking utensils to take home a piece of Hanam with you.
For dinner, indulge in a traditional Korean barbecue experience at a local restaurant, grilling marinated meats right at your table. Pair your meal with soju or local craft beers while sharing stories with your dining companions. Conclude your evening with a visit to a dessert café for some bingsu, a popular shaved ice treat, perfect for cooling down after a hearty meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $700-1000 |
| 💡Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, etc.) | $100-150 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Seoul with easy transit access
- Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks
- Calmer pace compared to the capital with plenty of modern amenities
- Growing dining scene and traditional markets
- Limited nightlife compared to central Seoul
- Can require a short transit ride for certain cultural or entertainment options
- Suburban layout means longer trips for some activities
- Weather can be hot and humid in summer
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "제발 도와주실 수 있나요?" - Could you please help me?
- "영어를 하시나요?" - Do you speak English?
- "이것은 얼마예요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실이 어디에 있나요?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Hanam
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with golden hour reflections and skyline glimpses; ideal for long-exposure shots of boats and trees.
Water features, bridges, and lotus ponds with colorful landscaping—great for morning reflections.
Modern architecture and open plazas provide clean lines and dynamic cityscapes, especially around dusk.
Vibrant stalls, lanterns, and candid scenes of daily life—best captured after sunset when lights come on.
Food in Hanam
Hanam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A colorful mixed rice dish with assorted vegetables and gochujang sauce; widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Popular Korean BBQ staple; typically grilled at the table with lettuce wraps and dipping sauces.
Spicy kimchi stew often cooked with tofu, pork, or seafood; a comforting staple in many restaurants.
A shared skillet dish featuring marinated chicken, vegetables, and gochujang; great for groups.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market with fresh produce, ready-to-eat snacks, tteokbokki, twigim (fried snacks), and more.
Lively streets offering affordable street bites and casual eateries popular with residents.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use 존댓말 (polite language) with strangers and elders; a brief bow or nod is a courteous gesture.
Wait for others to start eating; use both hands when passing items; avoid talking loudly in public transport.
In homes or traditional spaces, remove shoes if asked; modest gifts are appreciated when visiting.
Be mindful of quiet, orderly lines and avoid loud behavior in trains and buses.
Safety
Tipping in Hanam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea, and service charges are rarely expected; rounding up the bill is optional in some places.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (KakaoPay, Naver Pay) are popular and convenient for both small shops and larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and mild weather make riverside strolls and market visits particularly pleasant.
Warm to hot with humidity; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy riverfront breezes and water features.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for hikes around Namhansanseong and scenic walks.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor markets and cafés are cozy, while riverside scenes take on a serene, stark beauty.
Hanam at Night
Hiking in Hanam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic fortress with forested routes and panoramic city views; suitable for moderate day hikes.
Forest-clad ascent with varied routes and rewarding overlooks; popular for weekend hikers.
Lively trail near Suwon with well-marked paths and seasonal scenery; several access points from nearby suburbs.
Airports
How to reach Hanam by plane.
Major international hub serving global destinations; typically about 40-60 minutes by express train or car from Hanam.
Closer to central Seoul with domestic and short-haul international flights; convenient for weekend trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnicity; diverse in age with a strong emphasis on family-friendly neighborhoods.
Small but growing communities from China, Southeast Asia, and the United States, drawn by education and business opportunities in the Seoul region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular nationwide; fans enjoy games and local baseball parks in the wider Seoul area.
Strong interest with local leagues, parks, and school teams; common weekend pickup games.
Traditional Korean martial art practiced widely; many studios in Hanam and nearby cities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hanam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Korean meals are customizable; look for tofu jjigae, vegetable bibimbap, and banchan varieties. When dining out, ask for no meat stock and confirm seafood-based sauces if avoiding animal products.