Things To Do
in Jeonju

Jeonju, located in the southwestern part of South Korea, is renowned for its rich history, traditional Korean culture, and exceptional culinary scene. It is famously known as the birthplace of bibimbap, a popular Korean dish, and is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Jeonju Hanok Village, which showcases beautifully preserved traditional Korean houses. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and annual festivals celebrating local culture.

Visitors are often charmed by the mix of modern developments and historical landmarks that make Jeonju a unique destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Immersion in Jeonju
morning
:

Start your day at the Jeonju Hanok Village, exploring the traditional houses and cultural exhibitions. Don't forget to visit the Jeondong Cathedral nearby.

afternoon
:

Head to the Jeonju Traditional Korean Food Museum followed by a visit to the Nambu Market for lunch, where you can try local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Korean meal at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll around the Hanok Village to see it beautifully lit up at night.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Moaksan Mountain, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Jeonju National Museum to learn more about the region's history and culture, followed by a relaxing tea session at a local teahouse.

evening
:

Experience Jeonju's nightlife by visiting a local pub or a traditional Korean bar (pojangmacha) for drinks and street food.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Bibimbap$7
Coffee$3
🍻Local Beer$4
🚌Bus Fare$1
🏨Hotel per Night$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and diverse food scene.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Language barrier may pose a challenge.
  • Public transportation can be confusing for newcomers.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities like Seoul.
  • "안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida)" - Thank you
  • "화장실 어디예요? (Hwajangsil eodiyeyo?)" - Where is the restroom?
  • "도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo)" - Please help me
  • "계산서 주세요 (Gyesanseo juseyo)" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Jeonju

Visit one of these nice places.

Jeonju Hanok Village

A picturesque village with traditional Korean houses, perfect for capturing the essence of Korean culture.

Jeondong Cathedral

A striking Gothic-style cathedral set against a backdrop of traditional architecture.

Moaksan Mountain

Offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jeonju

Jeonju is a food lover's paradise, known especially for its bibimbap, local wines, and vibrant food markets. The city offers a plethora of culinary delights that reflect its rich culinary heritage.

Jeonju Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bibimbap

A mixed rice dish topped with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg, served with spicy gochujang.

Must-Try!

Jeonju-style Chueotang

A spicy loach soup that is a local specialty, often enjoyed with rice.

Kongnamul Gukbap

A warm soup made with bean sprouts and rice, perfect for cold days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nambu Market

A bustling market famous for its wide variety of street food, including tteokbokki and hotteok.

Jeonju Street Food Alley

An area filled with food stalls offering local delicacies and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jeonju experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures dropping to -10°C (14°F) on occasion, and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are milder, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by greeting them first and using formal language.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional venues.

Polite Dining

Wait for the eldest person to start the meal before you dig in.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jeonju is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure. In case of emergencies, the local emergency number is 112 for police and 119 for fire and medical services.

Tipping in Jeonju

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common practice in South Korea, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are commonly used in restaurants and stores.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, especially in early April.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; ideal for enjoying cold drinks and local ice treats.

Autumn

Cool and comfortable; the fall foliage creates stunning landscapes for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snow; a great time to enjoy hot soups and traditional winter snacks.

Nightlife Guide

Jeonju at Night

Jeonju's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with numerous bars, traditional pubs (pojangmacha), and live music venues. The city offers a mix of modern and traditional experiences, from craft beer bars to karaoke lounges. Visitors can enjoy local drinks, such as makgeolli (rice wine), and street food late into the night, creating a lively atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Jeonju

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Moaksan Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views over Jeonju, featuring well-marked paths suitable for various skill levels.

Deokjin Park Trail

A gentle hiking trail around Deokjin Park that is ideal for families and casual walkers, offering beautiful scenery and cherry blossoms in spring.

Airports

How to reach Jeonju by plane.

Gwangju Airport

Located about 100 km away, Gwangju Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it a convenient option for travelers heading to Jeonju.

Getting Around

Walkability

Jeonju is quite walkable, especially in areas like the Hanok Village where many attractions are close together. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and pathways. Exploring the village on foot allows visitors to fully appreciate the traditional architecture and local shops.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Jeonju is home to several universities and colleges, contributing to a vibrant youth culture.

Elderly Residents

With a rich historical background, Jeonju has a significant population of elderly residents who are often seen participating in community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Taekwondo

This traditional Korean martial art is popular in Jeonju, with many dojos offering classes.

Baseball

Baseball has a strong following, with local teams playing in the KBO League, providing entertainment for sports fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Jeonju is generally manageable, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. The city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses that connect various neighborhoods and attractions. Taxis are also readily available and reasonably priced, making it easy to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jeonju.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of dishes, but it’s good to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Limited availability; inquire at restaurants, especially for sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Jeonju has a good healthcare system with several hospitals and clinics available. Most healthcare facilities are equipped with modern medical technology. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Korea

Read more in our Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea Travel Guide