Gangneung’s Tradition

The Beauty of a 300-Year-Old Traditional House

Gangneung Seongyojang House is a historic upper-class residence from the Joseon Dynasty, boasting a 300-year history. Designated as a National Cultural Heritage site, it beautifully preserves the essence of traditional Korean architecture. Even today, descendants of the original family live here, spanning 10 generations. When Gyeongpo Lake was larger, it extended to the front of Seongyojang House and connected to the sea. Boats were lined up to form a bridge to reach the house, which is why it was nicknamed “Baedarijip” and then “Seongyojang,” both meaning “boat bridge house.”

Built in 1760, Seongyojang House is the largest surviving traditional residential house in Korea, featuring 9 buildings, including Yeolhwadang Hall, Hwallaejeong Pavilion, Dongbyeoldang Hall, and the main house, with 102 kan (a unit of measurement referring to the distance between two columns). The layout of these structures resembles a royal palace, with Yeolhwadang Hall and Hwallaejeong Pavilion being its most iconic buildings.

Just past the ticket booth, you’ll first see Hwallaejeong Pavilion on the right. This pavilion stands on an artificial pond, featuring an open-air floor, an ondol (under-the-floor heating system) room, and a tea room.

With doors on all sides, Hwallaejeong Pavilion offers views of the mountains, pond, and garden when opened. The changing scenery beyond the doors creates a picturesque view with each season.
In summer, the blooming lotus flowers in the pond add to the pavilion’s beauty.

Seongyojang House was not built to showcase wealth but as a large family home and a retreat for guests. It welcomed poets, scholars, and travelers, providing rooms for anyone to rest. This hospitality explains the humble entrance to such a grand estate. Many artistic works from past visitors still remain throughout Seongyojang House.

At the heart of Seongyojang House is Yeolhwadang Hall, the building used to host the most esteemed guests. You’ll notice an unusual canopy that contrasts with the traditional hanok style. This canopy was a gift from the Russian consul who visited and received exceptional hospitality. The blend of traditional hanok and the exotic canopy is unique.

Organ Performances at Yeolhwadang Hall

Every Wednesday, Yeolhwadang Hall hosts an organ performance by Han Ji-yun, an organist and daughter-in-law of the household. While it might seem out of place, the organ music harmonizes beautifully with the traditional setting, enhanced by the Russian canopy. Sitting on the veranda and listening to the music feels like a journey through time, recalling the days when artists gathered at Yeolhwadang Hall to write, paint, and sing. This tradition of embracing and nurturing the arts has been preserved for 300 years.

Explore the courtyard and various rooms of this ancient house, visiting the Daily Living Artifact Exhibition and the Seongyojang House Museum. When you need a break, stop by “Café Leemong,” which offers a panoramic view of Seongyojang House. Enjoy coffee, traditional Korean drinks, and sweets.

After a relaxing tea, take a stroll around the trail that encircles Seongyojang House. You’ll find black bamboo similar to those at Ojukheon House and admire the old pine trees and bamboo adding to the scenic beauty.

Seongyojang House also offers hanok stays, allowing you to experience a night in a 300-year-old traditional house. In addition, you can participate in various activities such as hanbok experiences and traditional tea making.

Informational signs around Seongyojang House include QR codes for an audio guide in multiple languages. Listening to detailed explanations will deepen your appreciation of Seongyojang House’s charm.
- Visitor Information
- Open daily, 9:00–18:00 (year-round)
- For foreign language interpretation inquiries: +82-33-640-4373
- Organ Performance at Yeolhwadang Hall
- Every Wednesday, 14:30–15:00

Gangneung Seongyojang House : 63, Unjeong-gil, Gangneung-si