What to do in Andong

Journey back to the 16th century at the time-honored Andong Hahoe Folk Village. Experience an ancient Korean way of life while peeking inside quaint houses, dining on local delicacies and watching a mask dance. Andong Hahoe Folk Village is a living village where residents carry out their daily routines as people did during the Joseon Dynasty. In 2010 it became a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Standing in the forested foothills of a soaring mountain is Bongjeongsa, the biggest temple in the Andong region. This tranquil landmark presents an interesting insight into Korean Buddhism and ancient Korean architecture. Tree-lined pathways meander around the Bongjeongsa complex leading to prayer buildings with curving roofs and courtyards decorated with colorful paper lanterns and pagodas.

Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy is a nearly 450-year-old school established in the memory of an esteemed Joseon-era scholar. It was once a place where students lived and studied Confucianism. The school’s name means academy of the mountain’s folding screen, a reference to a mountain on the opposite side of the river that protects it. Tour the lecture rooms, living quarters and shrines of the Byeongsanseowon Confucian Academy to appreciate the serenity the scholars would have experienced during their time here.

Delve into the fascinating history of Confucian rituals and Korean folk traditions at the Andong Folk Museum. Confucianism is a philosophy and way of life developed from the teachings of Confucius that has an emphasis on achieving harmony and balance. Find some 3,700 artifacts and model scenes at the Andong Folk Museum, which highlight Korean ceremonies such as coming-of-age and memorials.

The Andong Soju Museum celebrates the history of soju, which is a distilled rice liquor that originated in the Andong region. Artifacts, models and photographs take you on a journey from the early beginnings of the drink in the 1200s to its modern-day significance. Find the Andong Soju Museum located inside the Andong Soju Brewery, where there is also a Korean food museum.