Welcome to Andong, the cultural heart of South Korea! Known for its traditional villages, deep Confucian roots, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering food, Andong is where history, culture, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, Andong has something magical to offer.
🏯 Top Destinations in Andong
1️⃣ Hahoe Folk Village (하회마을) – Step Back in Time
📍 Why Visit?
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hahoe Folk Village is a perfectly preserved traditional village where locals still live in hanok (traditional Korean houses). With thatched-roof homes, old Confucian schools, and stunning riverside scenery, it feels like stepping into a Joseon-era painting.
🔥 Don’t Miss:
✔️ Byeongsan Seowon – A peaceful Confucian academy with beautiful gardens.
✔️ Mask Dance Performance – A fun and lively traditional mask dance you can watch for free!
2️⃣ Andong Confucian Culture Museum (안동 유교 문화박물관) – Discover Korea’s Confucian Heritage
📍 Why Visit?
Andong is often called the “Capital of Confucianism” in Korea, and this museum explains why. Learn about Korea’s ancient traditions, moral philosophy, and family values that shaped the nation.
🔥 Fun Fact: Korea’s famous Seonbi scholars (noble scholars known for their integrity) lived in Andong!
3️⃣ Woryeonggyo Bridge (월영교) – The Most Romantic Spot in Andong
📍 Why Visit?
At 387 meters, this is Korea’s longest wooden bridge, stretching across the Nakdong River. At night, the bridge glows beautifully with soft lights, making it a perfect date spot or a peaceful evening walk.
🔥 Legend Says… The bridge is named after a heartbreaking love story of a woman who carved a wooden pillow in memory of her late husband.
4️⃣ Dosan Seowon (도산서원) – A Scholar’s Retreat
📍 Why Visit?
This Confucian academy, built by the famous scholar Yi Hwang (Toegye), is a serene place of learning surrounded by lush mountains. If you love Korean history, philosophy, or just want a peaceful place to think, this is it.
🔥 Pro Tip: Come in autumn when the maple leaves turn fiery red! 🍁
5️⃣ Andong Mask Museum (안동 민속박물관) – See Korea’s Most Mysterious Masks
📍 Why Visit?
Korea has a rich mask culture, and Andong is home to the most famous traditional masks used in shamanistic rituals and plays. This museum has a huge collection, including Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and even African masks.
🔥 Don’t Miss: Try on a traditional Hahoe mask and take fun photos! 📸
🌿 Best Natural Wonders in Andong
🏞️ Buyongdae Cliff (부용대) – Andong’s Best Viewpoint
Best for: Photography, Hiking, Panoramic Views
📍 Just across the river from Hahoe Village, this 64-meter-tall cliff offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the traditional houses and river below.
🔥 Pro Tip: You can hike up or take a boat across the river for an epic experience!
🏕️ Jebiwon Buddha (제비원 석불좌상) – A Giant Buddha in the Mountains
Best for: Hiking, Spiritual Experience
📍 Hidden in the forest, this huge stone Buddha carving is over 1000 years old! Locals believe that making a wish here brings good luck and happiness.
🔥 Did You Know? The name Jebiwon means “Swallow Garden” because swallows used to fly around the area.
🍲 Must-Try Foods in Andong
1️⃣ Andong Jjimdak (안동 찜닭) – The King of Korean Braised Chicken
🥘 This famous Andong dish is a huge plate of braised chicken, glass noodles, potatoes, and vegetables in a savory, slightly sweet soy-based sauce. It’s served in massive portions, so bring friends!
🔥 Where to Eat?
✔️ Andong Jjimdak Alley (downtown Andong) – The best jjimdak in Korea!
2️⃣ Heotjesabap (헛제삿밥) – A Meal Fit for Ancestors
🍚 This dish is like a royal bibimbap, originally made for ancestral rituals. It includes colorful vegetables, marinated beef, and delicious Andong-style soy sauce.
🔥 Where to Eat?
✔️ Heotjesabap Street near Hahoe Village
3️⃣ Andong Soju (안동 소주) – The Strongest Soju in Korea!
🍶 Unlike regular soju, Andong Soju is handcrafted, stronger (45% alcohol!), and smoother. It was once reserved for royalty, but now anyone can try it.
🔥 Where to Drink?
✔️ Soju Experience Center – Learn how it’s made and taste different varieties.
🚆 How to Travel in Andong
✈️ By Air: The nearest airport is Daegu International Airport (TAE). From there, take a bus or KTX train.
🚆 By Train: The KTX (high-speed train) from Seoul to Andong takes around 2 hours.
🚌 By Bus: Express buses from Seoul take about 3.5 hours.
🚕 Getting Around: Buses are available, but taxis and rental cars are the best options for exploring freely.
🔥 Pro Tip: Download KakaoTaxi for easy taxi rides!
🌸 Best Time to Visit Andong
✔️ Spring (March–May) 🌸 – Cherry blossoms and perfect weather!
✔️ Autumn (September–November) 🍁 – Best season for fall foliage and Andong Mask Festival!
✔️ Winter (December–February) ❄️ – Magical snow-covered landscapes, but very cold.
✔️ Summer (June–August) ☀️ – Lush green scenery but hot and humid.
🔥 Best Event? Andong Mask Dance Festival (September-October) – A fun cultural festival with parades, performances, and traditional games!
🎎 Andong Culture & Etiquette
🔹 Respect Elders – Bowing is common, and older people are highly respected.
🔹 Take Off Your Shoes – When entering traditional houses and temples.
🔹 Quiet & Polite in Temples – Confucian culture values calm and respectful behavior.
🔹 Try Speaking Korean! – Even a simple “안녕하세요” (Annyeonghaseyo) goes a long way!
🎉 Why Visit Andong?
✔️ Authentic Korean History & Culture
✔️ UNESCO Heritage Sites & Beautiful Nature
✔️ Delicious Traditional Food & Local Soju
✔️ Fun Festivals & Friendly People
Andong is more than just a travel destination—it’s a journey through time, tradition, and taste. Whether you’re here for the scenic beauty, cultural experiences, or incredible food, Andong will leave you amazed and wanting more.
✈️ So, when are you coming to Andong? 😉
