Things To Do
in Andong
Andong is a historic city in North Gyeongsang Province known for its well-preserved folk architecture and Confucian heritage. It houses the UNESCO-listed Hahoe Folk Village where traditional hanok houses line the Nakdong River and centuries of ritual linger in the air. The city serves as a gateway to traditional crafts, local cuisine, and tranquil rural landscapes just outside the urban core.
Visitors are drawn to cultural performances, markets, and the slow pace that highlights Korea's regional roots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Andong Hahoe Folk Village, where you can witness traditional Korean architecture and cultural heritage. Stroll through the village, taking in the beautifully preserved thatched-roof houses and experiencing the quiet charm of rural life. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional rice cakes and tea.
After lunch, head to the Andong Confucian Academy, a serene site dedicated to Confucian teachings that once thrived in this region. Explore the peaceful grounds and enjoy a guided tour of the museum, which offers insights into Confucian philosophy and education. As you wander, be sure to take photos of the stunning landscapes surrounding the academy.
As the sun sets, visit the Andong Mask Dance Festival venue, where you can immerse yourself in Korea's vibrant cultural performances. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying out local specialties like Andong jjimdak, a savory braised chicken dish. Cap off your evening with a leisurely stroll along the river, where the illuminated scenery creates a magical atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the Andong Folk Museum to learn about the region's rich traditions and history. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase local crafts, customs, and the lifestyle of the Andong people. Afterward, grab a bite at a nearby bakery, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.
Join a traditional craft workshop where you can try your hand at making Andong's famous paper or pottery. Experience the meticulous process with the guidance of local artisans, gaining insight into the skills passed down through generations. After your craft session, take a relaxing walk around the picturesque surroundings, soaking in the beauty of Andong's rural landscapes.
For dinner, choose a local restaurant specializing in Andong-style grilled fish, known for its unique flavor. After your meal, visit a local market to shop for handmade souvenirs, including traditional crafts and snacks. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the market as you interact with friendly vendors and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $5-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $6-12 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with Hahoe Folk Village
- Iconic Andong jjimdak and Andong soju
- Compact, walkable city center with easy day trips to villages
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Longer travel times from Seoul and other major hubs
- Some rural areas may have fewer English-speaking services
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me / Pardon
- "저기요" - Excuse me (to call attention)
- "한국어를 조금 할 수 있어요?" - Do you speak a little Korean?
- "화장실이 어디예요?" - Where is the restroom?
- "영어로 말씀해 주시겠어요?" - Could you speak in English?
Places to Visit in Andong
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO-listed village with well-preserved thatched and tiled hanok houses along the Nakdong River; ideal for sunrise light and traditional village scenes.
An historic Confucian academy with tranquil courtyards, mossy stone walls, and pine-framed views—great for architectural and landscape photography.
Riverside viewpoints and old bridges offer reflections and atmospheric light, especially at sunset.
Food in Andong
Andong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory, soy-sauce braised chicken dish with potatoes, carrots, peppers, and glass noodles; best enjoyed at a jjimdak-specialist restaurant near Jungang Market.
Must-Try!
A traditional royal court-inspired mixed rice dish with assorted banchan; often served in family-run eateries and cultural venues.
A local distilled rice spirit with a smooth, slightly herbal profile; best sampled at casual bars or traditional houses.
Sliced grilled fish and seasonal greens commonly found in rural eateries around Andong; typically served with rice and broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering local produce, dried fish, snacks, and ready-to-eat foods; great for trying regional street foods and sampling fresh produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight bow or nod is common; use polite phrases such as 'annyeonghaseyo' when greeting.
Remove shoes when entering traditional houses, some temples, and certain cafes; carry clean socks.
Dress modestly, keep voices low, and follow posted rules; avoid touching artifacts.
Wait for elders or the host to begin eating; share dishes and try a variety of side dishes.
Safety
Tipping in Andong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea; staff do not rely on tips. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount at high-end places is appreciated but not expected.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; cash is handy in traditional markets. Cashless payments (Korean cards and mobile wallets) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming blossoms; pleasant for walking around the markets, Hahoe, and riverside paths.
Hot and humid with occasional rain; carry water, wear sun protection, and expect crowds around festival periods.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage, especially along riverbanks and village trails; ideal for photography and outdoor walks.
Cold, with occasional snow; many indoor cultural venues are popular; warm meals and hot beverages are common.
Andong at Night
Hiking in Andong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate loops with river views and pine forests; suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Andong by plane.
Main regional airport about 1.5–2 hours by road and express bus from Andong; domestic and limited international connections.
A secondary option about 2.5–3 hours by road or rail; serves more international and domestic flights than some nearby airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of aging rural population and younger urbanites in the city center; many families have deep ties to traditional crafts.
Domestic travelers from Seoul and Busan during festivals; growing number of international visitors in peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Young athletes and local teams are active; school sports events are common around the region.
Local clubs and community leagues are popular; public fields are common in the city.
A traditional martial art practiced in gyms and schools; occasional local demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Andong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Korean vegetarian options are available, especially in cafes and temples; request dishes without fish sauce or shrimp-based broth, and ask for vegetable-filled banchan. Some jjimdak sauces may contain meat stock, so clarify with staff; opt for tofu-based dishes and seasonal vegetables.