Things To Do
in Andong

Andong, South Korea, is known for its well-preserved traditional Korean culture and history. The city is famous for its annual Andong Mask Dance Festival, showcasing traditional Korean mask performances. Andong is home to many historic sites, including the picturesque Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The city is also known for its delicious local cuisine, such as Andong jjimdak, a spicy chicken dish.

  • "안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)" - Hello
  • "고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)" - Thank you
  • "실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)" - Excuse me
  • "죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)" - I'm sorry
  • "얼마예요? (eolmayeyo?)" - How much is it?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $120
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $6 - $20
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Historical Andong
morning
:

Visit Hahoe Folk Village to experience traditional Korean culture. Take a leisurely stroll through the village and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

afternoon
:

Head to the Andong Mask Museum to learn about Korea’s unique mask dance performances. Enjoy interactive exhibits that provide insight into local traditions.

evening
:

Relax at a local restaurant and savor Andong's famous jjimdak (braised chicken). End your day with a walk along the picturesque Nakdong River.

day 2
Nature Walks and Traditional Tea
morning
:

Take a hike in the stunning Dosan Seowon, a Confucian academy surrounded by nature. Enjoy the peaceful environment and beautiful views.

afternoon
:

Visit a traditional tea house and experience a Korean tea ceremony. Sip on herbal teas while learning about their significance in Korean culture.

evening
:

Explore the Andong Night Market for local street food delights. Sample various snacks and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditional Korean architecture, especially in Hahoe Folk Village.
  • Delicious local cuisine, including Andong jjimdak (braised chicken dish).
  • Beautiful natural scenery, including the Nakdong River and surrounding mountains.
  • Cultural festivals, such as the Andong Mask Dance Festival, which showcase traditional Korean dance and art.
  • Friendly and welcoming community with a slower pace of life compared to larger cities.
  • Limited public transportation options, making it difficult to navigate without a car.
  • Less urban amenities and entertainment compared to larger South Korean cities like Seoul.
  • Potential language barrier for non-Korean speakers, as English is not widely spoken.
  • Harsh winters can be challenging for those unaccustomed to cold weather.
  • Fewer shopping and dining options compared to bigger metropolitan areas.

Best Activities in Andong

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hahoe Folk Village

Experience traditional Korean culture and architecture in this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can enjoy walking tours, a mask dance performance, and immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere of the village.

Wolyeonggyo Bridge

Walk along the picturesque Wolyeonggyo Bridge, which is considered one of the most beautiful bridges in Korea. The surrounding natural scenery, especially during the autumn foliage, offers a peaceful and refreshing outdoor experience.

Andong Hanok Village

Stroll through the charming streets of Andong Hanok Village, featuring well-preserved traditional Korean houses. It's a great place to explore, take photos, and enjoy the local cultural ambiance.

Tours

Uncover the best of Andong with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Andong

Visit one of these nice places.

Hahoe Village

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional Korean houses and beautiful scenery.

Wolyeonggyo Bridge

An iconic wooden bridge offering stunning views of the Nakdong River and surrounding area.

Andong Hanok Village

A well-preserved traditional village with picturesque alleys and historic architecture.

Food in Andong

Andong, located in South Korea, is known for its rich culinary heritage and delicious traditional cuisine. The region's food is deeply rooted in tradition, often featuring savory flavors, fermented foods, and a variety of unique dishes that are a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Andong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Andong Jjimdak

A hearty dish made with chicken, vegetables, and glass noodles, braised in a savory soy-based sauce. It's often enjoyed as a communal meal and is best sampled at local restaurants like

Must-Try!

Heotjesabap

A special rice dish prepared with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and other seasonal ingredients, typically offered at traditional restaurants such as

Andong Soju

A locally brewed rice wine known for its smooth taste and aroma. It's often enjoyed at traditional Korean pubs and can be found at

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Andong Hahoe Folk Village Market

A bustling market offering a wide array of local street food such as

Woryeonggyo Bridge Food Street

This food street is lined with vendors selling traditional snacks like

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a humid continental climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are typically hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching into the high 20s to low 30s Celsius (mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit). Rainfall during the summer months can be significant, particularly during the monsoon season. Winters, on the other hand, are cold and dry, with average temperatures frequently dropping below 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). Snowfall can occur, creating a picturesque winter landscape. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making them particularly pleasant times of the year. During these seasons, the scenery often changes dramatically, especially in spring when cherry blossoms bloom and in autumn when foliage turns vibrant colors. Overall, the climate supports a variety of agricultural activities and contributes to the region's natural beauty.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Andong, it is important to show respect for elders through polite language and behavior. It is customary to bow and use honorific language when speaking to older individuals.

Conservative Dress

Andong has a more conservative culture, so it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional sites and landmarks.

Customary Greetings

When meeting someone in Andong, a customary greeting is to bow slightly and offer a handshake. It is polite to use both hands when presenting or receiving items, such as gifts.

Safety

Known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture, this city offers a generally safe environment for residents and visitors alike. Crime rates are relatively low, and violent crime is uncommon. Street crime, such as pickpocketing, is rare, making it a peaceful place to explore. Public transportation is reliable and safe, with locals often willing to assist those in need of directions. Emergency services are accessible, and the local police are helpful and responsive. While exploring, it's advisable to follow standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Overall, the sense of community and the welcoming nature of the residents contribute to a secure atmosphere for everyone.

Tipping in Andong

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in South Korea, including Andong. In most cases, tipping is not expected nor required at restaurants, hotels, or for services.

Payment

In Andong, as in the rest of South Korea, electronic forms of payment such as credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted. Cash is also commonly used for transactions. It's important to note that some smaller, locally-owned establishments may prefer cash over card payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is one of the best times to visit Andong, Korea, South. The weather is mild and comfortable, and you can enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom. It's also a great time to experience traditional festivals and cultural events in Andong.

Autumn

Autumn is another ideal time to visit Andong. The weather is pleasantly cool, and you can witness the beautiful fall foliage. Additionally, this season offers opportunities to participate in the Andong Mask Dance Festival, which showcases traditional Korean mask dances.

Summer

Summer in Andong can be quite hot and humid, but it's the season when the Andong International Mask Dance Festival takes place, offering a unique cultural experience. It's also a good time to participate in outdoor activities and enjoy the lush greenery of the countryside.

Winter

Winter in Andong can be quite cold, but it's the time when you can experience the tranquility of snow-covered landscapes and enjoy winter activities like ice fishing and sledding. The Andong Winter Olympics Festival is also a notable event during this season.

Andong at Night

When the sun sets in Andong, the city reveals a different side of its character, blending traditional and modern atmospheres. The historic Hahoe Folk Village, typically bustling during the day with cultural performances, becomes a tranquil retreat. Visitors often enjoy evening walks, appreciating the illuminated hanok houses. For a more vibrant experience, the area around Andong Station is the place to be. Restaurants serve local delicacies like Andong Jjimdak and Heotjesabap, and many stay open late. Cafés and small pubs also dot the streets, perfect for a relaxing drink or engaging in conversation with locals. Night owls might explore noraebangs (karaoke rooms) or internet cafés, which are popular venues for both entertainment and socializing. Festivals, especially the Andong Mask Dance Festival held annually in the fall, bring the town to life after dark with performances, music, and dance, offering a unique blend of tradition and festivity. In essence, Andong’s nightlife provides a charming mix of cultural immersion and modern enjoyment.

Hiking in Andong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Daryeongsan Mountain

A scenic mountain offering diverse trails and beautiful views, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Hambaeksan Mountain

Known for its lush forests and stunning vistas, Hambaeksan presents an excellent hiking experience.

Sobaeksan National Park

A national park featuring multiple hiking trails, rich flora and fauna, and breathtaking landscapes.

Chungnyeongsan Mountain

Offers a moderate hiking trail with rewarding panoramic views at the summit.

Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park

A historical site with well-maintained hiking paths and a picturesque environment.

Aiports

How to reach Andong by plane.

Incheon International Airport (ICN)

Located approximately 320 kilometers northwest of Andong, Incheon International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in South Korea, serving as a major gateway for international travel.

Gimpo International Airport (GMP)

Located about 335 kilometers northwest of Andong, Gimpo International Airport is the second largest airport in South Korea, mainly handling domestic flights and a limited number of international flights.

Daegu International Airport (TAE)

Situated around 70 kilometers southwest of Andong, Daegu International Airport serves both domestic and international flights and is a convenient option for travelers in the region.

Busan Gimhae International Airport (PUS)

Approximately 160 kilometers south of Andong, Gimhae International Airport serves the Busan area and operates both domestic and international flights.

Cheongju International Airport (CJJ)

Located about 130 kilometers west of Andong, Cheongju International Airport offers domestic flights along with some international connections.

Walkability

Known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, this city features a layout that promotes walkability, especially in certain areas. The historical sites, like Hahoe Folk Village and various traditional markets, are easily accessible on foot, allowing visitors to explore at a leisurely pace. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many streets are pedestrian-friendly, particularly in the downtown area where shops, cafes, and cultural attractions are concentrated. The presence of parks and riverside paths enhances the walking experience, providing scenic routes for both locals and tourists. Public transportation options complement the walkable areas, making it convenient to reach various destinations without reliance on a car. Overall, this city offers a pleasant environment for walking, encouraging exploration of its historical and cultural sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Korean nationals

The majority population in Andong, predominantly ethnic Koreans with a strong cultural heritage.

Foreign residents

Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of Andong.

Students

University students, particularly from Andong National University, comprising a vibrant demographic group.

Elderly population

A growing demographic reflecting South Korea's aging population, with a focus on community services and care.

Young professionals

An emerging demographic of young adults who are entering the workforce and contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Taekwondo

A traditional Korean martial art known for its high, fast kicks and jumping and spinning kicks.

Football (Soccer)

A widely popular team sport where players attempt to score by getting a ball into the opposing goal.

Basketball

A fast-paced team sport where players score by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop.

Baseball

A bat-and-ball game played between two opposing teams, popular in Korea, with professional leagues.

Volleyball

A team sport in which two teams hit a ball over a net, also popular in schools and recreational leagues.

Traffic

The city experiences a mix of local commuter traffic and tourist influx, especially during peak travel seasons or during festivals. The road network includes major thoroughfares that connect various districts, often resulting in congestion during rush hours. Public transportation options such as buses provide alternatives for residents and visitors, while pedestrian accessibility is generally good in the downtown area. Additionally, the presence of cultural sites attracts many tourists, which can add to traffic volume. The city’s scenic setting also invites those traveling by car from nearby regions, leading to increased traffic on weekends and holidays. Overall, while traffic can be busy at times, it is usually manageable, reflecting the city's blend of urban life and cultural heritage.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Andong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While traditional Andong cuisine leans heavily towards meat and seafood, some restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly options like

Vegan

Vegan options are relatively limited in Andong, but certain establishments may offer dishes like

Gluten-Free

Navigating gluten-free options can be a challenge, but some dishes to look for include

Healthcare

In the region, healthcare services are facilitated through a combination of public and private facilities, providing a range of medical services to residents and visitors alike. The healthcare system is generally well-developed, characterized by modern hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. Hospitals in the area are equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by trained healthcare professionals, offering services in various fields such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics. While larger hospitals provide comprehensive care, smaller clinics often focus on primary care and preventive services, catering to everyday health needs. Public health initiatives are also a key component of the healthcare landscape, with efforts aimed at promoting wellness, immunizations, and health education among the population. The local government plays a significant role in ensuring access to healthcare services, especially for vulnerable populations. Overall, the healthcare system is accessible, with a mix of traditional practices and modern medicine, and there is a focus on improving health outcomes for the community through ongoing investments and healthcare reforms.

Discover Korea, South

Read more in our Korea, South 2024 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide