Intro: Sip Seoul’s Soul
Seoul’s traditional teahouses (chatjip) are hidden oases where time slows down. Nestled in hanok (Korean wooden houses) with serene gardens, they offer more than tea—they’re gateways to Korea’s 500-year-old tea culture. For foreigners, these spots provide respite from urban chaos while immersing you in history. Here’s a curated list of Seoul’s top 5 teahouses, complete with foreigner-friendly tips!
1. Suyeonsanbang (수연산방)
📍 Location: Bukchon Hanok Village (near Anguk Station)
🌿 Vibe: A 1930s novelist’s home turned teahouse, surrounded by forests. Feels like a secluded mountain retreat despite being in central Seoul.
🍵 Must-Try: Omija-cha (five-flavored berry tea) served in handmade pottery. Pair with yakgwa (honey cookies).
💡 Tip: Visit on weekdays to snag the tree-view terrace seat. Cash only!
2. Cha-teul (차마시는뜰)
📍 Location: Samcheong-dong (near Gyeongbokgung Palace)
🌿 Vibe: Panoramic views of Bukhansan Mountain from a hanok garden. Bamboo groves and vintage furniture create a “K-drama” ambiance.
🍵 Must-Try: Nokcha (green tea) sourced from Boseong fields. Order bungeo-ppang (fish-shaped pastry with red bean).
💡 Tip: Arrive before 3 PM to avoid crowds. Staff speak basic English!
3. Shin Old Tea House (신옛찮집)
📍 Location: Insadong (down a hidden alley)
🌿 Vibe: Antique-filled, rustic charm with low wooden tables and paper lanterns. Feels like stepping into 19th-century Korea.
🍵 Must-Try: Sujeonggwa (cinnamon-persimmon punch) or medicinal ssanghwa-cha. Served with free yugwa (puffed rice snacks).
💡 Tip: No photos allowed—immerse fully in the ambiance!
4. Moonbird Only Thinks of the Moon (달새는 달만 생각한다)
📍 Location: Ikseon-dong Hanok Village
🌿 Vibe: Artistic, bohemian hideout with dried flowers hanging from rafters. Moon-themed decor and soft jazz playlists.
🍵 Must-Try: Jujube tea (sweet and earthy) or matcha latte. Try hodugwaja (walnut cakes) for nostalgia.
💡 Tip: Limited seating—groups of 2–3 only. Ideal for solo travelers!
5. Dawon (다원)
📍 Location: Insadong (inside Tapgol Park)
🌿 Vibe: A courtyard teahouse shaded by 100-year-old trees. Lotus ponds and calligraphy scrolls evoke royal tea ceremonies.
🍵 Must-Try: Yuja-cha (citron tea) in brass kettles. Must-order hangwa (colorful rice desserts).
💡 Tip: Combine with a hanbok (traditional dress) rental nearby for photos!
Final Sips of Wisdom
- Etiquette: Let tea cool naturally—never blow on it! Refills are free.
- Cost: ₩8,000–₩15,000 per pot (most accept cards).
- When to Go: Weekday afternoons = quiet bliss; autumn = foliage magic.
Seoul’s teahouses aren’t just about drinks—they’re about healing (healing in Konglish). Slow down, savor each sip, and let the whispers of old Seoul transport you. 🍃✨
> “Where there is tea, there is hope.” – Korean proverb