Discover the Charm of Tongin Traditional Market
Explore the vibrant Tongin Traditional Market in Seoul for authentic street food, local crafts, and a taste of Korean culture.
Tongin Traditional Market is a vibrant hub located in the heart of Jongno District, Seoul, offering an authentic glimpse into the city's rich culinary and cultural heritage. Established in 1941, the market has retained its traditional charm while adapting to modern trends, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. As you stroll through the narrow aisles lined with colorful stalls, the enticing aromas of sizzling street food will beckon you to indulge in delicious treats such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), gimbap (Korean sushi rolls), and hotteok (sweet pancakes). One of the unique features of Tongin Market is its Dosirak Cafe, where visitors can use traditional brass coins to purchase a variety of dishes from different vendors. This interactive dining experience allows you to customize your meal with your favorite flavors and share the joy of eating with family and friends. Beyond food, the market also offers an array of handmade crafts and local products, providing a perfect opportunity to bring home a piece of Korean culture. Open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM, the market buzzes with life and energy, making it an ideal place to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Don't forget to chat with the friendly vendors, who are more than happy to share stories about their products and the market's history. Visiting Tongin Traditional Market is not just about food; it's about experiencing the heart of Seoul and connecting with its vibrant community.
Local tips
- Visit during lunchtime to enjoy the bustling atmosphere and a wider variety of food options.
- Bring cash to buy Dosirak coins for the unique dining experience.
- Don’t hesitate to ask vendors for recommendations; they love sharing their favorites!
- Try to sample a little bit of everything to experience the full range of flavors.
A brief summary to Tongin Traditional Market
- 18 Jahamun-ro 15-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, 03036, KR
- +822-722-0911
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
- Thursday 7 am-9 pm
- Friday 7 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7 am-9 pm
- Sunday 7 am-9 pm
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving, start by getting onto the Gyeongbu Expressway (National Route 1) from your location in Gyeonggi Province. Follow signs for Seoul and stay on the expressway for approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Take the exit toward Seodaemun-gu/Jongno-gu and merge onto the road leading to the city center. Continue straight until you reach Jahamun-ro, then turn left onto Jahamun-ro. After about 1 km, turn right onto Jahamun-ro 15-gil. Tongin Traditional Market will be on your left. Parking is available nearby but may incur costs, so be prepared to pay for parking.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Tongin Traditional Market using public transportation, first, make your way to a nearby subway station. Use the Seoul Subway Line 3, heading towards the 'Daehwa' station. Get off at 'Gyeongbokgung Station' and take Exit 2. Once you exit, walk straight for about 600 meters until you reach the market. The total travel time is approximately 50 minutes, depending on your starting location. Make sure to check the subway schedule, as fare will typically cost around 1,250 KRW.
-
Bus
If you prefer to take the bus, locate a bus stop where you can catch a bus heading to Jongno District. Buses such as 7022 or 1711 frequently run to this area. Ride the bus until you reach the 'Jongno 3(sam)-ga' bus stop. From there, transfer to bus number 11, which will take you directly to 'Tongin Market'. The entire journey may take around 40-60 minutes, and the bus fare is about 1,200 KRW.
Attractions Nearby to Tongin Traditional Market
-
Sangchonjae
-
Cheong Wa Dae Sarangchae
-
Korean Traditional House(HANOK) by Gyeonbokgung Palace
-
Seochon Hanok Village
-
Daelim Museum
-
Sejong Village Food Street
-
Cheong Wa Dae Yeongbingwan
-
Gyeongbokgung Palace
-
National Palace Museum of Korea
-
Geunjeongjeon
-
Sajik Park
-
Yeonpungmun Gate
-
Mumudae Observatory
-
Cheongwadae Sojeongwon (Small garden)
-
Cheong Wa Dae Yeomin 1(il)-gwan Hall
Landmarks nearby to Tongin Traditional Market
-
Yeongchumun (West Gate)
-
Sinmumun Gate
-
Jibokjae
-
Jagyeongjeon
-
Heungnyemun Gate
-
Chimnyugak House
-
복정우물(Bokjeong Well)
-
Seoul Hanyangdoseong Fortress
-
Bigag
-
Hanok-gil (Insadong-gil)
-
Bukchon Hanok Village
-
Jogyesa Temple
-
Dongnimmun Arch (Independence Gate)
-
Neungseongwi Palace site
-
Insadong Information Center