Inside Korea’s Stunning Awon Hanok Stay in Wanju
Fans of historical K-dramas have recently become obsessed with one particular filming location: the secluded mountain residence associated with Grand Prince I-an, played by Byeon Woo-seok.
With its peaceful courtyards, dramatic mountain backdrop, and cinematic hanok architecture, many viewers assumed the location was a private estate created only for filming. But the surprising reality is that you can actually visit — and even stay overnight there.
The place is called Awon Museum & Hanok Stay, and it has quietly become one of the most beautiful hidden stays for K-drama fans traveling outside Seoul.
Where Is Awon Hanok Stay?
Awon is located in Wanju County (Wanju-gun), in North Jeolla Province, about 30–40 minutes from Jeonju by car. The property sits in a quiet mountain area surrounded by forests and rolling hills, which explains why it looks so cinematic on screen.
Unlike heavily commercialized Seoul filming spots, this area feels remote and peaceful. That atmosphere is a major reason why drama productions often use it for aristocratic residences, healing dramas, and emotionally reflective scenes.
Address
Awon Museum & Hanok Stay
South Korea, Jeollabuk-do, Wanju-gun
Because the property is tucked into the mountains, most travelers visit via:
- taxi from Jeonju
- rental car
- private tour
- intercity bus + taxi combination
Can You Actually Stay Overnight There?
Yes. Awon operates as a real hanok accommodation, not just a filming set.
Guests can reserve traditional Korean-style rooms with modern minimalist interiors, heated floors, private courtyards, and mountain views. Some rooms are especially popular because fans believe they resemble the residence shown in the drama.
The property also includes:
- an art museum/gallery
- contemporary exhibition spaces
- a cafe overlooking the mountains
- landscaped walking areas
Many travelers visit only for coffee and photos, while others stay overnight for the full hanok experience.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on:
- room size
- season
- weekend vs weekday
- holiday demand
In general, travelers should expect:
- Standard hanok rooms: approximately ₩180,000–₩350,000 per night
- Premium/private-style rooms: ₩400,000+ during peak periods
Spring and autumn weekends can book out surprisingly early because of domestic tourism and K-drama interest.
Is It Worth Staying Overnight?
For many K-drama fans, yes—especially if you enjoy:
- slow travel
- hanok architecture
- quiet mountain scenery
- photography
- healing-drama aesthetics
- luxury traditional stays
However, it may not suit travelers who:
- want nightlife or shopping nearby
- rely entirely on public transport
- prefer budget accommodations
- dislike rural or quiet environments
This is more of an “immersive retreat” than a standard tourist hotel.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May)
Probably the most photogenic season.
Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery make the hanok complex look almost identical to a period drama set.
Autumn (October–November)
The mountains surrounding Awon become covered in orange and red foliage, creating the dramatic atmosphere many viewers recognize from Korean historical dramas.
Winter
Winter is quieter and extremely atmospheric because of Korea’s ondol heated floors and snowy mountain scenery.
Summer
Beautiful but humid. Still a good option if you want fewer tourists.
Can Day Visitors Enter?
Usually, yes — but policies can change depending on reservations and operations.
Some travelers visit only:
- the cafe
- gallery spaces
- outdoor grounds
However, access to certain private accommodation areas may be restricted to overnight guests.
It is a good idea to:
- check ahead before visiting
- avoid arriving too late in the evening
- reserve in advance during weekends and peak travel periods
Why K-Drama Fans Love It
Awon has become popular among drama fans because it feels cinematic even in real life.
Unlike some filming locations that look smaller or less impressive in person, this property actually delivers the same atmosphere viewers expect:
- quiet luxury
- noble hanok aesthetics
- isolated mountain scenery
- reflective “healing drama” mood
It is especially appealing for fans who want something beyond the usual Seoul filming-location itinerary.
Suggested Travel Plan
If you are traveling from Seoul, the easiest itinerary is:
Day 1
- KTX to Jeonju
- Explore Jeonju Hanok Village
- Travel to Wanju
- Overnight at Awon
Day 2
- Morning photography around the property
- Cafe visit
- Return to Jeonju or continue through Jeolla Province
This works especially well as part of a slower Korea itinerary focused on:
- hanok stays
- countryside filming locations
- healing-drama travel
- traditional Korean architecture
FAQs About Visiting Awon Hanok Stay in Wanju
Where is Awon Hanok Stay located?
Awon Hanok Stay is located in Wanju County, North Jeolla Province, South Korea, around 30–40 minutes from Jeonju by car.
Can tourists stay overnight at Awon Hanok Stay?
Yes. Awon operates as a real hanok accommodation where guests can book overnight stays in traditional Korean-style rooms surrounded by mountain scenery.
How much does it cost to stay at Awon?
Prices usually start around ₩180,000–₩350,000 per night for standard rooms, while premium rooms can cost more during peak travel seasons.
Is Awon Hanok Stay connected to a K-drama filming location?
Many K-drama viewers recognize Awon’s cinematic hanok architecture and mountain setting from historical-drama-style scenes and royal residence aesthetics shared online.
Can you visit Awon without booking a room?
In some cases, yes. Day visitors may be able to access the cafe, gallery spaces, or outdoor areas depending on operating policies and reservation schedules.
What is the best season to visit Awon?
Spring and autumn are considered the best seasons because of cherry blossoms, colorful foliage, and cooler weather that enhances the mountain scenery.
Is Awon Hanok Stay suitable for families?
Yes, especially for travelers interested in quiet countryside experiences, traditional Korean architecture, and slow travel. However, the peaceful setting may feel too remote for travelers looking for nightlife or shopping.
How do you get to Awon from Seoul?
The easiest route is:
- KTX from Seoul to Jeonju
- taxi or rental car from Jeonju to Wanju
Many travelers combine Awon with a Jeonju Hanok Village itinerary.
Is Awon Hanok Stay worth visiting for non-K-drama fans?
Yes. Even travelers unfamiliar with Korean dramas often visit for the architecture, mountain views, art gallery, cafe atmosphere, and traditional hanok experience.
How many days should you spend in Wanju and Jeonju?
A 2-day itinerary is usually ideal. Most travelers spend:
- one day exploring Jeonju Hanok Village
- one overnight stay in Wanju at Awon
- one morning enjoying the mountain scenery and photography spots before returning to Seoul or continuing through Jeolla Province.
Final Thoughts
For K-drama fans looking for a filming location that feels genuinely transportive, Awon Museum & Hanok Stay is one of the rare places that truly lives up to the fantasy.
It is not just somewhere to take photos for 20 minutes. Staying overnight allows visitors to experience the calm, cinematic atmosphere that makes Korean historical dramas feel so immersive in the first place.
