Where to find traditional Korean tea houses in Seoul?

 

Hello, this is Hello Korea. Seoul, as Korea’s vibrant capital, not only offers modern city life but also hidden corners where traditional tea culture thrives.


Introduction to Korean Tea Culture

Seoul’s tea houses, known as “dabang” or “cha bang,” are oasis-like spaces where time slows down. Nestled in hanok (traditional Korean houses) with wooden floors, paper windows, and landscaped gardens, these tea houses serve a variety of teas—from green and herbal blends to jujube, omija, chrysanthemum, and fermented wild teas—often paired with traditional sweets like yugwa or rice cakes






Best Tea Houses in Seoul

1. Dawon Traditional Tea House (Insadong)

Set within an old hanok, Dawon welcomes guests with a peaceful courtyard. Popular teas include omija cha and green tea, served alongside Korean sweet snacks 

2. Tteuran Tea House (Ikseon-dong)

Located in the charming alleys of Ikseon-dong, Tteuran offers a calm garden setting and an extensive menu—from medicinal blends to fragrant fermented and floral teas. The staff often guides you on tea selection

3. Moon Bird Only Thinks of the Moon (Insadong)

This artistic haven features wall art and homemade rice cakes with unique teas like jujube. It’s intimate and beloved by both locals and visitors 

4. Shin Old Teahouse (Insadong)

A cozy hanok turned tea house, Shin Old serves a range of hot and cold teas—jujube, omija, and ginseng—usually accompanied by complimentary yugwa rice snacks 

5. Hanok Tea House (Insadong)

Renovated hanok offering floor seating and tables, surrounded by a charming courtyard. It’s a relaxing blend of tradition and comfort 

6. Suyeon Sanbang / Mokmyeok Sanbang (Bukchon/Samcheong-dong)

Located near Bukchon and Samcheong-dong, these hanok tea houses offer calm, authentic atmospheres in historic neighborhoods—ideal after visiting Gyeongbokgung or Bukchon village

7. Korea House – Kohojae Afternoon Tea

For a ceremonial experience, attend Tea and Traditional Dance at Kohojae within Korea House. You’ll enjoy a performance in hanbok followed by a formal tea set on heated floors



Tea Etiquette Tips

  • Bow slightly when entering or leaving.
  • Pour tea for others first as a courtesy.
  • Sip quietly to appreciate flavors and aroma

Why Visit These Spots?

Each tea house connects you to Korean heritage and the hanok charm of neighborhoods like Insadong, Ikseon-dong, Bukchon, and Samcheong-dong—areas once home to scholars and officials. These places offer a meditative pause from Seoul’s fast pace.



Conclusion

If you want to experience Korea's traditional side with calm spaces, authentic teas, and the beauty of hanok architecture, these tea houses in Seoul are perfect. Visit the classic hanok tea rooms for a sensory, relaxing, and culturally rich experience.

Please remember: environments and locations may vary slightly depending on season and area—just a friendly note for your journey in Korea.


Contact & Note

This post is brought to you by Hello Korea. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at hello.korea.blog@gmail.com.


Disclaimer & Privacy

All information is based on personal visits and verified sources. Actual experiences may vary.

All personal data here is used solely for this blog’s purpose.





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