Gui-ae Old House

A Family Time Trip at Yeongcheon Gwi-ae Gotek

The Special History of Gwi-ae Gotek

• Gwi-ae Gotek is a historic traditional house that began in 1767, during the reign of King Yeongjo of the Joseon Dynasty, when Jo Myeong-jik, who was posthumously honored with the title Munheon-gong, settled in Gwiho-ri, Hwanam-myeon, Yeongcheon. It was completed over generations by his descendants. The house takes its name from the pen name of Gwi-ae Jo Geuk-seung, a scholar and government official of the late Joseon period, and it has long carried the spirit of Korea's classical scholars.
• In the past, it was a large residence with 47 bays, featuring several buildings such as Gwi-ae-jeong, a family shrine, and a hexagonal pavilion, making it a local landmark. Part of the property was damaged by fire in 1988, but major buildings including the sarangchae were restored in 1991, preserving its old charm.

The Beauty and Atmosphere of the Hanok

• The house is set against low hills to the southwest and faces northeast. Centered around the inner courtyard, the sarangchae, mill building, and gate quarters are connected in an open D-shaped layout.
• Around the house, you will find cozy spaces including Gwi-ae-jeong, a shrine honoring ancestors, a pond, and a hexagonal pavilion, where you can get a sense of how Joseon-era scholars once taught their students.
• The site is also known as a favorable spot according to traditional geomancy, and it is said to be the home of a distinguished family that produced people known for their learning and virtue over many years.

Recommended Activities with Kids

• Kids can run around the wide yard and explore the peaceful hanok grounds, creating special family memories.
• You can take a walk around the pond and hexagonal pavilion and experience the beauty of a traditional garden and nature up close.
• Activities include traditional archery, food experiences, and traditional games.
• There are a shrine, pond, outdoor performance venue, lotus field observatory, and balsam flower field.
• You can also stroll along the forest path by the Umuk Golji reservoir on the walking trail.
• It is also recommended to visit Unjusan Horseback Riding Natural Recreation Forest and Yeongcheon Riverside Park nearby.

Visitor Notes and Facilities

• This is a family-friendly space where you can relax with your kids in the calm atmosphere of a traditional hanok and a pleasant environment.
• The yard is spacious, and the surrounding scenery is beautiful, making it great for photos and walks.
• Parking and reservations are available. High chairs, a nursing room, diaper changing stations, and stroller rental are not provided.
• Photo shoots are allowed even if you are not staying overnight.
• Cooking and barbecue use are not allowed in any guest room.
• In the case of Gwi-ae-jeong, there is no indoor restroom or shower room.
• There is no mart nearby, so you should prepare food for your kids in advance.

Recommended for These Families

1. Families who want their kids to experience Korean traditional culture and history up close
2. Those who want to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a hanok in nature and experience the lives of old-time scholars
3. Families who want to spend a unique day in a place where a wide play yard and peaceful quiet exist together

"Yeongcheon Gwi-ae Gotek is a special time-travel destination for families with kids, where long history, tradition, and natural beauty come together. Create precious family memories here, where the past and present meet."