Chuncheon Hyanggyo

A place to discover Chuncheon's scholarly spirit with your family, Chuncheon Hyanggyo

What is Chuncheon Hyanggyo?

Chuncheon Hyanggyo is a local educational institution from the Joseon Dynasty and a place where memorial rites were held for Confucian sages. It is located on Sakju-ro, not in Gyodong, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon State. A hyanggyo was a place that spread Confucian culture and provided education for local residents, and Chuncheon Hyanggyo is a designated Tangible Cultural Heritage of Gangwon State (No. 98) with a long history and tradition.

Main history and buildings

• The exact founding year of Chuncheon Hyanggyo is unknown, but it is believed to have been built in the late Goryeo period or early Joseon period.
• After being destroyed during the Imjin War, it was rebuilt in 1594 (the 27th year of King Seonjo of Joseon), and later underwent several repairs and restorations.
• It was also destroyed during the Korean War, but restored in 1960.
• Its main buildings include Daeseongjeon, which enshrines Confucian scholars, Myeongnyundang, where education took place, Dongjae and Seojae, where students stayed, and Dongmu and Seomu, which were used for memorial rites.

Architecture and layout

• The hyanggyo follows the traditional front-school, rear-shrine layout, with educational spaces in the front, such as Myeongnyundang and Dongjae and Seojae, and ritual spaces in the rear, such as Daeseongjeon and Dongmu and Seomu.
• Along with the beautiful traditional charm of hanok architecture, you'll find a calm and cozy atmosphere here.

Experiences, education, and cultural events

• Chuncheon Hyanggyo offers traditional etiquette classes, traditional games, tea ceremony experiences, and seonbi experiences that the whole family, from children to adults, can enjoy together.
• A variety of events are held here, including Seokjeondaeje, Bunhyangnye, Giroyeon, traditional coming-of-age ceremonies, and traditional weddings, and you can apply for programs on the Chuncheon Hyanggyo website.
• With its quiet and classic buildings, courtyard, old trees, and stone monuments still in place, it is a lovely spot to walk with your kids while feeling the presence of history.

Visiting highlights

• If you visit with your child, you can experience the peaceful atmosphere of hanok buildings and appreciate the value of Korean cultural heritage.
• It also has strong educational value, offering history and tradition learning as well as a range of traditional event experiences.
• It is easy to reach because it is close to downtown, and it is convenient to park at the City Hall Annex Parking Lot before your visit.
• There are many nearby attractions, including Chuncheon Myeongdong Street, Chuncheon Myeongdong Dakgalbi Alley, and Yukrimgogae, making it easy to explore more with your family.

Why families like it

1. You can experience traditional Korean education and Confucian culture in a place where long history still feels alive.
2. There are programs for children, including seonbi experiences and traditional etiquette education.
3. It is a great place for a walk or photos amid the beauty of hanok architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
4. A variety of traditional events connected to local festivals are held here, offering a unique experience.

"Chuncheon Hyanggyo is a meaningful place where your child can naturally learn about manners, history, and culture. Take a stroll through the quiet old garden and hanok buildings, and create special memories for the whole family."