Chungwoon Literature Library

Just outside the city center in the Jongno-gu district, the first hanok public library welcomes readers to be one with literature and nature. Traditional hanok buildings distinguish themselves by their overall balance and by being made almost exclusively from natural materials, offering tribute to the elements. It’s not uncommon for them to abut mountains, as Chungwoon does.

Removed from the bustle of urban landmarks, the library is just a few strides from the foot of Inwangsan mountain. Clumped together with the nearby Yun Dong-ju Literary Museum, Poet’s Hill, and a startling sensation that—after a moment—you realize is just peace and quiet, the area is a literary hub of Seoul. Handmade traditional tiles line the roof, a steady waterfall streams out the window, and more than twenty thousand works are arranged inside for patrons’ perusing pleasure. Visitors especially muddybooted hikers—take note: you must remove your shoes before entering.

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