Gyeongwonjae Ambassador Incheon (경원재 앰배서더 인천)

At first glance, Gyeongwonjae Ambassador may appear somewhat out of place: A classical hanok hotel nestled amidst a forest of cutting-edge skyscrapers. However, this juxtaposition aligns perfectly with its concept, "a walk through time on the Korean peninsula." This unique blend of tradition and modernity has earned Gyeongwonjae not only the distinction of being the first five-star hanok hotel in Korea but also the prestigious "Stars of Korean Tourism" award from the Korea Tourism Organization. Remarkably, it has achieved this claim despite lacking many contemporary hotel amenities such as swimming pools, saunas, and bars. A stay at Gyeongwonjae offers a unique experience that can only be found in a hanok, a space that encapsulates Korean traditions. The single-story building, with its low eaves and absence of flamboyant dancheong (decorative coloring), exemplifies the aesthetic of unadorned humility that characterizes Korean culture. It harmoniously blends into the surrounding nature. Guests can partake in a traditional tea ceremony followed by a rejuvenating soak in a cypress bathtub filled with water infused with traditional Korean medicinal materials, clearing the mind of clutter and promoting natural healing.