Gayeongdang, Cheongju / 가영당

This hanok (traditional Korean house) is located in Ochang Hanok Village within Ochang-eup’s Miraeji Theme Park. Ochang Hanok Village is a collection of about 20 modernized hanok buildings that boast excellent views of the mountain and the Ochang Reservoir nearby. Gayeongdang is owned by Kim Byeong-hee, a master in flower tea who has studied Korea’s traditional flower tea for nearly 30 years. Visitors interested in Kim’s work have an opportunity to discuss the art of flower tea over tea and sweets with the master through Gayeongdang’s tea ceremony program. Gayeongdang is a faithful recreation of the C-shaped hanok complex, centered around a grass lawn. It is constructed entirely out of Korean pine trees, which fills the indoor spaces with a rich scent of pine. The main and annex buildings are all Korean rooms with ondol (under-the-floor heating system). The former allows guests access to the room, the living room, and the tea ceremony room, while the latter allows opportunities for grilling in the lawn. The space is also available for small events like seminars, small concerts, and marriage ceremonies.