Welcome to Jeongjae Head House, a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Korea. Nestled in the picturesque village of Handeul in Imdong-myeon, Andong-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, this traditional house is a testament to over 300 years of history and tradition.
As you step into Jeongjae Traditional House, you’ll be transported back in time to the Joseon era. The architectural elements of a hanok, such as the wooden pillars, tiled roof, and toenmaru, blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings, offering a tranquil and scenic view of Imha Lake. This is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of traditional Korean architecture.
Originally built by Ryu Gwan-hyeon in 1735, Jeongjae Head House holds great significance as the ancestral home of Ryu Chi-myeong, a renowned scholar who inherited the teachings of Togye Yi Hwang, one of the most prominent Confucian scholars of Joseon. The house is comprised of various buildings, including the daemunchae, jeongchim, haengnangchae, shrine, and pavilion, each serving a distinct purpose and contributing to the overall charm of the estate.
One of the highlights of Jeongjae Traditional House is the sarangchae, the men’s quarters, which showcases the distinct separation of spaces for men and women in accordance with Confucian tradition. As you explore the sarangchae, you’ll discover the sarangmaru, a wooden floor area, as well as a large and small sarangbang room, with a small maru positioned between them. On the other hand, the anchae, the hidden women’s quarters, is tucked away within the house, featuring a daecheongmaru in the middle, a main room, kitchen, toilet, numaru, and sangbang. The meticulous attention to detail in the design of these spaces provides a unique insight into the daily lives of the Ryu family.
Adjacent to the main gate, you’ll find the Manujeong Pavilion, a half-hipped roof building that holds historical significance as a teaching space for Ryu Chi-myeong and his students. Surrounded by the captivating beauty of Imha Lake, mountains, and chestnut trees, this pavilion offers a serene setting for contemplation and learning.
At Jeongjae Traditional House, you have the opportunity to participate in two special experience programs. Led by the owner’s wife, you can learn the art of making Songhwaju, a traditional home-brewed liquor unique to the Ryu family. With its distinct flavors derived from rice, glutinous rice, yeast, pine needles, and chrysanthemums, this experience allows you to taste the essence of Korean culture. Additionally, you can learn the centuries-old recipe for making Tarak, a fermented milk drink, and even recreate it at home using simple ingredients.
For those seeking a deeper connection with traditional Korean music, Jeongjae Head House offers a traditional music program. Here, you can learn how to play the gayageum, a twelve-stringed Korean zither, and discover the beauty of Korean folk songs. The house also hosts small concerts, allowing you to experience the enchanting melodies firsthand.
As you explore Jeongjae Head House, you’ll not only witness the rich history and cultural heritage of Korea but also have the opportunity to engage in immersive experiences that bring the past to life. We invite you to discover the tranquility, beauty, and warmth that await you at Jeongjae Head House, a true testament to Korean tradition and hospitality.