TORONTO — If you had years to spare in the wonderful country of South Korea, you still would not have enough time to experience it all.

Known for its green, hilly countryside, beautiful temples, coastal fishing villages and high-tech cities, South Korea is unique as it is diverse, with an endless list of world-class attractions and authentic experiences that all travellers can enjoy. Here are just five to take note of:

Bukchon Hanok Village, New Look of Seoul

• Stay in a Hanok hotel. Hanok (han-ok) is a traditional Korean house. As with all traditional Korean architecture, Hanok is built with environmentally friendly materials to keep in harmony with the surroundings. Because of its beauty and novelty, staying in a Hanok has grown in popularity in recent years among those wishing to experience traditional Korean living for a few days. Travellers can easily find a wide range of options, from a budget-friendly guesthouse to a modernized luxury hotel.
• Wear hanbok to the Palace. Did you know wearing hanbok (traditional Korean cloth) will get you in to palaces for free? If you don’t own one, not to worry. There are plenty of places where visitors can rent a full set of hanbok and take photos with professional photographers. Rental prices start at about $10.
• Eat Korean BBQ. Korean food is only now getting its due as one of Asia’s top cuisines. While traditional dishes like bulgogi and bibimbap are widely beloved by locals and visitors alike, Korean BBQ often takes top billing among die-hard foodies.
• Visit a Korean sauna. Before you say no to stripping naked and taking a bath with strangers, consider this: a Korean sauna, or ‘Jjimjilbang,’ isn’t a place where people go just to bathe. It’s also where locals can enjoy a massage or professional scrub, and huddle in toasty spaces with family or close friends to bond over delicious snacks.
• Sample local alcohol. Travellers can learn about the time-honoured tradition of brewing Korean alcohol from rice. Guided tours and tastings are readily available, highlighting the complexities and flavours of Soju, Yakju and Makgeolli. From meeting artisan brewmasters to partaking in traditional Korean dinners, the opportunities are both endless and delicious to imbibe in local drink.

For more information about travel to Korea, go to https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/index.kto