OWL Magazine Korea

Upon entering the western section of Osaka’s Apple Store, one can discover the vibrant district known as “America-mura.” Often likened to Tokyo’s Harajuku or Seoul’s Hongdae, this area in Osaka captivates the younger crowd with its diverse and unique array of shops. “Discovering America-mura in Osaka, the American Village” The term “America-mura” translates to “American Village” or “American Town.” It ...

After arriving at the hotel in Kyoto, unpacking our bags, we embarked on our journey to explore the city. The first destination on our list was “Kiyomizu-dera,” a prominent and representative attraction on the eastern side of Kyoto. During a previous visit in 2018, we had reached the vicinity of Kiyomizu-dera but were unable to explore its interior as we ...

Near Nakwon Shopping Center in Seoul Jongno, you can find a street named after Mr. ‘Songhae.’ With Nakwon Shopping Center at its core, Insadong is situated to the west, and Ikseondong Hanok Village lies to the east. Close to Jongno 5-ga Station, which you can find in Ikseondong Hanok Village, you’ll come across Songhae-gil. “Newly Named Street on Sutgol-ro in ...

Akihabara in Tokyo is one of the central districts of the city. Written in kanji as “秋葉原,” when translated directly, it means “autumn leaves hill.” However, it is renowned as the center of Japanese subculture, often referred to as the “otaku mecca.” Japan, Tokyo, Subculture Hub, Akihabara (秋葉原) Akihabara is considered a sanctuary of Japanese subculture, offering a variety of ...

Between the hotspots of Harajuku and Shibuya in Tokyo, you can find a street known as “Cat Street.” This area has gained fame as a fashion street in Tokyo, hosting various clothing stores and editorial shops. Located geographically close to Harajuku and Shibuya, it attracts a lot of young people. Originally named “Kyushibuya-gawa Yuhodo-ro (旧渋谷川遊歩道路),” it is now commonly referred ...

In Seoul, South Korea, Hongdae Front Street is well-known. Especially popular among the young population, it is an area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. Tokyo, Japan, also has a similar place, and that is Harajuku. Harajuku is a famous spot in Tokyo, particularly appealing to those sensitive to fashion and trends. Known for attracting young individuals with vibrant ...

Chinatowns, areas where Chinese communities gather, can be found worldwide. In Korea, there are areas where Chinese immigrants have settled, and Incheon’s Chinatown is particularly well-known. Chinatown, along with Freedom Park, Songwoldong Fairy Tale Village, and Open Port Street, stands as a representative tourist destination in the old downtown area of Incheon, experiencing revitalization. Originating from Jogyeji: Incheon’s Chinatown Incheon’s ...

In Tokyo’s famous bustling district, Shinjuku, there is a place known as “Omoide Yokocho,” which translates to “Memory Lane” in English. This alley has preserved the atmosphere of the past and is filled with small bars and restaurants, starting to emerge around 1946. “The Narrow Alley” The alley is quite narrow, making it challenging for two adult men to pass ...

Incheon’s Songwol-dong was a prestigious neighborhood where foreigners resided since its opening in 1883. However, as the village aged, the young population departed, leaving vacant houses and an elderly community. To address the inadequate living conditions in April 2013, a project themed around classic fairy tales was initiated, adorning the worn walls with murals and installing sculptures throughout the area. ...

Around Incheon Station, alongside Chinatown, you can discover the birthplace of modern history, the “Open Port Street.” This area, located in the neighborhoods of Songhak-dong and Jungang-dong in Jung-gu, Incheon, has been a diverse modern cultural heritage site developed from the late Joseon Dynasty to the Japanese colonial period. It is also often referred to as the “Open Port Nuri-gil.” ...

Sinchon in Seoul is one of the city’s representative bustling areas. Particularly known as a hub for university culture, it gathers prestigious institutions like Yonsei University, Ewha Womans University, Hongik University, and Sogang University in close proximity. Sinchon Intersection is a street located at the heart of these universities, directly connected to Sinchon Station on Line 2 of the subway. ...

The Gwanghwamun area in Seoul is known as a prominent office district, housing government offices like the Seoul City Hall and the headquarters of various newspapers, along with the buildings of major corporations. During lunchtime, numerous office workers can be seen heading out to grab a meal. The underground shopping areas beneath these large buildings offer a variety of dining ...