Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley
A charming alley in Incheon filled with historic secondhand bookstores, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stores are more likely open.
Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley
Best Time
Stores are more likely open.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming alley in Incheon filled with historic secondhand bookstores, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past.
"The charmingly clustered bookstores bring back old memories and offer a unique, unpolished flavor."
🎯 Check Store Hours
Many shops close unexpectedly. Confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Best Access Point
Dowon Station is closer than Dong Incheon Station for direct access to Baedari.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jiphyeonjeon Bookstore
Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley
Incheon's oldest used bookstore, established in 1953. A treasure trove for bibliophiles seeking vintage finds.
Changyeongdang Story Shop
Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley
Once an ice-cream shop, now a magical space for storytelling, puppet shows, and book readings.
Hanmi Bookstore
Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley
A notable bookstore that served as a filming location for the popular drama 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Baedari
Beyond the Books
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Store Hours
Many shops close unexpectedly. Confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Best Access Point
Dowon Station is closer than Dong Incheon Station for direct access to Baedari.
📚 Explore Beyond Books
Discover unique workshops and cultural spaces alongside the bookstores.
📸 Capture the Charm
The narrow alleys and vintage storefronts offer great photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Store Hours
Many shops close unexpectedly. Confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Best Access Point
Dowon Station is closer than Dong Incheon Station for direct access to Baedari.
📚 Explore Beyond Books
Discover unique workshops and cultural spaces alongside the bookstores.
📸 Capture the Charm
The narrow alleys and vintage storefronts offer great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley offers a nostalgic journey into Incheon's literary past, with charming old bookstores and unique cultural spaces. While some visitors find it quiet and note that many stores can be closed, especially on weekend afternoons, others appreciate the calming atmosphere and the chance to discover hidden literary gems. It's a destination best enjoyed with an understanding of its historical context and a flexible approach to store hours.
"There wasn’t much to see here; to me, it felt like a ghost town. I arrived on a Saturday afternoon, but most of the stores were closed, and I didn’t see any tourists or customers around.
Still, I found peace wandering through the narrow alleys—it was strangely calming."
Trân
"If you ever visit Incheon, I think this is a must-visit. If you just want to see Bedari, it's closer to get off at Dowon Station rather than Dong Incheon Station and walk there. If you want to walk from Gaehang Port to Baedari, I recommend walking from Dong Incheon Station. Although it's not a large alley, the charmingly clustered bookstores bring back old memories."
YoungKeun Jung
"
Places to Stop by
This alley, located in the old downtown area, now Dong-Incheon and formerly known as Sangincheon, was a popular spot in the 1950s and 1960s. I heard that during the Joseon Dynasty, the area was right in front of the sea, and there was a bridge connecting boats, hence the name Baedari (Baedari). It gained a bit of popularity a few years ago as a filming location for the drama "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God," but it seems to have faded recently.
This alley features Abel Bookstore, the oldest bookstore in the area; Hanmi Bookstore, a filming location for the drama; and a multi-purpose cultural space combining a small studio, cafe, and small exhibition hall. A quick 20-minute stroll will take you around, though it's a bit of a stretch to call it a tourist destination.
It's also worth a stop along with a visit to Songhyeon-dong Sundae Alley or the Traditional Wedding Street. It has a unique, unpolished flavor that's been around for centuries. The nearby Hwapyeong-dong Washbasin Cold Noodles was once famous."
Productive Minho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley is by taking the subway to Dowon Station. From there, it's a short walk. Alternatively, you can alight at Dong Incheon Station and enjoy a longer walk, which can also lead you past Gaehang Port.
Yes, Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley is well-served by public transport. Dowon Station is the closest subway station, making it easily accessible for visitors.
If you wish to visit both Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley and Gaehang Port, starting your journey from Dong Incheon Station and walking towards Baedari is recommended. This allows you to experience both areas sequentially.
Information on specific parking facilities is limited, but given its location in an older downtown area, it's advisable to rely on public transportation for easier access.
Yes, Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley is often visited in conjunction with nearby attractions like Songhyeon-dong Sundae Alley. A walk between them is feasible and recommended for a fuller experience of the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to wander through Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley. It's a public street lined with independent bookstores.
Operating hours can vary significantly between individual bookstores. Many visitors have noted that stores can be closed, especially on weekend afternoons. It's best to check specific store hours if possible or visit on a weekday morning.
No, advance booking or tickets are not required to visit Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley. You can explore the alley freely.
While the alley can feel quiet, weekend afternoons have been noted as times when many stores might be closed, leading to a less vibrant atmosphere. Weekday mornings are generally recommended for a better chance of finding shops open.
Yes, a quick 20-minute stroll can give you a feel for the alley, though you might want to allocate more time if you plan to browse extensively or visit specific shops like Jiphyeonjeon.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
You'll find a charming collection of secondhand bookstores, some with a long history, offering a nostalgic atmosphere. There are also unique workshops and cultural spaces, like the Changyeongdang Story Shop.
Absolutely! Jiphyeonjeon is Incheon's oldest used bookstore, and Hanmi Bookstore was a filming location for 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God.' The Changyeongdang Story Shop offers engaging storytelling sessions.
Yes, the narrow alleys, vintage storefronts, and unique book displays provide excellent opportunities for photography, capturing the nostalgic charm of the area.
The alley dates back to the 1950s and 1960s, serving as a hub for learning and literature. The name 'Baedari' itself has historical roots related to boats and bridges.
Given the nature of secondhand bookstores, there's a possibility of finding rare or antique books, especially at older establishments like Jiphyeonjeon. It's worth browsing to discover hidden gems.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While the alley is primarily known for its bookstores, some multi-purpose cultural spaces may include small cafes or exhibition halls. Nearby areas like Songhyeon-dong Sundae Alley offer more dining options.
The reviews mention Songhyeon-dong Sundae Alley as a nearby dining destination. The Hwapyeong-dong Washbasin Cold Noodles were also historically famous in the vicinity.
Yes, exploring the surrounding areas like Songhyeon-dong Sundae Alley will likely provide opportunities to sample traditional Korean dishes.
Some of the cultural spaces within the alley might incorporate small cafes, offering a place to rest and perhaps enjoy a beverage while surrounded by books.
While specific snack vendors aren't highlighted, exploring the nearby food alleys or traditional markets would be your best bet for finding local snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The narrow, winding alleys themselves, the vintage facades of the bookstores, and unique signage offer great photographic potential. Look for the distinctive architecture of Jiphyeonjeon and Hanmi Bookstore.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking extensive photos inside private businesses, especially if you're not a customer. Be respectful of the shop owners and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the atmospheric quality of the alley for photography.
Hanmi Bookstore is a known filming location for the drama. While the exact spots might not be marked, visiting the bookstore itself can be a photo opportunity for fans.
A style that emphasizes nostalgia, vintage aesthetics, and the quiet charm of old bookstores would be most fitting for capturing the essence of Baedari.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 Book Lovers & Collectors
📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Incheon's Literary Past
While its popularity as a tourist destination may have waned since its brief resurgence as a filming location for the popular drama 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God,' the alley retains its charm. It's a place where the past feels palpable, with each bookstore holding stories within its walls. Visitors can still find unique workshops and cultural spaces that blend the old with the new, offering a glimpse into the enduring spirit of this historic district.
Exploring Baedari is akin to stepping back in time. The narrow alleys and the distinct architecture of the bookstores, like the venerable Jiphyeonjeon, Incheon's oldest used bookstore established in 1953, evoke a sense of history. It's a destination that appeals to those who appreciate the quiet beauty of old things and the enduring power of literature.
Discovering Treasures: The Bookstores of Baedari
Other notable establishments include Hanmi Bookstore, which gained recognition as a filming location for the hit drama 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God.' Even if you're not a fan of the show, the bookstore itself is a testament to the alley's enduring appeal. Beyond these, the alley is dotted with various other booksellers, each contributing to the unique atmosphere. Visitors often find themselves drawn to the sheer variety and the possibility of stumbling upon a forgotten gem.
While the primary draw is the books, the experience of browsing in these old shops is equally rewarding. The quiet ambiance, the scent of aged paper, and the friendly proprietors (when available) create a truly immersive experience. It's a place where the joy of discovery is paramount, and every visit can yield a new literary treasure.
Beyond Books: Cultural Experiences in Baedari
Furthermore, the alley features multi-purpose cultural spaces that often combine small studios, cafes, and exhibition halls. These spaces contribute to the alley's unique, unpolished flavor, providing visitors with opportunities to engage with local art and culture. They serve as community hubs, fostering creativity and offering a different perspective on the area's heritage.
When planning your visit, consider exploring these cultural facets alongside the bookstores. They offer a refreshing contrast and add depth to your understanding of Baedari's evolving identity. These spaces ensure that the alley remains a dynamic destination, appealing to a wider range of interests beyond just book collecting.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit