Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley - Man stands in doorway of small shop.
1 / 10

Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley

4
·172 reviews·, South Korea

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Stores are more likely open.

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley - Man stands in doorway of small shop.

Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Stores are more likely open.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4
(172 reviews)

"The charmingly clustered bookstores bring back old memories and offer a unique, unpolished flavor."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jiphyeonjeon Bookstore

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

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

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'.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Baedari

Many visitors report stores being closed, especially on weekend afternoons. Check operating hours beforehand and aim for weekdays or mornings to ensure a better experience exploring this historic book alley.

Beyond the Books

While known for its bookstores, Baedari offers a glimpse into Incheon's past. Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Songhyeon-dong Sundae Alley for a richer cultural exploration.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Stores are more likely open.
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Experience the calm, unhurried vibe.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

a book lover’s paradise in london, with over 20 booksellers, antiquarian shops & art stores! + it was inspo for diagon alley from harry potter 🕯️🍂 @aniyora | london 🫧 📍cecil court #londonbookshops #londonhiddengems #londonsecretspots #londonbookstores #BookTok london bookshops | london hidden gems | bookseller’s row london
@aniyorakang
19.3K likes • 136.6K views

🎯 Check Store Hours

Many shops close unexpectedly. Confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Best Access Point

Dowon Station is closer than Dong Incheon Station for direct access to Baedari. Reddit

Can’t believe I’ve lived in London for 22 years and only discovered this hidden gem last week!? Just in time for #christmasshopping tho amirite #hiddengems #secretlondon #bookshopping #bookshoptok #indiebookstore #occultbooks #tarotreading #aliceinwonderland #hiddenlondon #harrypottertour
@mycambridgebookshelf
11.3K likes • 93.8K views
location: sarang buku bekas, plaza festival kuningan jakarta🤎 #bookstore #BookTok #jakarta
@fairywindy__
9.6K likes • 66.3K views

📚 Explore Beyond Books

Discover unique workshops and cultural spaces alongside the bookstores. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The narrow alleys and vintage storefronts offer great photo opportunities. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Store Hours

Many shops close unexpectedly. Confirm opening times before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Best Access Point

Dowon Station is closer than Dong Incheon Station for direct access to Baedari. Reddit

📚 Explore Beyond Books

Discover unique workshops and cultural spaces alongside the bookstores. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The narrow alleys and vintage storefronts offer great photo opportunities. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4
(172 reviews)

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

Nostalgic atmosphere
Historic bookstores
Unique cultural spaces

What People Dislike

Stores often closed
Can be too quiet

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. Reddit

Yes, Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley is well-served by public transport. Dowon Station is the closest subway station, making it easily accessible for visitors. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to wander through Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley. It's a public street lined with independent bookstores. Reddit

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. Reddit

No, advance booking or tickets are not required to visit Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley. You can explore the alley freely. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 📚 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, the narrow alleys, vintage storefronts, and unique book displays provide excellent opportunities for photography, capturing the nostalgic charm of the area. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, exploring the surrounding areas like Songhyeon-dong Sundae Alley will likely provide opportunities to sample traditional Korean dishes. Reddit

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. Reddit

While specific snack vendors aren't highlighted, exploring the nearby food alleys or traditional markets would be your best bet for finding local snacks. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the atmospheric quality of the alley for photography. TikTok

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. Reddit

A style that emphasizes nostalgia, vintage aesthetics, and the quiet charm of old bookstores would be most fitting for capturing the essence of Baedari. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley can be a charming outing for families, especially if you visit the Changyeongdang Story Shop. This unique spot offers engaging storytelling, puppet shows, and book readings that are perfect for children. Reddit While the bookstores themselves might be more appealing to older children or teens interested in reading, the overall atmosphere of the alley is calm and safe for a family stroll. Consider it a quieter alternative to more bustling tourist spots, offering a chance for imaginative play and discovery. Reddit

📚 Book Lovers & Collectors

For true bibliophiles, Baedari is a must-visit. The alley is a treasure trove of secondhand books, with Jiphyeonjeon, Incheon's oldest used bookstore, being a particular highlight. Reddit You might find rare editions, out-of-print titles, and unique Korean literature. The charm lies in the hunt for that perfect book amidst the quiet, nostalgic atmosphere. Reddit Be prepared to spend time browsing and don't be afraid to explore every nook and cranny.

📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts

Photographers will find plenty of character in Baedari's narrow alleys and vintage storefronts. The unpolished charm and historical architecture offer a unique aesthetic. TikTokReddit Culture enthusiasts can delve into the history of the area, explore the cultural spaces like the Changyeongdang Story Shop, and appreciate the preservation of a bygone literary era. It's a great spot for capturing authentic, atmospheric shots and understanding a piece of Incheon's past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Incheon's Literary Past

Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley, nestled in the older downtown area of Incheon, is a nostalgic remnant of the city's vibrant literary scene from the 1950s and 1960s. Once a bustling hub for knowledge seekers, the alley now offers a quieter, more contemplative experience. The name 'Baedari' itself hints at its historical connection to the sea, with tales of boats and bridges from the Joseon Dynasty. This historical depth adds a unique layer to the experience, making it more than just a collection of old books.

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Discovering Treasures: The Bookstores of Baedari

The heart of Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley lies in its collection of independent bookstores, each with its own character and offerings. Jiphyeonjeon stands out as a significant landmark, being the oldest used bookstore in Incheon, dating back to 1953. It's a place where bibliophiles can hunt for rare finds and immerse themselves in the history of Korean literature. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Beyond Books: Cultural Experiences in Baedari

Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley isn't solely about books; it also offers unique cultural experiences that enrich a visit. The Changyeongdang Story Shop is a prime example. Once an ice-cream shop, it has been transformed into a vibrant space dedicated to storytelling, puppet shows, and book readings. Stepping inside feels like entering a fairy tale world, offering engaging activities for all ages. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2