Insadong
Traditional arts and cultural heritage
Traditional Korean culture district with art galleries, antique shops, tea houses, and hanbok rental stores.
Highlights
1in1jan Cafe (Eunpyeong Hanok Village)
A stunning cafe perched at the highest point of Eunpyeong Hanok Village, offering panoramic views of traditional hanok rooftops and Bukhansan Mountain. Established in 2016, this Korean-aesthetic cafe honors the value of each person with one cup of coffee while showcasing the beauty of hanok architecture.
Bukchon Hanok Village
A preserved traditional village with hundreds of hanok (traditional Korean houses), narrow alleyways, and stunning views.
Cafe Onhwa Ikseon
A stunningly renovated hanok cafe in Ikseon-dong, famous for their amazing soufflé pancakes made fresh to order. The bright, clean, modern interior respects traditional Korean architecture while offering Instagram-worthy aesthetics.
Cafe Onion Anguk
A beautifully restored 1920s hanok cafe near Gyeongbokgung Palace. Famous for its Pandoro bread that looks like a snow-capped mountain and cozy traditional Korean architecture blended with modern cafe aesthetics.
Coffee Hanyakbang
A hidden gem tucked in a narrow alleyway, this vintage coffee house serves specialty coffee in a space reminiscent of a traditional Korean medicine dispensary from the Joseon Dynasty. Located at the former site of Hyeminseo where physician Heo Jun treated patients, Coffee Hanyakbang offers an atmospheric retreat with traditional wooden interiors, antique medicine cabinets, and excellent pour-over coffee.
DongBaek Bakery (Ikseon)
A famous souffle pancake cafe housed in a beautifully renovated hanok in the charming Ikseon-dong alley. DongBaek Bakery specializes exclusively in coffee, tea, and souffle pancakes, with their matcha and strawberry souffles being particularly popular. The cafe combines traditional Korean architecture with modern cafe aesthetics, creating an elegant atmosphere enhanced by ambient lanterns and traditional elements. Featured on Korean TV shows, it's become a must-visit destination for souffle enthusiasts.
Gwangjang Market
Seoul's oldest and most beloved traditional market, established in 1905 as Korea's first permanent market. With over 120 years of history, Gwangjang Market is legendary for its authentic Korean street food scene and buzzing atmosphere. The market has over 5,000 shops and welcomes approximately 65,000 visitors daily, making it one of Seoul's most vibrant cultural destinations.
Hoho Sikdang (Ikseon)
A cozy Japanese home-style restaurant in the heart of Ikseon-dong's traditional hanok alleys. Famous for its tender hirekatsu (pork cutlet) and comforting omurice, this warm atmosphere eatery has become one of Seoul's most searched restaurants, offering authentic Japanese comfort food in a traditional Korean setting.
Jogyesa Temple
The center of Zen Buddhism in Korea, famous for beautiful lantern displays during Buddha's Birthday celebrations.
Kiwa Taproom
A unique craft beer pub hidden within Bukchon's maze of traditional hanoks, serving great beers under a charcoal-colored giwa (traditionally-tiled) roof. This skylit hanok combines traditional Korean architecture with modern craft beer culture.
Mil Toast
A wildly popular cafe in the charming Ikseon-dong hanok village, famous for its cloud-like soufflé French toast and steamed milk bread. Housed in a beautifully preserved traditional Korean house, this Instagram-favorite combines heritage architecture with modern dessert culture.
Onjium
A one-Michelin-star restaurant that's both a culinary research institute and fine dining establishment. Chefs Cho Eun-hee and Park Sung-bae reinterpret traditional Korean royal court cuisine with years of heritage research and modern techniques.
Salon Sunra
An elegant Italian restaurant housed in a beautifully renovated hanok along the trendy Seosunra-gil in Jongno. Famous for its pollack roe pasta and sophisticated wine selection, Salon Sunra combines Western cuisine with traditional Korean architecture, creating a unique dining atmosphere perfect for special occasions and romantic dinners.
Ssamziegil
A unique spiral-shaped art mall in Insadong with traditional crafts, handmade goods, and artisan workshops.
Suyeonsanbang (수연산방)
A historic traditional Korean tea house nestled in the hills of Seongbuk-dong, housed in the former residence of renowned writer Lee Tae-jun (pen name Sang-heo). Since 1998, this serene hanok has served as a gathering place for those seeking respite from the city's bustle.
Tongin Market
A historic traditional market near Gyeongbokgung Palace, famous for its unique "Dosirak Café" experience where visitors can create their own Korean lunchbox. Established in 1941, this market offers an authentic glimpse into local Seoul life with over 75 vendors selling fresh produce, Korean street food, and traditional snacks.
Tips
Explore the alleyways where locals go. You can find hidden restaurants and cafes!