Discover 20 Best Things To Do in Insadong

Nestled in the heart of Seoul is Insadong, a vibrant neighborhood that's a treasure trove of Korean culture. It's where you'll find a delightful mix of traditional and modern tucked away in alleys and the main thoroughfare.

Your visit to Korea wouldn't be complete without exploring the unique arts, crafts, and eateries that Insadong has to offer. From browsing art galleries to sipping tea in an age-old teahouse, there's an endless array of activities to immerse yourself in the local heritage.

Strolling down Insadong's streets, you'll find yourself mixed in with friendly locals and fellow travelers, all drawn to the infectious energy of this Seoul staple.

Tea Houses and Korean Ceramics

Find solace in a traditional teahouse where you can sample an array of delicate teas. These quiet retreats are perfect for appreciating the intricacies of Korean ceramics, often used to serve your brew.

Hanbok Fitting and Photography

Hours: 9am-6pm, Monday and Wednesday to Sunday

Experience the beauty of Korea's past with a hanbok fitting session. Don't miss the chance to snap a photo with Gyeongbokgung Palace as your backdrop, wearing these exquisite traditional garments.

Address: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Gyeongbokgung Station, Metro Line 3

Hours to Spend: 1-1.5 hours

Temple Stays and Meditation

Yearning for serenity? Partake in a temple stay to learn the art of meditation. This profound experience offers a deeper understanding of Korea's Buddhist traditions and a moment to reflect.

Seasonal Celebrations

You'll love how Insadong comes alive with seasonal festivals. During the Lunar New Year and Thanksgiving (Chuseok), streets fill with traditional games and food stalls. Don't miss the chance to see the neighborhood decked out in its festive best!

Ssamziegil Shopping Complex

Hours: 10:30pm-8:30pm, Monday to Sunday

At Ssamziegil, you're in for a unique shopping experience with its spiral-like structure that houses a variety of shops offering handmade goods and local souvenirs. It's the ideal spot to pick up distinct Korean artifacts such as beautiful hanji items.

From intricate scarves and handkerchiefs to creative trinkets that echo the local charm, Ssamziegil is truly a haven for shoppers seeking artifacts that embody the heart of Seoul.

Address: 44 Insadong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Anguk Station, Metro Line 3, Exit 6

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Antique Shops and Art Galleries

Strolling through the streets of Insadong, you can’t help but be drawn to the numerous antique shops and art galleries. There you'll find a fine selection of antiques and traditional artwork that tell stories of Korea's rich heritage.

Workshops and Art Classes

Ready to get hands-on? Insadong offers plenty of workshops where you can immerse yourself in art classes guided by skilled artists. Whether it's painting, pottery, or calligraphy, you'll find a workshop tailored to your interests.

It's a unique opportunity to learn from local artists and create your own piece of art to showcase at home.

Local Handcrafts and Souvenirs

You'll appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship found in the local handcraft shops scattered around Insadong. Keep an eye out for bangjja, a unique Korean broneware, which could serve as a durable and culturally rich souvenir for your collection.

Contemporary Cultural Experiences

Hours: 10am-10pm, Monday to Sunday

You'll stumble upon the modern heartbeat of Insadong at venues like Annyeong Insadong, a cultural shopping mall filled with an array of contemporary art and crafts. It's a place where authenticity meets modern creativity, truly representing the spirit of modernized Insadong.

Address: 49 Insadong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Anguk Station, Metro Line 3, Exit 6

Hours to Spend: 2-3 hours

Authentic Korean Restaurants

Hours: 8am-3pm and 4:30-9pm, Monday to Sunday

If you're after genuine Korean flavors, Insadong's traditional restaurants have got you covered. Stop by places like Imun Seolnongtang for seolleongtang, a rich and hearty ox-bone soup that's been perfected since 1904.

Address: 38-13 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Jonggak Station, Metro Line 1, Exits 1 and 3

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Unique Cafes and Desserts

Hours: 10:30am-9pm, Monday to Sunday

Don't miss out on Insadong's quirky cafe scene. Get adventurous and visit the famous Poop Cafe where you'll enjoy dessert drinks served in toilet-shaped cups— it's bizzarely charming!

Address: Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Anguk Station, Metro Line 1, Exit 6

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Street Food and Snacks

You'll love the bustling carts and stalls lining the streets, offering everything from spicy tteokbokki to sweet hoddeok. Insadong's Korean street food offerings are a must-try, presenting an array of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Museum Kimchikan and Food Culture

Hours: 10am-6pm, Tuesday to Sunday

Museum Kimchikan is a space where you can learn about Korea's iconic dish, kimchi. Discover its history, varieties, and cultural significance, making your visit to Insadong not just enlightening but truly flavorful.

Address: 35-4 Insadong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Jonggak Station, Metro Line 1, Exit 3

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Kyung-In Museum of Fine Art

Hours: 10am-6pm, Monday and Wednesday to Sunday

At the Kyung-In Museum of Fine Art, you're invited to engage with traditional and contemporary Korean fine art. This tranquil setting seamlessly intertwines art with the natural beauty of its garden courtyards.

Address: 11-4 Insadong 10-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Anguk Station, Metro Line 3, Exit 6

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Alive Museum and Dynamic Maze

Hours: 11am-6pm, Monday to Sunday (Alive Museum and Dynamic Maze)

Alive Museum injects fun into art with its interactive 3D exhibits. Next, challenge yourself in the Dynamic Maze, an adventurous twist that tests your wits and agility amidst captivating installations.

Address: B1, B2 Main Branch, Gwanhun-Dong, 12 Insadong-Gil, Jongro-Gu, Seoul, South Korea (Alive Museum)

43 Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea (Dynamic Maze)

Closest Metro: Jonggak Station, Metro Line 1, Exit 3 (Alive Museum)

Jonggak Station, Metro Line 1, Exits 1 and 5 (Dynamic Museum)

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Jogyesa Buddhist Temple

Hours: 9am-6pm, Daily from November to March; 9am-7pm, Daily from April to October

At the heart of Seoul's Buddhist practice is Jogyesa Temple, a sanctuary of calm amidst the urban hustle. It's the main temple of Korean Zen Buddhism, where you'll find beautiful lotus lanterns and a vibrant atmosphere during Buddhist festivals.

Address: 55 Ujeongguk-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Jonggak Station, Metro Line 1, Exit 2

Hours to Spend: 1.5-2 hours

Tapgol Park and Its Significance

Hours: 6am-8pm, Monday to Sunday

Tapgol Park, historically known as Pagoda Park, is your go-to to witness a significant piece of Korean Buddhism— the impressive ten-story stone pagoda. This site marks the birthplace of the Korean independence movement, infusing deep historical value into your visit.

Address: 99 Jongno, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Jongno 3-ga Station, Metro Lines 1,3, and 5, Exit 1

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Bukchon Hanok Village

Hours: 10am-5pm, Monday to Saturday

Stroll through the picturesque Bukchon Hanok Village, a living museum where you can wander among traditional Korean houses known as hanoks. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time among these beautifully preserved structures.

Address: Gyedong-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Anguk Station, Metro Line 3

Hours to Spend: 1-2 hours

Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty

Hours: 9am-5pm, Tuesday to Sunday

Don't miss the nearby palaces of the Joseon Dynasty. Both Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a glimpse into the opulent past with their grand architecture and stunning gardens.

Address: 99 Yulgok-ro, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea

Closest Metro: Jongno 3-ga Station, Metro Lines 1, 3, 5

Hours to Spend: 2-3.5 hours

Nami Island Day Trip

Hours: 8am-9pm, Monday to Sunday

For a nature escape, consider a day trip to Nami Island. It's a bit further afield but offers a tranquil retreat with its tree-lined paths and scenic views—perfect for a day's adventure outside the city hustle.

Address: 1 Namiseom-gil, Namsan-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea

Closest Metro: Jonggak Station (near Insadong) to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Metro Line 4

Hours to Spend: 2-3 hours

Getting Around Insadong

Insadong's compact nature means it's easy to explore on foot. If you're venturing further, the subway is your best bet; grab a T-money card for convenience. You can also hop on the Seoul City Tour Bus for a guided introduction to the city.

Accommodation Tips

For a fuss-free stay, consider the Nine Tree Premier Hotel Insadong, known for its central location and service. Book early to snag a deal, and don’t shy away from smaller guesthouses if you’re after a more immersive experience.

Utilizing the Discover Seoul Pass

Your sightseeing can be both efficient and economical with the Discover Seoul Pass. It offers free entry to numerous attractions and is also your ticket to unlimited rides on the public bus system. It's an investment that pays off if you’re here to explore.