[2024 Seoul Attraction] Travel Guide for Insa-dong (Updated Nov)
No.17 of Best Things to Do in Seoul
Featured Neighborhoods
Address:
Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Opening times:
Open today at 10:00-22:30Opening Soon
Recommended sightseeing time:
2-3 hours
Phone:
+82-2-7340222
Insadong is a hidden gem.
Insadong Street is an interesting street not far from the main palace of Gyeongbokgung. Mostly pedestrianized, it features many unique cafes, bars, small shops, and tea houses, creating an eclectic and relaxed atmosphere.
It's perfect for a leisurely stroll along the beautiful tree-lined streets. There are many alleys filled with restaurants that require time to explore. We enjoyed walking down this street and chatting with the locals. I recommend exploring the small side streets. That's where you'll find the best restaurants and shops.
Alyssa Keir
Must-visit place in Seoul, Insa-dong
Insadong is a complex cultural space where you can enjoy everything such as art, shopping, and korean food.
It’s good to take a walk on a nice day, because the old road and the new building balance.
You can see various styles of souvenirs in antique shops, and there are many museums, galleries, cafes, and restaurants nearby.
Eat delicious food, take a walk on the antique road, visit traditional event, so you can enjoy Korea properly.
On November 25, 2023, the K-tiful Day event, will be held on Dohwaseogil D1(18, Yulgok-ro, Jongno-gu) near Anguk Station to enjoy Korea’s Christmas.
You can see an exhibition of five intangible cultural heritage. And the Korean mask dance performance, which can only be seen in Andong, can also be seen in Seoul on this day only.
#koreatravel #seoul #seoultrip #mustvisit #ktiful
#falltrip#mytravelhacks
_TI***qp
Insa Dong 🇰🇷 Korea
#seoultrip
Insa Dong was one of my favorite spots when touring Seoul and I'd high reccomend this lovely district that is an awesome hub of art, food and shopping.
There is a balance between the old and new here, with old lanes and new contemporary buildings.
The shops here offer genuine variety of goods and styles, there are even little markets inside the older courtyards too.
The array if dishes were exactly as we had hoped with all the Korean BBQ small places. Pork belly, pork neck, kimchi, meat pancakes, pink salt, mustard seeds, wasabi and so much more.
Insa Dong is a must visit, especially for a good day time lunch restaurant
Ginge5
Lots of photo spots!
If you go to Insa-dong, you'll find an umbrella street, so I recommend taking photos there! Korean idols take photos there too! (ikon .dk)
When you walk around the street, you'll find many stylish cafes, and among them is a kalguksu restaurant with a retro feel! !!
The texture is like thin udon noodles and it was delicious!
#breathtakingview #summertrip #gourmetfood #overseastravel
あいぴ
Insa-dong walking street. the range of products here varies from tea ware to clothes and modern art. Many youngsters visit this area during evening as there is one Art centre where they displays nice artworks . the street is wide hence strolling there one doesn’t feel that it’s too packed.
Annqiqi
Insadong Shopping Street at Night Time
This street is located in Insadong, Jongro-gu, Seoul, South Korea. It has boutique galleries and street vendors selling traditional Korean snacks. You can also find shops here selling souvenirs.
This street is abundance of wooden tea houses (nearly 40), boutique galleries and street vendors offering traditional Korean snacks makes Insa-dong street in Seoul a true magnet for visitors of the Korean capital. Alongside the free entertainment the area is famous for, Insa-dong is also one of the key destinations in the city for buying traditional Korean art, products and souvenirs, such as hanbok (traditional clothing), hanji (traditional paper), traditional teas, pottery, and folk crafts.
There is a plethora of antique shops (more than 50), art galleries (80+), traditional stationery shops, handicraft shops, pottery and porcelain shops, bookstores, and art supply stores. On top of that, there are almost 100 restaurants specialized in traditional Korean cuisine. With such a variety on offer, one is really bound to be spoilt for choice here.
#fallingforfall
#tripblazers
#urbanexplorer
Destination
Insa-dong What To Eat
Insa-dong is one of the best places in Seoul to try street foods. Highly recommended to eat Naengmyeon (Korean cold buckwheat noodles), mandu (dumplings), grilled pork on a stick, pancakes, and waffle ice cream. There are many variations of Mandu. Depending on the filling ingredients, they are called gogi mandu (meat as the main ingredient in the filling), yachae mandu (vegetables), saewu mandu (shrimp), kimchi mandu, and so on. Interestingly, Koreans not only eat cold noodles in summer but also during autumn and winter. You will also see many people eating and walking with an interestingly shaped corn cookie snack that is filled with soft vanilla ice cream. Taste so so only, you may try for fun.
Avg. Price Per Person: SGD5-10
Rating: 5/5
FlyingNoodles
Insa-dong Must Eat Hotteok!
Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes) is a popular Korean street food made from a simple yeast dough with a sweet syrupy filling made with brown sugar, cinnamon and walnuts. They were introduced by Chinese immigrants in the early 1900s in Korea. It is a must to eat Hotteok in Insa-dong. The outside was crispy and the inside was soft and fluffy, and had a special fragrance. It was so delicious! This tasty snack is great to have on a cold day. The stall is easy to spot on Insadong-gil at Insadong 4-gil. It is usually crowded with people waiting patiently in line. The hotteok cost only 1,000 won or SGD1.
Rating: 5/5
FlyingNoodles
853
Korean Grilled Barbeque Restaurant located in 16 Insadong 12-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
Pork grilled freshly in front of you. Very well cooked meat, so soft but crunchy without scorching and tastes like beefsteak.
#fallingforfall
Destination
#fallingforfall
From the land of Blackpink and BTS also their infamous Kimchi and smoky BBQ pork cuisine. There lies a deeper discovery to be unearth within the old district of Insadong. Their 21st Century Seoul style Hanok are an ingenious exemplars of the continual evolution result of outside cultural influences. Adapting the natural and cultural environment of the urban and complimenting the changing modern lifestyle. Designed to offer greater versatility and complexity to perform a wide variety of functions. The modern Seoul Hanok stills holds true to the collective, multifunctional and communal focus value but the ingenuity evolution has infused greater creativity, diversity and three dimensionality whilst retaining its cultural identity. Highly recommend the experience.
_TS***b6
Ddongbbang is really famous in Insadong! If you visit there, make sure to try this cute snack 💕 It is called Ddongbbang because it is shaped like poop, but don’t worry, the taste is not the same 😂 You can choose different fillings, such as chocolate, red bean, walnuts, etc.
#deliciousfood
#givethanks
traveltheworld
Insadong in Seoul is a unique place filled with many restaurants and cafes. There are many alleys where you can find niche teahouses that are traditional yet modern. This is a good place for shopping and eating! I recommend going to Insadong 🙂
traveltheworld
Insa-dong, located in the heart of the city, is an important place where old but precious and traditional goods are on display. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. Within these alleys are galleries and traditional restaurants, teahouses, and cafes.
#GiveThanks
ICEICEE
Insa-dong (인사동) – Seoul
#koreatrip
Insa-dong is a cultural hotspot where tradition meets modernity. The streets are lined with shops selling handmade crafts, antiques, and traditional Korean teas. It’s a perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs and experience Korea's rich culture. Don’t miss the street performers and local food vendors adding vibrancy to the area.
come and enjoy the vibrations here
Benbenben1995
Discover the Charm of Insadong Street: Art, Culture, and Antiques
#koreatrip A stroll down Insadong Street offers a rich and immersive experience in the heart of Seoul’s cultural scene. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Insadong is a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary Korean culture, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking unique souvenirs.
One of the highlights of Insadong is its art galleries and exhibitions. The street is lined with numerous galleries showcasing a wide range of artworks, from traditional Korean paintings and calligraphy to modern contemporary pieces. Whether you’re a serious art aficionado or a casual viewer, the galleries here provide a fascinating window into Korea’s rich artistic heritage. You’ll often find rotating exhibitions, featuring works from both emerging and established artists, creating a dynamic art scene that draws visitors year-round.
Beyond the art galleries, Insadong is renowned for its antique stores, which offer an eclectic mix of treasures from Korea’s past. These shops are brimming with traditional antiques, including intricately carved wooden furniture, delicate ceramics, vintage Korean scrolls, and unique handicrafts. Whether you're looking for a special keepsake or simply browsing to appreciate the craftsmanship, these stores provide a captivating glimpse into Korea’s cultural history. The antique items are often beautifully displayed, and the store owners are eager to share the stories behind the pieces, adding an educational element to your visit.
In addition to the art and antiques, Insadong is also a great place to enjoy traditional Korean tea, snacks, and street food. The area is filled with cozy teahouses, craft shops, and lively street vendors, making it the perfect spot to experience the vibrant pulse of Korean culture.
Whether you're exploring the galleries, hunting for antiques, or simply soaking in the unique atmosphere, Insadong Street offers a rich cultural experience that showcases the best of traditional and modern Korea.
Xiao Yong Wha
Railway theme Cafe at Isadong, Seoul, South Korea
Happened upon this railway theme cafe. Should try it when you are exploring Isadong.
Vikutaa
Down the street of Seoul 🇰🇷
Insadong 5-gil is a charming street located in the heart of the Insadong district in Seoul, South Korea. Insadong is well-known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant artistic atmosphere, and 5-gil is one of the smaller streets branching off from the main Insadong Street. It’s an area where visitors can experience traditional Korean culture, buy unique souvenirs, and enjoy a variety of shops, galleries, and tea houses.
Insadong 5-gil is a hidden gem within the larger Insadong area, offering visitors an authentic taste of traditional Korean culture. Whether you’re browsing for unique crafts, enjoying a cup of tea in a cozy teahouse, or admiring local artwork, Insadong 5-gil provides a perfect blend of history, art, and culture in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the cultural heart of Seoul.
#seoultrip #100waysoftravel #southkorea
Missionary Traveller
Cultural Treasures Await in Insadong
#koreatrip
Insadong is Seoul’s cultural and artistic hub, where modern and traditional Korea beautifully intersect. Known for its winding streets lined with art galleries, antique shops, tea houses, and traditional crafts, Insadong is perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Korean culture. Visitors can explore shops selling hanbok, ceramics, calligraphy materials, and folk crafts. Insadong also offers a variety of traditional Korean foods and street snacks, making it a must-visit for both art enthusiasts and food lovers. The vibrant, historical atmosphere provides a unique contrast to Seoul’s modernity, making Insadong a cultural oasis for tourists on a #KoreaTrip.
Ramzi&Razan
Insadong: A Cultural Gem in Seoul
Insadong, a vibrant street in Seoul, offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. This pedestrian-friendly destination is a haven for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and shoppers alike.
As you stroll through the narrow alleys lined with traditional Korean houses (hanoks), you'll be immersed in a world of cultural treasures. The street is home to numerous art galleries showcasing a diverse range of Korean and international works, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and calligraphy. For those seeking unique souvenirs, Insadong offers a plethora of shops selling handcrafted items, traditional tea sets, and antique collectibles.
Beyond the arts and shopping, Insadong is also a foodie's paradise. Sample delicious Korean cuisine at cozy teahouses, where you can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes while sipping aromatic tea. Don't miss the opportunity to try street food delicacies like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and gyeran-ppang (egg bread).
We stumbled upon YeoJaMan and had a unique experience where we had a huge traditional meal Korean meal with plenty of hearty and healthy food. The restaurant also had plenty of locals, it was really good!
📍Address: YeoJaMan, 24-2 Insadong 14-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
📍Address: 사람과나무, 5 Insadong 6-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
Whether you're looking to explore Korean culture, indulge in retail therapy, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Insadong is a must-visit destination in Seoul. Its charming atmosphere and rich heritage make it a truly unforgettable experience.
We recommend to stay at the AMID Hotel which is just a 2 minute walk away from the bustling Insadong Street and it’s also very close to other attractions such as Myeongdong and Gyeongbukgung Palace.
📍Address: AMID Hotel Seoul, 38 Insadong 5-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea
💰Average Price per Person: £68.50
#traveldiaries #historicallandmarks #insadong #deliciousfood #seoul #southkorea
czee the world
Culture and Craftsmanship
#travellerswonderland
Insadong is the cultural heart of Seoul, filled with galleries, traditional tea houses, and shops selling crafts, antiques, and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to explore Korean art and culture, from calligraphy to pottery. The area also has many traditional restaurants serving delicious Korean meals.
Tips:
• What to Bring: Extra space in your bag for handmade crafts and unique souvenirs.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds or weekends for street performances and festivals.
• Don’t Miss: Stop by a traditional tea house for an authentic Korean tea experience.
RamziRazan
Check out the cultural and food market in Seoul, South Korea.
🏨 Seoul | Insa-dong
📍Address: 62 Insa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
🚉Transportation: Take subway to Anguk Station and exit from Exit 5 or 6.
❤Why we recommend it:
Located near the City Hall and Gyeongbokgung Palace, a local friend took us to a famous business district nearby - Insa-dong, which is also a filming location for Korean movies and dramas.
🌟Highlights:
Established during the Joseon Dynasty, it is a cultural street mainly used for buying and selling cultural goods; during the Joseon Dynasty, it was a place where government offices and private houses were concentrated; it is called "a place where you can buy Korean culture" in travel books, and it has now become a big business district where young people love to visit.
The weather was very good during the day, and the tall trees on both sides of the road and the blue sky made people feel good. The most famous is the "Ssamziegil" in the People's Square, which is very different in style. The stairs leading to the terrace are full of murals!
Different from Myeong-dong, although it is the atmosphere of the old city, it is full of various creative markets and new-style restaurants. Renting a set of Hanbok can take many beautiful photos here;
👍Most recommended:
There are many local shops with special features in this area. If you stroll slowly, you can find a lot of things with cultural heritage: such as vinyl records, etc., and there are many boutique galleries, and some exhibitions will be held from time to time;
Tourists can choose to buy souvenirs from handicrafts and handmade shops. Each small shop is arranged very warmly by the owner. Friends who like to buy these gadgets can't walk anymore.
🍽Recommended food:
Tea ceremony: One of the famous tea cultures in South Korea
Red bean porridge: The famous "Benjuk" can be tried
Café: There are many Korean wave MVs or Korean drama shooting locations in this area
There are many authentic Korean restaurants here that are not famous but delicious. They are all brought by local friends. The most traditional culture is preserved here, so many restaurants only have Korean, even Starbucks.
📝Tips:
The price of restaurants and cafes is cheaper than Myeong-dong, and some famous ones are more petty bourgeoisie, open 24 hours.
RHETT BARNETT
"Ssamziegil Mall: Discover Art, Crafts, and Culture in Insadong's Unique Shopping Destination"
#myhiddengems
Ssamziegil Mall, located in Insadong, Seoul, is a unique shopping and cultural complex known for its creative design and vibrant atmosphere. The mall features a spiral layout with various levels of artisanal shops, galleries, and craft stores, showcasing traditional Korean crafts, art, and souvenirs. Visitors can explore a diverse range of products, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and paintings, while enjoying the mall's distinctive architecture and charming interior. Ssamziegil also hosts cultural events and workshops, making it a lively destination for those seeking to experience Seoul's artistic and traditional side.
Sad Bear
My dearest Seoul!
#100WaysOfTravel
Seoul is my dream city, and always will be.
We had 5D4N trip to Seoul in this year Jun and it was my first ever trip to S.Korea, it was truly magical. It can be considered a very short trip but it was truly memorable experience.
We stayed in Myeong-dong which is obviously crowded with many tourists, but why not. It’s a shopping paradise and really accessible to every places that we wanted to visit. We only took bus to get around the city except for that 2 hrs to and from train trip(Line 1) to Suwon just to visit the absolutely mind-blowing Starfield library. We also visited another Starfield library located in Coex Mall, but the ones in Suwon is worth visiting if you don’t mind quite a long journey to and from Seoul.
Getting around by bus in Seoul is very convenient and pretty easy even for the first timers like us. NAVER Map apps is really a life saving if you are traveling to Korea.
If you are going for the first time, hope you can consider to visit below places when you are in Seoul.
📍Gyeongbokgung Palace - for hanbok experience
📍Bukchon Hanok Village - charming traditional village
📍Seoul Tower - undeniable landmark icon of Seoul
📍Insa-dong - cultural and artistic hubs of Seoul
📍Hongdae - for youngsters
📍Myeongdong - shopping paradise, night market
📍Ikseon-dong - cafe hopping
📍Gwangjang Market - popular traditional market
📍Suwon Starfield Library - absolutely beautiful
📍Yonsei University - kdrama vibe, it’s really worth visiting
📍Sunset at Han River - it’s a must while you are in Seoul, Eating Ramen by the Han River is one of the best experiences.
There’re so many places I’ve yet to visit in Seoul and hopping I can visit there again very soon.
Joy_M
Insadong Beef Restaurant Pyongyang Meat House
Insadong Beef Restaurant Pyongyang Meat House
198-32, Gwanhun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 2nd Floor
Open daily 11:00-23:00 / Open year-round
Hanwoo 1++ Fresh Meat Assortment 42,000 KRW / Cold Noodles 10,000 KRW / Fried Rice 6,000 KRW
Top-grade 2++ Hanwoo and domestic pork with juicy and flavorful meat, a must-visit beef restaurant in Insadong. Don't miss the cold noodles made with buckwheat noodles and Hanwoo broth.
워니라이프
🇰🇷 Exploring Insadong on Foot
Insadong is a vibrant neighbourhood located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, traditional crafts, art galleries, tea houses, and street food stalls. Insadong is easily accessible by subway. The closest subway station to Insadong is Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 6). From Anguk Station, it's just a short walk to the main area of Insadong. The area is easily navigated on foot due to its pedestrian-friendly streets, and many of its attractions, shops, and eateries are within walking distance of each other. It is a hub for traditional Korean arts and crafts. You'll find a wide range of shops selling pottery, ceramics, handmade paper (hanji), traditional Korean fans (bukchae), and other artisanal products.
#cherryblossom2024 #korea #southkorea #seoul #insadong #tripblazers
mushroom055
BrickSand Cafe Annyeong Insa-dong Branch
BrickSand Cafe Annyeong Insa-dong Branch
49 Insadong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 1st Floor M Floor
Open daily from 10:00 to 20:30 / Open all year round
BrickSand from 2,000 KRW / Signature Chocolate 7,000 KRW / Abara 6,000 KRW
Soft and healthy desserts that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, freshly baked and sold every morning
워니라이프
Korea's Insadong
It is said that Insadong was established during the Joseon Dynasty, and during the Joseon Dynasty, it was an area dense with government offices and private residences of the nobility. However, now it primarily sells cultural goods (Hanbok, crafts, ceramics, souvenirs, etc.), has a strong commercial atmosphere, and is a vibrant and youthful street. Around Everyone Square, there are many small shops, restaurants, and many restaurants worth checking in. There are also many galleries and handicraft shops here, and the environment of these shops is very well arranged, worth a visit.
ALEXIS MULLINS
Insa-dong in Seoul
#dreamdestination
It's Insa-dong in Seoul. A music complex was held in Insa-dong. There were a lot of people enjoying and it was beautiful. If you come to Seoul, be sure to visit💕💕
littlewang
#dreamdestination
Insadong is a very famous place in Seoul.
There are many restaurants and many parks to take a walk.
Because there are a lot of people in Insa-dong.
You can enjoy your tour more.
I especially recommend this pizza place in Insa-dong. You can eat delicious pizza with lots of toppings.