Step into Ilseonsa Temple, a timeless sanctuary tucked into a quiet hillside, where eaves soar like eagle wings and incense curls tell stories older than words. The solemn Buddha statue watches with gentle eyes, while moss blankets the stone steps, whispering secrets of centuries. Whether you’re seeking peace or chasing that perfect shot, this sacred space delivers—one breath of incense, one moment of stillness, is worth more than a thousand words.




















Everything you need to know about Ilseonsa
Stay at Gwangjang-dong Boutique Hotel, just a 5-minute walk from Ilseonsa Temple, blending traditional Korean architecture with modern minimalist design. Rooms feature zen-inspired courtyard views and include complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions. The hotel offers exclusive Korean tea ceremony experiences and morning meditation sessions, immersing guests in Seoul’s spiritual heritage. Nearby hidden hanok restaurants serve authentic dishes like Busan seafood stew and stone-bowl bibimbap, making it an ideal base for cultural exploration.
Take Seoul Subway Line 2 to Gwangjang Market Station, then walk 8 minutes to Ilseonsa Temple—this route passes through Myeongdong and Namdaemun, offering excellent connectivity. Several bus lines (e.g., 101, 102) also stop directly outside the temple, featuring ramp access and audio guide systems for elderly and international visitors. For taxis, simply input "Ilseonsa Temple" into your GPS—ride time is about 15 minutes, costing roughly KRW 30,000.
Near Ilseonsa Temple, enjoy hands-on Korean calligraphy workshops, traditional hanbok photo sessions, and monk-led morning meditation—all offered within the temple grounds or affiliated studios. Don’t miss the Night Lantern Walk, held every Saturday evening, where visitors stroll along stone paths illuminated by century-old tree-lit art installations, creating a serene, poetic atmosphere. Nearby, Gwangjang Market opens daily at dawn, serving fresh Korean pancake and chicken soup noodles, offering a vibrant taste of local life.
Yes, Gwangjang-dong Boutique Hotel offers spacious family rooms with child-safe railings, cribs, and a dedicated kids’ activity lounge hosting interactive Korean folk song sessions and paper craft workshops. The hotel features wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and 24-hour front desk support, ensuring comfort for seniors and young children. Nearby, a children’s museum and green park trails provide safe outdoor play areas. All rooms include soundproof windows and air purifiers for optimal sleep quality.
Absolutely! The millennium ginkgo avenue in front of Ilseonsa Temple is a must-photograph site—golden leaves in autumn create a stunning natural tunnel. The temple’s bell tower and wooden hall showcase perfect symmetry, complemented by traditional courtyards and moss-covered walls, ideal for cultural photography. Nearby, street art murals on Gwangjang Market’s exterior walls and lantern-lit alleyways attract photographers seeking unique backdrops. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture softer light. Some shops offer hanbok rental services, allowing you to pose as a historical figure amid authentic heritage settings.
Start with a Korean breakfast at Gwangjang Market—try rice cakes and tofu soup. Then visit Ilseonsa Temple for morning meditation and calligraphy class. Lunch at a nearby hanok restaurant with a Korean beef set meal. In the afternoon, explore the heritage craft market for handmade ceramics and incense pouches. End the day at the hotel’s courtyard teahouse, sipping green tea while watching the sunset silhouette of the ancient temple. All activities are walkable, with seamless transit options, offering a deep immersion in Seoul’s historical charm and mindful living.
See what other travelers say about Ilseonsa

The hotel exceeded my expectations—spotlessly clean, cozy, and warmly welcoming from the moment I walked in. The room was immaculate, with a serene atmosphere that made me feel instantly at home. Located just minutes from subway access, it’s super convenient for exploring Seoul’s highlights. The staff were attentive and friendly, adding to the overall excellent experience. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

The stay was absolutely excellent! The room was immaculately clean, and the shower was one of the best I've experienced—strong water pressure and great temperature control. Everything about the hotel felt thoughtfully designed for comfort and convenience. Located just a short walk from subway access, it’s easy to explore Seoul’s main attractions without hassle. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall value for money is outstanding. I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Seoul—truly a top-tier experience!

The facilities and location were excellent—very convenient for getting around Seoul. The only minor downside was being asked to check out by 11:00 AM, even though the checkout time listed was 12:00 PM. It felt a bit rushed, especially if you had a late morning plan. Still, the overall experience was fantastic, with great value for money. I’d definitely stay here again.

I stayed at this hotel and was genuinely impressed! The place was spotlessly clean, and the room was cozy and comfortable. The staff—especially the aunt and her daughter—were incredibly friendly and helpful. They even arranged a taxi for me before I left, which made my departure so much easier. They also provided thoughtful amenities like makeup remover wipes and other essentials, so I didn’t have to pack extra things. It’s clear they care about guest comfort. Overall, the value for money is outstanding. If you're visiting Seoul, I highly recommend this place—it’s a hidden gem!

The room was compact but perfectly functional with all the essentials I needed. What stood out most was the peaceful location—super quiet, which made it ideal for a restful stay away from city noise. While there aren’t many restaurants or nightlife options nearby, that’s actually part of the charm if you’re looking to unwind. The area feels like a hidden gem, offering calm and comfort without the hustle. Plus, getting around via subway is easy, so I could explore Seoul without hassle. Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers who value tranquility and practicality over buzz and convenience.

The room was absolutely fantastic—spacious, clean, and beautifully designed with a perfect balance of modern style and comfort. The bed was just right: not too soft, not too firm, making for a restful night's sleep. The bathroom was a real highlight, featuring high-quality fixtures, strong water pressure, and excellent amenities. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches that made the stay feel special. Location-wise, it's incredibly convenient—just a short subway ride away from major attractions and surrounded by great restaurants and local street food options. Everything you'd want within easy reach. With such a great experience and unbeatable value, I’m definitely coming back. Highly recommend!

The price was surprisingly affordable, and after checking in, I realized the check-in time was 10 AM. Since I arrived early, I asked about the possibility of an earlier entry—no problem! With a small additional fee, I was able to get into my room right away. The whole process was smooth and friendly. What stood out most was how great the value really is: clean rooms, modern facilities, excellent staff service, and a well-thought-out layout despite the compact size. I’ve seen some negative reviews from other travelers, but honestly, it’s not fair to generalize—most guests are respectful and appreciate good service. I didn’t get many photos, but the actual place looks even better than the pictures online. If you're looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality stay in central Seoul with easy subway access, this hotel is absolutely worth considering. A real hidden gem!

I really appreciated the quiet and peaceful location of this hotel—perfect for unwinding after a busy day. The spacious parking area was a huge plus, especially since I arrived by car. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making me feel welcome from the moment I checked in. It's clear they take pride in their service. Overall, it's a fantastic choice if you're looking for a serene stay in Seoul with excellent value.

Staying at this traditional hanok was an absolute delight. The cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived. What truly stood out was the breakfast—fresh, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared with local flavors that gave us a perfect start to the day. The location is excellent, just a short walk from major attractions and easily accessible by subway. It’s clear that attention to detail goes into every aspect of the experience. Highly recommend this gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in authentic Korean culture while enjoying comfort and charm. Will definitely be back.

I booked this place thinking it was a hotel, but upon arrival I realized it was more like a motel with private room rentals—way below what I expected. I reached out to the platform's customer service to cancel my reservation and was told it had been successfully canceled, so I moved to another accommodation. Later, when checking my email, I discovered the booking was never actually canceled. I lost my money and felt completely misled. Extremely disappointing and not worth it at all.

Staying at Mia Gallery was a delightful experience from start to finish. The location is excellent—just a short walk from major attractions and surrounded by great dining options. The hotel itself feels like a peaceful art haven, with tasteful decor and a serene atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer. The room was spotless, spacious, and thoughtfully designed with artistic touches throughout. Staff were warm and helpful, making check-in smooth and welcoming. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of comfort, style, and value in Seoul. I’d definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

The inn was exceptionally clean and comfortable—truly a great stay! The staff were very helpful and friendly during check-in, making the whole process smooth and welcoming. The location is perfect—right in the heart of Jongno, just steps away from subway stations and major attractions. It’s so convenient for exploring Seoul. I’d absolutely come back again and highly recommend this place to anyone visiting. A real gem with excellent value!
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