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4.5-Rated Hotels Near Ilseonsa
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.
Anto (formerly: Parasara Seoul)
Looking for a getaway paradise away from the hustle and bustle of the city? This hotel is your perfect choice! Nestled at the foot of Bukhansan Mountain, just 40 minutes from Gangnam, it offers both convenience and tranquility. The hotel boasts top-notch facilities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and sauna, ensuring you can relax anytime. Whether you're planning a wedding, business meeting, or a family trip, this place has it all. With its 2024上榜酒店 recognition and a high rating of 4.5, quality is guaranteed!
Mayplace Hotel
Friendly DH Naissance Hotel by Mindrum Group
Hotel Classy
Glue Hotel Dongdaemun
Top Hotel & Residence
Hotel DM
Simsanjae Boutique Hanok Stay
Inwoo Guesthouse
Amass Hotel Insadong Seoul
达达酒店仁寺洞
Hotel Junoh (Jongno Hotel Juno)
Bukchonae
Go Woon Dang Hanok Guest House
Dongbo Motel of Korea University
Dobong (Banghakdong) Sarangbang
Mini Hotel Insa
Goodstay Saewha Hostel
Aank Hotel Cheongnyangni
Dobong Sehwa
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about Ilseonsa
Mayplace Hotel
This was my first stay at Mayplace Hotel, and I was genuinely impressed. The room was clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed—perfect for a relaxing getaway. The staff were welcoming and helpful, making the whole experience smooth and pleasant. While the nearest subway station is a bit of a walk away, it’s not a major issue considering how quiet and convenient the neighborhood is. Public transport access to major attractions is still good, and there are plenty of nearby dining and shopping options. Overall, the value for money is excellent, and I’d definitely come back. I’ve already recommended it to friends and family—this place truly stands out.
Friendly DH Naissance Hotel by Mindrum Group
Staying at Friendly DH Naissance Hotel was an absolute delight! Located just steps from the Seongnyeonsuhak Station on University Road, it’s incredibly convenient for getting around Seoul. The neighborhood is vibrant and student-friendly, with countless cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores right outside the door—perfect for grabbing a quick bite or coffee anytime. The hotel itself is spotless, well-maintained, and offers excellent amenities. What really stood out? The bathroom features a built-in massage bathtub—a real luxury after a long day of exploring. It made my stay so much more relaxing and enjoyable. Clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, this place delivers incredible value. I’d definitely book again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul.
Glue Hotel Dongdaemun
I absolutely loved staying at Glue Hotel Dongdaemun! The staff were incredibly polite and attentive from check-in to check-out. The room was spotless and well-maintained—every detail felt thoughtfully designed. I stayed for a few nights, and they even replaced the towels, bed linens, and glasses each time, which made me feel really comfortable and cared for. There were plenty of power outlets, so charging my devices was never an issue. The in-room TV was a big plus—streaming YouTube and Netflix made my downtime super enjoyable. The bathroom was clean, modern, and well-kept. Best part? The location is unbeatable. I walked to Gwangjang Market in under 20 minutes, perfect for exploring local food and shopping. If I ever come back to Dongdaemun, this is definitely where I’ll stay again. Highly recommend for travelers who want comfort, convenience, and great value.
Top Hotel & Residence
Staying at this hotel was a highlight of my trip to Seoul. Located just steps away from Ikseondong, the convenience of being surrounded by trendy cafes, local eateries, and vibrant street life made every moment enjoyable. The room is compact, but honestly, that’s a small price to pay for such an unbeatable location. The staff were friendly and attentive, the space felt clean and well-maintained, and the overall experience was exceptional. I’d absolutely stay here again—perfect for travelers who value location, charm, and a cozy urban vibe.
Hotel DM
Hotel DM is an absolute gem in Seoul! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the subway and airport shuttle, making travel to and from the city a breeze. What really stood out was the front desk staff who spoke fluent Chinese—when I said "Hello," their surprised yet welcoming reaction made me feel instantly at home. We arrived around 2:00 PM, and since our room was already cleaned, they offered us a free early check-in without hesitation. The room itself was spotless, spacious, and thoughtfully equipped with three-prong outlets that worked perfectly with my Chinese plug—no need for a travel adapter at all. There's a fridge, modern bathroom fixtures, and everything felt fresh and well-maintained. Located in a quiet residential area, the neighborhood is full of authentic local gems. The famous Dongsan Galbi (the same spot as G-Dragon’s favorite) is right downstairs—seriously delicious. And just steps away, there’s a GS25 convenience store for snacks and drinks. Everything you need is within walking distance. From comfort to convenience, this hotel delivers on every level. I’d definitely stay here again—truly one of the best stays I’ve had in Seoul.
Inwoo Guesthouse
Staying at Inwoo Guesthouse in Jongno was an absolute delight! The owner couldn’t have been more welcoming—gave us a warm greeting upon arrival and took the time to personally walk us through the house, sharing interesting details about its traditional Korean architecture and thoughtful design touches. The atmosphere is authentic yet cozy, blending old-world charm with modern comfort. Located just steps away from subway lines, getting around Seoul was super convenient. This place offers incredible value for money, making it a standout choice among all my recent stays. If you're looking to experience real Seoul culture in a peaceful, well-kept setting, this is the perfect spot. Highly recommend!
达达酒店仁寺洞
Staying at Dada Hotel Ihwa-dong was a great experience, especially thanks to its unbeatable location. Just a 6-minute walk from Exit 5 of Jongno 3-ga Subway Station, it’s only one stop away from major attractions like Myeongdong, Gwanghwamun, and Gyeongbokgung Palace—perfect for exploring the heart of Seoul. The self-check-in and check-out process was smooth and hassle-free. The room itself is compact but spotlessly clean, and considering the price point, it’s a fair trade-off. One minor downside is the sound insulation—occasionally you can hear luggage wheels rolling in the hallway, but it’s not disruptive. Conveniently, there are two convenience stores (GS25 and 7-Eleven) right nearby, making late-night snacks or essentials easy to grab. Overall, this hotel offers excellent value and a comfortable stay in a prime area.
Hotel Junoh (Jongno Hotel Juno)
Staying at Hotel Junoh in Jongno was an absolutely fantastic experience. The price was incredibly reasonable for the quality and location, and the staff went above and beyond—especially helping us carry our luggage, which made our arrival so much smoother. The room was clean, well-maintained, and had everything we needed. Being centrally located, it’s just a short walk from major attractions and public transit. I truly appreciated the warm, personal service and attention to detail. This stay exceeded my expectations, and I’ll definitely choose this hotel again on my next trip to Seoul. Highly recommend!
Bukchonae
Staying at Bukchonae was a delightful experience overall. The location is fantastic—right in the heart of Seoul’s traditional neighborhood, making it super convenient for exploring nearby cultural spots. The room is compact but well-organized and spotlessly clean, which really stands out. The bathroom has a slightly cramped shower area, so it’s not ideal for long stays or if you’re sensitive to tight spaces. However, the cleanliness and maintenance are excellent—everything feels fresh and well cared for. The owners are genuinely warm and welcoming, offering helpful tips on local eats and hidden gems around the area. It’s perfect for a short getaway or a night or two while soaking in the charm of old Seoul. While I wouldn’t recommend it for extended stays due to the size, for a quick visit, it’s a great value with a cozy, authentic vibe.
Dongbo Motel of Korea University
I’d stayed here briefly before during a home renovation, and I remembered it being quite satisfactory. So when I returned this time, I wasn’t disappointed. The location is still excellent—super convenient for getting to Korea University, and even though it’s self-service, the staff were friendly and helpful. The price is reasonable, and overall, the experience was great. It’s clean, comfortable, and offers solid value for money. Definitely going to come back again.
Mini Hotel Insa
I ended up booking this hotel by chance, mainly because of its great location. Turns out it was an excellent choice! Situated right in the heart of Insadong, just a short walk from Seoul's top attractions. The hotel is only 200 meters from the airport shuttle stop and literally steps away from the subway station—super convenient for getting around. The room was spotless and quiet, making it a peaceful retreat after a long day. The staff were incredibly welcoming and spoke fluent English with no trouble at all. For my next visit to Seoul, I’ll definitely choose this hotel again!
Goodstay Saewha Hostel
This hostel is absolutely fantastic and perfectly located in Seoul. Just a 2-minute walk to Insadong, where you'll find charming hanok-style cafes and boutique shops tucked into traditional houses. It's only a 7-minute stroll to Changdeokgung Palace—perfect for exploring the city's historic heart. Public transportation is super convenient: both bus stops and subway stations are within a 5-minute walk. Inside the hostel, you get free access to a washer, dryer, microwave, kettle, and even a massage chair—how cool is that? The room comes with air conditioning, TV, hairdryer, toiletries (shampoo, soap, body wash), toothbrush, and toothpaste. Both bedroom and bathroom windows have mosquito nets for peace of mind. Need an umbrella? They’ve got one available at reception. Right by the front desk, there’s a water dispenser with hot and cold options, plus complimentary tea and coffee—ideal for a quick pick-me-up. Entry to the building uses a key card, while individual rooms use physical keys—great balance of security and convenience. Everything about this place feels thoughtfully designed, from the location to the amenities. Highly recommend it for travelers who want comfort, value, and authenticity.
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