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4.8-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.
JTS Tailored Service Studio near Hyehwa Station
Tong Tong Petit Hotel
Brooklyn Blues Hotel
Hostel Tommy
ONU STAY Ikseon
LUMIA HOTEL JONGNO – Mood Hotel (Korean Café Style), Clean·Safe·Friendly
Dajayon Hanok Stay
Eunpyeong Y Hotel
Hans House
Haemil Hanok Guesthouse
Hanok Hotel Daam
C.U. Bnb Guest House - Hostel
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
Tong Tong Petit Hotel
Tongtong Petit Hotel is an absolute gem—cozy, charming, and perfectly located right near Ikseondong Hanok Street, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Gwangjang Market. At night, the lively Pocha Street (with its street-side bar tents) comes alive just a 2-minute walk away, offering endless food options. The Jongno 3-ga Station is only a 4-minute stroll, making public transit super convenient. The room was exactly as shown in the photos—small but thoughtfully designed, spotless, and even came with a back massager, which was a delightful surprise. I especially loved having a cozy café on the ground floor for my morning coffee fix. Perfect for solo travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a genuine local vibe. A standout stay in Seoul!
Hostel Tommy
Stayed here with my friend in a private two-bed room, and it was absolutely fantastic! The air conditioning worked perfectly, the room was spotless, and the beds were super comfortable. I was pleasantly surprised to find a mini fridge included—such a nice touch for storing drinks or snacks. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with anything we needed. But honestly, the top reason to stay here is the location. Right next to a metro station, you're just steps away from amazing local eateries, bustling streets, and everything the city has to offer. It’s such a convenient and vibrant area. If you’re looking for a cozy, well-maintained hostel with great service and unbeatable access, this is the place. Would definitely come back and recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul.
LUMIA HOTEL JONGNO – Mood Hotel (Korean Café Style), Clean·Safe·Friendly
The room was immaculate and incredibly clean—right from the moment we stepped in, it felt like a cozy retreat. Just steps away from the hotel, both left and right lead to subway stations within a 6-minute walk, making city exploration super convenient. The lobby café offers free juice refills—perfect for a refreshing start to the day. If you're craving ramen, it's available for 4,000 KRW, which is fair for the quality. What made our stay truly special? We were lucky enough to experience Seoul’s first snowfall during our visit—such a magical moment! The hotel even placed a thoughtful “Caution: Slippery Floor” sign at the entrance, showing how much care they put into guest safety and comfort. It’s clear this place values cleanliness, security, and a friendly atmosphere. A standout stay with a warm, welcoming vibe—highly recommend for anyone visiting Seoul.
Dajayon Hanok Stay
Staying at Dajayon Hanok Stay was a delightful experience overall. The room itself was wonderfully warm and cozy, especially during the colder weather—perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring Seoul. That said, the bathroom and kitchen were quite chilly, so bring extra layers if you're sensitive to cold. We were given one full-size mattress instead of two separate ones, which worked fine for us but might be something to consider if you prefer individual beds. What really stood out was the hosts—they were incredibly kind, welcoming, and made us feel right at home. The traditional hanok structure is well-maintained, with authentic charm and character throughout. Despite the minor drawbacks, the warmth of the staff and the peaceful atmosphere made this stay memorable. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic, quiet retreat in central Seoul.
Eunpyeong Y Hotel
I absolutely loved my stay at Eunpyeong Y Hotel—seriously one of the best experiences I’ve had in Seoul. The room was immaculately clean, and the bedding was so comfortable that I slept like a baby. Staff were genuinely friendly and attentive, making me feel welcome from the moment I arrived. The location is quiet and peaceful, perfect for unwinding after a busy day, though it’s a bit away from the main shopping areas if you’re looking for nightlife. That said, it’s just a short subway ride to the city center, so convenience isn’t an issue. One minor note: I did notice some faint footstep noises from adjacent rooms, which might bother very sensitive sleepers—but overall, this was a small trade-off for the excellent value. If you're after a calm, well-maintained hotel with top-notch service and a relaxing vibe, this place is a must-try. Highly recommend!
Hans House
Staying at Hans House was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean, with a fresh and cozy vibe from the moment I walked in. The bed was comfortable, perfect for a good night's sleep after exploring the city. The host was incredibly kind and welcoming—offering helpful tips about nearby food spots and transit options without being pushy. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: just a 3-minute walk to a lively street food alley packed with local favorites like grilled meats and crispy fried chicken. Only 5 minutes to the subway entrance, making it super easy to reach major attractions like Gwanghwamun Square within 10 minutes. For the price, this place offers incredible value and convenience. I’d definitely book again if I return to Seoul—highly recommend for travelers who want comfort, cleanliness, and a great central spot.
Haemil Hanok Guesthouse
Staying at Haemil Hanok Guesthouse was a mixed experience. On the plus side, it’s perfect if you’re looking for an authentic local homestay vibe. The location is excellent—just a short walk from Changdeokgung Palace and nearby Hanbok rental shops, with several traditional hanok villages within easy reach. The food offered on-site is surprisingly good and much more affordable than expected. Our host, an elderly lady, prepared a simple but comforting Korean breakfast both mornings—warm and homey, which added a nice touch. The ensuite bathroom was a practical bonus. However, there were some notable drawbacks. No one was around to greet us upon arrival—we had to rely on our driver to contact the host, who eventually showed up after some delay. The neighborhood is very local, so English signage is minimal, and even locals can struggle to find the place. Taxis are often unwilling to enter the narrow alleyways, so we ended up dropping off at the main road and walking in while dragging our luggage. This made getting to the guesthouse quite inconvenient. Also, room insulation isn’t great—conversation from the adjacent room came through clearly. While I’ve stayed in other hanoks before and appreciated their charm, this one doesn’t quite offer the best value compared to alternatives. If you’re seeking a quiet, immersive cultural stay and don’t mind navigating a bit of a maze, it could work. But if you prioritize ease of access, clear communication, and better service, there are definitely better options out there.
Hanok Hotel Daam
I had an absolutely wonderful stay at Hanok Hotel Daam, and it truly exceeded my expectations. The hotel masterfully blends modern comfort with authentic Korean traditional elements—something that’s not always easy to pull off, but here it feels seamless and elegant. Located just a short ride from the airport via the limousine bus, it’s incredibly accessible, yet tucked away in a quiet, safe neighborhood perfect for both solo travelers and families looking for peace and privacy. The property itself is brand new, and you can tell from the moment you step into the lobby—the design is thoughtful, clean, and deeply rooted in cultural aesthetics without feeling outdated. Every detail, from the materials used to the lighting, speaks to a high level of craftsmanship. What stood out most was the genuine hospitality. The front desk staff and breakfast team were consistently warm, attentive, and genuinely eager to help—whether it was recommending local spots or just offering a smile. I appreciated the emphasis on safety and personal comfort: access to floors is secured by key card only, and there are women-only floors available—a nice touch for those who value extra privacy. One unique tradition is removing shoes upon entering your floor, which adds a sense of calm and cleanliness right from the start. My room was beautifully designed—smart use of space, cozy layout, and super comfortable bed and pillows. It felt like home, but elevated. Amenities included a mini-fridge, complimentary bottled water, a double sink with convenient power outlets nearby, a hairdryer, plenty of hangers, and a compact but well-maintained bath/shower combo. Plus, the room phone connects directly to reception—super handy if you need something without having to leave your room. Overall, this hotel delivers a rare balance: tradition with modern convenience, warmth with professionalism, and style with practicality. If you’re visiting Seoul and want a memorable, authentic experience with top-tier service and comfort, Hanok Hotel Daam is absolutely worth every penny.
Jongno (Daehakro) Hyehwa Inn
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!
Hanil Hostel
I had a fantastic stay at Hanil Hostel! The location was incredibly convenient—just a short walk to subway stations and major attractions. The staff were friendly and always willing to help with tips and recommendations. My room was clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly comfortable for a hostel setting. It’s clear they care about guest experience, and I truly appreciated the warm atmosphere and attention to detail. Highly recommend this place if you're looking for a budget-friendly yet enjoyable stay in Seoul.
Sungshin University Station Pav
The first room had a strong smell of smoke, which was quite unpleasant, so I asked to be moved. The staff were very kind and promptly arranged a new room without any hassle. However, the second room wasn’t much better—the bathroom felt a bit dark and slightly unsettling, and the overall facilities were just average. That said, the price is definitely affordable, making it a solid choice if you're on a budget. It’s perfect for students or travelers looking for a no-frills stay with good value. While not luxurious, it gets the job done, especially considering the cost.
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!
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