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

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.

Staying at Sungshin Women's University Brown Dot Hotel was an absolutely delightful experience. The cleanliness of the room and common areas was impressive—everything felt spotless, from the bathroom to the windowsill, which is rare in urban hotels. I loved how central the location was; right next to a bustling shopping district with plenty of dining and entertainment options within walking distance. Public transit access is excellent, making it easy to explore Seoul’s main attractions without hassle. The staff were friendly and attentive, offering helpful tips during check-in. It’s clear they care about guest comfort. With such a great balance of cleanliness, convenience, and hospitality, this hotel offers exceptional value. I’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul.

Stayed in a double room with a door latch—felt secure and cozy, no signs of any wheels or noisy vibes at all. The host was incredibly kind and welcoming, making the whole experience feel warm and personal. The atmosphere was peaceful and authentic, just what I was looking for. Highly recommend this hidden gem for anyone seeking comfort and charm in Seoul.

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.

This place is absolutely fantastic! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the train station, making it super convenient for getting around Seoul. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a comfortable bed that made for a great night's sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any request. It’s a real gem in terms of value and quality. I’d highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Seoul—clean, cozy, and centrally located. Definitely planning to come back!

Staying right in the heart of Bukchon Hanok Village made everything so convenient—walking distance to bustling shopping streets, scenic views of traditional hanok alleys, and just a short stroll from famous Ginseng Kitchen and Gyeongbokgung Palace. The host was incredibly welcoming, always ready to help with local tips and recommendations. The place itself is spotless, with modern amenities and thoughtfully stocked toiletries in the bathroom. It felt like a true home away from home. Every detail was well considered, from the quiet neighborhood vibe to the cozy atmosphere. If you're looking for an authentic Seoul experience with comfort and charm, this is the perfect choice. Highly recommend it!

Although the property is about a 40-minute bus or subway ride from any major Seoul attraction, our four-night stay was completely hassle-free. Located in a quiet neighborhood, it offered a peaceful retreat away from the city buzz. Public transportation is convenient and the area has plenty of local amenities, including great breakfast options. The overall value and calm atmosphere made it a perfect choice for a relaxing getaway. Highly recommend for travelers seeking a serene escape without compromising on comfort.

Staying at Noble Hotel in Insadong was a delightful experience despite the building feeling a bit dated. The cleanliness was impressive—every corner felt fresh and well-maintained. The mattress was comfortable, not too soft or too firm, and the bathroom had no unpleasant odors, which is always a plus. What really stood out was the friendly front desk staff who upgraded us to a better room without any extra charge—such a nice surprise! The location is excellent: right next to the airport bus route 6011, making travel to and from the airport super convenient. Even though prices were higher during the holiday season, the overall value and comfort made it well worth it. If you're looking for a quiet, clean, and centrally located stay in Seoul with great service, this hotel is definitely worth considering.

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!

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.

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.

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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