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.








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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

This was my sixth trip to Korea, and without a doubt, this is the most impressive hotel I've stayed at here. While it's a bit of a walk from the subway station, the bus stop is right outside the door—making access to the city incredibly convenient. The room was immaculate, with modern design and thoughtful touches that made it feel luxurious. The staff were warm and attentive, going above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay. From the quiet ambiance to the excellent amenities, every detail felt intentional. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Seoul.

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.

I stayed at Mangrove Sinseol Hotel for a few days and was really impressed. The location is perfect—right next to the subway station, just a 15-minute ride to Seongsu and about 30 minutes to Hongdae. The airport bus 6002 stops right outside, making travel super convenient. There are plenty of nearby convenience stores like 7-Eleven, CU, OY, Mega, and Mammoth—no long lines even during peak hours. The building has a secure entry with a password lock, and the elevator requires your room keycard, which adds peace of mind. The shared kitchen is clean and well-maintained, and the rooftop terrace offers a great view—perfect for relaxing in the evening. Check-in and check-out are fully self-service, and the machine supports Simplified Chinese, which is a big plus for introverted travelers. The bathroom is on the smaller side, and housekeeping comes every six days, but that’s not an issue if you’re staying just a few days. Overall, it’s a quiet, safe, and well-designed place with excellent value. Highly recommend for solo travelers.

The room is a bit compact and the bathroom is slightly tight, but the location more than makes up for it. Just a short walk to Hongdae and Ihwaw Station, making it incredibly convenient for catching musicals or exploring the vibrant neighborhood. I loved how easy it was to get around without worrying about transportation—perfect for travelers who prioritize proximity to entertainment spots. Despite minor space limitations, the value for money is outstanding, and I’d definitely stay here again.

John is incredibly friendly, helpful, and genuinely warm-hearted. The hotel itself is cozy and well-maintained, with daily housekeeping that includes restocking water bottles, towels, and toilet paper—no details overlooked. John speaks fluent English and is always happy to assist with any questions or requests; communication is never an issue. My daughter absolutely adored him—he made her feel special with his kindness and playful personality. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and at home. It’s clear how much care goes into every detail here. We’ll definitely be back, and I’d highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Seoul.

I was really impressed with the value for money here, especially considering the prime location in Seoul. The hostel is just a short walk from a 7-Eleven, and all subway lines are super convenient—getting around the city is a breeze. The only downside is the lack of an elevator, but since the building isn’t too tall, it’s not a major issue. I was pleasantly surprised by the soundproofing—no noise from neighboring rooms or hallways kept me awake at night. Overall, this place offers a great balance between affordability and comfort. If you’re looking for a clean, well-located base in Seoul without breaking the bank, this is definitely worth considering.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.
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