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Tucked quietly within Seoul’s bustling heart, Naeui Temple is a sanctuary where time slows down—ancient eaves curve against the sky, and a thousand-year-old ginkgo guards the peace. Step through the gate, hear the gentle chime of a bell, and feel your spirit settle. This isn’t just a temple; it’s a haven for stillness, a rare refuge for souls seeking calm in the urban rush.
Everything you need to know about Naewonsa Temple
Stay at Lotus Hotel in Myeongdong, Seoul, just a 15-minute drive from Geumjeong Temple, offering excellent accessibility. The hotel blends modern luxury with traditional Korean design, featuring premium bedding and soundproof windows for a peaceful retreat. Guests can enjoy authentic Korean tea ceremonies in the hotel’s Zen-inspired courtyard lounge, embracing mindfulness and culture. Located near Bukchon Hanok Village, it’s an ideal base to explore historic architecture and serene temples like Geumjeong Temple.
Consider staying at Cheongsongak Hanok Guesthouse in Bukchon Hanok Village, a meticulously restored century-old Korean house with original wooden beams and stone courtyards, exuding a deep sense of serenity and tradition. The rooms feature hanok-style tatami mats, handwoven blankets, and natural aromatherapy for a tranquil stay. Just a 10-minute walk from Geumjeong Temple, guests can also join daily tea ceremony workshops and calligraphy classes, offering immersive cultural experiences while enjoying the rhythm of Seoul’s historic neighborhoods.
Take Seoul Subway Line 2 to "Hongik University Station," then transfer to a local bus or walk about 15 minutes to Geumjeong Temple. Use a T-money card or mobile payment apps like KakaoPay for seamless transit access. For convenience and comfort, consider shared e-scooters (Dooly, Lime) available nearby, ideal for short trips without traffic delays. Many hotels and guesthouses offer private shuttle services, making it easy to travel between Geumjeong Temple and major Seoul attractions.
Beyond temple worship and viewing ancient trees, join the daily morning bell ceremony at 6:30 AM at the Great Buddha Hall, where chanting and resonant bells create a profound spiritual atmosphere. During spring, participate in the annual Camellia Festival, showcasing traditional Korean flower arrangement and Zen aesthetics—guests can craft their own dried camellia displays as keepsakes. The temple also offers weekly meditation sessions every Saturday afternoon, led by experienced instructors in a dedicated quiet space, providing a perfect opportunity to cultivate inner peace and mindfulness.
Shilla Seoul Hotel is ideal for visitors seeking both comfort and cultural immersion near Nyeonje Temple. Located just 15 minutes away, it features traditional Korean garden-view rooms and offers immersive experiences like tea ceremony workshops and Hanbok rental services. The hotel’s design blends modern luxury with Korean architectural heritage, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for contemplation. Guests can easily reach Nyeonje Temple via Subway Line 2 to Dongdaemun Station, then transfer to a local bus. Additionally, the on-site boutique sells exclusive handwoven silk scarves from Nyeonje Temple, making a meaningful souvenir of your spiritual journey.
The most convenient route is taking Seoul Subway Line 2 to Dongdaemun Station, then transferring to Bus No. 8003 which stops directly at Nyeonje Temple's main gate. The journey takes about 25 minutes with frequent departures. For those driving, use GPS to navigate to "Nyeonje Temple" via City North Road; the temple offers a dedicated parking lot with ample space. On weekends and holidays, the Seoul Metropolitan Government operates free shuttle buses from Dongdaemun Square, stopping at major attractions including Nyeonje Temple. Check the official Seoul Transportation Portal in advance for updated schedules and service alerts.
Absolutely! The stone stairway behind Nyeonje Temple and the 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree are must-visit photo locations. During autumn, golden leaves blanket the path, creating a stunning contrast against the temple’s red tiles and white walls. The Zen Pond, reflecting sky and pagodas, is perfect for low-angle shots. For panoramic views, head to the Gwanseong Peak Observation Deck on the temple’s western side, offering sweeping vistas of the temple complex and Han River valley—especially breathtaking at sunset. Some areas have limited-time photography zones; pre-HopeGoo and respecting temple rules are recommended to preserve the sacred atmosphere.
Nyeonje Temple is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM), closed every Monday (except public holidays). Admission fees are 6,000 KRW for adults, 3,000 KRW for students, and free for children. Holders of the Seoul Pass or Korean Heritage Pass receive discounted rates. It’s advisable to purchase tickets online or at the box office in advance to avoid queues during peak times. Visitors must remain quiet, refrain from touching Buddha statues or artifacts, and respect restricted photography zones within the temple grounds to preserve its sacred tranquility.
Try the temple vegetarian meal set at Nyeonje Temple’s Zen Dining Hall, featuring seasonal organic ingredients like steamed pumpkin, tofu soup, mountain vegetable salad, and brown rice—embodied by the Zen principle of "tastelessness as true taste." Another local favorite is Old Street Bean Sprout Noodles, served with rich sauce, crisp bean sprouts, and handmade noodles—unique and satisfying. For souvenirs, consider Nyeonje Temple incense candles and handmade Zen notebooks crafted with natural plant dyes, symbolizing peace and mindfulness. All items are available at the temple’s cultural shop, supporting heritage preservation and sustainable practices.
See what other travelers say about Naewonsa Temple
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 triple room we stayed in had four beds, and the space was actually larger than I expected—definitely more roomy than most hostels I've been to. The front desk staff speaks a bit of Chinese and can manage basic English conversations, and they were very responsive and helpful. We only received one key card initially, which made splitting up a bit inconvenient, but after mentioning it, they quickly provided two extra ones—really thoughtful! The nearby 7-Eleven is super convenient; just exit subway line 7, walk straight across the street, and you're there. It's a short walk if you're not carrying heavy luggage. Waste sorting isn't strictly enforced, but there’s a large trash bin right at the bottom of the stairs on the first floor, so you can easily bring your trash down without hassle. Overall, this place offers great value, excellent location, and a comfortable stay—definitely a top pick for travelers visiting Seoul.
I've stayed at this hotel for the second time, and it continues to exceed my expectations. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from two subway stations, making it easy to explore Seoul without hassle. The room was clean, well-maintained, and had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. What really stands out is the ground-floor kitchen area: spacious, fully equipped, and always available for cooking your own meals or working remotely. It's a great space to relax, grab a bite, or even get some work done. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, and the value for money is outstanding. Highly recommend this place if you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a home-like feel in the heart of Seoul.
Staying at Ara Hotel was a fantastic experience overall. The room was exceptionally clean—right from the moment I walked in, everything felt fresh and well-maintained. The bed was comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. Located just steps away from subway access, getting around Seoul was super convenient. There are plenty of dining options nearby, and the value for money really stands out. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay, and check-in was smooth and hassle-free. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Seoul—it’s a great choice for both comfort and convenience.
The staff here are incredibly welcoming and helpful—always with a smile and ready to assist. The location is perfect: just a short walk from two subway stations, making it easy to explore Seoul’s highlights. There’s no shortage of great dining options nearby—cozy cafes, local markets, and authentic eateries line the streets. If you’re into running, you’ll love that Bukhansan National Park is only about 7km away. I went for a morning run there and the views were breathtaking. This hotel offers comfort, convenience, and a true sense of place. I’d definitely stay here again—and highly recommend it to fellow travelers looking for a quiet yet well-connected base in Seoul.
Everything about this place was spot on. It's a fantastic budget-friendly option in a prime location—perfect for exploring Seoul without breaking the bank. The rooms aren’t brand new, but they’re clean, well-maintained, and come with essential comforts: working air conditioning, reliable hot water, and surprisingly quiet neighbors. No bugs at all—big win! The mattress is a bit firm, but honestly, after a full day of sightseeing, it actually helped me sleep deeply. There’s a water cooler on each floor, and there’s a small kitchenette on the ground floor (though we didn’t use it). Check-in and check-out were smooth, quick, and mostly contactless—very convenient. Even though the photos are just screenshots from videos, they accurately reflect what’s in the room. Overall, this little gem delivers far more than its price tag suggests. If you're looking for a no-frills, reliable stay in central Seoul with great value, this is absolutely worth considering.
The hotel is perfectly located—ideal for walking around and easily accessible by public transport. There's a small convenience store and laundry right nearby, which is super convenient. The neighborhood is quiet and peaceful, but just steps away from the street, you'll find a lively area filled with cozy cafés perfect for relaxing with a coffee. The room was spotless, spacious enough to comfortably fit all our luggage, and overall, it felt very welcoming. I highly recommend staying here—it’s a great value and makes for a comfortable, stress-free trip.
Staying at Hotel Yaja Sungshin Women's University Station was an absolute delight. The room was spacious and incredibly quiet—perfect for a good night’s sleep. What really stood out was the unbeatable convenience of the location. Just steps away from the subway, I could easily reach all the major areas of Seoul in minutes. The neighborhood is packed with great dining options and shopping spots, and there are two Olive Young stores nearby—ideal for picking up skincare or travel essentials. Everything you need is within walking distance, making this hotel a fantastic choice for both business and leisure travelers. Highly recommend! It’s not just convenient—it’s a perfect balance of comfort, value, and location.
This is my second time staying at this hotel, and I’m even more impressed than the first time! The value for money is outstanding—free bottled water, instant coffee, and hot water are all included, which makes early mornings so much easier. Check-in is super convenient with a self-service system: just find your name at the front desk and grab your key. Even though it says check-in starts at 5 PM, we were able to check in earlier without any issues. The staff was friendly and helpful throughout. Located just steps from the subway station, getting around Seoul is a breeze. Clean rooms, great amenities, and a fantastic location—it’s definitely one of my top picks for budget-friendly stays in the city. Highly recommended!
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.
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