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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.
This is the perfect choice for both families and business travelers! Located in Jongno-gu, Seoul, just a 10-minute walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace and Gwanghwamun, the location couldn’t be better. The hotel offers a fitness center, seasonal outdoor pool, and even a kids’ club with childcare services, making it great for families. The spacious rooms come with fully equipped kitchens, perfect for whipping up a meal. Unwind at the bar or treat yourself to a spa massage after a long day. Whether for leisure or business, this place has everything you need!
Looking for a private pool and garden retreat in Seoul? This is the perfect pick! Enjoy free WiFi, AC, and a terrace, plus BBQ facilities and airport transfer services for ultimate convenience. Just a few kilometers from Changgyeonggung Palace and Gyeongbokgung Palace, you’ll have plenty to explore. With 6 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and 3 bathrooms stocked with free toiletries, it’s ideal for families or groups. 24-hour luggage storage and ironing services add the finishing touches—highly recommended!
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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
The Somerset Palace Seoul completely exceeded our expectations. From the moment we arrived, the staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the subway, making it easy to explore Seoul’s top attractions. The rooftop pool is a real highlight—perfect for relaxing with panoramic views of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Our room was spacious, clean, and well-equipped, offering a comfortable and home-like atmosphere. It’s rare to find such a high-quality stay with such a great value. I’d highly recommend this property to any traveler visiting Seoul.
Staying at this traditional Korean house was an absolute delight! The breakfast was simple yet homely—warm, comforting, and just right to start the day. The room was spotlessly clean, with authentic Korean architectural details that truly captured the essence of old Korea—wooden beams, hanok-style layouts, and a peaceful ambiance. The host was incredibly welcoming and always ready to help, offering thoughtful tips on local transport and nearby attractions. It felt less like a hotel and more like staying in a cherished family home. For anyone looking to experience real Korean culture in Seoul, this is a must-try. Highly recommend for its charm, comfort, and heartfelt hospitality.
The room was incredibly quiet and cozy, making it a perfect retreat after a long day. Large windows let in plenty of natural light, filling the space with warmth and a serene atmosphere. Everything was spotlessly clean—right from the first step inside, the impression was excellent. The bed was wonderfully comfortable, soft yet supportive, ensuring a deep and restful night’s sleep. What truly stood out was the staff—always smiling, attentive, and genuinely helpful. Whether I needed extra towels or local recommendations, they responded promptly and with care. Their hospitality made me feel valued throughout my stay. Overall, this was an outstanding experience. If you're looking for a peaceful, well-maintained hotel with exceptional service in Seoul, I highly recommend giving this place a try—it’s definitely on my list for future visits.
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.
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.
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.
This hostel was an absolute gem during my week-long stay in Seoul. Located right in the heart of Insadong, it’s incredibly walkable to all major tourist attractions—perfect for exploring on foot. The host was incredibly friendly and welcoming, offering a delicious complimentary breakfast every morning with eggs, fresh bread, fruit, and juice. While the room is on the smaller side and has a slightly dated feel, it’s completely in line with what you’d expect for the price. I felt safe throughout my stay, and honestly, I’d book again without hesitation.
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!
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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