Ikseondong Hanok Village | Seoul’s Trendiest Neighborhood

Ikseondong Hanok Village is one of my absolute favorite neighborhoods in Seoul. Because I love this hidden gem in Seoul so much, I don’t want to gate keep and share it with all of you. In this ultimate guide to Ikseon dong you’ll find the best cafes, restaurants, trendy boutiques, and fun things to do.

If you’re looking to eat delicious Eastern or Western cuisine, enjoy high tea or experience Korean cafe culture, then Ikseon-dong is one of the best neighborhoods to do it. They brilliantly mix traditional Korea with modern Korea.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Ikseon Dong Hanok Village

1. What to see in Ikseon-dong?

You can take so many aesthetic Ikseondong hanok village photos! There’s a lot of modern hanok that have been renovated into shops, cafes, and restaurants. There’s a lot of great shopping for cute things in Korea.

2. What are the best restaurants in Ikseondong?

For Japanese food, Ojeonjip is the best restaurant. They specialize in shabu shabu. The best dessert restaurant in Ikseondong is Flipper’s.

3. What are the best cafes in Ikseondong?

The top cafes in Ikseondong are Cafe Highwaist for scones, OyattKott Cafe for Korean aesthetic, and Appi Forest for gelato.

4. What to do in Ikseondong at night?

Ikseondong Seoul comes alive at night especially with Samgyapsal alley. Many restaurants and cafes also offer an assortment of cocktails and beer.

5. Where is Ikseondong?

Ikseon-dong is located slightly east of Insadong. While Insadong may be a tourist’s playground, Ikseondong is where the locals play. In my opinion, Ikseondong is the trendiest neighborhood in Seoul.

6. Is Ikseondong close to Bukchon Hanok Village?

While Bukchon is the oldest hanok village in Seoul, Ikseondong is the perfect place that molds old and new. It is also located very near Gyeongbokgung Palace. 

History of Ikseondong Hanok Village

During Japanese occupation, a man and a true Korean patriot heard Japanese wanted to turn the area into a traditional Japanese home area. Unable to bare the thought, instead, he bought the land and turned it into a modern hanok village (for the early 1920s).

For awhile, it fell into disrepair until a bunch of young entrepreneurs started reviving the area. This is a residential neighborhood as well so please be respectful of the residents. It is located right outside Jongno 3-ga Station.

How To Enjoy Ikseondong Hanok Village

My biggest piece of advice is to come hungry! There’s so many cafes, bakeries, and eateries. This is a hip place with lots of delicious fusion food and Korean food. One of the best ways to enjoy the Village is to just walk around and see what you come across. That’s honestly how I find so many places. 

Where To Stay in Ikseon-dong Hanok Village

Moxy Seoul

I’ve always been a huge fan of the Marriott Hotels. So much so, I even have my own Chase Marriott Bonvoy card so I can rack up those free stays just by traveling. The Moxy Seoul Hotel has some of the best rooftop views of the Ikseondong Hanok Village. They also have unique rooms.

1. Cafe Highwaist | 하이웨스트 익선

Seoul cafes are always so innovative and different. Cafe Highwaist is a western/eastern style fusion bakery. I normally don’t like Korean bread because it is too sweet for my taste. Their spring onion and cream cheese scone was my favorite! It wasn’t dry and it pairs amazingly with a refreshing pot of green tea.

In addition, the cafe is in a hanok, but the inside is white and bright. The decor gives off a feel of a 1950s kitchen with touches of British culture, and plants to make it feel like your mother’s kitchen. You can find Cafe Highwaist on Instagram here.

Address: 서울 종로구 돈화문로11다길 18
Naver Map: http://naver.me/GtjiditR
Hours: 11am – 10pm

2. Couple Iya | 커플이야

Couple Iya is a Korean cafe in Seoul that sells amazing couple rings. Part of the cafe has a very romantic setting with draped velvet curtains.

The other half has couple rings that you can purchase with your sweetheart. One of the coolest parts about ring shopping in Korea is that they have the latest styles for a great price. Find Couple Iya on Instagram here.

Address: 27 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil Jongno-gu Seoul
Naver Map: http://naver.me/FrLDpfaN
Hours: 11am – 7:30pm

3. Flipper’s Ikseon | 익선동플리퍼스

If you’re looking to find really cute and aesthetically pleasing souffle pancakes, Ikseondong Flipper’s is a great stop for breakfast or lunch. They have fruit pancakes with the freshest and seasonal ones.

Address: 31 Supyo-ro 28-gil, Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 종로구 수표로28길 31
Naver Map: http://naver.me/5xiBH0fB
Hours: 10am – 11pm

4. Ikseon Shooting Club | 익선슈팅클럽

Feeling the need to relieve some stress? While guns are highly illegal without the proper licenses and tests, you can go shooting at a BB Gun range. Alas, this brings back hella memories of when I was in high school and we thought to be clever and shoot tiny bbs at each other for no reason. Alas…

At Ikseon Shooting Club, you can easily rent a bb gun and got on shooting range to hit small targets. It’s a fun activity for friends, family, or a date. You can rent a bb gun from 4,000 won – 10,000 won depending on the bb gun.

Address: 21-13 Supyo-ro 28-gil Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28일 21-13
Naver Map: http://naver.me/xbthgJi3

5. Le Blanseu | 르블란서

Some of the best restaurants in Seoul are located in Ikseondong. While the outside of the restaurant is an old hanok style home, the interior is decorated with a very French feel.

There is a chandelier hanging from the ceiling and flowered wallpaper with low lamps emitting soft yellow light. The restaurant serves pasta dishes and even French delicacies.

If you’re ever in the mood for European food that isn’t doused in sugar, then you have to pay Le Blanseu in Ikseondong, Seoul a visit. You can also find this award winning French Bistro on Instagram.

Address: 30 Supyo-ro 28-gil, Donui-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul | 서울 종로구 익선동 170-1
Naver Map: http://naver.me/GAMu2ZUv
Hours: Lunch 12:00-16:00 / Last 15:00 Dinner 17:00-22:00 / Last 21:00
Phone: 02-766-9951

6. Oyatt Kkot Hanok Cafe | 오얏꽃

Ikseon dong cafes are so unbelievably aesthetic. I’m a huge sucker for drinking tea in traditional places. While walking around Ikseon-dong, I stumbled upon the Oyat Kkot Hanok Cafe and I fell head over heels for this tea house in Seoul.

The outside features a beautiful courtyard where you can drink tea and enjoy the outdoors. Their green tea is absolutely refreshing and goes great with a scone. Hands down this is my favorite Ikseon dong cafe. Check out this delectable hanok cafe on the Hyatt Knot Instagram.

Address: 15, Donhwamun-ro 11 da-gil, Jogno-gu, Seoul, South Korea | 서울 종로구 돈화문로11다길 15
Naver Map: http://naver.me/xiAvayxn
Hours: 11am – 11pm
Phone: 02-762-8233

7. Madang Flower Cafe | 마당플라워카페

Madang Flower Cafe was the filming location of Goblin starring Gong Yoo and Kim Go-eun. The inside portion is a cafe and hanging from the ceiling you will find an assortment of dried flowers. This Ikseondong cafe also really lights up at night.

I love cute cafes in Seoul and Flower Yard Cafe never fails to disappoint. These days, they also sell blueberry ice cream. You can find Madang Flower Cafe on Instagram here.

Address: 33-12 Supyo-ro 28-gil, Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 33-12
Naver Map: http://naver.me/xG2mi3C5
Hours: 7:30 am – 11:30pm
Phone: 02-743-0724

8. Cheongsudang Cafe | 청수당

If you’re looking to find a little bit of Japan in Korea, then this absolutely stunning restaurant and cafe should be your first stop. Designed to look like a Japanese garden in Kyoto, they offer desserts such as matcha cake, and other fluffy Japanese style cakes.

This is one of my favorite cafes in Seoul as I keep coming back time and time again. Or if your Korean skills aren’t that great, you can put your name and phone number on a waiting list outside the restaurant. Check out the Onjeonjip Ikseon Instagram here.

Address: 서울시 종로구 익선동 128-3
Naver Map: http://naver.me/FrCj8tEh
Hours: 11:30am – 9:30pm (Break 3:00pm – 5:00pm)

9. Oncheonjib | 온천집

There’s always long waiting times. Go in the early afternoon or be first in line after their break at 5pm. This is a Japanese style restaurant specializing in hot pot and is the most popular restaurant in Ikseondong Hanok Village.

10. Sala Daeng Bangkok | 살라댕 방콕

Ikseon dong restaurants are some of my favorite places to eat. Sala Daeng Bangkok is a delicious Thai Restaurant is so beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. This restaurant serves traditional Thai dishes such as pad Thai and Khao Pad (although they are made for a Korean palate). You can find Sala Daeng Bangkok on Instagram here.

Address: Seoul, Jongno-gu, Donhwamun-ro 11da-gil, 40 | 서울 종로구 돈화문로11다길 40
Naver Map: http://naver.me/5uugEgvY
Hours: 11:30am – 9:30pm
Phone: 02-764-8215

11. Samgyapsal Alley

I don’t know if this is really the name of the place, but in one of the alleys there are a bunch of Korean barbecue places. They all smell absolutely delightful and I wish I wasn’t allergic to pork because I would truly love to try one of these restaurants. The meat is usually served up fresh and I often see the workers cutting it into precise pieces in the morning.

12. Seoul Coffee 1945 | 서울커피 익선점

Seoul Coffee 1945 is a hanok coffee house. Korean cafes in Seoul have some of the tastiest coffee around. The inside has not been altered much so you can truly feel like you’re stepping into the past while walking around Ikseondong, Seoul. You can find them on Instagram here.

Address: 서울 종로구 수표로28길 33-3
Naver Map: http://naver.me/xYEHadLC
Hours: 11am – 10:30pm

13. Rent a Vintage Dress

After the success of the Korean drama, Mr. Sunshine, the Edwardian style of dress became super popular. To meet the demand many dress shops such as Ikseon Boutique Retro Clothing have popped up.

Since Ikseondong is a historic neighborhood this is a great place for a unique cultural experience!  Click here to easily book your vintage dress experience in Ikseondong, Seoul here.

Address: 38 Donhwamun-ro 11-gil Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 돈화문로11길 38
Naver Map: http://naver.me/5MuHuo0c
Hours: 9am – 7pm

14. Teterot Salon | 때때롯살롱

Teterot Salon is one of those quaint little shops with so much personality5. Specializing in modern hanbok, their unique clothing line is designed for a modern twist and stylish outfit.

If you’re looking for a K-fashion brand made in Korea, then you have to visit their beautiful store. Inspired by the beauty of Korean culture, you will really enjoy their clothing. They’ve even been featured on KBS, SBS, Camera 24, and on international outlets. You can find Teterot Salon on Instagram here.

Address: 21-12 Supyo-ro 28-gil Jongno-gu Seoul
Naver Map: http://naver.me/5BSCo2zR
Hours: 11:30am – 10pm

15. Zio Cucina | 지오 쿠치나

If you’re looking for heart Italian food and good wine, then this Italian restaurant is a great pick. Like everything in Ikseon-dong, it is a fusion of Europe and Korean in architecture and decoration. This is definitely one of the most unique restaurants in Seoul. Decorated with flowers, and open windows, the decor makes you feel welcome.

Address: 서울 종로구 수표로28길 33-11
Naver Map: http://naver.me/5FrBySx8
Hours: 11:30am – 10pm
Phone: 02-744-9488

16. Appi Forest | 애삐 뽀레

Appi Forest is a great place for gelato on a hot day. A lot of trendy cafes have the best photo zones. The cafe has a jungle theme and I think the wall with a circular window makes for a gorgeous Instagram photo. 

Address: 166-37 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 21-14 1층
Naver Map: https://naver.me/xY4BOjh0
Hours: 10am – 10pm
Phone: 0507-1357-0276

17. Nakwon Station Cafe  | 낙원역 카페

Nakwon Station Cafe is a very unique Seoul coffee shop. This cute cafe in Seoul is designed to look like a an old school retro train station.

This is a popular Korean OOTD shooting stop. Especially since the train tracks, gravel, and plants make it look like a train can pass at any second. They even have a dessert conveyor belt inside.

Address: 166-32 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 33-5
Naver Map: https://naver.me/GXAGoD61
Hours: 11:30am – 10:30pm
Phone: 02-763-1112

18. Cheese Industry | 치즈 인더스트리

All cheese lovers are going to go nuts for this new cafe! They have so many unqiue pastries all made with different kinds of in house cheese. This Seoul cafe looks like a farm on the inside.

I tried the berry brie croissant and wow did it blow me away! It wasn’t too sweet and the croissant was a perfect flakey texture. 

Address: 166-33 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 33-7
Naver Map: https://naver.me/GALxOvUv
Hours: 10am – 10pm
Phone: 0507-1363-1722

19. Nagwonjang | 낙원장

This actually used to be a different cafe where Hotel de Luna starring IU was filmed. It is now a retro themed cafe with an excellent in house bakery that creates fresh desserts daily. 

Address: 170 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 25
Naver Map: https://naver.me/G2EMp0gp
Hours: 10am – 11pm
Phone: 0507-1336-7767

20. Onjisim | 온지심

When I went there were some pretty long queues for the bagels here. Their cafe reminds me of a picnic at Seoul Forest with the nature and open doors. 

Address: 21 Donui-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 돈화문로11다길 17
Naver Map: https://naver.me/GCv3bD9i
Hours: 9am – 10pm
Phone: 02-765-8884

21. Mont Blanc Som Ikseondong Cafe | 몽블랑솜 익선동 카페

There’s nothing I love more than the blending of hanok buildings with other cultures. If you want the best mont blanc, their top flavor is matcha strawberry. 

Address: 166-24 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 33-10 1층
Naver Map: https://naver.me/FzS2d2AO
Hours: 10:30am – 10:30pm
Phone: 0507-1313-2185

22. Aledang | 알레당

I came across this gem while walking around. Aledang is one of those Seoul brewery bars that serves up craft beer. I tried their Cherry Gose and it was so refreshing on a hot day. 

Address: 166-34 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 33-9 에일당
Naver Map: https://naver.me/Fw7puanp
Hours: 12pm – 11pm
Phone: 0507-1390-3135

23. Rami Scone | 라미 스콘

Like the name suggests, this cafe is all about scones. They bake theirs with 100% whole-grain to ensure taste and freshness. 

Address: 152 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 돈화문로11나길 25
Naver Map: https://naver.me/5hutERRL
Hours: 11am – 10pm
Phone: 0507-1342-9562

24. Cafe Onhwa | 카페온화

By the time I got to Cafe Onhwa, I had no more room for their delicious souffle pancakes. The cafe design is simple with large windows in the front and on the ceiling. They let in beautiful natural light so you can enjoy the warm atmosphere. 

Address: 166-39 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 21-10
Naver Map: https://naver.me/5pwaE6Rt
Hours: 12pm – 9:30pm
Phone: 02-741-3289

25. Soha Salt Pan | 소하 염전

One of the hottest food trends summer of ’24 is the truffle salt bread. Many cafes are now selling it and it is easy to see why. Soha Salt Pond also has a large pond area out front with a water wheel. It makes for a great photo opportunity. 

Address: 166-45 Ikseon-dong Jongno-gu Seoul | 서울 종로구 수표로28길 21-5 (익선동)
Naver Map: https://naver.me/GubM0upo
Hours: 9am – 9pm
Phone: 0507-1353-8215

How To Get There

Go outside Jongno 3ga exit 6 and turn into the alleyway on your right.

Make sure you bookmark this post. If you’re looking for cute cafes in Korea, you can’t miss Ikseondong Hanok Village. Make sure you bookmark this post because I will definitely be adding new places I discover. I really enjoy the traditional and modern blending in this trendy Seoul neighborhood. These are definitely the best things to do in Ikseondong.

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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