Nice street, worth visiting. Some tea shops and a few places sell ceramics that you may not find anywhere else. Prices on Isadon-gil street are a little bit high than on side streets but they tend to have better choices. Dragon Beard: For anyone looking to purchase Dragon Beard from the street sellers, be advised that the product should be consumed within 2-3 days (not 2-3 months). We tried some from the vendor we bought them from and it was good and fun. By the time we returned home, the boxes we had bought (wrapped in plastic and protected from heat) were inedible: hard and lumpy - bad enough to break a tooth on.

Insadong was one of the most interesting areas we explored. The main street, Insadong-gil, is lined with shops selling traditional crafts, tea houses, art galleries, and restaurants, while the smaller alleys hold the real gems—from modern galleries to cozy tea shops. Historically, it was Korea’s largest market for antiques and artwork. Elements of its past are clearly still retained through its modernization, with its cultural charm shining through. Exploring the backstreets with our local tour guide felt far more authentic and gave us a glimpse of the “real” Insadong. With its eclectic mix of venues, styles, and price ranges, Insadong has something for everyone. It’s a great place to stroll, discover, and soak up Korean culture—trendy yet full of character, and well worth a visit.

Insadong is a very pleasant neighborhood in Seoul. There is a lot of Korean culture such as palaces, galleries, museums, cozy cafe, good restaurants and not least tea houses. There are also many markets and shopping centres, do not miss Lotte shopping centre, it is fully on par with Harrods in London.

Neighborhood where you can see or buy antiques and souvenirs. Here is the place to buy the keyboards and fridge magnets! There is a museum showing the excavations in the region and the way of life in the late 19th century, early 20th century. There are art galleries and many restaurants, cafes, tea houses. Go visit if you have time left. Between visiting the palace next door (Gyeongbokkum) and the neighborhood, give priority to the palace.

Insa-dong is full of charm and character! Wandering through its streets, I discovered beautiful traditional crafts, tea houses, and art galleries. The mix of history and modern energy is so unique. It’s the perfect place to feel the soul of Korean culture, which is absolutely delightful!

Insadong is a rather quiet area of Seoul, where art galleries alternate with quaint tea houses. the main road, Insadong-gil, once divided two cities, "In" and "Sa". to these two names were added to the word "dong" (neighborhood) when the whole area was unified creating the current name of the neighborhood. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) Insadong was stormed by artists which still constitute the main community of the neighborhood. The area also includes Seoul's oldest library. insadong is easily accessible by subway, getting off at Anguk stop.

This is a really cool place to check out in Seoul. It’s in a perfect location, near the grand palaces, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Gyanghwamun square. There’s a lot of nice shops selling souvenirs, we bought a wonderful water colour painting. There’s some street food and restaurants too. What’s not to like?!

Located very near my hotel, I frequented this attraction for dining and eating. Simply watching the crowd as I had my coffee break in the area was interesting. There are small alleys where the restaurants, shops, etc are located. At the main streets, I noted art galleries, spa, hanok shops, 711 stores, etc. Glad that it is near my hotel, no need for bus or metro rides to reach it.

As all the guides will tell you INSA DONG has become a very touristy district with souvenir shops and a relative appeal. It remains a nice street to do and in particular the center called Ssamziegil where you can find lots of small shops crafts you may find what you are looking for there, there are hanok restaurants and tea houses next to them. Go to the one opposite, right next to the mall, the ginger tea is fabulous and the setting is unique. My restaurant experience, on the other hand, was completely disappointing.

Insadong is the place to stay close to temples, markets, endless cafe, street food, palace. Good & safe for walking and seeing the best of Korea. The Moxy Hotel where I stayed is central and close to everywhere.