If you need a quieter area while travelling around Seoul, definitely head a bit outside the typical tourist areas. One of my favourite is Ihwa. There are many things to see in Ihwa-dong, so let me introduce them to you.
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Where is Ihwa-dong?
The administrative district Ihwa-dong is located in Seoul’s central Jongo-gu and is east of Hyehwa-dong, which is one of my favourite districts to stay in while in town.
Hit the K-Musical Scene
Did you know that K-Musicals are a huge thing? In fact, Daehangno is basically Seoul’s Broadway. There is an incredible number of small theatres and musical venues packed into this small area.
You can always find a show playing. Just know that the performances are typically in Korean and websites are too.
But there is a small tourist information for the area in Marronnier Park, so you can get help in case you want to reserve a spot.
Watch a Play
Where there are musicals, there are also theatres and all kinds of plays for your entertainment. Ihwa-dong has quite the selection for you.
For one, there is Theater Joy (씨어터 조이) for performances in a small and cosy setting. Of course, there’s also Marronnier Theatre (마로니에극장), next to the park of the same name.
Then, there’s Arko Arts Theater (아르코예술극장) for mid-size productions as well as Uniplex (인터파크 유니플렉스), Daehakro Arts Theater and Daengro Hall (댕로홀).
To complete the list, you can also visit 예스24스테이지, 드림시어터, and 순위아트홀 소극장혜화당.
Enjoy outdoor performances
Next to the main street and theatres you can find Marronnier Park (마로니에 공원). That’s also where the local tourist information and stamp point are located.
But the park is not only a nice place to relax and people watch. At night, the seats are illuminated, there are art works and on top of that, the park hosts outdoor events and concerts.
In autumn, the many gingko trees turn a wonderful yellow colour, which is a pretty contrast to the red brick of the theatre buildings.
Hike & Eat the City Wall
Yes, you read that right. There is a whole trail following the ancient Seoul City Walls. One section of it runs around the edge of Ihwa-dong, up and down Naksan Hill.
And you can join it opposite of Hyehwa Gate and get up the trails to Naksan Hill.
Along the way, you can find the small café 369마을사회적협동조합카페마실. Here, you can get a hot beverage and enjoy very unique cookies. They are grey, crumbly and look like the rocks of the city walls. An unusual treat, but really delicious. Makes for a great souvenir as well.
Enjoy Stunning Night Vistas
When you are already at the top of Naksan Mt, you can take in the fabulous view over the city below. There is a big square with a pavilion, where you can rest for a while before descending again.
You have the option to go straight down to Ihwa-dong’s theatre and musical district, take the narrow stairs past the murals or continue the wall hike to Dongdaemun.
From the cafes next to the wall trail, you can also overlook the rooftops and lower city.
Check out Colourful Murals
When you are up on Naksan anyway, definitely check out Ihwa-Dong Mural Village. Painted on many walls high up above Ihwa you can see all kinds of murals.
Some with just a single image, like the classic wings for a selfie. Or smaller alleys depicting different figures of Alice in Wonderland and other wondrous illustrations.
You need to be fit to walk here because the stairs are many and they are steep. Definitely plan in time to amble, catch your breath and take in the artworks.
Stock up on Fashion
At the foot of Mural village, close to the theatres you will see both smaller indie clothing stores and fancy boutiques. After all, students also love to look trendy. Hence, you can find a nice selection for different kinds of prices.
Some such stores are Shalom, Sanda Friends (산다프랜즈), or Brand Market.
Chill in Cute Cafes
Since Ihwa is close to the SKKU campus, there are many restaurants and cafes around the area. Take advantage of that and treat yourself!
If you head up to Ihwa Mural Village (more on that in the next section), you can enjoy the best views. Bonus points during golden hour, sunset and early evening. It’s just so charming!
Three of the cafes I have tried and can recommend so far are:
- cafe reading cat (책읽는고양이) – with super cute cat decor
- Hauke (하우크) – you can get croc- or phone-shaped cream cakes
- Cafe San 1-1 (산1-1) – their panini was delicious
Enjoy the street food
Along the main road Daehak-ro close to Marronnier Park, there are small vendors selling street food, such as spicy fish cake, warm nuts and sweet carp waffles.
There’s also a KFC if you are craving fried chicken to go.
Soak up a Spa Day
Ihwa-dong might not be known for spas, but you can still get your wellness fix. One popular spot is the Lavishspa with expertly massages. It’s best to book in advance, although you can try to walk and see if there’s a spot available.
Other interesting sights nearby
To the south, you’ll hit Jongno 5·6 ga-dong with Heunginjimun Park (흥인지문공원), Seoul City Wall Museum (한양도성박물관) and Dongdaemun General Market (동대문종합시장).
I covered that in its own blog post. Do check that one out as well to more local insights for hidden points of interest in Seoul.
