Spent a few days in Seoul on a transit to Shanghai. Always look forwards to walking and checking out this city. The most direct bus to the hotel in Insadong is by Bus6011. It stops at the bus-stop outside Anguk Subway.
 |
| My airport--to-Insadong bus |
The hotel is about 10 minutes walk from the Airport Bus-stop. It was a pleasant walk through Insadong in the morning. (The shorter route is via the main road).
I took an overnight flight and it was indeed excellent customer service that Hotel Ibis Insadong allows a 10am check-in.
 |
| Early morning in Insadong |
Seoullo (Seoul Station Walkway)
There was a 'SHOE TREE' exhibition. Thousands pair(?) of shoes were used to create a cascading path from the bridge.
 |
| Seoul Station Walkway |
Since the walkway was opened recently, there were many locals using it, and tourists taking photos. The walkway used to be a highway that cut through the city centre. As with the Cheonggyecheon stream, the highway was "transformed" to the walkway.
 |
| Seoul Walkway |
There are numerous exits/entrances with signages on the walkway. It was a pleasant walk.
 |
| Namdaemun |
I booked a free-guide for the Seoul Walkway. The guide also walked to Namdaemum Gate and part of the Seoul Wall.
 |
| Namdaemun Date |
 |
| Part of Seoul Wall near the Gate |
It would have been better if she could stick to the Seoul Walkway and provide more informative details.
The Walkway ends near Namdaemun.
Cheonggyecheon Stream to Gwangjiang Market
I walked from the hotel to the stream, and then followed the stream till Gwangjiang Market. It took about 30 minutes.
 |
| Map of Part Cheonggyecheon stream and Gwangjiang market |
 |
| Path beside the stream |
The market was crowded with locals and tourists. The market is divided into a few sections with wide selections of sundry goods, textiles and food. One highlight of the market is the many stores that sell Bindaetteok or the "Mung Bean Pancake" and Gimbak.
 |
| Food store |
 |
| Korean preserved seafood |
 |
| Textile and sundry shops |
Ewha Women University
 |
| Ewha Women University Entrance |
Ewha Women University area is one of the most popular shopping area in Seoul. Subway Line2 goes to Ewha Women University.
 |
| Street from the station |
There are many shops, cafes and mobile stores lining the streets.
 |
| Street leading to the University |
Many students were taking photos of the pear blossoms. Maybe, it is a ritual since the pear blossoms are symbol of the university.
 |
| Pear Blossoms |
P.S: Cousin Jen(a very regular Seoul visitor) suggested visiting Ewha area since I have not been before. Thanks!
Others
There was a massive protest near Gwanghuamun. It is well organized, and the locals seem to go on as usual.
Food
Other than the current "must try", added more onto the food list.
 |
| Boiled Pork |
I always passed the temple stay office in Insadong when I walk to Myeongdong. I manage to try the vegetarian lunch buffet. It was good and reasonable.
 |
| Vegetarian Buffet |
It was an enjoyable short trip. Maybe, i shall try to visit again at the end of the year.
Shopping
There are many shopping opportunities. : Lotte and Shinsegae are upscale shopping departmental stores in MyeongDong. There are many underground shopping as well. I always go to the "smallish" Jonggak underground shopping centre since it is within walking distance from the hotel.
Maybe useful information:
Airport Bus : There are many airport buses that go to different parts of Seoul. Bus 6011 goes to Insadong, stop=Anguk. The charge is 10,000 won
Lodging: Hotel Ibis Insadong about S$80-90.
Food:
Vegetarian
http://eng.templestay.com/page-templestay-prcenter.asp
