Insadong

good

Most of Insa-dong street may offer touristy souvenirs, but step into Ssamzie-gil market for something a little more hip, a little different. Walk up four floors (no stairs, only ramps) and have coffee at the cafe on the roofdeck—great dessert, has its own herb garden for fresh green (and herb) tea.

This place is “touristy” and nothing like the rest of the country. Still, it can be cool although tiring. I saw a pretty good outdoor show there once.

Good place for souvenirs. Be sure to bargain!

perhaps best compared as Seoul’s Greenwich Village.