Things to do in Insa-dong

Such a fun and unique experience. Lee was a fantastic teacher and made the activity fun and friendly. Highly recommend as a chance to make your own souvenir to take home as a memory

I booked a premium hanbok rental through Klook for me and my husband. Then I booked the makeup and photography through Instagram. Reservation was very easy and they were responsive on Instagram. We came in at a busy time so it was very chaotic at first but the staff were able to help me with the Hanbok fitting, hair, and makeup. The Chandeokgung palace is just a block away and that was where we met up with the photographer and had the photos taken. We only wore the costume for 2-ish hours due to the heat outside. It was a great experience and the photos turned out really great! Another plus is they have 2 really adorable and calm shop cats 🐱. I recommend this shop for Hanbok rentals.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Wonderful Experience I had a great experience and highly recommend this. I was unfortunately late after missing a subway stop and getting lost, but the team was very understanding. The photographer was professional, friendly, and helped me feel comfortable by chatting with me during our walk to the photo locations. Since I was traveling solo, feeling shy, and had just landed that morning with little sleep, I really appreciated his kindness. He guided my poses throughout the shoot, regularly checked if I was happy with the photos, and even encouraged me to speak up if there was anything I didn’t like. I also appreciated the extra time he spent taking additional photos. The staff member who helped me choose my hanbok and style my hair was wonderful and very kind. There were so many beautiful photos to choose from, and the entire experience exceeded my expectations. It was one of the highlights of my solo trip, and I would gladly book again when I return w/ family or friends. 😊

Here are the points I liked: 1. There's a restroom (very important, especially for those who need to use it frequently. It's best to go before putting on the hanbok and before heading out. The store was very kind and allowed us to return to use it mid-way through our outing. Gyeongbokgung Palace actually has restrooms, and they are clearly marked, but sometimes you can still get a bit lost inside. If you're worried, I recommend marking the restrooms on a map beforehand). 2. Easy to find (just use Naver Map to navigate directly; you can also browse shops on the way from Anguk Station). 3. Clothes are in good condition (skirts are very voluminous, no holes, no strange smells). 4. There are about 5 free hairstyles (from what I remember) (all the hairstyles in the pictures below are free. Additional charges, up to 10,000 Korean Won, are only for more elaborate styles like the 'medical lady' style or intricate updos). *********** I purchased the most expensive full-day level. Upon arrival, I could choose from 40,000 Won skirts, which were basically solid-colored or gradient-colored voluminous skirts, a single layer with an additional panel skirt. Since the skirt essentially has two layers, you can still see the hoop skirt's steel frame. If this bothers you, you'll need to pay extra for a higher-tier skirt. There are options for 60,000 Won and 80,000 Won. (The 60,000 Won options include tiered skirts and long tops that cover the stomach, as well as some patterned skirts. The 80,000 Won options have gold trim and some hot-stamped designs, which are really good quality, but probably better for autumn/winter, and also come with stomach-covering tops). If you're not planning to take photos all day, 4 hours is quite enough. It's definitely enough in the summer, as you won't last much longer. I'm quite heat-tolerant, but even on an overcast day, I only lasted about 5 hours before I couldn't take it anymore. We arrived at 11 AM and still found clothes we liked, but earlier might offer more top choices (?). Everyone should consider their own timing. Regarding photography, as per the price list, you can inquire directly at the store. However, it was an overcast day, so we didn't add on a photography package, so I don't know how the photos would have turned out. Many people at Gyeongbokgung Palace hire photographers. If the weather is good and you're in a good mood, you can hire one. They are very good at directing poses and have their own camera angles, so you don't have to find spots or think of poses yourself. Also, there are lockers with keys, so make sure to keep your key safe. In summary, I highly recommend this place and would go again, but not on a hot day.

We had a wonderful day with Jenny as our tour guide. It was very hot, and the pace of the tour was quite high! Jenny constantly checked to make sure everyone was doing okay in the heat. Thanks to the fast pace of the tour, we were able to see a lot in one day. Definitely recommended!

We had a wonderful and relaxing experience making out traditional Korean notebook with Helen. the class was perfect for an experienced crafter as well as a novice. Love the personalized souvenir to take home. Great way to relax a bit in the middle of a packed tour!!

Seoul City Tour Review: The tour was a great experience and featured some of Seoul’s top attractions. From start to finish, the tour had a dedicated group and a knowledgeable guide who spoke English throughout, which made everything easy to follow. A lower rating on value for money only due to a discrepancy in klook vs other booking sites; I found to be charged almost double the price compared to some who had used tripadvisor; no fault of the tour operators, more so my own for not doing more research—everything about the tour itself ran well, and the team delivered a solid, fairly well-organized day given the 8hr itinerary. A special shout-out goes to Hanki/Eugene, who was great at his job. He stayed upbeat and helpful despite the very hot weather, and his professionalism made the tour better. Overall, I’d recommend the tour for anyone wanting to see major Seoul highlights with a friendly, English-speaking guide. just make sure to compare all options for the best value ;)

Even as an experienced calligrapher, I had a wonderfully refreshing and educational time! The experience began with a thorough explanation of the similarities and differences between Japanese calligraphy and Korean calligraphic culture. I was very satisfied to learn not just how to write characters, but also to gain a deep understanding of the cultural background. When I told them what I wanted to write, they immediately provided a very clear example and kindly taught me tips and key points. Thanks to the warm atmosphere, which emphasized "enjoying the process rather than trying to write perfectly," the experience itself became a truly wonderful memory. I highly recommend this experience not only to beginners but also to those with prior calligraphy experience!

lizzie (지영) was an extremely kind and well organized tour guide. She was always very engaged, and highly knowledgeable. I had an incredible time learning from her and from the tour itself. If you are in Seoul, I highly recommend it!