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With life’s trials and tribulations distracting us, imbuing everyday experiences with wonder and excitement wrapped in gratitude has become a lost art. To help you romanticize your life and cultivate a more profound sense of contentment, we invite you to Changsin‑dong in the Jongno‑gu District. 

Renowned as a textile district with sewing shops and tailors, it epitomizes hard work and resilience while exuding an exceptionally serene and retro ambiance. All the introduced places are within walking distance of each other, ensuring you remain in a small bubble where creativity, inspiration, and appreciation for life's inherent beauty abound.

01
Changsin‑Sungin Quarry Observatory

The granite quarry of Changsin‑dong played a pivotal role in Seoul’s history by providing materials for significant landmarks, including the old Seoul Station and City Hall. The gray limestone’s peculiar shape in the area, complemented by trees and seasonal flowers, is a sight to behold. The observatory offers an unobstructed view of Seoul's skyline through either the café on the 2nd floor, accessible by elevator, or the terrace on the 3rd floor, accessible by stairs.

 51 Naksan 5‑gil, Jongno‑gu, Seoul 

 Weekdays: 13:00‑22:00 | Weekends: 10:00‑22:00 * Closed Mondays

 Walk for 17 min from exit 1 of Changsin Station (line 6)

02
Changsin‑dong Cliff Village (Dolsan Village)

After the Korean War, quarrying activities ceased, and immigrants and refugees gathered to form a village that could be easily explored in under an hour. Inside the Changsin‑dong Cliff Village, amidst quaint brick houses assembled like a patchwork, time seems suspended. If you set aside your electronics, allow the breeze to embrace you, and let the singing birds serenade you while exploring alleys, you'll encounter an unplugged experience unlike any other. The only elements reminding you that you are not alone are the occasional residents on leisurely walks, the faint sound of sewing machines emanating from open doors, or the passing of a delivery bike.

 Walk for 16 min from exit 1 of Changsin Station (line 6)

03

Woomoolzip

Food feeds the soul, and what better way to nourish your body than with an excellent seasonal traditional Korean menu at Woomoolzip? The expansive glass windows offer a picturesque view of the scenery as you dine, while the modern Hanok‑style decor transports you to another time. Prior reservation is required online on Catchtable.

 46 Naksan 5‑gil, Changsin‑dong, Jongno‑gu, Seoul

 Daily, 11:30‑21:00

 Walk for 20 min from exit 1 of Changsin Station (line 6), or board the Jongno03 green bus to Naksan Three‑Way Intersection from exit 2 (5 min ride)

💡  In the area?  The Naksan Park and the fortress wall nearby are worth exploring for their beautiful views of Seoul

04

Donut Jungsu

Imagine the thrill of climbing stairs and sneaking through tiny residential Seoul alleys to find a gem only a few insiders know. Donut Jungsu’s exterior resembles the donuts it sells: unassuming from the outside but exquisite within. Order Korean‑flavored donuts you’re unlikely to find anywhere else and retreat to the separate seating area, where an aesthetic hanok‑style décor and one of the best views of Seoul await you. Rumor has it the sunset view will temporarily sweep away all your worries.

 23‑492 Changsin‑dong, Jongro‑gu, Seoul 

 Daily, 11:30‑22:00

 Walk for 20 min from exit 1 of Changsin Station (line 6), 
or board the Jongno03 green bus to Naksan Three‑Way Intersection from exit 2 (5 min ride)

💡 In the area?  There is another café worthy of a visit called T(ER)T(RE), which boasts a minimalist modern décor and an amazing view.