🌿 Cheongsudang Café | Secret Garden in Ikseon-dong 🇰🇷

Cheongsudang (청수당) — A secret garden-like hanok cafe in Ikseon-dong: Soft matcha cake, fluffy soufflé castel, and plenty of photogenic spots. Perfect for both relaxing and capturing memories. ✨

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🌸 Why visit Cheongsudang?

If you're looking for a peaceful spot that blends hanok architecture with a small garden in the middle of the city — Cheongsudang is the answer. The entrance is a small tree archway, giving the feeling of entering a private garden. Upon entering, you'll find a much larger space than you'd expect from the outside. It's divided into a hanok-style wooden house and an outdoor garden area, all connected by a hanok. Perfect for a quiet moment or a book. Or for photography enthusiasts looking for an editorial corner in Seoul 🌸

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📍 Location – Time – Directions
• Address: 31-9 Donhwamun-ro 11na-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
• Opening Hours: Daily 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Last order 8:30 PM)
• Directions: Take the Jongno 3-ga subway to Exit 6 and walk down the alley for about 5 minutes. You'll see the sign and archway at the entrance, making it an easy landmark. 🚶♀️

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🍰 Signature Menu (Reference Price)
• Matcha Fromage Cake — ₩15,000: Smooth matcha cheesecake with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Mugwort Soufflé Castella — ₩17,800: Fluffy castella soufflé with a subtle mugwort aroma. It takes 20 minutes to prepare, but it's worth it.
• Matcha Cream Latte — ₩7,800 / Stone Drip Coffee: A drink to pair with your dessert to balance the flavors.

Ordering Tip: When you're with friends, order several items to share. Choose a table before ordering. Because each zone offers a different mood.

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📸 Must-See Photo Spots
1. Entrance with a tree arch and a small bridge — Iconic cover photo
2. Flatlay of desserts and coffee cups — Hero shot of the post
3. Table corner in the hanok — Editorial mood, soft shadows
4. Backyard walkway — Cinematic shot of walking across the bridge
5. Dessert counter (action shot) — Cake cutting shot

Mobile tips: Turn on grid, Portrait/HDR, lock the exposure and adjust slightly, and flatlay to arrange the spoons, glasses, and tea leaves beautifully.

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⏰ Best time to go / Caution: • Weekday afternoons (2:00 PM–4:00 PM) are less crowded and the lighting is better.
• Weekends are crowded, so you may have to wait in line.
• Restrooms are located next to the counter. Choose the perfect photo spot before ordering.

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💡 Summary of the fun

Cheongsudang Café — A perfect blend of Hanok, secret garden, and premium desserts.
• Plenty of photo spots, both indoors and outdoors.
• Signature menu: Matcha Fromage Cake & Mugwort Soufflé Castella. Absolutely delicious.
• Cafe feel: Delicate, warm, and peaceful. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, friends, or families.

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