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Do you want to experience all Korean culture and tradition in one place? Come
to Seoul and make a trip to Insa-dong, Seoul. Though it can be admitted
that Seoul is representative of Korea, however, it's also true like other cities
Seoul too has grown too much to be called a hub of Korean culture alone. Nevertheless,
there are some places in this city, which still cherish the sole Korean culture
and tradition in its intact form. Being counted in that category, Insa-dong is
considered as one of the must see spots in Seoul.
Making a visit to this place would allow you to experience hear traditional Korean discourse in the street, a cup of traditional tea, a proper Korean meal and conventional Korean fine crafts. If you follow the bustle and noise from Jongno past Tapgol Park, you'll find Insa-dong, Seoul to your left. Beginning at Tapgol Park, "Insa-dong" as referred to here, is basically the stretch of street extending about 700m. This avenue contains the myriad fine craft stores that line both sides offering you anything from simple hanbok (traditional Korean clothing), to gorgeous Goryeo era vases. Such an influx of items which are not entirely Korean has turned this avenue to a giant flea market. Insa-dong, Seoul features a myriad of eateries where you will be able to get the flavor of Japanese udon noodles, Chinese dumplings, and European cakes along with distinctly Korean foods in temporary stalls on the streets such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), eomuk (skewered fish sausage), hotteok, and various tempuras. Though cheap are these tasty street foods, however, these are worth a try. Besides, there are also many kinds of traditional drinks, such as cinnamon tea, Chinese quince tea, jujube tea, shikhye (fermented rice punch), and sujeonggwa (cinnamon flavored dried persimmon punch), so try a cup to compliment the food.
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