Independent, Myeong-dong hotels

Myeongdong is an exciting district in central Seoul. It is centred on two streets which are the home of the finest shops in South Korea. Department stores and designer clothing outlets such as Lacoste are among the establishments which help Myeongdong attract one million shoppers every year. The district is not lacking in cultural draws either and its Catholic cathedral is a highlight.

When it was completed in the 1890s, Myeongdong Cathedral was the largest structure in this area of Korea. The clocktower of this Gothic masterpiece is 45 metres high. Painted glass windows show historic religious scenes and the underground crypt is home to the remains of noted Korean religious martyrs. An Our Lady of Lourdes statue is located in the cathedral garden.

At Myeongdong’sNanta Theatre, kitchen musicians amaze audiences with their skills playing traditional samulnori music with instruments made out of tools. These unique performances are staged every day and a must-see on the itineraries of international tourists.

Namsan Park is on the south side of Myeongdong and is focussed around Mt Namsan. A set of steps plus a cable car provide access to the top. Palgakjeong Pagoda, the five traditional houses that make up Hanok Village andWaryongmyo Shrine are the key attractions in the park. Seoul Tower is 480 metres high and its observation deck gives awesome viewsacross the city.

All dining options are available in Myeongdong. Tourists are able to try Korean dishes such as donkas pork chops and tasty kalguksu noodles. US fast food, Japanese sushi and French steaks are just three of many other choices. A meal on the top floor of Seoul Tower is a special experience. When it comes to a night out, Myeongdong offers bars with everything from makgeolli liquor to craft beers plus a number of nightclubs.

Shopping is Myeongdong’s reason for being and visitors are never disappointed with what is on sale here. Almost 10 department stores including Noon Square and Lotte sell stylish clothing, shoes, accessories, electrical products and household decorations. Louis Vuitton and Polo are among numerous brand-name shops. N Gift in Seoul Tower sells a premium collection of souvenirs.