Unique and Adorable Themed Cafes to Explore in Hongdae, Seoul
In the vibrant neighbourhood of Hongdae, Seoul, themed cafes abound, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Known for its artistic and cultural scene, Hongdae is a hub for unique cafes that cater to a variety of interests. Here's a guide to some of the most notable themed cafes in the area.
For fans of the iconic Hello Kitty and her friends, the Sanrio Lovers Club, also known as the Hello Kitty Cafe, is a must-visit. The cafe and shop are themed around the beloved characters, with an upstairs designed to resemble a schoolroom.
Another popular themed cafe is the Kakao Friends store, located in Hongdae and Gangnam. Based on emoticons from KakaoTalk, the country's biggest messaging app, the Kakao Friends characters adorn the cafe, providing a fun and playful atmosphere for fans.
If you're a Harry Potter enthusiast, Cafe 943 King's Cross, also known as the Harry Potter Cafe, is a favourite among themed cafe enthusiasts. Located nearby, the cafe has 7 floors, each with a different theme related to the Harry Potter universe. Please note that a purchase of food or drink is required to explore the cafe and take photos.
For a more tranquil experience, Sinleedoga Cafe offers a relaxed, zen feel with big floor-to-ceiling windows letting in lots of light. Designed to resemble a traditional Hanok house, the cafe features a central courtyard and a cosy firepit. The menu primarily consists of hot drinks, iced teas, cakes, and pastries, with the signature drink being the Corn Cream Latte.
If you're looking for a unique photo opportunity, Thanks Nature Cafe, located in Hongdae, houses two cute, fluffy sheep. The sheep are changed every year and can be visited and even pet by customers. Please note that the sheep are sent home during summer due to Seoul's humid weather.
For a more traditional coffee experience, Tremor Coffee Works in Hongdae provides a thoughtful and finely tuned coffee experience with a quiet, intimate setting. Although it's not a themed cafe in the traditional sense, it's worth a visit for coffee lovers.
Lastly, Aqua Garden Cafe in Songpa-gu offers an underwater world with stunning aquariums, though it's not in Hongdae. It's still worth mentioning for those seeking more themed cafes to explore in Seoul.
Seoul's themed cafes provide a unique blend of entertainment, food, and photo opportunities, making them a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're a fan of Harry Potter, Hello Kitty, or simply enjoy a good cup of coffee, Hongdae's themed cafes offer something for everyone.
- The Hello Kitty Cafe, also known as Sanrio Lovers Club, offers a unique lifestyle experience centered around the beloved characters, featuring an upper floor designed like a schoolroom for female travelers.
- For avid Harry Potter fans, Cafe 943 King's Cross, or the Harry Potter Cafe, provides a diverse travel experience with seven floors themed around the Harry Potter universe, requiring a purchase of food or drink to explore.
- For those seeking a tranquil atmosphere, Sinleedoga Cafe, designed to resemble a traditional Hanok house, offers a peaceful home-and-garden environment with hot drinks, iced teas, cakes, and pastries on the menu, including the signature Corn Cream Latte.
- If you're interested in shopping for Kakao Friends merchandise, the Kakao Friends store, located in both Hongdae and Gangnam, offers a fun and playful themed cafe experience based on emoticons from KakaoTalk.
