[2025 Baguio Restaurant] Travel Guide for Ili-Likha Artists Village (Updated Apr)

#baguiotrips Stepping into Ili-Likha Artist Village is like entering a dream spun from wood, color, and creativity. It’s a tucked-away sanctuary in the middle of Baguio that feels like it grew organically around the trees. Every corner bursts with recycled materials turned into art—bottle cap mosaics, scrap wood stairs, even tables made from old typewriters. The village was founded by artist Kidlat Tahimik and you can feel that free spirit in the air. I wandered through tiny staircases and winding alleys and discovered cozy cafés and local food stalls, each with its own quirky personality. There’s a strong sense of community and advocacy here—supporting local farmers, artists, and sustainable living. It’s more than just a photo op (though it’s totally Instagrammable)—it’s a creative haven that invites you to slow down and explore with intention. If you’re a soul traveler or art lover, Ili-Likha is a must on your Baguio trip.

#weekendgetaways During summer, it gets too hot in the Philippines and people usually find ways to escape the heat. One of the popular quick trips from Manila is Baguio City. The city up north is actually called the Summer Capital of the Philippines due to its colder climate. The city can be reached via public and private transport and isbusually a 3 to 4 hour drive from Manila. The city has a lot of tourist attractions and different food to try. Ili-Likha Artists Village is an art complex in Baguio City resembling a treehouse. The complex is owned by Kidlat Tahimik whose a National Artist for Film in the Philippines. The artistry of putting different kinds of materials and textures together, the free-flow interiors, the use of spaces, all the different food will make you believe you're stepping into another world. Exploring every corner and being able to dine here were great experiences as it really helped in forgetting the busy city.

This place is a true paradise for art enthusiasts as the whole structure and the vendors in it are part of the aesthetic. There are some lovely artisan cafés and boutiques with unique items all throughout the structure and even an ampitheatre for live performances! Just off the bustling Session Road, this place is perfect for those who want to see something a little different during their trip to Baguio, Philippines .