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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Travel devider Ili-Likha Artist Village: Inside Baguio's enchanting creative haven

Ili-Likha Artist Village: Inside Baguio's enchanting creative haven

From whimsical architecture to mystical tarot readings, this hidden corner of Baguio City offers an escape unlike any other

Published May 20, 2026 12:19 pm

At A Glance

  • Wherever your eyes linger, you'll find colorful murals and intricate carvings to marvel over.
AN ARTIST'S PARADISE Ili-Likha Artist Village was founded by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik in 2014 as a space for creatives to gather
AN ARTIST'S PARADISE Ili-Likha Artist Village was founded by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik in 2014 as a space for creatives to gather
Imagine being transported to the deepest realm of your dreams, where you recall the most vivid errors of reality, and waking up to find it all in the real world. This distinct feeling is what it’s like when walking within the Ili-Likha Artist Village.
CINEPHILE LIFE Balanghai ni Ikeng Cinema is a corner where indie and Indigenous film screenings take place
CINEPHILE LIFE Balanghai ni Ikeng Cinema is a corner where indie and Indigenous film screenings take place
A COLORFUL SPACE Wherever your eyes wander, there is something to appreciate
A COLORFUL SPACE Wherever your eyes wander, there is something to appreciate
LOST BOYS VIBE Ili-Likha's design feels like a treehouse dream come to life
LOST BOYS VIBE Ili-Likha's design feels like a treehouse dream come to life
Once you make your way inside, it feels as if you’ve left Baguio City to enter an alternate reality. It brings you to a world where whimsy takes over, and the mind’s untouched creativity is allowed to shine. Its design feels like that of the Lost Boys’ treehouse from “Peter Pan.” Every corner has something different to offer, whether it’s refreshing drinks, a filling meal, artisan crafts, or mystical charms to fend off negative energy. Wherever your eyes linger, you’ll find colorful murals and intricate carvings to marvel at. That comes as no surprise, as the space was founded by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik after all.
FORTUNE FAVORS THE BOLD People queue up to have their fortunes read by local divine oracle Freya Gaia
FORTUNE FAVORS THE BOLD People queue up to have their fortunes read by local divine oracle Freya Gaia
Our journey to the artist’s haven led us through many cozy nooks, though one corner in particular stood out. A steady line filled this area, made up of both young and old visitors. They were in line for a tarot card reading by local love guru and divine oracle Freya Gaia. While tarot card readings may seem far-fetched for some, it presents an alternative view of understanding one’s past, present, and future. Through the cards presented and selected, we are presented with possibilities of come what may or hard-hitting truths we tend to shy away from.
READ THE CARDS Tarot readings offer an alternate look into one's past, present, and future
READ THE CARDS Tarot readings offer an alternate look into one's past, present, and future
Mini sessions go for ₱200, while full readings are at ₱400. After each reading, you are allowed to ask any questions you may want answered. Having our cards read was an interesting experience, and Freya has a reassuring aura that lets you feel at ease. Even when a card as seemingly grim as Death pops up, she tells us how it symbolizes a major change rather than an untimely end. It may not be for everyone, but it’s still a captivating activity to try out.
Ili-Likha Artist Village is one of many destinations the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines brought us to during its most recent Regional Travel Fair. You can experience it for yourself at 32 Assumption Road, Brgy. Kabayanihan, Baguio City

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Travel Baguio City Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines Kidlat Tahimik Ili-Likha Artist Village
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