Finding Seoul's hidden healing spots

                                        Photo: Cheonggyecheon Stream

Finding Seoul's hidden healing spots

Famous tourist attractions are abundant in Seoul, but look around and you will find the city is dotted with relaxing spots where people can take walks or just spend a few minutes resting. A vacation plan should not be lacking in new experiences and sights, but isn't the purpose of vacation "rest and recovery?" When your busy schedule has you feeling fatigued, stop by one of these healing locations to rest your body and soul.

Cheonggyecheon Stream & Cheonggye Plaza

Cheonggyecheon Stream runs through the heart of Seoul from Jongno-go to Jung-gu. The stream and the green space it supports blend with the modern buildings all around for an atmosphere perfect for dates; many young couples can be seen dipping their toes in the cool water or strolling hand-in-hand along the promenades both day and night. Enjoy a carefree walk following the stream, stopping along the way to visit the many nearby tourists attractions, including the Jongno and Euljiro areas.
☞ Address: Taepyeongno 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
☞ Website: www.cheonggyecheon.or.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
☞ Directions: Dongdaemun Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 4), Exit 8. Approx. 6 minute walk.
Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, 4, 5), Exit 14. Approx. 12 minute walk.

N Seoul Tower

The observatory atop N Seoul Tower provides one of the most beautiful views of the city and it is no wonder why this site is constantly selected as a top date spot by couples. Another charm to Namsan Mountain is the walking trail, a quiet oasis in the middle of the bustling metropolis. Ride the Namsan Circulation Bus to the peak, and walk down the trail to enjoy the romantic ambiance of autumn in the city.
☞ Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
☞ Website: www.nseoultower.com (Korean, English)
☞ Directions: Chungmuro Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, 4), Exit 2.
- Board Namsan Circulation Bus 02 and get off at N Seoul Tower Parking Lot.
☞ Operating hours: Sunday-Friday 10:00-23:00 / Saturday 10:00-24:00
☞ Fees: Observatory 9,000 won

Ttukseom Hangang Park

There are twelve citizens' parks along the banks of the Hangang River and people flock to the parks year round to enjoy outings with family and friends. The parks offer various amenities such as swimming pools, walking paths, bicycle rental locations and trails. Of all the parks, Ttukseom Hangang Park offers the most facilities for thrill-seekers, including rock climbing, windsurfing and extreme sports.
☞ Address: 139, Gangbyeonbuk-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
☞ Website: hangang.seoul.go.kr (Korean, English)
☞ Directions: Ttukseom Resort Station (Seoul Subway Line 7), Exit 2. Approx. 14 minute walk.
☞ Bicycle rentals: Ttukseom Resort Station (Seoul Subway Line 7), Exit 2 & 3, located next to the plaza.
    Operating hours: 09:00-Sunset
    Fees: Bicycle 1 hour 3,000 won / Tandem bicycle 1 hour 6,000 won

Hongdae (Hongik University Street)

Hongdae is definitely the trendiest hangout for Seoul's youth. From amature musicians to clubs and street performances, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. If you're feeling hungry, wander through the winding streets and alleyways to find one of Hongdae's many unique cafes and restaurants. Recently, the railroad tracks for the previous Gyeongui Line were removed and the area around Hongik University Station, Exit 3 was turned into a park, bursting with energy and culture. If you're looking for a unique place to visit, don't miss this new attraction.
☞ Address: Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
☞ Directions: Hongik University Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, Gyeongui-Jungang, AREX)

Haneul Park


Haneul Park is one of five parks that make up World Cup Park, and is closest to the sky, hence it's name (haneul means 'sky' in Korean). Haneul Park is most famous for its vast fields of silver grass. The feathery grass dancing in the wind is a beautiful scene, making this park a popular photoshoot location. Be sure to have your camera ready and your eyes open when you visit; you never know what famous people could be filming here!
☞ Address: 95, Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
☞ Website: worldcuppark.seoul.go.kr (Korean only)
☞ Directions: World Cup Stadium Station (Seoul Subway Line 6), Exit 1. Approx. 13 minute walk.
☞ Operating hours: ~2 hours after sunset
(January 20:00 / February, October 20:30 / March, September 21:00 / April, May 21:30 / June-August 22:00 / November-December 19:30)
☞ 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)