Seoul, Home to 9.4 Million: My Curated Alleys and Quiet Pauses
Though Seoul is a bustling metropolis with nearly 10 million people, just stepping slightly off the beaten path reveals sceneries offering your own moments of relaxation.
Taking a Close Look at This City
Seoul is a place where skyscrapers and centuries-old royal palaces casually rub shoulders. While bustling with a massive population of 9.42 million, just a single subway ride alternates serene walking trails with hip cafe alleys. It is a city well-suited for travelers looking to find their own pace amidst a fast-flowing daily routine.
A Place Where Centuries of Time Pile Up Layer by Layer
Starting as Hanyang during the Joseon Dynasty and evolving into today's Seoul, this city holds traces of countless histories. Walking along the winding Seoul City Wall, you can strangely see a child touching a Joseon Dynasty fortress wall overlapping with a young person passing by while holding the latest smartphone. The fact that the past and present breathe simultaneously is the most fascinating aspect of Seoul.
The Landscapes of Seoul That I Love
While spots crowded with tourists are great, I cherish places where you can feel the air of Seoul a bit more quietly. From walking along the fortress wall to exotic alleys and the leisure provided by the Han River, it's wonderful to pick and choose wherever your feet take you.
νκ΅κ΄κ΄κ³΅μ¬Search βA fortress wall walking trail connecting Seongbuk-gu and Jongno-gu, offering a panoramic view of downtown Seoul at sunset.
νκ΅κ΄κ΄κ³΅μ¬Search βA quiet residential area in Seocho-gu with a strong French vibe, featuring charming cafes and bakeries.
νκ΅κ΄κ΄κ³΅μ¬Search βGreat for enjoying a picnic in the refreshing river breeze, with flea markets opening on weekends offering fun things to explore.
νκ΅κ΄κ΄κ³΅μ¬Search βEnjoy wide grassy fields and cool river views in the center of Seoul, along with the Bamdokkaebi Night Market and bicycle riding.
νκ΅κ΄κ΄κ³΅μ¬Search βA cozy walking trail located in Yangcheon-gu where local residents take light walks and enjoy greenery in the city.
Greenery and Waves Encountered in the City
Mountains and rivers hidden among the forest of buildings are great resting places for the people of Seoul. Cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage color the cityscape, and you can visit the Han River and small neighborhood mountains to catch your breath at any time of the year.
Bonghwasan Mountain (λ΄νμ°)
An easy mountain located in Jungnang-gu; climbing to the summit offers a panoramic view of northeastern Seoul.
Han River
A massive river cutting across the city from east to west, great for visiting comfortably anytime to zone out while watching the sunset.
Bonghwasan Neighborhood Park (λ΄νμ°κ·Όλ¦°κ³΅μ)
A place with well-maintained walking trails under tree shades where local residents walk barefoot or do light exercises.
Where Diverse Tastes and Aromas Linger
While Seoul's dining tables gather cuisines from all around the world, traditional foods with deep expertise firmly anchor the center. Amidst the busy hustle and bustle, it is a generous city that accommodates all tastesβfrom healthy flavors that purify the mind like temple food to the savory aroma of dakgalbi that has preserved long years.
Places Responsible for Memorable Meals
From trendy hot spots to long-beloved local spots, these are reliable places directly tasted and selected in Seoul.
A temple food specialty restaurant directly operated by the Jogye Order, where you can taste neat and deeply flavorful course meals.
A long-standing place in Sinchon where you can enjoy hearty iron-griddle dakgalbi and refreshing makguksu.
A cozy space inside the alleys of Insadong where you can take a short break tasting warm traditional tea and hangwa (traditional confectionery).
A special dating course where you can enjoy top-tier course meals and comfortable movie watching in one place.
Practical Information to Help Your Seoul Trip
Seoul has world-class public transportation, making it easy to get anywhere just by taking the subway and buses. Prepare a T-money card before departing, and if you are coming from outside Seoul, check the Korail or express bus booking websites. Even if you get lost, a smartphone map is more than enough to resolve it, so you can set off with a light heart.