Discover the 5 Must-See Parks in Seoul
Seoul is home to over 10 million inhabitants, and just as many treasures to discover! When visiting South Korea's capital,
Seoul is home to over 10 million inhabitants, and just as many treasures to discover! When planning a trip to South Korea's capital, it's essential to treat yourself to some peaceful moments in one of the city's green lungs... Nature watching, picnicking, temple visits, or outdoor strolls: discover 5 must-see parks in Seoul.
1. Namsan Mountain Park
Namsan Park is renowned for its eponymous mountain, rising to over 260 meters above sea level. Perfect for a short hike, this park is also ideal for picnicking in the heart of Seoul – and enjoying panoramic views of the downtown area.
To take in the landscape without having to walk, you can also ride a cable car. At the summit of Mount Namsan stands the N Seoul Tower: the city's first telecommunications tower, inaugurated in 1980.
Practical Information Address: Jung District, Hoehyeon-dong 1(il)-ga, 100-166 -ga, How to get there: Metro Line 4 (Hoeyeon Station) or Myeongdong Station (if taking the cable car). Opening hours: Daily, open 24/7 Price: Free (except for the cable car). |
2. Seoul Forest Park
Seoul Forest Park is a magnificent wooded park, located in the Seongdong-gu district. It features a lake, cycling paths, ping-pong tables, tennis courts, and picnic areas. Opened in 2005, this park is also home to squirrels, herons… and deer!
At the park's entrance, you can admire a beautiful horse statue – a reminder that the park was a horse racing track in the 1950s. Its unique feature? Seoul Forest Park is divided into five distinct zones:
● The Culture and Arts Park, dedicated to cultural and sporting activities. It features water jets, a giant statue (which serves as a climbing area for children), and several forest trails.
● The Ecological Forest, with its walkways, this section allows you to observe the park's flora and fauna. It's also here that you can spot does and deer.
● The Nature Learning Park allows you to observe numerous insects and tropical plants.
● The Butterfly Garden, a greenhouse open to the public where you can observe butterfly varieties – and watch the stages of their metamorphosis!
● The Wetland Plant Gardens, this zone is perfect for birdwatching.
Finally, note that in spring, Seoul Forest Park is a must-visit spot to see cherry blossoms in Seoul!
Practical Information Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, How to get there: Metro Line 3, Seoul Forest Station (Exit 5) + 10 minutes walk. Opening hours: Daily, 24/7; the Butterfly Garden is open daily (except Mondays) from May to October, 10:00 to 17:00. Price: Free To know: Possibility to rent a bike or tandem near the park |
3. Haneul Park
When visiting Seoul, Haneul Park is a must-see stop. Located in the Mapo-gu district, the park has a surprising history. In fact, just three decades ago, this ecological park was an open-air landfill… Today rehabilitated, the site forms a massive 190,000 m² green space!
Equipped with several observation decks, this park is ideal for taking beautiful panoramic photos of South Korea's capital or for rejuvenating away from the crowds while staying within the city.
Practical Information Address/Province: 482 Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul How to get there: World Cup Stadium Station (Line 6, Exit 1); Mapo-gu Office Station (Line 6, Exit 8). Opening hours: Daily, 09:00 to 20:00. Closing time may vary depending on the season. Price: Free |
4. Bukhansan National Park
The Bukhansan National Park is one of the most popular mountain sites in South Korea. Located close to the city and easily accessible, it offers a peaceful escape and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
With streams, forests, and mountain ranges, the park also features several temples and historical sites, such as the Bukhansanseong Fortress, built in 1711. The site is particularly popular for its hiking trails, including the famous ascent of the park's highest peak: Baegundae Peak, which reaches 836 meters above sea level.
Practical Information Address: 262 Bogungmun-ro, Seongbuk District, How to get there: Bus (Line 704) Price: Free To know: Hiking trails are generally closed from March to April inclusive, then from mid-November to mid-December. |
5. Seoraksan National Park
Although located 250 km northeast of Seoul, the Seoraksan National Park is worth planning a stopover for if you're heading towards Gangwon-do province during your trip... Why? Beyond being a UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is home to the Taebaek mountain range – including Mount Seorak, the country's third-highest peak!
Moreover, Seoraksan Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity (comprising rare plants and numerous animals) and features several points of interest:
● Sinheungsa Temple (and its large bronze Buddha).
● Gyejoam Temple (located in a rock!).
● Heundeul Bawi Rock (which balances on another rock).
● Ulsanbawi Rock (or Ulsan Rock) reaches 200 meters above sea level and is perfect for beautiful photos – and a short hike (the trail features approximately 800 steps and about 600 meters of elevation!).
● The Cable Car, designed to reach the summit of Mount Seorak, without having to do the hike.
Practical Information Address/Province: Gangwon-do, Sokcho-si, Seoraksan-ro, 833 KR How to get there: Bus (Line 7) Opening hours: Daily, 09:00 to 18:00 Price (average/person): $1.34 To know: The cable car is very popular. To ensure you have a spot, choose your departure time and buy a ticket at the park entrance. |
FAQ
What is the most beautiful park in Seoul?
South Korea's capital has many parks, each with its own character and specific features. Among these green spaces, one of the most renowned parks is Seoul Forest Park (which is often compared to Central Park).
What famous theme park can you visit in South Korea?
If you're looking for an amusement park with thrilling rides, head to Everland (Yongin), Seoul Land (Yongin), or Lotte World (Gwacheon). For its part, the E-World amusement park (Daegu) also offers beautiful panoramic views, while Gyeongju World (Gyeongju) features a water park area in summer and a snow park in winter.
Frequently asked questions
Spring (March-April) is ideal for enjoying cherry blossoms, particularly at Seoul Forest Park. Autumn (October-November) offers stunning fall foliage in national parks like Bukhansan. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cold but sometimes snowy and very photogenic.
Yes, most Seoul parks are easily accessible by metro. Namsan Mountain Park can be reached via Line 4 (Hoeyeon Station), Seoul Forest Park via Line 3 (Seoul Forest Station), and Haneul Park via Line 6 (World Cup Stadium Station). Bukhansan National Park is accessible by bus (Line 704).
Yes, several Seoul parks offer cycling paths. Seoul Forest Park is particularly suitable for biking, with the option to rent a bike or tandem near the park. Be sure to check the specific regulations for each park before your visit.
Absolutely. Seoul Forest Park is very family-friendly with its butterfly garden, nature learning park, and giant statue serving as a climbing area for children. Haneul Park and Namsan Mountain Park are also suitable for families thanks to their open spaces and cable cars.
Yes! Seoul Forest Park is home to deer and does that can be spotted in the ecological forest. You'll also find squirrels, herons, and many insect species in the nature learning park. The butterfly garden allows you to observe different butterfly species and their metamorphoses.
