New Winter Citywalk Ideas in Seoul! Hidden Treasures Along the Han River Revealed
Tired of the hustle and bustle of Myeongdong and Dongdaemun? Bring the kids to both sides of the Han River and discover a quieter, more artistic, and natural side of Seoul. This walking route, featuring parks, art, and food, is a must-save.
🚶 Theme: Han River Cultural and Artistic Walk
🎨 Route Highlights
Public Art Tour: Han River Park is dotted with numerous modern sculptures and installation art, all free to enjoy.
Hidden Museums: Several uniquely themed museums are tucked along the riverbanks, offering a less crowded and better experience.
Cafe Culture: A line of riverside cafes with stunning views, perfect for warming up and daydreaming.
🗺️ Detailed Walking Guide (Recommended to split into two days)
-Day 1: Gangbuk Artistic Line (Mapo to Seogang Bridge section)
• Start: World Cup Park (노을공원)
Climb to the highest point, Sky Park, for panoramic views of the Han River and city. The winter reeds offer a special charm.
• Walk to: Mapo Han River Park
Visit the "Cultural Reserve Base," an art zone transformed from an old military base, often hosting free exhibitions. Nearby "Lanjichuan Park" is also very quiet.
• Lunch: Gongdeok Food Street
Within walking distance from the park, try local Korean dishes like loach soup and grilled beef intestines.
• Afternoon: Walk east along the river
Pass through "Yanghwa Han River Park" and reach under the "Seogang Bridge." Here is the famous "Seogang Bridge Underpass Cafe Street," find a riverside cafe you like to rest.
• Evening: Mangwon-dong
Stroll from the cafe street to the unique Mangwon-dong neighborhood, browse creative shops and boutiques.
-Day 2: Gangnam Nature Line (Banpo to Ichon section)
• Start: Banpo Han River Park
Focus on the "Banpo Moonlight Rainbow Fountain" and the nearby Three Islands (삼리섬), which often host cultural events and exhibitions.
• Walk to: National Museum of Korea
Cross under Banpo Bridge to reach it. The museum is free, grand in architecture, rich in collections, and has a great kids' experience area.
• Lunch: Ichon-dong
Many family restaurants near the museum, such as tofu specialty stores or army stew restaurants.
• Afternoon: Ichon Han River Park
A very open lawn area with views of "Noryangjin Ecological Park." Visit the "War Memorial of Korea" (free) and the adjacent "Yongsan Family Park."
• Evening: I-Park Mall & Yongsan Electronics Market
A large shopping center, perfect for restocking. The electronics market offers all kinds of interesting digital gadgets.
☕ Recommended Riverside Cafes
Gwangjang: Located in Banpo district, huge floor-to-ceiling windows facing Banpo Bridge, excellent desserts.
Seoulism: In Songpa district, rooftop terrace is a popular spot for photos featuring Lotte World Tower and the Han River together.
Cafe Onion (Seobinggo): Near Ichon Station, industrial style, famous for bread, some seats have river views.
🏛️ Notable Museums Along the River
• National Museum of Korea: The largest museum in Korea.
• War Memorial of Korea: Learn about modern Korean history.
• Blueline Park Book Bar: A linear park converted from the old Banpo railway, featuring small book bars and art installations along the way.
🚇 Transportation and Facilities
• The sections of Han River Park are perfectly connected by bike lanes and sidewalks, ideal for walking or cycling.
• Convenience stores and public restrooms are spaced closely within the parks, very convenient.
• Use Naver Map or Kakao Map apps for navigation, which are more accurate than Google Maps in Korea.
Escape the tourist areas, measure the width of the Han River with your own feet, and discover a more three-dimensional, everyday Seoul. This walking guide is perfect for families who enjoy deep experiences.