Penniless Tour Guide for South Korea 2016

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Penniless tour guide For S. Korea 2016

“You spend less, but the tour is priceless”


Editor and Writer Benny Joo Hi there, my name is Benny Joo and I am a rising senior at Chadwick International School located in South Korea, a branch school of Chadwick School in LA, California. I read, one day, that the number of foreign visitors to South Korea had been plummeting. Has lived in South Korea for about 16 years, I was confident to assure that South Korea is worth visiting, if “well-visited�. We researched attractions in Seoul that are recommended the most strongly by bloggers, and visited all of them. We then sorted out the best ones, upon which all four of us agreed. Hope you enjoy :)

Editor and Writer Phillip Kim Hi, My name is Chanwoo Phillip Kim. I am a senior at Chadwick International School in Incheon, South Korea. I grew up in Korea adventuring around Seoul. As I am an international student, I always see foreign friends struggling to navigate through Seoul. On the other hand, I always have been able to find tour guides and people to guide me through the cities abroad. Now in return, I would like to do the visitors a favor by making a guide for them, and guide them to the best experiences as possible.

Writer Sangmin Lee I am Sang Min Lee, a senior student at Chadwick International School at the time of publishing this tour guide. Although I gained access to western education ever since I was very young, I have lived in South Korea for 15 years out of my 17-year life. With 15 years of experience in South Korea, I would like to firmly claim that this is a country of beauty. As I had been born and raised in Seoul, the capital city of South Korea, I would like to offer my deep insight into the city to the readers of this tour guide. You will enjoy this trip.

Writer Kiran Dwivedi Hello, My name is Kiran Dwivedi and I am from Belgium. I have only been a year in Korea, but already I am charmed by this wonderful country. I decided to contribute to this work because as a foreigner that has been in Korea only since so recently, I thought I might give an interesting insight as to what to expect and how to manage if it is your first time in the country. i


1ST STATION

JONGRO AVENUE Jongno avenue, established in 1396 during the Josun Dynasty, holds historical significance. It was a place in which citizens were notified by bells whether the gateway of the castle was opened or closed. Nowadays, Jongno avenue is also called the avenue of Youth as there are numerous, delightful checkpoints that attract many. The following places are the attractions in the Jongno Avenue: Cheonggye Stream, Gwangmyeong Market, Ssamzigil, Samcheong-dong.


CHEONGGYE STREAM

Restored in 2005, Cheonggye stream has been known as the pinnacle of beauty that people can find in Seoul, South Korea. During all four seasons in South Korea, nobody who has visited the Cheonggye stream neglects the fact that it is the nirvana of the real-world.

Spring, cherry blossom naturally decorates the sides of the Cheonggye stream. Despite thousands of people who visit the stream in order to witness its delight, its long width and length allows each individual to be in a relaxed atmosphere.

Summer, also a splendid time to visit the stream. With the summer sun providing warm atmosphere and the cool water washing heat away, people find the “optimum� temperature. Cheonggye stream is a place where you can give sumptuous environment to your loved ones. 3


Fall, you can witness the magnificent scene of brown leaves gracefully falling and winter, snow frosts can even make your eyes dance. However, people must not forget the “common time� in which the Cheonggye stream most boasts its beauty. Late at night.

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GWANG MYEONG MARKET

Many foreign visitors eat Sushi, Pasta & Pizza, Paella, or Phat Thai at high prices in South Korea. Why? Want to try traditional, purely South Korean but considerably delicious food at low prices? Gwangmyeong Market is the place you are looking for. With food that fill your taste buds with happiness, even domestic Korean citizens visit the Gwangmyeong Market in order to taste its delicious plates. Ranging from snacks, starters, mains, and even deserts, you can get your best course below 10,000 Korean won (10 US dollars). In the picture on the left, two whole fried chickens are served at 10,000 Korean won. Friendly Korean merchants will offer you free tries of food and guidance in how to eat certain food. Traditionally boiled pork hocks, also known as Jokbal, will get you addicted. With chewy collagen, soft pork meat balanced with savoury fat will make you cancel your plane ticket back to your home. 5


Your will not only satiate your tastebuds, but also other senses of your body. Friendly merchants will allow you to closely observe and touch fresh and alive sea organisms.

Visit Gwangmyeong market and save money while receiving the most unique experience in South Korea!

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SSAMZIGIL

Place that will give you the most entertainment in the Jongno avenue would be Ssamzigil in Insadong. From shopping and dining to even gaming areas, Ssamzigil will given you access to a range of various places within short distances.

Walking up and down only a few stairs, you will get from a shopping district to an amusement park, an amusement park to one of the best restaurants in Seoul. With delightful atmosphere during the day and romantic lighting in the night, Ssamzigil will give give you and your loved the best dating experience.

Shopping is big. Luxury goods and those of famous brands can be found anywhere. However, exquisite traditional Korean goods are unique to this place. At low prices, you can find the products that will get you nostalgic of Korea forever. From hand fans to traditional cups, find all you want at the Gwang- myeong market. 7


Jongro 5th Avenue is located in the Northern part of Seoul, on the north side of Han River. The following five sites are located at a close distance in the Jongro 5th Avenue (area marked red).

The Jongro 5th Avenue station (at the red balloon!) is located on subway “line 1�, which is blue in color. It is between Jongro 3rd Avenue station and Dongdaemun station. From Jongro 5th Avenue station, the sites just introduced are of a walking distance.

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How to get to Cheonggye-Stream ?

“Let me guide you to...�

! As you arrive in Jongro 5th Avenue station (marked red on the map above), start in search for exits number 6 or 7. As you exit the station through either exits 6 or 7, walk straight, two blocks down. In less than 5 minutes, you will arrive at the Cheonggye Stream.

How to get to Gwang-myeong market ?

! As you arrive in Jongro 5th avenue station, search for exit 7. Then, walk straight down one block, and make a sharp turn on the first street on your right. Walk two blocks and by the end of the second block, you will be able to find the Gwangjang Market on your left. 9


How to get to Ssamzigil ?

! As you arrive in Jongro 5th avenue station, exit the station through exit number 4. Walking straight down, you will be able to find a bus stop at the “black labeled” area on the map above. Take the 7025 bus and travel five stations until you reach Anguk Bus Stop (안국역). The second photo shows the distance you will travel; the star is the destination. 10


SAMCHEONGDONG (삼청동)

Samcheong-dong is a place where you can experience everything. Want to witness the vast, alluring nature of Seoul South Korea? Visit the Samcheong Park, where a long pathway through Seoul is decorated with endless rows of tall trees and colorful flowers.

Under the warm sun and facing gentle breeze, you will find yourself even being part of nature. With the sounds of birds singing and leaves crumbling, you will even find your years enjoying the park.

Samcheong-Dong Walkway 11


WANT TO GAIN ACCESS TO CHEAP AND GOOD FOOD AT THE SAME TIME? < GAMGODANG-GIL >

< SAMCHEONG-DONG-GIL > You should visit Gamgodang-gil and Samcheong-dong-gil. Cafes will give you refreshing cold beverages, relaxing hot drinks, and uplifting deserts at reasonable, relatively low, prices. Restaurants will serve you the best food, ranging from Korean to even Vietnamese, that even local Korean citizens wait in line to get. Meanwhile, colorful buildings, artistic wall paintings, and the beauty that trees and flowers reflect will keep you stunned at all times. 12


Did you enjoy the nature, food, and drinks in Samcheong-dong? How about historical backgrounds about South Korea? As the gate of one of the four castles that surround Seoul, Sukjeongmun Gate locates in Samcheongdong. Of a historical significance as built in 1504, over 500 years ago, the Sukjeongmun Gate will amaze you with its background and its beauty.

Sukjeongmun Gate

Different types of museums are also located in Samcheong-dong. The Seoul Museum of Education in Samcheongdong will gain you access to various historical items ranging from modern to ancient. At this museum, you will be traveling back in time, witnessing Seoul at various times in history.

The Seoul Museum of Education in Samcheong-dong

At the Owl Museum, you will get the opportunity to not only view but also purchase various, hand-crafted materials. From small figures with eye pleasing details to artistic paintings that will uplift the atmosphere of your room, you will find up to “everything� in this museum. The Owl Museum in Samcheong-dong 13


! The following sites in Seoul will be of a mid-long walking or a short-long taxi distance from the Anguk Station. Anguk Station, is located on subway “line 3�, which highlighted in orange, and is right below the humongous dark circle.

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How to get to Gamgodang-gil?

“Let me guide you to...�

! The Gamgodang-gil can be reached from the Anguk station. As circled in black above, walk out of the station using the exit #1. Following the blue arrows indicated above, walk straight across two blocks. Then, turn to the road on your right and walk straight. In 3-5 minutes, you will be at your destination, marked as a red star above.

How to get to Samcheong-dong-gil?

! The Anguk Station is also the closest station near the Samcheongdong-gil, which is marked as a red star above. However, although it is within a walking distance, as the destination involves significant uphill walking with narrow roads, a short taxi ride is preferred. Walk out of the station using the exit #2, and then take a short taxi-ride of 3-5 minutes. You will be at your destination in short and without any fatigue. 15


How to get to get to Sukjeongmun?

! The Sukjeongmun gate also is within a walking distance from the Anguk Station. However, again, the way to destination not only involves a longer distance, but also narrow roads where cars pass dangerously. Therefore, a short taxiride from exit #2 of Anguk Station is also preferred.

How to get to get to the Seoul Museum of Education?

! In order to reach the Seoul Education Museum, exit Anguk station using exit #2. Then, walk straight until you reach a three-way intersection coinciding with Jaedong Elementary school. As indicated above, choose the path on the most left-hand of the threeway intersection. Then, walk straight and the destination will be on your right (red star mark). This will be of a 3-5 minute walk from the station. 16


How to get to get to the Owl Museum?

! Walk out of the Anguk Station using the exit #2. From the exit, travel straight, following the arrow indicator above, until you encounter the owl museum illustrated as a red star on the map above. Do not change course travel straight on the pathway. You will get to your destination in 10-15 minutes of walking or about 3 minutes of taxi.

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2ND STATION

YEOUIDO Considered the Korean Wall Street and the start of modernization in Korea, Yeouido is surrounded by prominent places including the National Assembly of Korea, 63 Building or IFC mall. Yeouido’s unique characteristic is that there is rarely a typical house but mostly apartments and skyscrapers. I will introduce you the hottest and most enjoyable spots in Yeouido. Let’s do it!


63 BUILDING

63 Aquarium

There is a huge aquarium in 63 building, and it is a very popular tourist attraction in Yeouido. You will not only get to see numerous species of animals and fish but also watch special performances done by tamers and animals and listen to live music as there will be music bands.

63 Aquarium is located in B1 of 63 Building available everyday for 10:00 - 22:00 19


There is also a Art Gallery Exhibition in 63 Building called “63 Arts�. 63 Arts was started in July, 2008 in order to contribute to the interchange of ideas between foreign and domestic arts and to the development of domestic arts.

63 Arts is located in 60th floor in 63 Building available every day for 10:00 - 22:00

.

<The charge for 63 Aquarium and 63 Arts >

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IFC MALL IFC is an international shopping space where many international fashion brands including Zara, Banana Republic, Gap, 8 seconds, TISSO and Uniqlo are all located. There are also various kinds of food available including Chinese, Korean, Italian, Vietnamese, Japanese food and further.

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There is also a movie theater called CGV Yeouido in IFC mall, and it is known to have the newest and the most luxurious seats. Many foreign movies are available in the theater, so you can consider watching a movie here as well!

IFC is open everyday for 10:00 - 22:00 22


YEOUIDO PARK

If you are looking for the place to rest and get your stamina back, Yeouido Park is awaiting you. This park is open for 24/7. You can walk through the trails and enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms, snow, or the sun if it is summer. You can borrow bicycles at a very cheap price and enjoy riding them, feeling the cool wind. 23


! The Saetgang station (at the red balloon!) is located on subway “line 9�, which is light brown in color. It is between Noryangjin station and Yeouido station. From Saetgang station, most of the sites just introduced are of a walking distance.

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How to get to 63 Building?

“Let me guide you to...”

! As you arrive in Saetgang station, go out through Exit 3. As you exit the station through either exits 3, walk straight for about 5-6 minutes, and you will encounter a bus station. Take 362 bus at the station and get off at the third station (station called “63 Building”) after you got on.

How to get to IFC mall? ! Taking a bus at 63 Building to get to IFC mall is quite complicated. Taking a taxi will take you to IFC mall from 63 Building in at most 5 minutes, and it will only cost you around 3000 won.

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How to get to Yeouido Park? Destination

“Let me guide you to...� Starting Point

! Yeouido Park is supposed to be 10 minutes of walking distance from IFC mall. The distance from the starting point to the destination seems very far on the map but this is just because the map is magnified very closely. The starting point is the back gate of the IFC mall, and you should be able to see something like the second picture at the back gate. From this point, go straight to left for about 5 minutes and go across the crosswalk. Then, you will be able to see the Yeouido Park front gate as depicted in the picture below. Now, you are arrived! Enjoy!

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3RD STATION

SINSA-DONG, GAROSU-GIL ROAD The rising hot-place for the young adults in Korea is Sinsa-Dong. Garosu-gil road at Sinsa-Dong is famous for fashion brands’ franchises, different styles of cafes, and restaurants.


SINSA STATION

Garosu-gil road is approximately 700m long. Despite the short distance the road covers, there are countless places to visit and enjoy. The road is always crowded with energy and people at all times. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Sinsa, taking a subway would be your best choice. There are not much, in fact, no space to park your car in close perimeters. You would have to walk a good distance from a public parking lot if you have a car.

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The new trend at Korea is to be the “fashionpeople”, being aware of what ones’ clothing apparel should match, according to social trends. Garosu-gil, is one of the centers of this new trend. Along with Hongdae, Garosu-gil has number of shops with trendy clothing apparels ready for sale. You will be able to experience and learn most of the newest fashion trends in Korea at Garosu-gil.

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Speaking of experience and learning, there are many cafes and restaurants that you could visit to take a short break from walking. The restaurants are widely spread along the road, and many different types of restaurants are available as well. Restaurants with Korean, Italian, Japanese, American brunch, and many more food are currently available at Sinsa, Garosu-gil road. Recommended - Mario Kitchen / Hedonism

Restaurant “Hedonism”

Restaurant “Mario Kitchen”

Restaurant “Hedonism” 30


If you feel like slicing beef with your partner or friends, we recom-

Restaurant “Lasting”

mend you restaurant “Lasting”. This restaurant will serve you high quality, delicious beef, in unlimited quantity. You will be able to eat as much as you want, by paying a fixed price of 28,000 krw

2nd Floor, Restaurant “Lasting” 31


Sinsa Station

Sinsa Station is located along subway line 3, which is highlighted in orange above. It is between Jamwon and Apgujeong Station.

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How to get to Sinsa-dong, GarosuGil Road?

“Let me guide you to...” You can easily walk to Sinsa-dong, Garosu-Gil Road after a short ride in the subway. As the Balloon with “A” is marked on the map, you can exit Sinsa station through exit 8, and walk straight until you see the IBK bank, as marked on the map below. When you reach the cross section in front of the bank, the garosu-gil road is on your left. Enjoy!

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4TH STATION

JAMWON HANGANG PARK Jamwon Han-gang Park is one of the many parks along the Han river. The 4th station would be a good place to stop by and spend more time outdoors.


JAMWON HANGANG PARK

Han-river flows from east to west in Seoul, and is positioned at the centre of Seoul. Hangang-Park near Jamwon station is one of the best spot for you to relax and experience the Korean culture. It is one of the biggest designated park along the river-side, and has field with benches that you could lie down or have a picnic.

GALLERY 5.1 Han-River (Jamwon Station)

Taking a bug repellent and a sunscreen with you will be advised during the summer season. 35


GALLERY 5.2 Han-River (Jamwon Station) While you are enjoying your time at the river-side, you could order food to make your experience even better. The beloved delivery food in Korea is fried chicken. People at Korea enjoys eating chicken with beer, and we call them the “perfect” combination. If you are over 19, and haven’t yet tried chicken with bear, ordering chicken and a can of bear would be the perfect plan for you. Han-river is also known for beautiful views after sunset. When you sit along the riverside, you will be able to see colorful lights from the buildings and bridges.

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Jamwon Station

Jamwon Station is located along subway line 3, which is highlighted in orange above. It is between Sinsa and Express Bus Terminal Station.

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How to get to Jamwon Hangang Park?

“Let me guide you to...”

1. Jamwon Hangang Park isn’t a long walk at all. As the ballon with “A” is marked on the map, you can exit Jamwon station through exit 4. The Hangang Park is located due North of the station.

2. After walking about 100m straight after the exit, make a left turn to point J. The balloon with “J” on the map is the center of the park. Now, enjoy your time at the park!

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6

OTHER INTERESTING AREAS Of course, other than the key districts and suburbs of Seoul, the city has more to offer in special areas which hardly fit into the other parts of the city we have thus far mentioned. Here are a few landmarks you definitely shouldn’t miss. Photo is of the Olympic Park: Olympic Park,. Digital image. Justgola.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Aug. 2016. <https://www.justgola.com/media/a/00/07/31141_og_1.jpeg>.


A few of the Hanoks: Credit:Namsangol Hanok Village. Digital image. Visitkorea.or.kr. Korean Tourism Ministry, n.d. Web. 13 Aug. 2016. <http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?c id=264116>.

NAMSANGOL HANOK VILLAGE

Sights: For anyone more interested in traditional Korean culture and for anyone wanting to retreat from the ultra-modernity of other parts of Seoul, this village is perhaps the best place you could find yourself. It offers an insight into Korean culture and puts on display gorgeous Korean Hanoks (houses). Once inside, you will feel truly plunged into another world thanks to the serenity and calm of this when contrasted with the clamor of urban life. The place is usually open from 9 AM to 9 PM and a stroll through this enchanting village is highly recommended especially if Seoul is the only destination in your voyages in Korea. As well as strolling around the village, getting a good view of the village from street or path ways above can mean great photos and offer some splendid views. Activities: Other than strolling through this and taking in the sights, the village and surrounding area offer you some fun and original activities you needn’t do but shouldn’t, either, casually pass upon. 40


Archery is one such activity as well as performances of Korean dance and song that are wildly entertaining. As well, visiting the inside of some of the noble people’s Hanoks quite amusing and well worth the time. Alternatively, one can learn delicate Korean Calligraphy, or can try his/her hand at pottery, both of which are much harder than they seem, but amusing nonetheless. If you’re not coming during the busy summer months, but have instead reserved your holiday for the winter months, don’t worry. The Village will likely have a snow festival, as pictured below, which is most definitely worth checking out.

NAMSANGOL HANOK VILLAGE POTS. DIGITAL IMAGE. ASIALUXURY.COM. ASIA LUXURY, N.D. WEB. 13 AUG. 2016. <HTTP:// ASIALUXURYRESORTS.COM/ASIA-INFORMATION/NAMSANGOL-HANOKVILLAGE.HTML>.

A list of activities can be found here: http://english.visitkorea.or.kr Food: Although you may not find what you are looking for food wise in the village itself, there are some great Korean restaurants nearby to help you progress from delving into Korean culture, to delving into its gastronomy. Favorite among these is Korea house, which serves delicious and unmissable Korean specialties.

NAMSANGOL HANOK VILLAGE STREET. DIGITAL IMAGE. THESEOULGUIDE.COM. THE SEOUL GUIDE, N.D. WEB. 13 AUG. 2016. <HTTP://WWW.THESEOULGUIDE.COM/SIGHTS/VILLAGES/NAMSANGOLHANOK-VILLAGE/>.

NAMSANGOL SNOW FESTIVAL. DIGITAL IMAGE. KOREA.NET. YONHAP NEWS, N.D. WEB. 13 AUG. 2016. <HTTP://WWW.KOREA.NET/NEWSFOCUS/ TRAVEL/VIEW?ARTICLEID=97821>.

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HOW TO GET THERE: Chungmuro Station is the best way to get to this destination. Take the metro, arrive here and exit via either the exit 3 or 4. From here, the village is well indicated and easy to access. Check the metro map at the beginning of the book for more information and for info on which trains will take you quickest from where you are, to the station you seek. Below is a map of the village for closer inspection and to know where you can go.

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OLYMPIC PARK SEOUL. DIGITAL IMAGE. WWW.TIANATEMPLEMAN.COM. N.P., N.D. WEB. 13 AUG. 2016. <HTTP://WWW.TIANATEMPLEMAN.COM/LIVE-YOUR-OWNOLYMPIC-DREAM/>.

OLYMPIC PARK

Sights: This slight out of the way, agglomeration of buildings constructed for the Olympics that took place in Korea in 1988 was never destroyed and going to visit it will quickly explain why. The park is full of wonderful architecture that is breathtaking, modern and artistic. Visit the colossus of a main monument (pictured above) and find some respite in the serene atmosphere of the park. A picnic here is not uncommon amongst locals and is a great way to spend an early afternoon. However, as aforementioned, this village is 43


slightly out of the way and therefore should you wish to visit it, make sure you are ready for it to carve out some time. Activities: Here you are welcome to jog or visit the museum history found in the Mongchontoseong Fortress. However, I most recommend being at the cultural art park ( a part of the park) and watching some of the performances and shows that are put on there everyday for free.

OLYMPIC PARK WATER. DIGITAL IMAGE. OUR KOREA EXPERIENCES. BLOGGER, N.D. WEB. 13 AUG. 2016. <HTTP:// LIFEINSOUTHKOREA.BLOGSPOT.KR/2009/06/PICNIC-IN-SEOULOLYMPIC-PARK.HTML>.

Food: Although there are a few restaurants. None of them are truly outstanding, so it might be best to save your appetite for something nearer the center of Seoul in this case. However, as aforementioned some planning could mean a lovely pick nick in this idyllic park. Olympic Park Gallery

It’s not just sports... Credit: The Sky Pillar Olympic Park, Seoul, Korea May 2013 하늘기둥 올림픽공 원 2013년 5월 .

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HOW TO GET THERE: When trying to get to the olympic station. Use any of the trains and go to the olympic park station. Both these stations are indicated in the metro maps. If coming from the airport, the airport shuttle also stops at the olympic park. However, the easiest way if you are already in Seoul, is to take the Bus, most buses will take you to the olympic park. This makes the journey very easy. The map below will also give you an idea of how to navigate the park. The park is quite large and unless you are around the buildings, the winding paths can be quite confusing. If you have rented a car, the car park can be accessed through the 2nd southern gate. However, beware, the Park is often very busy, especially in the summer months.

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N-SEOUL TOWER

N SEOUL TOWER. DIGITAL IMAGE. PCWALLART. PC WALL ART, 1 DEC. 2008. WEB. 30 JUNE 2016. <HTTP://PCWALLART.COM/N-SEOUL-TOWERWALLPAPER-4.HTML>.

Sights: This remarkable telecom tower which is located idyllically on a hill top in the midst of metropolitan Seoul, offers arguably the best view of the city. If you are willing to wait the queue, which can be up to an hour long, and also are in no two minds that the stunning view of the city will be worth the 10,000W (=10$) then make sure to get there before it’s opening times of 10 AM and 11 PM. Activities: As a personal suggestion, don’t take the lift up there! Not only will there be another queue for that, but what is more, the hike up to the N Seoul tower is easily as enjoyable as the tower itself. As you climb up the hill, you will slink away from the noises and movements of the city and find yourself in a haven of nature and calm. From here, and as you make your way to the top of the

tower, you will encounter stunning viewpoints and ready made platforms ideal for sweeping panoramic shots. Otherwise, the Namsan Cable car will get you up there much quicker and in less sweaty condition. Food: If you do indeed choose to visit the tower around lunchtime, there are also restaurants near the top by the N Seoul tower as well as traditional Korean snacks. A full list of the restaurants can be found at http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1 _1_1.jsp?cid=264550 But perhaps the most interesting is n-Grill, which offers a panoramic view of the city and is in the tower itself. The restaurant is not the most expensive but nonetheless it would be advisable to reserve 46


HOW TO GET THERE: The N-Seoul tower is a little harder to get close to. It’s altitude and situation have made any public transport all the way limited. As aforementioned, there is a cabin which will take you all the way up to the tower. However the walk up is generally considered to be part of the experience and the cabin is often preceded by a monumental queue. As for getting to the walk, you should take the bus, or metro to Shinsegae mall. From there the N-Seoul tower ballad is a 5 minute walk and not very difficult to reach by foot.

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