What should we do in SEOUL ?

SEOUL

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents ....................... 1 Chapter 1: Around Palaces ......... 2 Chapter 2: Central ...................... 9 Chapter 3: North of Han River .. 12 Chapter 4: Southern ................. 18

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Around Palaces

1. Insa-dong 인사동

Address: 130-4, Insa-dong, Jongno-gu,

Seoul-si 서울 종로구 인사동 130-4 일대

Insa-dong (인사동), located in the heart of the city, is an important

place where old but precious and traditional goods are on display. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. Within these alleys are galleries, traditional restaurants, traditional teahouses, and cafes.

There are about 100 galleries in the area and you can see every example of traditional Korean fine art from paintings to sculptures. The teahouses and restaurants are the perfect complement to the galleries.

This is where they can experience and see traditional Korean culture firsthand, and also purchase pieces of fine art.

On the street you can eat Korean taffy and traditional pajeon (Korean pancake), and see many foreigners lost in all the joyous festivities of the street.

Every Saturday from 14:00 – 22:00 and Sunday from 10:00 – 22:00, some streets are blocked off from traffic and it becomes a cultural space.

How to get there

Subway – Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 6. Go 100m straight, then turn left

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What to do there

1. Ssamziegil 쌈지길

Popular with Korean youth and tourists, this handicrafts market is essentially a single path that spirals up through four floors. In addition to shops, the complex has a few good restaurants on the upper level.

2. Insa Art Center 인사 아트 센터

The largest gallery in Insa-dong, this is also the most interesting – exhibitions change weekly.

3. Shopping & Eating

Name stamp- Some art-supplies shops also sell name stamps, which are made from marble, jade, and other stones.

People like to come here for shopping, especially couples. It is the one of the famous places in Insa-dong and built in 2004. There are many pandants and jewelries that a lot of women prefer.

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Tea Sets - There is a tremendous range of tea sets in Insadong, and they are among the most popular purchases by visitors. Head to Insadonggil for the inexpensive ones, or to shops such as Yido Pottery, Kwang Ju Yo, and the Korea Culture & Design Foundation for designer fare.

Street foods – There are a lot of street foods that people can enjoy just as ice cream that looks like a wand, meets that is stuck in the stick, Korean traditional snack such as a yeot, etc.

2. Bukchon Hanok

Village 북촌한옥마을

Address: 37, Gyedong-gil,

Jongno-gu, Seoul 서울특별시

종로구 계동길 37 (계동)

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥 마을), Bukchon Hanok

Village is home to hundreds of traditional houses called 'hanok' that date back to the old days. The name, 'Bukchon,' which literally translates to 'northern village,' came about as the neighborhoods that the village covers lie to the north of the two significant Seoul landmarks, Cheonggyecheon Stream and Jongno.

Today, many of these hanoks operate as cultural centers, guesthouses, restaurants and tea houses, providing an opportunity to experience, learn and immerse in Korean traditional culture.

Adjoining Bukchon is Samcheongdong (삼청동), run-down for

decades but now bursting with funky cafés and restaurants.

How to get there

Subway- Anguk Station (Line 3) , Exit 2. Go straight for about 300m to arrive at Bukchon Hanok Village

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3. Gyeongbokgung 경복궁

Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul(Sejongno) 서울특별시 종로구

사직로 161 (세종로)

Gyeongbokgung(경복궁), is arguably the most beautiful and remains the grandest of all five palaces. This majestic structure has been of prime importance ever since, and served as the royal residence until 1910.

The premises were destroyed by fire during the Imjinwaeran War (Japanese Invasion, 1592-1598). However, all of the palace's 7,700 rooms were later restored under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun during the reign of King Gojong (1852-1919) .

Gwanghwamun 광화문

This imposing southern gate is one of Seoul’s main landmarks. Destroyed and rebuilt several times through the ages, the current gate was unveiled in 2010, after four years of reconstruction.

Gwanghwamun is in the middle of the seoul and became a huge landmark in Seoul. In the Gwanghwamun square, there are two big bronze statues of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin and King Sejong.

Gyeonghoeru 경회루

This pavilion was constructed in 1412, during the reign of King Taejong (1400–18), who hosted banquets and State meetings here.

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Located in the middle of a man-made lake, it is accessed via a stone bridge with ornately carved balustrades.

Operating Hours

January-February 09:00-17:00 / March-May 09:00-18:00

June-August 09:00-18:30 / September-October 09:00-18:00

November-December 09:00-17:00

* Last admission: 1 hr before closing.

* Operating hours are subject to change depending on circumstances.

[Summer special operating hours (7.30-8.11.2014)]

19:00~22:00 (last admission at 21:00)

※ Ticket box will close 1hr before closing time.

※ Times are subject to change.

※ Closed on Tuesdays

Admission Fees

Adults (ages 19-64): 3,000 won / Group (over 10): 2,400 won

Children (ages 7-18): 1,500 won / Group (over 10): 1,200 won

Facilities for the Handicapped

Wheelchair rental services, restrooms, wheelchair accessible entrance, reserved parking spaces

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Interpretation Services Offered

Tours depart in front of the Information Center at Heungnyemun Gate

(흥례문).

Duration: 1hr - 1hr, 30min

Tour Schedule:

English: 11:00, 13:30, 15:30

Japanese: 10:00, 12:30, 14:30

Chinese: 10:30, 13:00, 15:00

How to get there

Subway - Gyeongbokgung Palace Station (Line 3), Exit 5

OR,

Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), Exit 2.

4. Cheong Wa Dae( Blue

House) 청와대

Address: 1, Cheongwadae-ro,

Jongno-gu, Seoul 서울 종로구

청와대로 1

The signature markings of the Presidential Residence of Cheong Wa Dae( Blue House) are its blue tiles. They are unique and beautifully

designed, built in the Korean traditional style. The blue tiles and the smooth curve shape of the main office roofs are elegantly built. Approximately 150 thousand tiles compose the roof of the Blue House. Each were baked individually which make them strong enough to be used for hundreds of years.

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Tour information

Meeting point – Cheong Wa Dae Promotion Hall (next to the Chunchugwan (Spring and Autumn Pavilion) – Nokjiwon – Gubongwanteo – Sojeongwon – Main Hall – Yeongbingwan (Guest House) – Chilgung (Seven Palaces) – Fountain

90 mins

Age limit- Ages 8 and older

Operation Hours

Tours start at 10:00, 11:00, 14:00, and 15:00

* Summer season (Jul. 1-Sep. 16): 10:00, 11:00, 15:00, 16:00

* No tours available on Monday, Sunday and holiday.

* Saturday tours only available for individuals and families of less than 10 total people

* Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and National holidays

Admission Fees

Free

Reservation Info. for Foreigners

On-line Application http://english1.president.go.kr/tours/information.php

How to get there

Subway- Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 5.

Go into the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds and walk approximately 600m toward the East Gate Parking Lot.

The Cheong Wa Dae Tour Information Booth is in the parking lot.

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Central

1. Cheonggyecheon 청계천

Address: 110, Sejong-daero,

Jung-gu, Seoul 서울특별시

중구 태평로 1 가 ~성동구

신답철교

Cheonggyecheon

(청계천), One of Seoul’s

most popular walking areas with locals and visitors alike, this stream attracted

a huge amount of criticism on its opening in 2005 and the streamside

walkways stretch all the way to the Han River.

Until it was restored in 2005, Cheonggyecheon Stream existed only as a

neglected watercourse hidden by an overpass. Today, it has been transformed

into a haven of natural beauty amidst the bustle of city life.

It allows visitors to easily visit major tourist sites after a leisurely stroll along the

stream.

Hours

Open anytime

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2. Namdaemun

Market 남대문

시장

Address:21,

Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu,

Seoul 서울특별시 중구

남대문시장 4 길 21

Opened in 1964, the Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional

market in Korea with various goods in store. All products are sold at affordable prices and the stores in this area also function as a wholesale markets.

Most of the goods are made directly by the storeowners and it is crowded with retailers from all over the country. The site of busy Koreans bustling around the market creates a unique scene that attracts tourists worldwide.

The Namdaemun Market sells a variety of clothes, glasses, kitchenware, toys, accessories, hats, and other imported goods.

Hours

23:00- 17:00 (varies by stores)

Closed on Sundays

How to get there

Subway- Hoehyeon Station (Line 4), Exit 5

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3. Myeong-dong 명동

Address: 30, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul-si 서울특별시 중구 을지로 30

(남대문로 2 가)

Myeong-dong (명동) is one of the primary shopping districts in Seoul.

Many brand name shops and department stores line the streets and alleys.

Common products are for sale includes clothes, shoes, and accessories. Unlike

Namdaemun, many designer brands are sold in Myeong-dong. It is home to

rows upon rows of shops selling clothing, accessories, cosmetics, eyeglasses,

and souvenirs.

A lot of Korean Cosmetic stores are in Myeong-dong, so many foreigners,

especially Asians from other countries like to go Myeong-dong and do

shopping. Also, in each store, employees in the stores can speak at least

Japanese and Chinese since many of Japanese and Chinese are coming there.

How to get there

Subway - Myeong-dong Station (Line 4), Exit 5, 6, 7, or 8.

Euljiro Il-ga Station (Line 2), Exit 5.

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North Part of Han River

1. Hongdae (Hongdae University Stree)홍대

Address: Seogyo-dong,

Mapo-gu, Seoul-si 서울

마포구 서교동 일대

Hongdae(the area in front

of Hongik University) is a neighborhood known for its youthful and romantic ambience, underground cultures, and freedom of self-expression.

Unique cafes, cozy galleries, accessory stores, fashion shops, live cafés and clubs, art markets, and gourmet eateries make this a popular hang-out for locals in their 20s and 30s and a fascinating place to walk around.

These unique place plus the cultural events, street performances, and festivals held here make Hongdae-ap an area that is always packed with people and excitement. Stree performances are the most unique thing in Hongdae. Many people who comes to Hongdae enjoy the music that street performances play.

Picasso’s Street and Club Street are also must-go places if you are hoping to fully experience the Hongdae area.

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There is also called “Free Market” that people come to sell and buy stuff that they want, but people are mostly young people.

Free Market Information

* Schedule: Every Saturday (March-November), 13:00-18:00

* Place: Hongik Children's Park

* Directions:

Exit 9, Hongik University Station (Subway Line 2).

Go 150m straight, and cross the street.

Turn left, and go 500m straight towards the Hongik University entrance.

Turn right to arrive at Hongik Children's Park.

How to get there

Hongik University Station (Line 2) and any exits

2. The National Museum of Korea

국립중앙박물관

Address: 137, Seobinggo-ro,

Yongsan-gu, Seoul 서울특별시 용산구

서빙고로 137 (용산동 6 가)

The National Museum of Korea is largest museum in Korea and houses precious Korean cultural

assets that silently tell the story of Korea’s fascinating history, from ancient days to the modern era. The National Museum of Korea is the stage for a number of cultural activities related to relics collection and preservation,

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research and analysis, social training, academic publications, international cultural exchange programs, concerts, and more.

Programs Available for Foreigners

English Guided Tours- 10:30am / 2:30pm (Tue-sun) Japanese Guided Tours- 9:30am (Tue-Fri), 10:30am / 2:30pm (Sat, Sun) Chinese Guided Tours- 10:30am (Tue-Fri), 10:30am / 2:30pm (Sat, Sun)

Admission fee

It is free to Main Exhibition Hall and the Children’s Museum

The National Museum of Korea limits the number of visitors allowed in the museum at one time to ensure a clean and safe environment for all. Signs will be posted frequently regarding the current number of visitors.

How to get there

Subway- Ichon Station ( Line 4 & Jungang Line), Exit 2.

The subway is connected to the museum via an underpass.

3. Itaewon 이태원

Address: Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul-si 서울 용산구 이태원동 ,

한남동 일대

Itaewon was the first special tourist zone designated in 1997 among the 5

special tourist zones in Seoul. It is a multicultural place where over 20,000 foreigners live and is widely recognized by international visitors. The name Itaewon started to spread worldwide in the 1980s, when Korea hosted the 1986 Seoul Asian Games and the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, as well as international conferences.

Itaewon is a unique place in Seoul where one can meet people of diverse nationalities and cultures. There is a popular joke saying that international residents may not know Seoul, but they know Itaewon.

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Clothes and accessories with unique designs, as well as leather products are famous in particular. The street is crowded with shopping malls selling clothes and bags, as well as accommodations including hotels, restaurants, entertainment facilities and travel agencies. With about 2,200 shops and stores lining every street, visitors can experience a multicultural atmosphere. Also famous is Antique Furniture Street where more than 100 shops stretch from Hamilton Hotel to Hangangjin Station.

Another one of Itaewon’s many draws is its diverse food culture, which features cuisine from around world. Restaurants right behind Hamilton Hotel form a type of exhibition hall for international foods from Korea, New York, London, India, Thailand, China, Greece, Pakistan, Italy, France, Mexico, Australia, and more.

How to get there

Subway- Itaewon Station / Noksapyeong Station / Hangangjin Station ( Line 6)

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4. Namsan 남산

Address: 3, Namsangongwon-

gil,Yongsan-gu, Seoul-si

서울특별시 중구 삼일대로 231

(예장동)

Namsan is a symbolic mountain located at the center of Seoul and is a very

popular nonetheless as a resting site. At the top, there are various facilities such as Palgakjeong (octagonal hall), Seoul Tower, Maritime Aquarium, fountains, and Namsan Library. You may take a cable car to the top or walk up the stairway path.

At the top, there are bunch of locks that many couples bring lock and hang it, which means their love will last forever. The nightview at the top of Namsan is beautiful and many people like to come and enjoy the nightview of Seoul. There are fancy restaurants that people can enjoy.

Hours

Cable Car: 10:00 - 23:00

Seoul Tower :

Observatory: 10:00-23:00

Restaurant: 11:00-23:00

Admission fee

Cable car

Ages 13 & Over

- Roundtrip - Individual 7,500 won

- One-way - Individual 6,000 won

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Children Under 13

- Roundtrip - Individual 5,000 won

- One-way – Individual 4,000 won

Seoul Tower

Adults 9,000 won / Children 7,000 won

How to get there

Hoehyeon Area: Go out exit #4 at Hoehyeon Station(Line 4), then walk for 20 minutes.

Hannam Area: Go out exit #2 at Hangangjin Station (Line 6), then take bus #0014 and get off at Hyatt Hotel (Botanical Garden)(Bus comes every 10 minutes / takes about 10 minutes)

Seoul Tower Area: Go out exit #2 or 3 at Myeong-dong Station (Line 4). Walk towards Lila Elementary School for approximately 10 minutes, then you will see Palgakjeong (Seoul Tower)and take a Cable Car.

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Southern

1. Sinsadong Garosu-gil Road (신사동 가로수길)

Address: Sinsa-dong,

Gangnam-gu, Seoul-si

서울 강남구 신사동

Sinsadong Garosu-gil Road is a popular,

upscale street in Seoul. The street has an eccentric flair thanks to its variety of charmingly decorated coffee shops, and designer stores. There are many fashion and accessory shops, restaurants, and cafes, so many of fashion people such as models usually come here and do shopping. Garosu-gil is particularly popular in autumn when the leaves begin to fall.

How to get there

Subway- Sinsa Station (Line 3), Exit 8.

Go straight (250m), until you see the street on the left.

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2. COEX Mall 코엑스몰

Address: 58,

Teheran-ro 87-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

서울특별시

강남구

테헤란로 87 길 58

(삼성동)

COEX Mall is

the largest underground shopping center in Asia and is considered to be the best shopping and entertainment complex in the area.

Visitors will find the Lake food court with 16 restaurants, the event court, the Bandi & Luni’s bookstore, and plenty of brand name stores. The Game Champ video arcade has 100 of the latest game devices, while the Megabox Cineplex has 16 theaters screening a wide selection of movies.

Other popular attractions include the COEX Aquarium, with its water tunnel, and the Kimchi Museum, where visitors can learn everything they need to know about Korea’s favorite food, and even try some of it.

Operation Hours

10:30 - 22:00 (varies by store)

How to get there

Samseong Station (Line 2), Exit 5 or 6.

COEX is directly connected to the station

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3. Gangnam Subway

Sation 강남역

Address: Teheran-ro, Gangnam-

gu, Seoul 서울특별시 강남구

테헤란로 (역삼동)

Many people gather in Gangnam Subway Station, as the location is

geographically and commercially suitable as a meeting point for social gatherings, events or personal engagements. Visitors travel to Gangnam to take advantage of its convenient transportation, fashion malls, movie theatres and bookstores.

This is Seoul's busiest area. If you want to experience real energy and excitement come to the area surrounding Gangnam Station. This is the best place to get a real inside look at Modern Korea. The entire area is densely packed with restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, boutiques, fast

fashion stores and movie theaters. Gangnam Main Street is also on the top ten list of the world's most expensive shopping streets.

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3. Banpo Bridge

반포대교 Address: Banpo-

dong, Seocho-gu,

Seoul-si 서울

서초구 반포동

Banpo Bridge is

famous of Fountain, which is the world’s longest bridge fountain. The fountain is programmed to play different shows during the day and night. During the day, the fountain shows a hundred different configurations meant to evoke waving willow branches and willow leaves. When the sun goes down, 200 lights illuminate the fountain as it sends up dancing, rainbow-colored jets of water in the air in synchronization with music.

Both sides of the bridge are lined with pumps that pass almost 200 tons of river water though them each minute. The water is then illuminated by LED lights as it falls 20 meters (65 feet) back down to the river below.

The park also has outdoor stage, eco-observatory and picnic spots. People can just come here, enjoy, and do whatever they want such as picnic, riding a bike, etc.

Operation Hours

April-October (Duration: 15min)

* Weekdays: 12:00, 20:00, 21:00

*Weekends: 12:00, 17:00, 19:30 (July & August only), 20:00, 20:30, 21:00,

21:30

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How to get there

1) Dongjak Station (Line 4), Exit 1 or 2.

2) Express Bus Terminal Station (Seoul Subway Line 3,7 or 9), Exit 8-1.

Go straight for 250m, and turn right at the Express Bus Terminal 4-way

intersection.

Continue going straight for 400m and cross the street at the crosswalk.

Go straight through the underpass to arrive at the park.