Despite being a global metropolis, some may be surprised to find out Seoul has its fill of waterways that are worth exploring. Here are a few to check out and make a splash on your agenda!
Let’s get the obvious out of the way- it’s hard to miss the Han River, which almost cleanly bisects Seoul city right in its middle. There are a series of parks along the river that should appeal to everyone from bikers to joggers, families to couples. In addition to biking, jogging, and walking paths, a number of public exercise facilities and courts can be found which anyone can use. In warmer seasons many will bring tents and picnic blankets to enjoy the weather along the river banks.

The Han River ferries are also a popular way to explore the major river with daily scheduled trips in either direction. For special occasions or a splurge, you can also charter private yachts of various sizes for groups to travel the river in style. In warmer seasons, jetboating, water skiing, and other water activities can be done and/or rented at certain places along the river banks.
And, if you’re by the Banpo Bridge, be sure to check out the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain, during the months between April to October. During this period the bridge lights up every evening and rows of fountain jets along the bridge moves and sprays to music. With 380 water jets, it even has the distinction of being certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s longest bridge fountain! Other fountains that play to music can be found around Seoul including the Mongchon Moat Musical Fountain in the Seoul Olympic Park, the Music Fountain within the Childrens’ Grand Park, and the fountain in Boramae Park in southwestern Seoul.

Seoul also has a series of streams and creeks that are great for exploring. Bikers can especially navigate the bike paths by these streams to explore Seoul’s surrounding cities. The Anyang Stream for instance meets the Han River near Seongsan Bridge in western Seoul but can be navigated to Gwangmyeong city, Anyang city, and even Gunpo city. In the eastern side, one can travel between Seoul and the cities of Yongin and Seongnam via the Tancheon Stream paths.

Of course, Seoul’s most famed stream, Cheonggyecheon Stream cannot be missed when you’re here. This stream was restored in the last decade after initially having an overpass over it for many years prior. Now, this stream is one of Seoul’s most popular natural refuge that sits right in the heart of Seoul. You can also stop at the Cheonggyecheon Museum along the stream for a fascinating look into its history and restoration. Be sure to try and visit it in the fall when the popular annual Seoul Lantern Festival takes place when multiple lanterns of all themes are lit up along the stream.

Are you more of a fan of still ponds and lakes to reflect upon? Some of Seoul’s most famous lakes include Seokchon Lake by Lotte World and the 88 Lake in Olympic Park. The Nanji Pond in World Cup Park in northwestern Seoul, Wol yeong ji, or the moon reflecting pond in Seoul Dream Forest, and Buyongji Pond in Changdeokgung’s rear gardens are also worth checking out. Try and go at night during a full moon for a dreamier

And finally, for some unique experiences with water in Seoul, check out Seonyudo Park and West Lake Park (otherwise known as Seo Seoul Lake Park). Both parks were built on and around water filtration treatment plants and makes use of the previously existing infrastructure such as water pipes, purification basins, and more, for a fascinating mix of nature and artificial.
That’s all I have for you today. Stop by the new and improved Visit Seoul homepage at www.visitseoul.net for more information. Thanks for listening and join me next time on Seoul Travel Tips!