Contents of Post
My time in Seoul, albeit short, was absolutely amazing. The more that I got to see, the more I wanted to cram into my short stay there. At the end of my trip, which spanned 3 nights, I ended up only sleeping a total of about 6 hours. I just couldn’t get enough of this place. It is at the top of the list of places that I just must go back to. That’s why I wanted to share seven things for you to do and see in Seoul. Especially as a tourist.
7. Underground Museum About the Korean Language in Gwanghwamun Square
This one came as a surprise to me. I was unaware of the existence of this museum while I was heading to the world-renowned Gwanghwamun palace gate. A giant statue of a king caught my eye and I felt myself magnetized to it. A fairly large statue to begin with. I read the signs and found out there was a museum underground in the back of it. In awe of how cool this was, I plummeted into the belly of the beast, or king as it were.
In the basement, there is so much to learn. Written in both English and Korean, as well as a few other languages, is a very detailed account of the history of South Korea and how the language came about. Between written displays and touchable electronic screens, you could probably learn Korean if you stayed long enough. The story of King Sejeong and how he brought it about is laid out. Not to forget Admiral Yi Sunshin.
6. Jogyesa Temple
If you have been following along with us on our journey, I have a bit of a thing for temples of all types. I think there’s enlightenment to be found in seeking first to understand before being understood. Learning is a privilege, not a right. Therefore we must learn as much as we can when we can.
This temple is smack dab in Seoul and is one of the major Buddhist temples in South Korea. This place sports at least two of the national monuments Seoul has to offer. Inside the main Daeungjeon hall sits the renowned statue of the seated Buddha. Enshrined here in all of his glory. Next to Daeungjeon is Beaksong, a gorgeous white tree that is more than 500 years old. Not a sight to miss.
5. Gwanghwamun and Gyeongbokgun Palaces
Both palaces are worth a visit. I preferred Gwanghwamun personally, but both have their selling points. It came to my attention though that the gate at Gwanghwamun that stood there proudly for so many centuries recently burned down. That being said, there is still a lot to see on the palace grounds. Including the palace itself. Plus the history. There are stories of war, peace, betrayal, and the assassination of a princess.
4. The Touristic Insadong
Although heavily touristic, and boy do the citizens know it, this area has its charms. With the info booth heading a major shopping street, it is worth a visit. There are rows of shops lining the side of the road and booths in the middle containing endless hidden gems. From handmade items such as jewellery and art to touristy knick-knacks worth a drop by for anyone.
As you walk farther around the area, there is even more to see. With a whole load of restaurants everywhere, you have a complete pick at the tip of your tongue. With all the hustle and bustle, there are some unexpected treasures as well. This is the only place in all the Asian places I’ve visited thus far that sported buskers along the side of the road.
Read about my experience in Mongolia here.
3. Live the Life of a Student in Hongdae
What unit of measurement is best used to measure a hipster? An Instagram. Hongdae is the perfect area for all the hipsters out there. Picturesque and alive, this area of town has it all. From great food and great company to bustling nightlife. Plus, if you want to meet up with some expats or really get to know some locals, this is the place for you. If you are one of the lucky ones, you have pre-scheduled a tattoo at StudiobySol in this area long before your trip.
2. Korean Barbecue
Even now, three years later, my mouth waters just thinking about it. I don’t know if it was just the restaurant I went to or the fact I was so hungry that my stomach was eating itself, or that it was just that good. I swear that even to this day, this was the best meal I ever had. Most places won’t let you have Korean barbecue unless you have at least 2 people. Luckily for me, I found a small hole in the wall. Best food decision of my life.
1. On a Good Night You Can See Everything
N Seoul Tower. It had the hype, and it definitely lived up to it. Originally, I had an incredibly hard time deciding between this and Korean barbecue for first place. Alas, this just eked ahead of the competition due to 4 things.
First off you have the Gondola. You can get a one-way or round-trip ticket at either end of the Gondola. That, or you can choose to walk or even get a lift to the top of the mountain where the tower sits. I would recommend it as the view is stunning. Especially at night.
Second, you have what I called, “The City of Locks”. Thousands of people from all around the world come here to clip a lock to their metal railings or trees, either alone or with a significant other. They say it’ll bring you eternal love if you dare wish for it. I know I did.
Third, you have one of the best views. Whether you decide to go up the tower or not, the view is incredible. N Seoul Tower, Also known as Namsan Tower, sits atop Namsan Mountain. On a clear night, you are able to see the whole city. It is breathtaking.
Last, but certainly not least, numero 4. There is a wicked awesome restaurant and gift shop here. I splurged a little bit to be able to get a professional picture at the top done for my mother. To this day it is one of her top favourite Christmas gifts. Especially since most of my life, I have been super camera shy.
10 things you need to know to travel in China here.
In Conclusion:
Whether you are in Seoul for just a few days or for longer, you should take a look at these places. By no means are they the only places, so keep your mind open and explore a little. That being said, here are my seven things to do in and around Seoul:
7. Underground Museum About the Korean Language in Gwanghwamun Square
5. Gwanghwamun and Gyeonbokgun Palaces
3. Live the Life of a Student in Hongdae
1. On a Good Night You Can See Everything
Was there anywhere we missed? What do you want to see the most? Let us know in the comment below!
