Most travelers want to make the most of their limited time and budget. That’s why this blog exists

Most travelers want to plan the right itinerary using their limited time and budget wisely — dreaming of discovering a new world and enjoying the freedom of a getaway. That’s why I started this blog: to help you design a clear, realistic plan and start your Korean adventure with confidence. 🏙️ Seeing Seoul with Fresh Eyes I was born and raised in Seoul, but after living in Canada for many years, coming back felt like stepping into a completely new world. So much had changed — new buildings, new trends, even new ways of life. As I explored the city again, this time as a returning expat, I started to understand Seoul in a different way. That’s when I decided to share my experience to help people who are visiting Korea for the first time. 🌏 Why So Many People Want to Visit Korea These days, Korea is more popular than ever, thanks to K-pop, K-dramas, and social media. People from all over the world are excited to see the places they’ve only watched on screen. But Korea isn’t just abou...

Seoul City Walk 3: Seoul Forest

 Two Simple Routes – Forest Loop or River Escape



Seoul Forest is one of the city’s best urban parks—a peaceful blend of trees, water, wildlife, and modern design. Located in Seongdong-gu along the Han River, this park is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re here for a slow walk, a scenic picnic, or a connection to the Han River, Seoul Forest offers it all.

Here are two easy walking routes to help you make the most of your visit—depending on your time and interest.

 

Option 1: Seoul Forest Full Loop + Han River View

Great for first-time visitors who want to explore the whole park

🚶 Walking Route:

  1. Take the Bundang Line to Seoul Forest Station → Exit 3
  2. Walk straight to the bronze horse statue at the park’s main entrance
  3. Begin at the Forest Plaza, then continue to:
    ▪ Eco-forest trail and wetlands
    ▪ Butterfly Garden and Deer Park
    ▪ Ginkgo Tree Avenue (stunning in autumn)
  4. At the southern end of the park, cross the sky bridge
  5. Arrive at J-Bug, a spaceship-shaped café with a wide Han River view
  6. Enjoy the view, then return across the bridge to Seoul Forest
  7. Explore any parts of the park you missed, like the dog park or playgrounds

Best for: first-time visitors, families, couples
🕒 Time needed: 1.5–2 hours (leisure pace)
📸 Highlights: deer, fall foliage, riverside panorama, picnic lawns

 


Option 2: Half Park + Exit to Han River or Eungbongsan

Perfect if you want to connect your walk with riverside or mountain views

🚶 Walking Route:

  1. Enter from Seoul Forest Station (Exit 3) → horse statue
  2. Walk through:
    ▪ Forest Plaza
    ▪ Eco-forest area
    ▪ Deer Park
  3. Cross the sky bridge at the park’s southern edge
  4. After crossing, choose your adventure:
    • Left (east): Ttukseom Hangang Park
      ▪ Wide river paths, bike rentals, waterfront cafés
    • Right (west): Path to Eungbongsan (응봉산)
      ▪ Follow the riverside path under Jungnangcheon Bridge
      ▪ Cross the small footbridge
      ▪ Follow signs uphill to Eungbongsan Park
      ▪ Climb the stairs to the summit pavilion for amazing skyline views

Best for: walkers who want to explore beyond the park
🕒 Time needed: ~1 hour for park + 30–60 min extra for Han River or Eungbongsan
📸 Highlights: riverside views, bridges, skyline from the hilltop

 

Subway Access Summary

Location

Subway Station

Exit

Seoul Forest main entrance

Seoul Forest Station (Bundang Line)

Exit 3

Han River (Ttukseom side)

Ttukseom Resort Station (Line 7)

Exit 2/3

Eungbongsan (after descent)

Oksu Station (Line 3 or Gyeongui–Jungang Line)

Exit 6

 

Quick Tips

  • Bring a drink or brunch from Seongsu-dong cafés before entering
  • Sky bridge is the easiest way to reach the river from Seoul Forest
  • Autumn is peak season for foliage and photo opportunities
  • Eungbongsan is one of Seoul’s best sunset spots with fewer tourists

 

Final Thoughts

Seoul Forest isn’t just a park—it’s a gateway to urban nature, culture, and scenery. Whether you stay inside the forest to enjoy the trees, deer, and quiet paths, or head out to the river or Eungbongsan for a broader view, this area offers flexible routes for every mood and energy level.

Choose your path, take your time, and let the forest guide you.

Comments