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

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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. πŸ™️ 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...
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Seasonal travel tips 4: 2025 Seoul Autumn Foliage Guide

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Experience the Best Fall Colors in Seoul

Every autumn, Seoul turns into a city of crimson and gold. From royal palaces to city parks, from riverside trails to mountain peaks, the capital offers countless ways to enjoy the season.

In 2025, due to slightly warmer weather, the peak foliage period is expected to be a bit later than usual, so planning your visit in late October or early November might give you the best views.

This guide brings you Seoul’s top foliage spots, their estimated peak dates, characteristics, and transportation tips — everything you need to enjoy the perfect autumn getaway in the city.

 

Seoul’s Top Autumn Foliage Spots

1. Bukhansan National Park

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 12–20
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 28–Nov 1

Located in northern Seoul, Bukhansan is the top foliage destination for both locals and visitors. The Baegundae Peak course offers spectacular views of colorful leaves against granite cliffs, while beginners can enjoy the Bukhansan Dulle-gil trails (Courses 1–3) for a lighter walk.
πŸš‡ Getting there: Take Line 3 to Gupabal Station and transfer to a local bus.

 πŸ§­ Please refer to Seoul Hiking Guides: Bukhansan Mountain on my blog.


2. Namsan Park (N Seoul Tower)

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 10
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 20–25

Right in the heart of Seoul, Namsan offers easy access and a panoramic view of the city. Take the Namsan cable car or the circular bus to the top, then stroll around Pal-gakjeong Pavilion for the best photo spots.
πŸŒ† Don’t miss the evening view — the combination of glowing leaves and city lights is truly magical.

 πŸ§­ Please refer to Tips for Itinerary: Namsan Mountain on my blog.


3. Deoksugung Palace & Jeongdong-gil

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 15
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 25–30

If you love traditional architecture surrounded by golden ginkgo trees, Deoksugung is the place to go. The Jeongdong-gil walkway is famous for its picture-perfect fall scenery.
πŸš‡ Easily accessible from City Hall or Seodaemun Station.

 πŸ§­ Please refer to Tips for Itinerary: Deoksugung Palace on my blog.


4. Seoul Forest

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 15
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 28–Nov 3

With its Metasequoia avenue, maple groves, and lakeside park, Seoul Forest is perfect for couples, families, and pet owners. You can enjoy cycling, walking, or simply relaxing under the colorful canopy.
πŸš‡ Seongsu Station or Seoul Forest Station (10-min walk).

 πŸ§­ Please refer to Tips for Itinerary: Seoul Forest on my blog.


5. Seokchon Lake

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 20
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 28–Nov 5

Take a lakeside walk surrounded by red and gold leaves reflecting on the water. Seokchon Lake is one of Seoul’s most beloved urban parks, right next to Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Ancient Tombs.
πŸš‡ Jamsil Station (Lines 2 & 8).

🧭 Please refer to Tips for Itinerary: Seokchon Lake on my blog. 


6. Olympic Park

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 20

  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 28–Nov 5

Just a short distance from Seokchon Lake, Olympic Park is another stunning autumn destination in eastern Seoul. The park features wide open lawns, winding walking paths, and a mix of maples, ginkgo trees, and zelkova-lined boulevards.
The most famous spots include the One Tree Hill (Lone Tree Field) — one of Seoul’s most photographed fall locations — and Mongchon Fortress Trail, where ancient earth walls meet waves of golden leaves.
πŸš‡ Olympic Park Station (Lines 5 & 9).

πŸ’‘ Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for soft golden light and fewer crowds, then enjoy coffee or dinner at nearby Songpa CafΓ© Street.


7. Gyeonghuigung Palace

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 15
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 25–30

One of Seoul’s “Five Grand Palaces,” Gyeonghuigung is a serene spot to enjoy autumn colors away from crowds. Combine your visit with a stroll through Seochon Village and Tongin Market nearby.

 

8. Achasan Mountain

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 18
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 28–Nov 3

A light hiking trail on Seoul’s eastern edge, Achasan offers scenic views of the Han River and colorful forests. Ideal for a short morning hike or photo walk.
πŸš‡ Start from Gwangnaru Station and follow the trail toward the sunrise plaza (Haemaji Square).

 

9. Haneul Park

  • πŸ‚ Start: Oct 14
  • 🌈 Peak: Oct 25–Nov 1

Famous for its silver grass fields, Haneul Park lets you enjoy both silver reeds and autumn leaves in one place. Climb the Sky Stairs from Nanji Hangang Park — the short workout is worth the breathtaking view from the top.
πŸš‡ World Cup Stadium Station (Line 6).


Fall Travel Tips

✅ Best Timing: About 10–14 days after the start date is usually the best time for full color.
πŸ“Έ Photography Tip: Overcast days or morning light (9–11 AM) bring out the richest colors. Shooting against the light enhances leaf texture.
πŸš‡ Transportation: Avoid weekend peak hours (11 AM–3 PM). Public transport is the easiest option.
πŸ§₯ Safety & Comfort: Wear hiking shoes on mountain trails and bring a light jacket — temperatures can drop quickly in the evening.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Which spots are less crowded?
Gyeonghuigung, Achasan, and Haneul Park are great choices for those seeking quieter walks.

Q2. Can I bring my pet?
Yes. Seoul Forest, Haneul Park, and Seokchon Lake are all pet-friendly — just keep pets leashed at all times.

Q3. Are the peak foliage dates fixed?
No. Depending on temperature and weather conditions, the peak can shift ±7–10 days. Always check the KMA (Korea Meteorological Administration) forecast before visiting.

 

Final Thoughts

Autumn in Seoul is a fleeting season — but that’s what makes it so special. Whether you prefer the tranquil charm of palace gardens, the energy of city parks, or the quiet beauty of mountain trails, each place reveals a different face of the city.

Take your time, walk slowly, and let the golden light guide you through Seoul’s most enchanting moments. πŸ‚

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