The Han River, also known as the Hangang in Korea, is an iconic natural landmark that passes through the heart of Seoul. Throughout the year, the Hangang parks entice visitors with bike trails, pedestrian-friendly walkways, concerts, and other activities. There is a lot to do along the banks of this large river, from picnics to swimming, sailing, and activities.
Visiting One of the Beautiful Parks
If you donโt want to get wet but want to see the river from a safe distance, there are eleven parks that offer scenic views from a safe distance. Despite the fact that the river is surrounded by nature, these eleven parks offer athletic amenities, ecological education zones, and other speciality areas. If possible, try to visit all eleven. Gwangnaru Hangang Park, Jamsil Hangang Park, Ttukseom Hangang Park, Jamwon Hangang Park, Ichon Hangang Park, Banpo Hangang Park, Mangwon Hangang Park, Yeouido Hangang Park, Nanji Hangang Park, Gangseo Hangang Park, and Yanghwa Hangang Park are among them.
Camping
There are four major camping areas in Seoul, but only one is on the banks of the Han River. The Nanji Campground near Worldcup Stadium in Sangam-dong offers a neighboring ecological park, swimming pool, and baseball fields to enjoy while camping and taking in the scenery. Technically, this is the sole overnight camping area on the Han River. Yes, most Koreans bring a tent with them to the river during the summer to provide shade.
Address: 495-81 Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Taking a Ferry River Cruise
What better way to see the river than on a boat? The boat service provides anything from a regular back-and-forth no-fuss-no-muss tour to a romantic dinner cruise with your lover. From morning to evening, you may see the city illuminated by the setting sun or watch as the city lights begin to gleam beneath the dark sky above. There is a ship for everyone, from the budget traveler to the large spender, with cruises ranging in price from W12,000 to W65,000 per person. Ferry terminals are available from Yanghwa Han River Park, Yeouido Han River Park, Ttukseom Han River Park, and Jamsil Han River Park. Yeouido is one of the easiest to get to and, in my experience, was a fantastic ride.
Biking
With 80 kilometers of bike lanes along the Han River, 40 kilometers on the north side and 40 kilometers on the south side, biking is a must-do when visiting the Han River. For those who donโt plan ahead or forget to bring a bike, there are various bike rental kiosks along the river. This summer, join the bike enthusiasts, bike club members, and everyone else on a bike cruising around the waterfront.
Swimming
No, Iโm not advocating swimming in the Han. In fact, let me clarify for anyone who might be confused. I donโt recommend diving in the Han River because of the high current. However, there are seven swimming pools on the Han Riverโs banks that provide nice clean fun as well as a fantastic view of the fast running river nearby, and this is where you should be swimming throughout the summer. Check out the Ttukseom Pool if youโre looking for a pool thatโs a little less well-known but still provides an infinity pool experience on the Han River at a reasonable price. This is an excellent budget-friendly swimming pool that we enjoy visiting during the summer, although there are many others to pick from.
Water Taxi
Taxis arenโt always the most convenient mode of transportation in this city of millions, so why not hail a water taxi when the roads are crowded and the automobiles are moving at a snailโs pace? With 11 ferry stops along the river, you can get from here to there while enjoying the scenery. The water taxis can accommodate up to 8 passengers, and the longer the voyage, the less it will cost. The next time you need to get from point A to point B and want to try something different, certainly call a water taxi.
Have a Picnic
There are numerous parks around the Han River. If you like to people-watch rather than participate in activities, a picnic is the way to go, and the Hangang is THE place to be in the summer. Everyone will be there, and if you donโt want to pack your own food, donโt worry; you can even have food delivered to you! Itโs definitely something to see and do. Also one of the most famous food in Han river is Chicken!
