Joanna James
There are some hidden gems, places not popularised on the tourist information sites, that are a pity to miss when touring Seoul. Instagram worthy places and attractions that promise to amaze you, are highlighted in this list of hidden attractions in Seoul.
Take on the Ansan Mountain trail, a 7km trek along a raised wooden deck. The walk takes you across forests of giant trees reaching to the sky and lookout points offering you sweeping views of the surroundings. The forest trail has no barrier and will take you along the side of the verdant mountain. Its wheelchair accessible and kid friendly, so take along the pushchairs. The trail takes around 2.5hrs to complete. But you can stop halfway and exit at the Sinchon Shopping Street, for some holiday indulgence. The Travelodge Myeongdong City Hall is just 3kms from the Ansan Mountain Walk one of the best locations to look for a Myeongdong Seoul hotel.
This is not a randomly boring walk amongst oil tanks. Oh no, the Oil Tank Park was at one time, for over 41 years, a secret oil reserve base home to 5 huge oil tanks, which held enough fuel to keep Seoul powered for an entire month! If the need ever arose. Today the place is open to the public. Explore the complex with its converted oil tanks and cultural displays. Easy to reach from your hotel in Seoul. The park is within walking distance of World Cup Stadium Station and Haneul Park.
Seochon Village is located in the same district as Tongin Market and the Tosokchon Samgyetan Restaurant noted for its delicious Ginseng chicken soup. Seochon Village too has a number of cafes to continue your foodie journey at. Plus, its historical allure. This village is where King Sejong the inventor of the Korean alphabet was born. Also, the oldest bookstore in Seoul, Dae-o Bookstore is located there.
The Blue House, officially known as Cheong Wa Dae, is the official residence of the Korean President. And you can get clearance to visit the place? All you have to do is book the 60 minute tour of the complex. This pass can be obtained by booking your tour online. Simply go to the official website and do the needful.
The Café Darak and Jeongdong Observatory are where most of the beautiful pictures of the Deoksugung Palace and Deoksugung Stone-Wall Road are taken. Go there to upload those envious pics of tree tops covered in golden autumn leaves. Stop at the café for a refreshing cup of coffee and enjoy the views. The place is easily accessible via subway from your hotel in Seoul.
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