Joanna James
A gigantic jewel-toned city cradled by mountains and steeped in richly flavourful tradition, cutting-edge Seoul is more than what meets the eye and full of hidden gems for the most ardent wanderlust seeker. Here are some captivating eccentricities worth savouring.
From blue-misted mountainous national parks wreathed in stunning autumnal foliage, colourful imperial palaces set against picture-perfect backdrops, and dreamy traditional Hanok villages nestled into lush valleys to vibing avant-garde enclaves like spaceship-style Dongdaemun Design Plaza hosting trailblazing events, the Common Ground shopping mall made entirely of shipping containers hosting high-end boutiques, and thematic high-octane mega parks like Everland, Seoul exhilaratingly blends the ancient and futuristic into a seamless duet. If you’re looking for deliciously surreal hi-tech experiences that portals you into kaleidoscopic realms, visit the many themed tunnels of this gold and silver mining cave, which will spin you into galactic vistas, underwater kingdoms, and unearthly plays of light.
If a heritage-rich village reminiscent of the Joseon dynasty, bordered by two regally ancient palaces, ornamented with 600-year-old architecture, and hosting beautifully quaint tea houses, medieval dress shops, handicraft boutiques, art galleries, and traditional eateries, sounds up your alley, then be sure to spend a day in thrillingly timeless Bukchon!
From majestic granite pillars rising atop emerald mountains and cherry blossoms raining down dynastic promenades to museums dedicated to optical illusions and interactive mazes that will challenge your instincts and intellect, Seoul will heighten your senses to a whole other level! But if you’re looking for a slightly eerie yet picturesque vintage escape, Yongma Land Abandoned Theme Park, with its rundown, still colourful eighties rides and decrypt atmosphere, will have you taking photos nonstop even as you feel electrifying chills up and down your spine!
Whether it’s otherworldly fountain light shows spanning across the 570-metre Banpo Bridge, mind-boggling battleship theme parks scattered with chic shops and eateries, the rustic artisan vibes of shoppable Isadong Street idyllic for bespoke souvenirs, Seoul showcases plenty of Insta-worthy diversions to claim your itinerary! However, Seoul’s transporting mural village in a mountain is sure to spark the happy-go-lucky creative in you with a nostalgic, heartwarming setting straight out of a K-drama and plenty of eye-popping art inspiration wherever you glance or step! If you’re looking for a sophisticated Seoul-serviced apartment proffering prime access to its myriad of urban fantasies, venture no further than Somerset Palace Seoul.
Seoul's iconic cafes, whether you're enjoying a croffle with sheep companions, indulging in tongue-shaped cookies and drinks at Tongue Planet Café, or immersing yourself in storybook-like library cafes, bring your gastronomic dreams to life! However, if you had to pick, the Hongdae Raccoon Café offers the perfect blend of great coffee and even better raccoon cuddles, while also being easy on your budget.
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