11 Places in Seoul that You can See by Foot

Namsangol Hanok Park. (Photo by: Gregg Manalo)

Travellers sometimes visit a city because of studies, conference, or business meetings. This type of visit is usually short and time-constraint, but this should not be a hindrance to explore and enjoy what the city has to offer.

Typical Korean Food (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

For example, my 3-day educational tour in Seoul just allowed me a mere whole day to explore this scenic and friendly city. Given the number of attractions, World Heritage Sites, parks, cultural sites, and other points of interest, exploring the city and enjoying its sumptuous food in just one day seemed impossible. Being in this situation, I planned of ways on how to maximize my free time in order to see as many sites possible and satiate my cravings for the authentic Korean dishes.

Street Food in Myeongdong (Photo by: Gregg Manalo)

So, what could be reached by foot if you’re staying around Jung-Gu area (specifically in Chungmuro-Ga Area where Hyundai Residences Seoul is located)?

1.  Myeongdong Shopping Area

This shopping district is a must-visit for visitors who included shopping in their itinerary. This vast area has all types of boutiques, shops, stalls, and street food that will definitely satiate your hungry eyes and your tummy. Who knows, you might rub elbows with Korean Pop stars here?

Myeongdong District at Night (Photo by: Gregg Manalo)

2.  Myeongdong Cathedral

Situated in Myeongdong Area, this Cathedral is the oldest in South Korea. Korea might be more known for temples and shrines, but visiting Catholics will surely find respite in this holy place.

Myeongdong Cathedral at Night (Photo by: Gregg Manalo)

3.  Jongmyo Shrine and Changdeokgung Palace

This UNESCO World Heritage site is located in a vast park. Guided tours in English are available on site from Mondays thru Fridays. Non-guided tours are available on Saturdays.

Garden inside Jongmyo Park (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Entrance to Jongmyo (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

4. Dongdaemum Design Plaza

If you’re into modern design, you will definitely appreciate this area. Going there from Hyundai Residences will take you through the colorful and lively Dongdaemun History and Culture Park where you get to see native restaurants, Lotte shopping mall, and other attractions that will surely captivate your heart.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Restaurants Around Dongdaemun History and Culture Park (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

5. Dongdaemun Arcade

Looking for shoes? This is the place to be! It’s a huge arcade selling all kinds of shoes. So if you wanna be trendy while walking through Seoul, get your pair of boots here.

Dongdaemun Arcade (Photo by: Gregg Manalo)

6. Cheonggyecheon Stream

So far, this stream is the cleanest stream I have ever seen that is located in a big city. It is so clear and possibly clean that you could see its bottom and the fish that swim in it.

Cheonggyecheon Stream (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

7. Dongdaemun

This is a colossal gate to the city of Seoul. It has a twin which is located at Namdaemun.

Heunginjinum (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

8.  Dongdaemun Seonggwak Park

From Dongdaemun, this park will possibly catch your interest. It’s carved on the side of a hill. From here, you will have a wonderful of Dongdamun and its neighboring areas.

 Dongdaemun Seonggwak Park (Photo by; Gregg Manalo)

9. Pyeonghwa Market

If you’re buying wholesale items, say shirts at bargain prices, visit this shopping area. Located just across Dongdaemun, you will find this building right beside Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Pyeonghwa Market (Photo by: Gregg Manalo)

10. Jungbu Market

This is a public market which sells native delicacies mostly dried goods – nuts (all you could think of), mushroom, ginseng, fish, and other sea foods. More importantly, the vendors are very accommodating, friendly, and the prices are really very affordable. Make sure you have extra luggage and weight for those nuts and mushroom. This market is just across Hyundai Residences. 

Dried Goods in Jungbu Market (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

11. Namsangol Hanok Park and Village

Seoul is a modern city, so if you are searching for traditional houses, you need to visit this Park. If you’re traversing Toegyero, a major avenue in this area, it is around 15 minutes away by foot from Hyundai Residences. 

One of the Sections at Namsangol Hanok Park (Photo by: Gregg Manalo)