Things to do in Hangang Park Seoul

Whether you’re currently in Seoul or have watched a thousand Korean Dramas, you would have surely come across the famous Hangang park. Situated alongside the heart of Seoul, Lies 12 beautiful parks ready to help you enjoy the Han River to the fullest. 

Hangang Park is where people flock all year round to experience the distinct flavor each season has to offer. Enjoy cycling or water sports? Or Relaxing by the river, watching your favorite singers perform? Hangang park contains it all. So no matter the situation, Hangang Park surely has something right for you.

Top Things to do in the Han River

How to get to Hangang park? + Tips

Fortunately, most of the Hangang Parks are easily accessible using public transportation. However, before beginning your descent. Here are a few suggestions to make getting around Seoul a little easier: 

1. T-Money Card

Firstly, I would highly recommend purchasing a T-money card. These are rechargeable transportation cards that can be found In most convenience stores or at the airport. For visitors and even locals, They are the most convenient way to get around and at the end of your trip, you can also use the refund machines (found In the train station) to get your money back. What’s more, these cards can be used for Buses, Trains, and even Taxis. To ‘Top-up’ or ‘Re-charge’ your T-money card, go to the ticket purchasing machines In the train station or any local convenience store. 

2. Kakao Map

Secondly, Although It is not a necessity (Google map works fine too) I would recommend downloading the Kakao Map app when traveling around Seoul/Korea. This app is convenient/easy to use and shows you very accurately how to get to your destination. Additionally, I find that sometimes, google map doesn’t give you the best routes in Seoul.

Main Parks to Enjoy Han River and how to get there

Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도 한강공원): 

Train (Recommend): Yeoinaru Station Line 5, Exit 3

Bus: Yeoinaru Station or Yeoido middle school Bus stop

Address: 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330)

Banpo Hangang Park (반포 한강공원):

Train: Sinbanpo Station Line 9, Exit 1

Bus (Recommend): Banpo Hangang Park, Sebitseom Bus stop. 

Address: 40 Sinbanpo-ro 11-gil, Banpo 2(i)-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 서초구 반포2동 신반포로11길 40)

Ttukseom Hangang Park (뚝섬 한강공원):

Train (Recommend): Ttukseom resort Station, Exit 2 or 3

Bus: Sinja Elementory School Bus stop

Address: Seoul, Gwangjin-gu, Jayang-dong, 704-1 (서울특별시 광진구 자양동 704-1)

Nanjji Hangang Park (난지 한강공원):

This is one of the harder Parks to get to without a car. Using public transport you will most likely need to use both a train and bus depending on where you are coming from. 

I would recommend: 

1. First, get on a train to Dangsan Station Line 2, Exit 8. 
2. Then, From Exit 8 walk straight to Dangsan station bus stop (19175) and take the 9707 Bus.
3. Lastly, get off at Nanji Park Bus stop.

Address: Seoul, Mapo-gu, Sangam-dong (한강난지로 162 (서울특별시 마포구 상암동 한강난지로 162)

Jamsil Hangang Park (잠실 한강공원): 

Train (Recommend): Jamsil station Line 2, Exit 6

Bus: Jamsil station Bus stop

Address: 65 Hangaram-ro, Jamsil 2(i)-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 송파구 잠실2동 한가람로 65)

Jamwon Hangang Park (잠원 한강공원):

Train (Recommend): Apgujeong station Line 3, Exit 6

Bus: Sinsa middle school Bus stop

Address: Jamwon-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 서초구 잠원동)

Ichon Hangang Park (이촌 한강공원):

Train (Recommend): Ichon station Line 4, Exit 4

Bus: Ichon station Bus stop

Address: 389 Ichon 2(i)-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 이촌2동 389)

Mangwon Hangang Park (망원 한강공원):

This is another harder Hangang park to find. I would recommend:

1. Taking a train to Hapjeong station, Line 6 or Line 2.
2. Come out of Exit 8 and walk straight to Holt children’s services Bus stop (14218).
3. Take the16 Bus to Mapo Hangang Ipark Apartment Bus stop.

Address: (Mangwon-dong) 467 Mapo-naru-gil Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 마포구 마포나루길 467 (망원동) 망원한강공원 내)

Gwangnaru Hangang Park (광나루 한강공원):

Train: Amsa Station Line 8, Exit 3

Bus: Cheonho station exit1 Bus stop

Address: Amsa-dong 83-66 Sonsa-ro Gangdong-gu Seoul (서울특별시 강동구 선사로 83-66 (암사동)

Gangseo Hangang Park (강서 한강공원):

Train: Banghwa Subway Station Exit 1

Bus: Ecological Park stop

Address: 279-23 Yangcheon-ro 27-gil, Banghwa 2(i)-dong, Gangseo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 강서구 방화2동 양천로27길 279-23)

Yanghwa Hangang Park (양화 한강공원):

Train: Dangsan station Line 2, Exit 4. U-turn.

Bus: Yanghwa bridge cafe bus stop

Address: 221 Nodeul-ro, Dangsan 2(i)-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 영등포구 당산2동 노들로 221)

Seunyudo Island (선유도):

Train: Dangsan station Line 2, Exit 4. Walk through Yanghwa park

Bus: Seunyudo park bus stop

Address: Yanghwa-dong, Seoul (서울특별시 양화동)

Main Hangang Parks and What to do there?

All 12 of the Hangang Parks contain their own unique charms. For example, Some are best for browsing at flowers and artwork, and others for watching a show or Camping. However, as much as we would love to see It all, not all of us have the time. On a short trip, It can be impossible to choose which Hangang Park to visit. 

Nevertheless, Here are the most popular Hangang Parks you MUST see and the top things to do there: 

Yeouido Hangang Park:

Yeouido Hangang Park is by far one of the most popular choices amongst them all. With dozens of people going In and out of the park every day, especially on the weekend or during the Summer, It can become very crowded. This Hangang park has a lot to offer and there’s a reason why It’s many peoples ‘go-to’ choice. 

For those of you who enjoy quiet and more nature-focused areas, I would suggest having a look at the other Hangang parks. On the other hand, For those who want to experience a lively atmosphere and immerse yourself In everyday Korea, then keep on reading.

Firstly, Yeouido park is definitely one of the easiest Hangang parks to find. Its directly opposite Yeoinaru station Line 5, Exit 2 or 3 and is convenient for those experiencing Korea for the first time. This park is also home to the biggest ‘I Seoul U’ stature. So for those who love taking pictures for the gram, this is a perfect spot. 

This park showcases great views of the Han river, which can best be enjoyed by visiting one of the 2 bicycle rental shops. Furthermore, For a regular bike, a 1-hour rental price start from 3,000krw, adding an extra 500krw every 15 minutes. Alongside your standard bicycle, they also offer Tandem bikes (2 person Bike) and Children’s bikes. So for the couples or family’s, they’ve got you covered. 

Another one of my favorite ways to enjoy Yeouido Hangang Park is during the evening. This is when the park comes to life and becomes filled with locals relaxing, drinking, and eating by the river. What’s more, Paired with the spectacular views of the city, lit water features, and lively buskers create a perfect atmosphere for an enjoyable evening. 

How to Enjoy Hangang Park like a local?

Visit one of the Convenience stores and buy some drinks, snacks, or Instant Ramen (라면). Or Alternatively, grab some food flyers and order food to pick up In the Delivery Zone (배달 존). You can also use apps such as 배달의민족 or Yogiyo (요기요) to order food.

Want to know how to use Koreas number 1 delivery app? CLICK HERE

On the Han River

What best way to see the Han River, then by being directly on it? The Yeouido Hangang Park is a top location to not only take part In adventurous water sports but to also experience one of the Eland Han river cruises In the city. 

Source: Klook

For English speakers, I would highly recommend using the app/website Klook to book a tour. Please note that you will need to show your ID/Passport when collecting your tickets, AND Korean Passports are not valid for this offer. 

Personally, I would opt for the dinner buffet package as It’s the lengthiest option and I love food. However, for those who want something quick (40 minutes), I would then recommend the Han river moonlight cruise. 

Hangang Park Events

You may be wondering, When Is the best time to visit? 

After living In Korea for more than 2 years, I must say It’s very rare for me to venture outside much during the blistering winter or sweltering summer months. That being said, During Spring and Autumn, I try to make the most of the weather and go out as much as possible. 

If you’re lucky enough to come to Korea during these months then I would definitely recommend visiting some of the festivals that take place in Yeouido Hangang Park.

Cherry Blossom festival

Yeouido is arguably one of the best locations In Seoul to see the Cherry blossoms in Spring. This festival usually falls around the first week In April but make sure to go quick before It rains. In addition, this festival is completely free and It’s no wonder why many people flock here during this time. 

Fireworks Festival

Generally, set around the beginning of October. This is another extremely popular festival that takes place every year in Yeouido Hangang Park. Events start from 1 pm which include food vendors, busking, and performances. However, the firework show doesn’t begin until around 7:30. Unless you leave extremely early, getting to the park will pose extremely difficult. Subways are packed, there’s an insane amount of traffic on the roads so my end solution is to either arrive extremely early or find a tall building nearby and watch from there. 

Toilets: There are plenty of restrooms, usually located near convenience stores or near bigger buildings In the park.

Amenities in Hangang

Inline skating track, golf range, multi-purpose field (football, foot volleyball), outdoor swimming pool, Water Light Square, multi plaza, Yeoui Madang, Beodeul Square, Folk Madang, grass field, children’s playground, duck boat, Yacht Marina, waterside stage, waterside fountains, cruise dock, bike rentals, etc.

Banpo Hangang Park

Rainbow Fountain Show

Best seen at night, another popular choice among both tourists and locals is the Banpo Hangang Park. Famously known for the world’s largest bridge fountain, thousands of people travel here every year to witness the infamous Rainbow fountain show. This amazing show of synchronized water, dazzling lights, and music are a must-see In Seoul and, I would highly recommend visiting If you’re in Korea during April-October. In addition, this show takes place around 5-8 times per day depending on the season. And, If you come between the months of May-October, you’ll also be able to take part In the ‘Moonlight Square Cultural Weekend’ held every Saturday. 

Hours of Operation

April-June & September-October

12:00, 19:30 (15 mins)

20:00, 20:30, 21:00 (20 mins)

July-August

12:00, 19:30 (15 mins)

20:00, 20:30, 21:00, 21:30 (20 mins)

Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market (서울 밤도깨비 야시장)

If you’re In Banpo Hangang park during a Friday or Saturday (In April-October), then why not visit the Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market (서울 밤도깨비 야시장)? This is a quirky market held every Friday and Saturday from 6 pm-11 pm. Here, you will find an array of handcrafted items, Artists, Performers, Food trucks, and more. Perfect for a late-night stroll with loved ones or friends. 

On the River + Sebitseom

Finally, Like Yeouido Hangang Park, Banpo park also has activities available on the water. Head North to the 3 artificially made islands on the Han river called ‘Sebitseom’. Here, you are able to witness 3 gorgeously lit buildings whilst riding on a boat of your choice. Bring a group of friends and chose between a yacht, Tubester, and various other boats that sail along the Han river, providing a flawless view of famous buildings such as Namsan tower and 63 Building. To book you can use apps/websites such as Trazy.

Amenities

Bike Rental, Cafe, Basketball Court, Badminton Court, Soccer Field

Ttukseom Hangang Park

For those who love greenery, architecture, and water activities, the Ttukseom Hangang Park has you covered for each season. This park is also home to 1 out of the 7 parks that contain an outdoor swimming pool and include a wide range of water sporting activities. What’s more, during the winter It’s completely transformed into a winter wonderland. At this Hangang park, you can catch locals all year round enjoying Snow Sledding in the Winter, water skiing In the Summer, and beautiful flower gardens In the Spring and Autumn. 

Before heading straight towards the river, I would first stop by the J-bug complex. This is a 240m long cylindrical building great for getting a coffee or taking cool pictures. Inside showcases beautiful open planned spaces featuring unique architectural details. Additionally, this building includes meeting rooms, places to read, a cafe, and an event hall, whilst providing the well-loved view of the Han river.

JBUG Operation Hours

Floor 1

March/October: 10 a.m. – 12 a.m

November/February: 10 a.m.-11 p.m

Floors 2&3

All year 10 a.m – 6 p.m

If you’re a flower enthusiast like myself then you won’t regret stopping by the Ttukseom Hangang Park rose garden. Best seen during the spring, this is a cute area to stroll through and take some pictures. What’s more, If you happen to be In Korea during the early Summer months, you must check out the huge Vine wall located west of Ttukseom resort station. This seemingly average looking wall is transformed into a dazzling display of orange flowers and green ivy. 

Spending an entire day In Ttukseom Hangang park Is certainly not a challenge. In fact, for those wishing to stay until the evening, feel free to order some food and enjoy a picnic whilst gazing at the glamorous music fountain show.

Music Fountain times

Weekday = 12:00 / 14:00 / 19:00 /20:00

Weekend = 12:00 / 14:00 / 16:00 / 18:00 / 19:00 / 20:00 / 21:00

Amenities

Snack bar, water fountain, children’s playground, nature experience site, sun shades, rose garden, Soccer field, basketball court, tennis court, badminton court, football field, physical fitness centre, gate ball field, Motorboat, water skiing, Swimming pool, Windsurfing site

Nanji Hangang Park:

Nanji Park is definitely one of the quieter options amongst all four Hangang Parks. In fact, I only discovered this park just over a year ago during the Hiphopplaya festival. With the completion of the Hangang Renaissance project, this once landfilled site has been revamped Into a blossoming get-away from the hustle and bustle of Seoul. That being said, for those who love nature and want to enjoy a quiet area to relax, the Nanji Hangang Park is a great option. 

Nature

Connected to the World Cup Park and Sky Park (which is one of my favorite areas In Seoul) you have the option of walking through a forest and flower fields to cycling alongside tall grass and the river. Furthermore, for an all-around Nature immersive experience, you have the option of staying at Nanji parks Campsite or wondering through the Nanji ecological wetland. 

Nanji Park Campsite

Moreover, The Nanji parks Campsite is the only Campsite available on the Han River. You’ll need to make a reservation using their website and prices will vary depending on the size of your group, Parking, type of equipment you need to rent (If any), etc. Additionally, you can also bring your own tent with a charge of 15,000krw for a group of 4 (extra 3,750krw for 1 additional person and you will still need to book in advance). 

Amenities

Mirror fountain, pool, music fountain, 2 baseball fields, Yacht Club, Bike lane, Riverside pool/Infinity pool (open from July to August), Nanji Camping Site, Extreme sporting ground (BMX, Inline skating, etc), Riverside stage

And, that concludes the things to do In Hangang Park Seoul. As you can see, there is an endless list of activities to do, foods to try, and things to see. These beautiful parks situated alongside the heart of Seoul certainly shouldn’t be skipped over and, I hope this post made It easier to pick which Park to visit.

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