Seoul is a dazzling and dynamic metropolis, but it is also home to a surprising number of wonderful parks where you can find peaceful respite and a breath of fresh air. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and embrace the outdoors, this list is for you. Based on my own experiences, here are the top five parks in Seoul for nature enthusiasts, complete with key features and helpful tips for your visit.
1. Olympic Park
Located in Songpa-gu, Olympic Park is impressively vast, and its sheer scale is sure to impress any visitor. It’s so large that a full walking tour can take over three hours. The park is thoughtfully divided into several zones—including sports, arts and culture, an eco-park, and a history-themed area—offering a wide range of activities. Adding to its historical significance, the park is also home to Mongchontoseong, an earthen fortress dating back nearly 2,000 years.
My personal recommendations for photo spots are the Wild Flower Garden when the yellow cosmos are in full bloom and the Golden Ginkgo Tree Road in the fall. Given the park’s size, I suggest exploring by bicycle rather than on foot. You can easily rent one at the rental station located between the SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium and the Woori Art Hall. It’s also a great idea to pack some sandwiches or snacks and enjoy a picnic.
Location Info
- Name: Olympic Park
- Type: Multi-purpose Park (Leisure, Sports, Culture, History)
- Known for: Mongchontoseong Fortress, vast size, seasonal flower gardens, and the iconic “Lone Tree.”
- Address: 424 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul
2. Seoul Forest
Seoul Forest in Seongdong-gu is an urban oasis that boasts stunning natural scenery throughout the year. In spring, the park is filled with brilliant cherry blossoms, while in autumn, long avenues of yellow ginkgo trees make it a perfect destination for enjoying the fall foliage.
The park is well-equipped with various facilities, including the Culture & Arts Park, a Forest Playground, and a waterside marina, making for a pleasant and convenient visit. The meticulously maintained Ecological Forest is a particular highlight. Finding a spot on the spacious lawn with a packed lunch and simply taking in the scenery is a wonderful way to discover another, more tranquil side of Seoul.
Location Info
- Name: Seoul Forest
- Type: Urban Park
- Known for: Cherry blossoms, ginkgo trees, a deer enclosure, and diverse ecological zones.
- Address: 273 Ttukseom-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
3. Bukhansan National Park
For those seeking a more immersive and majestic experience with nature than a typical city park can offer, Bukhansan National Park is the ideal choice. Encompassing both Bukhansan and Dobongsan mountains, it is one of the most beloved hiking destinations for Seoulites.
The park offers a variety of trails suitable for all levels, from scenic valley paths perfect for beginners to the more challenging Baegundae Peak course for seasoned hikers. The view is especially spectacular in the fall when the entire mountain is painted in brilliant hues of red and yellow. It’s an unparalleled place to recharge your mind and body with the powerful energy of the mountains.
Location Info
- Name: Bukhansan National Park
- Type: National Park / Mountain
- Known for: Hiking, granite peaks, historical temples, and panoramic views of Seoul.
- Address: 195 Bukhansan-ro 618beon-gil, Deogyang-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do
(Note: There are multiple entrances to the park from Seoul and Gyeonggi Province)
4. Yongsan Family Park
Situated right next to the National Museum of Korea, Yongsan Family Park is a charming, though more compact, green space. The park’s dedicated parking lot is small and often full, so I recommend using the spacious and convenient lot at the adjacent National Museum of Korea, which is just a 5-6 minute walk away.
In spring, even if you’ve missed the peak cherry blossom season, you can still enjoy a lovely walk amid fluttering petals and see the beautiful pink peach blossoms. The spacious lawn is perfect for children to run around, and the park’s location makes it easy to combine a visit with a tour of the National Museum of Korea or the National Hangeul Museum for a full-day outing. It’s also a great spot for a light stroll after a date in the nearby Ichon-dong area.
Location Info
- Name: Yongsan Family Park
- Type: Urban Park
- Known for: Open lawns, a pond, and its proximity to the National Museum of Korea.
- Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (at the National Museum of Korea)
5. Ttukseom Hangang Park
For those who want to enjoy Seoul’s iconic Han River up close, Ttukseom Hangang Park is the perfect place for a unique urban retreat. These days, it’s incredibly convenient to rent all the picnic gear you need—tents, mats, chairs, and tables—from rental shops like “Healing Tent” near Ttukseom Resort Station.
After loading your gear onto a wagon and passing through the underpass to the designated tent area, you can create your own cozy space with an open view of the river. Whether you’re enjoying food you brought, reading a book, or simply gazing at the water and sky, the experience is profoundly healing. Just remember that all tents must be taken down by 7 PM.
Location Info
- Name: Ttukseom Hangang Park
- Type: Riverside Park
- Known for: Riverside picnics, water sports, the unique “J-Bug” cultural complex, and views of the Han River.
- Address: 59-32 Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
Seoul has a more diverse natural landscape than many realize. From majestic mountains and well-manicured urban parks to the city’s lifeline, the Han River, there are countless opportunities for outdoor recreation. This weekend, why not use this list to escape the city noise and take some time to recharge in nature?