 |
| Aerial view of Seonyudo Park on the Han River. ⓒ한국관광공사 포토코리아-서문교 |
Seoul is filled with well-known tourist attractions, but when I began searching for places that weren’t already famous yet consistently received positive reviews from foreign travelers, the results were surprising. The places that visitors described as “unexpectedly amazing” were completely different from the typical hotspots most people imagine.
Many travelers shared that while major landmarks and shopping districts are enjoyable, what stayed with them long after their trip were the quiet parks, riverside paths, forested trails, and peaceful walking routes hidden throughout the city.
Looking through reviews on Reddit, YouTube, and TripAdvisor, I repeatedly encountered comments such as:
“I had no idea a place like this existed in Seoul,”
“There were almost no tourists, which made it even better.”
This article is the first of a three-part series introducing 15 underrated places in Seoul frequently praised by foreign travelers. In Part 1, we’ll explore five quiet, nature-focused spots in Seoul that visitors say were ‘far better than expected.’
Seonyudo Park — A Calm Island Garden on the Han River
Seonyudo Park was once a water purification plant, now transformed into a unique island where greenery and concrete structures coexist. Many foreign travelers say they are surprised to find such tranquility in the middle of Seoul.
“I had no idea this island park existed. It felt like a quiet green bubble floating in the middle of Seoul.”
— Based on traveler feedback (Reddit)
Multiple walking paths, riverside viewpoints, and quiet seating areas make this park ideal for those seeking a moment of calm away from crowded tourist zones.
Ichon Hangang Park — A Riverside Space Filled With Local Life
While the Han River parks are widely known, Ichon Hangang Park stands out because it attracts fewer tourists and naturally shows how locals enjoy their daily routines along the river.
“It felt like a place only locals know. No crowds, just people enjoying their day.”
— Based on traveler feedback (YouTube)
Its simple layout and peaceful atmosphere allow visitors to relax and observe the rhythm of everyday Seoul.
Yangjae Citizens’ Forest — A Surprisingly Quiet Urban Woodland
 |
| Yangjae Citizens' Forest on a quiet day. ⓒ한국관광공사 포토코리아-전형준 |
Yangjae Citizens’ Forest is relatively unknown even among locals, which is why foreign travelers often react with genuine surprise when they discover it.
“I stumbled upon this park and ended up staying for hours. So peaceful and almost no tourists.”
— Based on traveler feedback (TripAdvisor)
Its well-designed walking trails create a refreshing escape during a busy travel day and offer an experience that feels distinct from more commercialized parks.
Bukhansan Dulle-gil (Easy Trail) — Accessible Nature & the Surprise of Free Hiking
Korean hiking culture is well-known, but attempting a full ascent of Bukhansan can feel overwhelming. The Dulle-gil offers a gentler option—mostly flat forest trails suitable for beginners.
“I thought hiking in Korea would be intense, but the trail was gentle and beautiful.”
— Based on traveler feedback (Reddit)
Many foreign travelers are surprised to learn that most mountains in Seoul are completely free to access, unlike many countries where national park or trail entry fees are common.
“Hiking is free? In my country this would definitely cost money.”
— Based on traveler feedback (YouTube)
Achasan Ridge Trail — A Quiet Viewpoint Overlooking the City
Achasan is easy to climb yet widely praised as “one of the most underrated viewpoints in Seoul.”
“The view was incredible, and there were almost no people. I can’t believe this is in Seoul.”
— Based on traveler feedback (TripAdvisor)
Its panoramic city-and-river views and calm trails make it ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.
As We Wrap Up
The five places introduced here may not appear on typical travel itineraries, yet they consistently stand out in foreign travelers’ reviews as “unexpectedly memorable spots.” From quiet riverside parks to beginner-friendly mountain trails, these locations reveal a calmer side of Seoul hidden behind the city’s fast-paced reputation.
If you’re searching for a moment of stillness within Seoul’s busy rhythm, these spots may become some of your favorite discoveries. There’s something uniquely appealing about how Seoul’s energy and quietness coexist, isn’t there?
In the next article, we’ll explore five neighborhoods where you can experience local character and artistic atmosphere, again based on places frequently praised by foreign travelers. I hope you’ll return and continue discovering new sides of Seoul with us.
Next in the Series
If you enjoyed Part 1, continue the journey in Part 2:
Five Seoul Neighborhoods That Foreign Travelers Loved More Than Expected
Post a Comment