7 winter experiences in Seoul (that aren't skiing!)
By Peter Conte| 1 month ago
While South Korea is quickly becoming a hotspot for keen skiiers, there's far more to do in the capital of Seoul if hitting the slopes isn't one of your priorities.
From historic ceremonies to breathtaking hiking trails, here are seven experiences you can't look past if you're planning a visit to Seoul in the chilly months.
1. Witness the Changing of the Royal Guards at Gyeongbokgung Palace
The Changing of the Royal Guards at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a must-see attraction. (Peter Conte)
The Changing of the Royal Guards takes place at Gyeongbokgung Palace from Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 2pm (closed on Tuesdays).
Much like the Buckingham Palace tradition, the ceremony offers an insight into Korea's traditional roots, with music, attire and weapons from the nation's history coming together for a must-see attraction. While it runs all year round, the cooler temperatures in winter will thin out the crowds, meaning you'll be able to get a great view of the ceremony.
While watching the Changing of the Royal Guards is free, if you wish to explore Gyeongbokgung Palace further, you'll have to purchase an admission ticket, which costs 3000 won ($4) for adults and 1500 won ($2) for people aged 7-18 years old before progressing past the next gate.
However there is another way to secure free entry — by donning a Hanbok (a traditional Korean formal dress) from one of the many rental stores around Seoul. Wear one and entry is free — go on, you know you want to.
Cost: Free (small additional charge for access to greater grounds)
161 Sajik-ro, Sejongno, Jongno-gu, Ph:+82 2-3700-3900, royalpalace.go.kr
2. Explore Bukchon Hanok Village
With its snow-capped rooftops Bukchon Hanok Village is striking at sunrise. (Robert Koehler/Getty)
Bukchon Hanok is one of the more popular traditional Korean villages, filled with small streets and alleyways that act as passageways between the beautiful buildings of Korea's rich past.
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Something of an Instagram hotspot, many tourists opt to don a Hanbok and take photos along the walls of the beautiful area. While beautiful all year round, the village becomes especially magical to explore after some light snowfall.
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Jongno-gu, Gahoe-dong, ph: +82 2-2133-1371
3. Hike Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park boasts multiple hiking trails with mixed levels of difficulty. (Peter Conte)
Bukhansan National Park is a mountainous patch just outside Seoul, heaving with pretty hiking trails. The highest part of the mountain, Baegundae Peak, can be reached in a little over two hours, however there are shorter, gentler trails as well that span part-way up or around sections of the mountain.
The reward for climbing is surely those heavenly views from the top, where you can take in the city surrounding the incredible mountain. In winter the temperatures are cooler, making it the optimal time to undertake the hike without overheating.
262 Bogukmun-ro, Jeongneung-dong, Seongbuk-gu, ph: +82 2-909-0497, english.knps.or.kr
4. Myeongdong Cathedral
Myeongdong Cathedral boasts beautiful, gothic-style architecture. (Peter Conte)
Located only a short distance from the Myeongdong shopping district, famous for its cosmetics stores, visiting this Gothic-style Cathedral is the perfect activity to cap a day of retail therapy — although it's easily worth a trip alone for. The church was the birthplace for the Roman Catholic Church community in Korea and boasts stunning Gothic interiors.
74 Myeongdong-gil, Jeodong 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, ph: +82 2-774-1784
5. Lotte Tower — Seoul Sky Observation Deck
The view from the Seoul Sky Observation Deck. (Peter Conte)
Lotte Tower is the tallest building in South Korea and the sixth tallest in the world. The 123-floor, 555-metre skyscraper boasts a six-floor observation deck, spanning floors 117 through to 123, where you can catch surreal views of Seoul after speeding to the top on the world's tallest and fastest double-decker elevator. The observatory also boasts multiple photo spots, areas with a glass bottom (yikes), a café to grab a coffee and more. Aim to visit on a day with clear skies to get the best views.
Cost: 27,000 won for adults ($33.50) and 24,000 won for children ($30)
300 Olympic-ro, Jamsil 6(yuk)-dong, Songpa-gu, ph: +82 2-3213-5000, lwt.co.kr
6. Aqua Planet 63
Make the most of Aqua Planet 63 by seeing the shows. (Peter Conte)
Located in 63 Building, which is a skyscraper comprising of 60 floors and three basement levels, Aqua Planet boasts a variety of aquatic life — from otters to turtles and penguins, as well as shows. Make the most of your visit by timing it to see one of the mermaid shows (yes, really), which run frequently throughout the day.
The building also boasts an IMAX cinema, art gallery, wax museum and observatory, acting as the perfect all-in-one entertainment centre if you desire a break from the colder winter temperatures.
Cost: 25,000 won for adults ($31)
50 63-ro, Yeoeuido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, +82-2-789-5559, aquaplanet.co.kr
7. VR Square
A player engaged in playing 'Mortal Blitz' at VR Square. (Peter Conte)
Whether it's a VR experience, escape room or a multiplayer PvP shooter, VR Square has it all — and more. Located in Hongdae, VR Square is situated over four floors (or zones), each with a range of different VR experiences. If you've been out exploring the busy streets during winter then this is a great way to reheat while leaving the real world behind for a few hours.
Be sure to try 'Mortal Blitz' in the blue zone for an immersive first-person shooter experience where you must find your way to an escape shuttle as aliens threaten you on your path to freedom.
Cost: 29,000 won ($36) three hours unlimited play
68 Eoulmadang-ro, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, ph: +82 70-5173-1435, vrsquare.kr
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