Mount Namsan and N Seoul Tower
Seoul is a huge city with a population of about 14 million people, stretching along both banks of the Hangang River and resting on the slopes of the surrounding mountains. Namsan Mountain is located in the very center of this metropolis, the highest point of which rises 200 meters above the city and it is here that there are excellent opportunities for viewing the entire city!
In 1975, the so-called Seoul "N" Tower or Namsan Tower was built on top of the mountain, which soon became the symbol of the city. In 1981, the tower was opened to the public and has since become a place of pilgrimage for foreign tourists and a favorite vacation spot for Seoul residents. The most fascinating attraction here is a circular observation deck, located at an altitude of 400 meters above the city, where visitors are delivered by a high-speed elevator. It is from visiting this circular panorama that one should begin acquaintance with the city in order to understand its geography and the location of significant places and quarters.
The evening and night landscape looks especially breathtaking in clear weather, when a sea of lights extends in all directions from the tower, including remote areas beyond the surrounding hills, and numerous multi-colored reflections of the city are reflected in the bends of the Hangang River.
In addition to the observation deck, the tower houses several restaurants, a museum and souvenir shops, and when you take the elevator, you will definitely be offered to take a photo for memory.
At the foot of the tower is the "Roof Terrace", located on the roof of the annex building, which is a remarkable place for several reasons. Firstly, it also offers a beautiful view of Seoul and the Hangang River. Secondly, the terrace has become an obligatory place for visiting couples in love, who, following the example of the Korean stars of the popular TV show filmed here, attach their locks to the fence as a sign of eternal love and fidelity.
And today, coming here, you can see hundreds of small locks that are fixed everywhere and give this place a special romantic atmosphere.
You can get to the tower by bus or taxi, or by using the cable car. From the bus platform you will have to climb another 200 meters along a steep slope.
If time permits, it is worth combining a visit to the tower with a walk along the slopes of Mount Namsan, where hiking trails are provided, and unexpected views of the city open from numerous viewing platforms. On the mountain there is a park with rare flowers and a pine forest. In addition, there are such historical and cultural symbols of Korea as Seoul Fortress and signal towers. Therefore, the 7 km Namsan Mountain Walking Route is very popular among Seoul residents.
It will take you 2-3 hours to go around the mountain, and you can choose the most suitable route for you according to your own interests.
