Seokchon Lake (Songpanaru Park)

Historic site · Jamsil Stn. (Lines 2, 8)

A historic site marking the painful history of the Manchu invasion of 1636. Combine it with a walk around Seokchon Lake and a look at Lotte Tower.

Culture space · Jamsil Stn. (Lines 2, 8)

A circular open-air stage on the west lake of Seokchon Lake, hosting free traditional folk performances such as Songpa Sandae Noli.

Park · Seokchon Gobun Stn. (Line 9)

The Jamsil flats north of today's Seokchon Lake were once the Han River, with a ferry landing south of Seoho. Over time silt built up into an artificial island, splitting the river into the Songpa and Sincheon channels, which ran from below Gwangjin Bridge past present-day Seokchon Lake to Jamsil Baseball Stadium.

Culture space · Jamsil Stn. (Lines 2, 8)

A large bookshop connected directly to Jamsil Station. Browse books and stationery for free in a heated and air-conditioned reading space.

Library · Seokchon Stn. (Lines 8, 9)

Public library in Songpa-gu. Free entry and reading, with heating and air conditioning.

Museum · Jamsil Stn. (Lines 2, 8)

Seongdong-gu · Seoul Forest Stn. (Suin-Bundang Line)

A large ecological park in the middle of the city. Lots of mature trees, shade and benches, with drinking fountains and toilets throughout, so summer walks are comfortable.

Mapo-gu · Hongik Univ. Stn. (Line 2, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

A 6.3 km linear park on a former railway. The Yeonnam-dong stretch, nicknamed Yeontral Park, strings together shade, lawns and cafes. Few drinking fountains, so bring water.

Jung-gu · Seoul Station Stn. (Lines 1, 4, Airport Railroad, Gyeongui-Jungang Line)

An elevated garden walkway converted from an old overpass, with planters, benches, a foot bath and drinking fountains. Lovely at night, so an evening stroll beats midday.

Jongno-gu · Hyehwa Stn. (Line 4)

A hilltop park along the Seoul City Wall trail, known for city night views and sunsets. Carry water for the climb.

Yeongdeungpo-gu · Seonyudo Stn. (Line 9)

An ecological park on an island in the Han, built from a former water treatment plant. Ivy-covered structures and green gardens, reached by the Rainbow Bridge, with many shaded paths.