Fall attracts tourists from all over the globe to South Korea’s rural northern areas and national parks – but how about experiencing autumn in Seoul? If you’re not into trekking (or just feeling lazy), skip the countryside hike and view brilliant fall foliage in Seoul instead.
Enjoy the comforts of city living while falling in love with nature’s most brilliant hues. See famous places in Korea, including Nami Island and Gyeongbokgung Palace, bathed in warm tones. Go ‘Seoul-searching’ for changing autumn leaves and discover the best of fall in Korea!
Here’s a list of 5 scenic spots and activities in Seoul during autumn:
1. Pedal along the picturesque Nami Island
This half-moon shaped island is famous all year-round, but looks especially magical during fall. Breeze through Nami Island and its tree-lined pathways. Snap romantic photos under the canopy of its vivid maple trees and beside riverside reed beds. Stroll along the ‘Forest of Sweethearts’, where an iconic kissing scene took place in the famous Korean drama, ‘Winter Sonata’.
- Cost: ₩10,000 for entrance fee
Easy Option:
Day Tour from Seoul: Nami Island and Petite France
Pro-tip: Book a Bike Rental for Nami Island. We recommend taking a bike instead of walking to fully uncover highly photogenic spots!
2. Wear hanbok at traditional Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is an ancient Korean village located between two Joseon palaces. Walk around ‘Hanoks’, which are wooden houses transformed into tea houses, cultural centers, and restaurants.
Catch photos of the traditional roof-tiled houses clustered together with a sprinkling of yellow and orange leaves. Revel in the serene ambiance as you admire architecture from the Joseon Dynasty.
Pro-tip: Try the hanbok experience
If you’re already there, enhance your experience by wearing a classic hanbok! Blend seamlessly into ancient Korea with your elegant outfit and strike a pose ‘for the gram’.
3. Discover local art and amazing scenery at Insa-dong
Visit Insa-dong, the village built for aristocrats and public officials back in the Joseon Dynasty – it’s only a short walk away from Bukchon Hanok Village. Home to hundreds of galleries, here, you can enjoy the charming blend of both modern and traditional art.
Browse stalls filled with pottery and handicrafts by the locals. Feel the vibrant atmosphere as you drop by quaint antique shops and chic galleries framed by yellow ginko trees.
4. Glimpse fall-tastic views of Seoul at Namsan Park & N Seoul Tower
Head to iconic Namsan Mountain, also the highest point in the city. Relax at Namsan Park – with every step you take on the walking trails, catch sight of warm-colored ginko trees and maple trees. Encounter lovely stops, including Palgakjeong (octagon hall), Namsan Library, and pretty cafes.
You may opt to hike or take a cable car to N Seoul Tower on top of the mountain. Delight in panoramic views of Seoul, covered in rich fall colors from plum to crimson, and green and gold. Don’t forget to visit Locks of Love at the tower, a colorful site where couples display and ‘lock’ their love messages. Add to the growing collection and feel the love in the air!
- Cost:₩10,000 for entrance
Grab your discounted N Seoul Tower Ticket through KKday
5. Feel like royalty with fall foliage at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Feel as if you’ve stepped right into a Koreanovela with a trip to Gyeongbokgung Palace during fall! As the main palace of the Joseon era, it does not disappoint. Gaze upon the serene Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, a two-story building in the middle of a lake. This was the place most fit for the king to rest and relax.
Everywhere you turn, you’ll get an eyeful of gorgeous fall colors. There’s also a lot of majestic things to see, including the lavish Imperial Throne Hall and the changing of the royal guard ceremony.
Pro-tip: Enjoy a hanbok rental
Level up your Instagram game by wearing a beautiful hanbok and live a day (or an afternoon) in the life of Korean royalty.
Are you ready for a ‘Seoul-fall’ experience you’ll never forget? Book now to be mesmerized by the sight of fall in South Korea – without making the trek! We hope you enjoyed our autumn list of beautiful places in Seoul and check out more recommendations below:
