Han River Parks in Seoul: Ramyeon, Bikes & the Rainbow Fountain

The Han River splits Seoul in two, and its riverside parks are where locals picnic, cycle and watch the sunset. It’s free and one of the best evenings you can have in the city.

Which park?

• Yeouido — the easiest to reach and the most lively. Famous for cherry blossoms in spring. Yeouinaru Station, Line 5.
• Banpo — home of the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain on Banpo Bridge. Best after dark.
• Ttukseom — a quieter, local feel on the east side, right next to a Line 7 station.

What to do

• River ramyeon: riverside convenience stores have instant-noodle cooking machines. Buy, cook, eat by the water.
• Bike: rent a Seoul public bike (Ttareungyi) and ride the flat river path.
• Chimaek: fried chicken and beer on a picnic mat — a Seoul summer classic.
• Rainbow fountain: the Banpo Bridge fountain runs in the warmer months with evening shows.

Tips

• Bring a mat or rent one near the stores.
• Take your trash with you.

Planning the whole trip? See the 3 days in Seoul itinerary.

More Korea travel guides

• 3 Days in Seoul Itinerary: The Easy First-Timer Plan
• Seoul Day 1: Gyeongbokgung, Bukchon & Ihwa Mural Village
• Seoul Day 2: Gwangjang Market, DDP, Cheonggyecheon & Myeongdong
• Seoul Day 3: Seokchon Lake, Starfield Library & the Han River
• Gyeongbokgung Palace Guide: Free Entry in Hanbok & Tips
• Gwangjang Market: What to Eat (and How to Order)
• Busan 2-Day Itinerary: Beaches, Temple & Seafood
• Gyeongju 1-Day Itinerary: Bulguksa, Royal Tombs & Wolji Pond
• Seoul First-Time Tips: T-money, Subway & Apps

Photo credits — kallerna / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons; Bryan Dorrough / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.