They say if you haven’t visited Namsan Tower, you haven’t been to Korea. What’s so special about this iconic tower and is it hard getting there? Let’s find out in this article.
The Namsan Tower, also known as the N Tower, incorporates a sightseeing observatory into a broadcasting tower. It was built for the first time in 1969 on the highest peak of Namsan mountain in the heart of the bustling Seoul capital. The entire white tower piercing through the sky comprises the N Tower Observatory and the entertainment complex.
How to get to N Seoul Tower from Myeongdong?
By Bus
The cheapest option is to take a bus from the Myeongdong Subway Station. Head out of Exit 3 where you see a bus stop opposite the exit gate. Obtain the T-money Card and swipe them when you get on either Bus #2, #3, or #5 to get to Namsan Seoul Tower.
By Shuttle Service
Book a ticket online which gives you two options: with and without an observatory ticket. Pick your desired departure time from Myeongdong from 3:10 pm to 9:10 pm, your preferred language, and your seat. The returned trip is also available for reservation but must be at least two hours apart from the pick-up time.
By Elevator and Cable Car
From Myeongdong Station, head out of Exit 4, keep going and you see a large intersection with Starbucks located on the opposite. Turn left at the cross-road for the next 10 minutes until you see the Namsan Outdoor Escalator. Take the elevator to the platform where the cable car is located. From there, you will see the ticket counter and queue in line on the third floor before riding the cable car for 7 minutes.
The queue time fluctuates depending on which time of the year you visit. The crowd was insane during sunset in October when I was there, making me wait for more than half an hour. If you’re lucky to make it in time, the fiery sunset in autumn will make the cable car ride a lot more amusing to enjoy.
Once getting out of the cable car, take a short hike uphill. There are a few trees covered in lover locks along the way.
Looking for more autumnal beauty in South Korea? Check out our guide to: South Korea’s Top 10 Autumn Leaf Peeping Spots
What to See along the Way?
Once you finish the flight of stairs, the N Seoul Tower is right in front of you, perched on top of the abundant Namsan mountain. Tickets are required to access the tower while the surrounding area is free to explore.
The path on the way up turns into a romantic date when the sun beams down and the light is up, especially during autumn when the maple trees blanket the entire scenery. You can take it slow and chill by the pavilion, walk the dazzling lit-up stairs or stop by a platform behind the lover’s lock trees on the left side of the N Seoul Tower to watch the sunset.
What to Expect Inside the N Seoul Tower?
The tower is split into N Plaza and N Tower. The plaza is a bustling complex comprising restaurants, scenic outdoor terraces, and souvenir stores. Meanwhile, the N Tower is the observation deck area with admission tickets required.
There is a ticket counter to get your admission in person. Those who obtain online tickets will need to go downstairs on the left of the ticket counter to the basement. From there, the staff will give you a physical ticket with an electronic number on it. Wait until your number appears on the entrance of the observation deck, have it scanned, and enter.
N Seoul Tower Observatory
The 360-degree view of the metropolitan is to die for. Wrapped around by floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll be consumed by the dramatic vista of the autumn fall foliage. If you get there by night, the entire capital is lit up and turns into a starry black ocean.
But if you’re getting weary after all the walking, kick back at one of the comfy chairs while gazing at the panoramic view.
The Namsan Seoul Tower is the star of the show, but it doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to one viewpoint only. For me, the Lotte World Tower SEOUL SKY is definitely worth checking out.
Nearby Attractions Worth Checking Out! Uncovering Namdaemun Market, the Hidden Gem Near N Seoul Tower
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