Seoul’s best nature spots offer parks, rivers and mountain trails—perfect for travellers seeking green escapes within the city. (Image by SC Jang)
Long celebrated for its culture, cuisine and global pop influence, South Korea continues to draw travellers from around the world. Beyond the buzz of K-pop and beauty trends, the country offers rich, layered experiences that go far deeper into slow travel and lived experiences.
Seoul is not only a hub for arts, culture, and shopping but also home to a surprising range of outdoor spaces and green escapes.
Having lived and worked in South Korea for the past few years, I’ve come to appreciate a quieter side of Seoul — one shaped by nature. Writing this article has been a treat, allowing me to reflect on the experiences that have shaped my time in a place where I have built a life.
The outdoors I talk about here may not be “wild”, but are still meaningful glimpses into the natural rhythm of the city: steep, green mountains, flowing rivers, and migratory bird habitats.
So, from a nature lover, here are some of the best nature spots in Seoul to explore.
1. A Day at Seoul Grand Park: Wildlife, Walks and Wide Open Greenery
I discovered Seoul Zoo last year, and have been back three times since. I love the place so much! It’s located in a beautiful, vast green space of Seoul Grand Park, which you can travel to by train. The park is full of other attractions, such as Seoulland theme park and a botanical garden.
Watching the tigers at Seoul Grand Park felt like a lesson in patience; even from a distance, seeing them in such a vast, green space was a highlight of our quiet morning.
From the majestic repose of the tigers to the quirky pace of the anteaters, the zoo offered us a chance to reconnect with wildlife without the usual city rush.
The reason I first decided to visit Seoul Zoo is because of how incredibly affordable it is to visit – the zoo is funded by the South Korean government and is aimed at educating people about wildlife. For adults, an entry ticket is only KRW5,000 (approximately RM13)!
This steal of a price is why you see families coming into the zoo and treating it like a park, with people spending the day picnicking instead of visiting all the attractions.
Seoul Zoo is one of the best zoos I have visited. I say this based on how healthy the animals looked, how well-kept the enclosures were, and how many diverse creatures and habitats were on show. I learned so much about animals, and could see zookeepers looking after and training the animals during my visit.
For added fun, if you would rather not take a long walk to the zoo, you can get there via a sky lift or animal-themed train. It was cool sitting on the sky lift and floating over the monkey and lion enclosures.
Visiting the zoo is a wonderful way to spend the day without breaking your bank. There are many convenience shops within the grounds, and unlike your regular tourist attraction with inflated prices for food, they sell goods at regular prices.
Zafigo Tip: Seoul’s parks are incredibly safe for solo females, but if you do find yourself lost or in need of help, look for the local grandmothers (ajummas) hiking the trails. As the unofficial guardians of Korea’s public spaces, they are often the first to step in with maternal care to point you in the right direction.
Seoul Grand Park (서울대공원)
102 Daegonwon-Gwangjang-ro (Makgye-dong), Gwacheon City, Gyeonggi Province
2. Riding the Han: Seoul’s Most Scenic Riverside Escape
The River Han runs through Seoul and is a major source of life for the country. The wondrous river can stretch to be 1km wide at points, and is the drinking water source for city folk.
We opted for a tandem bike to navigate Yeouido; it’s a bit of a workout, but riding along the riverbank is the most scenic way to see the park’s expanse.
Seoulites have mastered the art of the riverside “chill”—whether it’s parking the bikes for a water view or finding a cool, shaded spot under the bridges. (Images by @pr8boii198)
The Seoul government has put much effort into making it a lifestyle and recreational spot for everyone to enjoy, by creating parks and cycling paths that fringe the riverbed. Riverside parks have a lovely atmosphere, with a mix of sculptures and art, cafes and convenience stores like CU, where you can snack on pot noodles.
You can rent bicycles at affordable rates at several parks along the river. People love cycling down the riverside at sunrise and sunset, admiring the flowing water. The more adventurous also partake in water sport activities, and at night, its bridges light up, casting a glow that transforms the city into a shimmering wonderland.
One particular spot I like to go to is Yeouido Hangang Park, where you can rent those fun 4-wheeled quadricycles and pedal with your loved ones. With Seoul being tech-forward, you can even rent a bike through a screen and pay with a credit or debit card – similar to the screens you pay at self-service kiosks in restaurants.
Out on the water, the city’s skyline softened. Sharing the Han River cruise with my dearests was the perfect slow transition from day to evening.
The ferry ride is a sensory experience—the wind in your hair and the sudden, playful descent of seagulls looking for a snack. (Images by @visitkorea_travel)
Apart from cycling, Yeouido is a sweet spot to spend a day at. When my parents came to visit, the best part of their trip was the Han River Ferry Cruise, which you take from Yeouido. The boat ride is short and sweet, where you learn about iconic places along the river, have the chance to listen to live music, and feed seagulls who fly around the ferry.
Cycling along the Han will give you time to appreciate the river that is so vital to South Korea, and beautiful parks built along the water, giving you a nature moment in the city.
Zafigo Tip: You can use your T-money card (the same one used for subways) to rent the Ttareungi (Seoul City Bikes). It’s a great way to move at your own pace without relying on taxis.
Yeouido Hangang Park
330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo District
3. Into the Mountains: Hiking Bukhansan on Seoul’s Doorstep
Bukhansan National Park is a mountain range that sits just outside the city of Seoul. It has incredible views when you hike to the peaks and see Seoul’s dense cityscape nestled between such high mountains. Hiking here felt so green and wild to me that it was hard to believe the city is just a bus ride away.
There are many hiking routes to pick from on your trip to Bukhansan; you can even opt to rock climb it.
For those looking for a calmer adventure, you can just check out Dobongsan Street. There’s a range of outdoor stores to browse through or shop from. My favourite spot, though, is at the end of the street.
You’ll come to a bridge crossing a stream, and leading into the Bukhansan hiking path. Along the stream and under grand trees, you’ll find elderly Korean folk sitting along the stream, spending their day either chatting and drinking with friends or in solitude. I have even seen people playing instruments along the water. I like spending time relaxing here, reading, or just taking in the peacefulness and beauty of my surroundings.
Zafigo Tip: Don’t be intimidated by the “pro” gear worn by elderly Korean hikers. Bukhansan is for everyone. However, do stop by a convenience store to pick up gimbap and makgeolli (rice wine). It’s the traditional “summit reward” that helps you connect with the local hiking culture.
Bukhansan National Park
262 Bogungmun-ro, Seongbuk District
Transportation and parking information available here.
4. Where Heritage Meets the Hills: Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village is a mountainside, cobbled-road neighbourhood that is home to over 900 traditional Korean houses. One can pay a visit to the village to both admire Korean culture and Seoul’s green and rocky mountains.
Wandering the narrow stone alleys of the village, we couldn’t help but stop for a quick photo; the heritage here feels so preserved and personal.
We found a rooftop in Bukchon where the traditional tiled roofs met the distant blue of the mountains—a perfect spot for us to sit and just be.
Visitors roam the streets to admire the intricate and decorative architecture of the homes – quietly, of course. As it is an actual neighbourhood, there are many signs requesting guests to be quiet whilst exploring, and to be respectful to the residents. There are even people on duty to help manage the noise level.
You can also enjoy the views, sipping a latte at a neighbourhood cafe with an observation deck – every entry ticket comes with a complimentary drink. From the deck, I had a marvellous time watching the sun slowly fade into the horizon, making the sky break into a multitude of colours.
Personally, I would say this is a must-do because it highlights the peaceful heart of the city, blending heritage charm with urban energy and majestic mountains.
Zafigo Tip: When visiting Bukchon, wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Those mountainside cobbled roads are steep! Being mindful of the “Quiet Zone” signs is a small but vital way to practice responsible, locality-driven travel.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Gyedong-gil, Jongno District
Traveller Note: Due to over-tourism, effective 1 March 2025, tourist visits along Bukchon-ro 11-gil will be restricted from 5 pm to 10 am.
Seoul reveals itself slowly. Beyond its neon lights and fast pace, there is a softer, greener rhythm waiting to be discovered. On your trip to Seoul, I hope you take a chance to visit and support these green spaces—they offer a perfect balance of urban energy and serene escape.
All images taken and provided by the writer, Sofia Shamsunahar, unless stated otherwise.
