As we gradually start settling into our life here in Missouri, our time in Korea is starting to feel more and more like a dream. Were it not for our keeping in contact with friends who are still there, I would likely believe that I really WAS dreaming the whole experience. It’s safe to say that we miss our time in Korea and I’ve often found myself reflecting on what an incredible experience it was. And so we’re taking another little walk down Memory Lane today as I share our experience riding the cable car up to Seoul Tower.
Riding Namsan Cable Car to Seoul Tower
Let me preface this whole post by explaining that the cable car ride up to Seoul Tower is more of a “practical adventure,” rather than a really thrilling one. The cable car itself was pretty packed, which meant we didn’t get the best views of Seoul during the ride. Because it gets super busy, I recommend riding the cable car on a weekday, if possible. But, despite the crowds, it was fun – and it beat walking up a bunch of stairs to get to the tower.
Even so, be mindful that there are multiple ways to get up to Seoul Tower – including by cable car. You can start at Namsan Park (the largest part in Seoul) and hike your way along the section of the Seoul Wall that stretches up to the tower. Or you can catch bus 01 which will drop you off just a short walk from Seoul Tower. No matter how you get there, Seoul Tower is definitely worth a visit – even if you don’t have much time in Seoul.
Once at the top of Namsan Mountain, you get some killer views of Seoul. On clear days it’s incredible to see the Seoul Wall stretching over the neighboring mountains. Plus, any opportunity to see Lotte World Tower from a distance is one worth taking. While you’re at the tower, stop into the gift shop and add a lock to the THOUSANDS that litter the railings outside. Bucket list item checked off!
It’s sad to think that our frequent weekend trips to Seoul are in the past, but I’ve loved reminiscing and continuing to share the adventures here.
’til next time…
Ash
How to ride Namsan Cable Car up to Seoul Tower
Directions & Parking: There is limited parking available at the Namsan Cable Car Depot for a fee of ₩250 every 5 minutes, but I recommend using Naver to navigate there using public transportation. At the bottom of Namsan Mountain (the mountain Seoul Tower sits on top of) there is a free slanted elevator that you can take up to the Depot where you can purchase your tickets and board the cable car. For more information on parking, please visit the Namsan Cable Car Website.
Naver pin: Namsan Cable Car Depot Parking Lot
Naver pin: Elevator to Namsan Cable Car Depot
Cost:
Cable Car
Round Trip:
Adults – ₩15,000
Children – ₩11,500
One Way:
Adults – ₩12,000
Children – ₩9,000
Seoul Tower Observation Deck
Adults (ages 13+) – ₩21,000
Children (4-12 years old) – ₩16,000
Children (3 and younger) – FREE
For more information about visiting the Seoul Tower Observation Deck, check out my post about us riding to the top of Seoul Tower.
*Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10:00am – 11:00pm
*Hours are subject to change without notice due to maintenance or weather conditions.
Age Restrictions: NONE; Strollers are allowed on the Cable Car and there are elevators available to get to the platform where the Cable Car is.
Amenities: There are bathrooms and a cafe available at the Namsan Cable Car Depot, as well as bathrooms, restaurants, cafes, and gift shops once you exit the Cable Car at Seoul Tower.
