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Gyeongbok Palace, Seoul

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Things to do in Seoul

Tae kwon do

Watch the experts, then experience the Korean traditional martial art of tae kwon do for yourself with an introductory session in the impressive setting of Gyeonghuigung Palace in the Jongno district. Classes are held daily except Mondays from 1100 to 1600, April to December, with demonstrations on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1400 to 1500.

Website: www.taekwonseoul.org

Exploring Cheonggyechon Stream

Six kilometres (4 miles) of overhead expressway were dismantled to uncover Cheonggyechon Stream which has now been landscaped to create an urban ecology park. It sits just below street level and is lined with walkways and crossed by 22 bridges. From an easy access point like Insa-dong, join the locals taking a stroll along and even paddling in the waterway. As you follow it through central Seoul, you’ll find artwork inset into some of the walls and waterfalls and fountains, which are illuminated at night, particularly at Cheonggye Plaza.

Temple activities

If you don’t fancy the early wake-up calls of a full temple stay, you can still get an insight into the monks’ way of life at Jogyesa Temple, which is the centre of Zen Buddhism in Seoul and handily located near Anguk subway station and Insa-dong. This attractive temple offers shorter activities for tourists, such as the making of lotus-shaped lanterns, and the monks sometimes put on martial arts displays. If you’d prefer a Buddhist souvenir made by a professional, browse the surrounding shops.

Hangang River biking trails

Hangang River’s banks are lined with 40km (25 miles) of trails. Hire a bike from one of the rental shops in Seoul, especially on a quieter weekday, for some pleasant two-wheeled exploration and a sense of space lacking among the skyscrapers. One of the trails leads to the Olympic Park (www.sosfo.or.kr), a legacy of the 1988 games still used for sport and relaxation where you’ll find an eco park, cultural art park and history experience park. Cruises are also available on the river.

Bathhouses

Korea’s bathhouses, called mogyoktang, are places to relax and socialise. An intrinsic part of Seoul life, some even open 24 hours a day. The spas make use of underground hot springs, so you can, in gender-separated facilities, alternate hot and cold water tubs and steam your pores open in a sauna before getting a massage. Jjimjilbangs offer more comfortable facilities where, after you’ve had a soak, you may even lounge watching TV in the pyjamas provided. Among the more famous facilities is Yongsan Dragon Hill Spa (www.dragonhillspa.co.kr) which has attractive Chinese-style interior design and includes a salt crystal room and swimming pool.

Bukhansan trails

The rocky peaks of Bukhansan National Park to the north of Seoul are covered with hiking trails and temples. The 740m-high (2,428ft) Dobongsan Peak is a popular full day’s climb, taking around five hours, return trip. The base of the park can be handily reached by subway, and there are marked trails, ropes and railings along the main routes. The walk to the human-shaped Zen rock and the Shaman Shrine on scared Inwangsan Mountain is a shorter alternative taking around one hour. The granite face of Insubong Peak is a top spot for rock climbing.

Website: http://english.knps.or.kr

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