Visiting Seoul, Korea

Shopping, Amusement Parks, and Outdoor Activities in Korea's Capital

Aug 5, 2009

With dozens of museums and shopping districts, the largest indoor theme park in the world, and water sports on the Han River, Seoul has something for every tourist.

Seoul is one of the largest cities in the world, and a major travel destination in Asia. This unique city has plenty to offer any traveler, no matter what their taste or age.

Korean Culture and Museums

For art buffs, the Seoul Museum of Art features exhibits of Korean modern and contemporary art. And anyone with a passion for history would enjoy a day exploring the Korean National Museum in Yongsan, which is generally thought to be the sixth largest museum in the world.

The Gwacheon National Science Museum showcases exhibits of physics, chemistry, and biology, with fun elements like a scientific theme park that will get kids excited about learning (and an Eco-Park for parents to relax in later!).

For a more somber experience, the War Memorial of Korea doesn't just highlight the Korean war. The indoor and outdoor exhibitions feature military artifacts and equipment from the many wars haunting the past of this country.

There are several districts in Seoul dedicated to high-end shopping. For the trendiest international brands, shoppers should head to the Dongdaemoon Market or the shopping center in Myeondong.

For a great selection of crafts, unique items, and souvenirs, Itaewon is the place. Almost anything here can be found - and bartered down to a steal of a price.

Gadget lovers will love spending a few hours at the Yongsan Electronics Market, the place to find the latest cameras, phones, laptops, and other devices. Gaming is insanely popular in Korea, and Yongsan offers tons of gaming gear. Imported items will cost more, but Korean brand names are often available for a great price.

LotteWorld is a sure kid-pleaser. The outdoor amusement park is accompanied by an indoor theme park - the largest in the world - and the complex also includes shopping, restaurants, a hotel, and fun special events like parades and festivals.

Take the subway or bus just outside of Seoul to Yongin and spend the day at Everland Resort, which ranked 10th highest amusement park attendance in the world in 2007. Everland offers five festivals, rides, and Caribbean Bay, the biggest indoor and outdoor water park in the world.

A hike through the Bukhansan National Park, which sprawls over 80 kilometers, will provide a great view of mountains, forests, and several fortresses. In the winter, skiing and other winter sports are very popular in Korea.

The traveler seeking more athletic ways to pass the time in Seoul should spend some time on the Han River, which runs straight through the middle of the city. Along the river, tourists can find basketball, soccer, and badminton areas, and ferry rides and water sports are popular in the spring and summer months. Bicycles are also available to rent for a ride around the Han.

The copyright of the article Visiting Seoul, Korea in South Korea Travel is owned by Michelle Schusterman. Permission to republish Visiting Seoul, Korea in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.