The temperature of the season felt in the embrace of Seoul, an afternoon recorded while walking through Namsan Park

The heart of Seoul, a green trail embracing time

At a time when the afternoon sunlight falls at an angle, I visited Namsan Park(Namsan Park), located in the Yejang-dong area of Jung-gu, Seoul. Originally called Ingyeongsan(Ingyeongsan Mountain), this mountain was named 'Namsan(Namsan Mountain)', meaning the southern fence of Seoul, when King Taejo(Taejo of Joseon) moved the capital during the Joseon Dynasty. Remembering that it has long guarded this spot as the Ansan(inner mountain) of Seoul in terms of Feng Shui, every dirt path under my feet feels a little more special.

Although it was once obscured by indiscriminate facilities, it has returned to the embrace of fresh nature like today through a restoration project that began in the 90s. The subtle scent of grass brushing against the tip of my nose and the sound of wind shattering through the leaves make the noise of the city fade away. As I walk with a light step, I encounter a peaceful moment where the hustle and bustle of the giant city of Seoul feels like a lie.

The path where love stays, the journey to the observatory

There are landscapes you encounter as you walk toward N서울타워(N Seoul Tower), the symbol of Namsan(Namsan Mountain). The 'Locks of Love' area, a local attraction, is always warm to look at. The desperate promises left by countless couples are densely hung, and just slowly reading the phrases written on each one creates a small romance. I hope that all those promises do not scatter in the wind but ripen for a long time.

The panoramic view of Seoul seen from near the summit is truly a panorama. Standing in front of the sight where high buildings look like toys, my complicated worries often become lighter. Thanks to the restriction of general passenger cars and taxis since 2005, the park trails are much quieter and better for walking than before. As I move my feet slowly while feeling the mountain wind, I regain my own pace that I had forgotten in my daily life.

Practical ways to enjoy Namsan Park more deeply

There are many ways to go up to Namsan(Namsan Mountain). You can take a circular bus from Myeong-dong(Myeong-dong), Chungmuro(Chungmuro), or Dongguk University(Dongguk University) Station, or take the Namsan Cable Car(Namsan Cable Car) to go up comfortably, but if the weather is nice, I recommend walking up slowly for a stroll. When you keep the scenery that changes slowly along the uphill road in your eyes, the air you meet at the summit feels much sweeter.

Personally, I recommend the time around sunset. You can see everything from the daytime appearance of Seoul to the night view as the evening lights turn on one by one. It is essential to prepare comfortable shoes before visiting. It is not a long journey, but if you look around carefully, you will walk quite a few more steps than you think. On a clear day, I hope you feel the change of seasons with your whole body while leisurely looking around near the outdoor botanical garden. It is an afternoon like that, where I feel grateful to be living in the city of Seoul.