When in Seoul during the summer, the absolute best place to hang out and catch up with your friends is by the Han River (Hangang). There are many parts of Hangang, but today, we are going to go over the Hangang near Mapo Bridge. Starting off with early in the morning to late at night, I will help you have an unforgettable day at Hangang whether you are with your friends, or with someone you love. There is lots to do and lots to take photos of so let’s just get started!
WHAT TO BRING:
- A light jacket
- A picnic blanket
- Water
- Camera
- Towel
- Tent (if you want)
1. Morning Walk at Yeouido Park
Start your day with a nice walk at Yeouido Park as the sun starts to rise and people come out for their morning walk. It’s perfect to take a walk with the weather so perfect these days, so don’t worry about the weather getting too hot! It’s always nice to start off the day with a walk to suck in the fresh, crisp air.
2. Head Over to Yeouido Hangang Park
After your morning walk, head on over to Yeouido Hangang Park, which will be a 20-25-minute walk, or you can take the subway at Yeouido Station, and get off at Yeouinaru Station Exit 4, or take the number 10 bus and get off at Yeouinaru Bus Station.
If the weather is nice, I recommended just walking because there really isn’t much time difference between the the subway/bus and walking. Also, you get to enjoy Yeouido as you walk on over to our next stop. Yeouido Hangang Part is where you will be spending the rest of your day.
3. Bike Around the River
A must at the Hangang Park is to go biking. By this time, the sun should be up, but the weather will still be fresh which makes it the perfect time to bike! Biking will make you feel alive and excited about life as the wind smothers you with much power and love! It’s a great way to experience nature in a different way. You can rent the bikes for an hour or two. It is only ₩3,000 for one hour, so not too expensive! 
4. Have a Fun Little Picnic
After an early walk, and biking, you’ll probably be pretty tired from all the workout, which means you’ll probably be super hungry! When you think of Hangang, three things should pop into your mind – chicken, ramen, and beer.
FUN FACT: You can actually order chicken and it will come to right where you are at the park. While the chicken is being delivered, there is a station to make ramen, which is not too difficult to work with. Chicken, ramen, and beer – what can go wrong? Enjoy great food, great company, and great weather!
5. Pedal Boat On The Water
There has been a lot of leg work, but if it’s fun, it’s worth it. For more fun, I recommend paddle boating! It might be kind of hot, but having fun is much more important than the weather (right?). It’s an easy way to chill out and get to know the person sitting next to you, in the middle of the lake. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!
After a long day of leg day, hang out some more at Hangang. Take pictures, play games, talk about your deepest dreams and aspirations, then take more pictures.
6. Walk Across the ‘Bridge of Life’ to See the Signs That Were Created to Prevent Suicide
By this time, it probably is time to go home soon. But before you go, end the day by heading on over to Mapo Bridge to check out the ‘Bridge of Life’ campaign signs. These signs were created to bring awareness to the rising number of suicide attempts at Mapo Bridge, as it is a popular spot where people jump off the bridge.
Although the reason behind the signs are heartbreaking, there are some great sayings on the bridge that can hit home to everyone and a great reminder that the sun does rise the next morning. The bridge reminds each person that everyone has something they are dealing with and although it may feel like the darkness is taking over, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
7. Enjoy A Beer Or Two
The sun is down and the lights are on. Sitting by the river, with the city lights on, makes you feel some type of way. The super markets will probably still be open so go get yourself a beer, and enjoy the beauty of Korea. The bridge lights up and the city lights up. Seeing Hangang in the morning and at night has completely different vibes, and it is a must to experience it when you’re in Korea.
8. Hungry For Some Street Food
The Korean term is Anju. It is what you call food that you eat after drinking. For some reason, you tend to get hungry as you drink so fulfill your hunger with street food! They are all open until late, and usually chicken is available, hot dogs, chicken kababs, and so much more. I tell you, it’s so yummy- definitely worth it! Also, from now until October 29th, there is a ‘2017 Seoul Bamdokkaebi Night Market’ on Fridays and Saturdays from 18:00-23:00, with many different food trucks and street shops that you can enjoy!
Whether you are with someone special, or with a group of friends, your day at Han River will be a spectacular one, as long as you are with those you love. These activities will create long-lasting memories for you and I promise you, it will be unforgettable! Take that day off to go to Han River today!