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| N Seoul Tower, Namsan Park in Seoul during Autumn |
Explore Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower in autumn, from golden foliage and an easy scenic hike to sunset views over Seoul. A personal guide with tips for getting there.
I recently posted on Threads about missing autumn in my favorite country, and got the most interesting response from someone. It really resonated with me and somehow validated what I had been feeling.
There are a lot of places in autumn that I keep coming back to, but Namsan is one of those spots that feels a little different every time.
And if you know me, you already know that autumn is my favorite season 🍂 So naturally, walking around Namsan Park when the leaves start turning golden is one of my favorite things to do in Seoul. The cool weather, the autumn foliage, and the views of the city just make the whole experience feel extra special.
With autumn just around the corner again, I found myself missing Seoul a little more than usual — and looking back at some of my favorite Namsan moments.
I especially enjoy taking the walking trail up toward N Seoul Tower, rather than simply heading straight to the top. The cool autumn air makes the walk much more comfortable, and there's something really nice about being surrounded by trees and foliage while still being right in the middle of Seoul.
Then there's the reward at the top: sunset over the city.
IN THIS ARTICLE
QUICK FACTS:
| Attraction | N Seoul Tower / Namsan Seoul Tower |
| Location | Namsan Mountain, Seoul, South Korea |
| Address | 105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul |
| Best for | City views, hiking, autumn foliage, sunset |
| Season | Autumn |
| Admission | Namsan Park is free; Admission to N Seoul Tower is KRW 29,000 for adults, KRW 23,000 KRW for children and seniors, and free for toddlers |
The Namsan Park Autumn Walk
For me, the walk through Namsan Park is already part of the experience.
The trail winds through the trees and gradually takes you higher up Namsan. During autumn, the surroundings become this beautiful mix of golden, orange, and brown foliage, which is exactly the kind of scenery I look forward to whenever I'm in Korea.
The cool air also makes hiking much more comfortable compared to walking around Seoul during the warmer months. And honestly, you don't even have to be an avid hiker to appreciate it. You can take your time, stop for photos, and just enjoy the scenery along the way.
Namsan Park is a large civic park in central Seoul, and admission to the park itself is free.
One of my favorite things about this walk is how the tower keeps appearing between the trees.
Sometimes it's partially hidden by the foliage, and then you'll suddenly get a clear view of it against the blue sky.
During autumn, the contrast between the golden leaves, the traditional-looking structures around the park, and the tower makes for some really pretty photo opportunities.
N Seoul Tower: The Landmark at the Top
Eventually, you make your way toward the tower.
I've seen N Seoul Tower countless times in photos and from different parts of Seoul, but there's still something satisfying about actually making your way up Namsan and seeing it up close.
The tower is located at the summit of Namsan and has observation areas offering panoramic views of Seoul.
And if you're planning your visit, I would time it around sunset.
There's something about watching the city slowly change as the sun goes down. The sky turns warmer, the city starts glowing, and Seoul looks completely different from above.
This was easily my favorite part of the visit.
Why Autumn is My Favorite Time to Visit
Autumn is easily my favorite season to visit South Korea. I love the cool weather, but more than anything, I love seeing the city turn golden when the autumn foliage starts to come out.
I’ve been going back to South Korea regularly, and Namsan is one of those places I keep coming back to. There’s something nice about being able to step away from the busy streets of Seoul and spend a few hours walking through the trees before ending up at one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
Catching Sunset at the Tower
The higher viewpoint gives you a completely different perspective of Seoul.
From the tower area, you can look out across the city while the sun sets over the horizon. On a clear day, the combination of the orange sky and sprawling cityscape is especially beautiful.
If you're visiting in autumn, I'd recommend giving yourself enough time to walk around Namsan before sunset rather than arriving just in time for the view. Whenever I visit during Autumn, I make sure to arrive around 3 pm, so I have ample time to explore and take photos within Namsan Park and without the harsh sun.
That way, you get the autumn walk + the tower + the sunset all in one trip.
And don't leave immediately once the sun disappears.
The few minutes after sunset can actually be just as beautiful. The sky gradually changes from orange to blue, while the city lights below start becoming more visible.
N Seoul Tower is also known for its night views, with the observatory offering panoramic views across Seoul.
For someone like me who loves taking photos, this is the kind of place where I could easily spend more time than planned.
HOW TO GET THERE
Here's some practical information if you're visiting for the first time.
105 Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
By Namsan Circular Bus
One of the easiest options is to take Namsan Circular Bus No. 01 from around Chungmuro or Dongguk University Station and get off at the Namsan Seoul Tower stop. From there, it's about a short walk to the tower.
By Cable Car
If you don't want to hike up, the Namsan Cable Car is another option. The ride takes about three minutes and brings you close to the summit. The cable car is also particularly scenic during autumn.
The cable car station is accessible from Myeongdong Station Exit 4, followed by a walk toward the cable car area.
By Seoul City Tour Bus
N Seoul Tower is also a stop on the Seoul City Tour Bus, so it can be convenient if you're already doing a sightseeing route around the city.
Tips for Visiting Namsan in Autumn
1. Go during the cooler months.
If you're planning to hike, autumn is one of my favorite times to do it. The cooler air makes the uphill walk much more comfortable.
2. Give yourself enough time.
Don't schedule this as a quick stop. The walk, photo stops, and sunset can easily turn this into a few hours.
3. Check the sunset time before going.
If sunset is the main reason you're visiting, plan to reach the upper part of Namsan before the sun actually sets.
4. Wear comfortable shoes.
You'll be walking uphill and around the park, so comfortable footwear will make a big difference.
5. Bring a light jacket.
The weather can feel noticeably cooler as the day turns into evening, especially when you're outdoors at the top.
6. Consider walking one way and taking transportation the other.
If you want to experience the Namsan trail but don't feel like hiking both directions, you can walk up and use the bus or cable car for the other part of the journey.
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My Take
If you're visiting Seoul during autumn, Namsan is one of those places I'd keep on the list.
Not just for N Seoul Tower, but for the whole experience of walking through the park, seeing the golden foliage, getting little glimpses of the tower between the trees, and eventually ending the day with a sunset over Seoul.
Autumn + cool weather + golden leaves + sunset views of the city? That's pretty much my ideal Seoul afternoon.
Looking for more aesthetic spots during your Seoul Autumn trip? Check out my previous posts:
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