If you have free time, this should be the highlight of your visit when you are in Seoul. During autumn season, the weather was cooling, breezy and calming. I took a slow walk to Samcheongdong to capture some moments with my new DSLR Nikon D90. On the weekend, lots of people will stroll along the famous walkway in Samcheongdong stretches from Gyeongbokgung to Samcheong Tunnel. It’s located in the middle of city of Seoul; this area surprisingly was quite peaceful. Samcheong-dong is part of Bukchon, or north village, for being on the northern side of Jongno-gu. It is filled with traditional-style homes, which have been preserved for more than 600 years. During the Joseon Dynasty, the place was famous as the dwelling site of the royal family and aristocrats. Toward the Samcheong Tunnel, there is a park called Samcheong Park famous for its thick forest with colourful leaves and splendid views especially during the autumn.
Too bad I’m alone without a partner, else this nice morning walk could make the rest of my day feeling cozy, sigh. A sneak preview, will you be my partner?
My journey started by walking toward the Gyeongbokgung, along the stone wall
At the vicinity of Gyeongbokgung, you may find many police forces guarding these areas and this adding to your security comfort even when walking alone.
Main road leading to Samcheongdong Walkway
Along the both sides of Samcheongdong Walkway, there were many modern galleries, cafes, boutiques and mini museums that also attract many artists here.
Packed coffee powder in front one of the cafes
One of museums called Museum of Chicken Art. Sound funny, but did not further discover.
Many of these cafes are built in renovated Korean style design.
One of the shoe boutiques
Self-portrait, I’m feeling so pathetic…
Colonial looking building towards the end of Samcheongdong Walkway near the Samcheong Park, just like a feeling in Europe
I decided to patron one of the cafes serving famous port cutlets. Food is considered an enrichment of life, so I made sure I took my time enjoy my lunch meal. The damage was 6500won with a free flow of plain water.
After a hearty lunch, I walked on the other side (the north part) of Gyeongbokgung. The whole streets are guarded with smart looking black coat bodyguards, I dare not took there picture, worrying they will confiscate my camera. Here you also able to have a close look at the guard near the Korea President’s Blue House
Street toward the Blue House
A closer look at the Blue House with Mt Bukhan in the background
The exit of Gyeongbokgung on the north side
Emm, I could smell autumn
Monument outside of Gyeongbokgung
Fantastic view of Mt Bukhan
As I’m leaving this area, there are some houses in the residential area near Gyeongbokgung
I took the other route back to my hotel via the Jongno Tower. Outside of Bosingak Belfry, I saw some decoration of dummy citizen of ancient time using dried grasses
Well, my legs were getting sore from all the walking, it’s time to head back to my hotel and take a good rest.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
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I'm planning to have a short break in korea and id love to see autumn "in color". Will the leaves change color by mid october?
ReplyDeleteHi Haydom
ReplyDeleteIt's depend on the weather change. I was in Seoul in 2007 and 2008. The Autumn starts at different time. The best bet is between 3rd week of October and early November.
Best wishes
Andy Wong
I love these yellow trees , it reminds my childhood in this lovely hometown, great set of pictures, congratulations.
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