The N Seoul Tower, often referred to simply as Namsan Tower or Seoul Tower, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul, South Korea. Standing at a height of 236 meters (777 feet), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond. Located atop Namsan Mountain, this communication and observation tower has become a symbol of Seoul, attracting millions of visitors every year. Whether you're a tourist or a local, the tower provides an unforgettable experience with its spectacular views, exciting attractions, and rich history.
Getting to N Seoul Tower is relatively easy thanks to its central location. There are several ways to reach the tower, depending on your preference for transportation.
By Subway: The easiest way to get to the N Seoul Tower is by taking the subway to the Chungmuro Station (Line 3 and Line 4). Once you exit at Exit 2, you can take a short walk (about 15-20 minutes) to the Namsan Cable Car station. From there, you can take the cable car or continue by foot to the top.
By Cable Car: For a more scenic route, the Namsan Cable Car provides a fun and quick way to ascend to the tower. It departs from the base of Namsan Mountain, near the Namsan Seoul Tower entrance, and provides fantastic views of the city on the way up. The cable car ride takes about 3 minutes.
By Bus: There are also several buses that go directly to the N Seoul Tower, including the Namsan shuttle bus, which departs from popular locations like Myeongdong and Hoehyeon Station. This option is more convenient for those who want to avoid walking up the mountain.
On Foot: If you enjoy a good hike, you can walk up to the N Seoul Tower from the base of Namsan Mountain. The walk takes about 20-30 minutes, and along the way, you’ll pass through lush greenery and beautiful walking paths.
The weather at N Seoul Tower varies depending on the season, and each season offers a unique experience at the tower:
N Seoul Tower is open every day of the week, and its operating hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, with last admissions at 10:30 PM. The tower can get busy during peak hours, especially in the evening when the city lights up, so it's a good idea to visit earlier in the day if you prefer a quieter experience.
For those interested in visiting the observation deck at night, the tower’s panoramic views of Seoul at night are one of its major attractions. The tower is beautifully illuminated in the evening, making for a stunning backdrop to the city’s skyline.
N Seoul Tower is famous for several reasons. First and foremost, it offers unparalleled panoramic views of Seoul and the surrounding areas, providing visitors with a bird’s-eye view of the city. It is also known for its vibrant, brightly-lit appearance at night, which makes it a popular spot for photography.
The tower has become a symbol of love for couples, who often visit the tower to leave love locks on the "Locks of Love" fence. This tradition has made the tower a popular romantic destination in Seoul. Additionally, N Seoul Tower has been featured in numerous TV shows, movies, and dramas, further increasing its popularity among international visitors.
Finally, the tower offers a variety of activities and exhibits, making it not just a place for scenic views but also a fun and educational destination for people of all ages.
The entry fees for N Seoul Tower vary depending on the activities you want to do. Access to the observation deck typically costs around 10,000 KRW for adults, with discounts for children, students, and senior citizens. The entry ticket provides access to the observation deck, where you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
For those interested in experiencing more, there are additional costs for activities such as the Namsan Cable Car ride, which costs about 8,500 KRW for a round trip. There are also various exhibits and interactive experiences available, such as a 3D digital gallery and a love-themed exhibit featuring the iconic "Locks of Love" wall.
Visitors can also enjoy dining at the tower's restaurant, which offers both traditional Korean and international cuisines, with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to dine while enjoying spectacular views of the city. The restaurant can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance.
N Seoul Tower was originally built in 1969 as a television and radio transmission tower. It was not until later that it became a tourist destination. The tower’s design is sleek and modern, with a cylindrical shape that tapers as it rises. The tower is constructed from reinforced concrete, and the upper section of the tower is topped with a large observation deck, which is illuminated at night by colorful lights, creating a striking visual effect.
The tower has undergone several renovations and improvements since its construction, and it now features high-tech facilities and interactive displays. The addition of the "Locks of Love" fence, where couples leave padlocks as a symbol of their love, has further contributed to the tower’s fame as a romantic spot.
There are many things to do at N Seoul Tower, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. Some of the key activities include: