[One Day Walk] Saiyuksin Park and Hangang Viewpoint... Nodeul Station

Editor's NoteThe subway is a transportation method that anyone can easily access and travel safely, and it is also an important point for daily walking. We introduce walking-friendly places around subway stations.

Today's course introduces Nodeul Station on Seoul Subway Line 9. The station name originates from 'Nodeulnaru,' a pure Korean word for Noryangjin. There are several theories about the origin of Nodeulnaru. One theory suggests it means "a ferry where herons used to play," another says it refers to the lush weeping willows, and yet another claims that the area was filled with reeds that turned the landscape into a sunset glow in autumn. Regardless of the origin, it signifies the beautiful scenery of the area. The name Nodeulnaru remains in various nearby places such as Nodeul Station, Nodeul Island, Nodeulnaru Park, and Nodeullo Street.

To the south of Nodeul Station are Gogu Hill and Yongyang Bongjeojeong Park to the southwest, both renowned spots for Han River views. With no tall buildings around, you can see Seoul’s famous skyscrapers like Lotte Tower in Jamsil, Namsan Tower, and the 63 Building without missing any. The night view of the Han River and the city skyline is truly spectacular. Both spots are not very high, so you can climb them leisurely, but it’s best to allow at least an hour to explore the entire course. Yongyang Bongjeojeong is also a historical site where King Jeongjo, known for his filial piety, stayed briefly while crossing the Han River by boat on his way to Suwon to visit the tomb of his father, Crown Prince Sado.

Yongyang Bongjeojeong Park. [Photo by Dongjak District Office]

Nodeulnaru Park features the 'Noryangjin Ferry Terminal Monument' erected by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in 1989. During the Joseon Dynasty, it was an important crossroads and a gathering place for various goods and people. Today, it is a well-maintained park serving as a resting place for local residents.

A short walk west leads to Sayuksin Park, dedicated to six loyal ministers?Park Paengnyeon, Seong Sammun, Yi Gae, Ha Wi-ji, Yu Seongwon, and Yu Eungbu?who sacrificed their lives during King Sejo’s reign in the Joseon Dynasty while attempting to restore King Danjong to the throne. Inside the park is the shrine Uijeolsa, with memorial stones and tombstones on either side of the front yard. There is also the Sayuksin History Museum, which is free to visit. Various historical and cultural programs are offered, including regular guided tours and a film screening program called 'Sayuksin Cinema,' making it a great place to visit with children.