[Harumanbo] Enjoy a Panoramic View of Seoul City Center... Singeumho Station

Editor's NoteThe subway is not only a transportation method that anyone can easily access and travel safely with, but also an important point for daily walking. We introduce walkable spots around subway stations.

The course introduced this time is Sin Geumho Station on Seoul Subway Line 5. Geumho-dong was once called 'Museomak,' and in Chinese characters, it was called Sucheolli before being changed to Geumho-dong. The name originated from the many blacksmith shops that made iron and farming tools here during the Joseon Dynasty. Although the area generally has many hills and steep terrain, so it was said that not many people lived there, that is now a thing of the past. Rather, it is gaining attention as a new resting place for citizens because well-maintained mountain trails can be found right in the heart of Seoul.

The Sin Geumho Station course is part of the Seoul Forest?Namsan Trail, which connects Seoul Forest and Namsan. The Seoul Forest?Namsan Trail is an 8.4 km section from Seoul Forest to Namsan Tower, loved for its easy walkability even for trekking beginners and the panoramic views of downtown Seoul. From Sin Geumho Station, the route first heads to Eungbong Neighborhood Park. Walking along the forest path between the trees, you will come across an observatory where the Jung-gu cityscape unfolds like a panorama. Heading toward Maebongsan Park, you will see Ssangji Park on the right; this small park is equipped with a pond, benches, and exercise facilities, making it a great place to rest.

Eungbong Neighborhood Park. [Image source=Seoul Institute Seoul Research Database]

Unlike Eungbong Neighborhood Park, Maebongsan Park feels more like a mountain trail. While ascending the foothills, the cityscape comes into view, but the highlight is the octagonal pavilion. It is one of the top 10 scenic spots selected by Seoul City and a place where you can fully enjoy the night view. The wide-spread Han River and Seoul cityscape create a truly magnificent sight. You can see three Han River bridges at a glance: Yeongdong Bridge, Seongsu Bridge, and Dongho Bridge, and finding out which places are visible adds to the fun.

From here, there is a fork in the road. Having reached the entrance of Namsan, you can either continue walking toward Namsan or descend the mountain. If you choose to descend, it is convenient to follow the signs and head down to Beotigogae. If you have set the day aside, completing the Seoul Forest?Namsan Trail course is one way to fully enjoy Seoul.