Why Foreign Travelers Love Visiting Namsan Tower in Seoul

✨ Why Foreign Travelers Love Visiting Namsan Tower in Seoul

If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, chances are you’ve already heard people talk about Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower). It pops up in almost every travel guide, every vlog, every “first time in Seoul” recommendation list. And honestly? There’s a good reason for that.
I’ve taken several of my foreign friends up there, and every single one of them said the same thing: “Wow… this is Seoul.” That moment when the entire city spreads out beneath your feet—it’s unforgettable.

🗺️ What Does Namsan Tower Feel Like?

A Landmark Sitting Quietly Above the City

Namsan Tower stands on top of Namsan Mountain right in the middle of Seoul. Because of that, you can spot it from almost anywhere in the city. During the day, the tower feels calm and airy, surrounded by trees. But once the lights come on at night, the atmosphere changes completely—bright, lively, almost cinematic.
One of my friends said, “This looks like a game map!” while taking hundreds of photos. That’s the kind of place it is.

🚶‍♂️ How Foreign Travelers Can Fully Enjoy Namsan Tower

1) How to Get to Namsan Tower

① Cable Car — The Most Iconic Way

From Myeongdong Station, walk about 10 minutes to the cable car station.
The ride itself is half the fun—Seoul slowly opening up behind you while the cabin rises over the forest. Super photogenic.
Only downside? The line can get long on weekends.

Tip: If you want window seats for photos, try to line up early.

② Namsan Circulation Buses — Budget-Friendly

Bus numbers 02, 03, and 05 run around Namsan and go almost up to the top.
It’s cheap, easy, and surprisingly scenic through the window.

③ Walking — A Bit Tiring but Very Rewarding

Walking up via the Namsan trails or the fortress wall route takes 30–40 minutes.
You’ll sweat a little, sure, but the forest path and stone walls make it feel like you’re in a different world.
Many travelers say it’s surprisingly peaceful.

2) Things You Must Do at Namsan Tower

① Observatory — The Main Highlight

The moment you step inside and look out… you’ll probably say “wow” without thinking.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to Lotte Tower. At night, the lights spread out like a glowing ocean.
Most visitors record videos first because the view is that good.

② Love Locks — Not Just for Couples

Yes, it’s famous among couples.
But tourists from everywhere leave fun or cute messages here.
You might spot locks written in Spanish, French, Arabic, Japanese—you name it.

③ Night Light Show

When the tower changes colors at night, it’s surprisingly beautiful.
It looks different from what you see in photos—much brighter and more impressive in real life.

④ Restaurants & Cafés

If you grab a window seat around sunset, congratulations—you’ve basically unlocked the perfect Korea travel moment.
A coffee is enough to enjoy the view, so you don’t need to overspend.

⑤ Souvenir Shops

Popular items include Hangul T-shirts, Korean-style keychains, magnets, and small accessories.
They make great lightweight gifts.

3) Realistic Tips for Foreign Travelers

Best time to visit: Around 4–5 PM → you get daytime, sunset, and night views all in one trip.
Check the weather: Cloudy or dusty days mean less visibility from the observatory.
Language: Don’t worry—most signs are in English, and staff can help with basic questions.
Typical costs:
- Cable car (round trip): ~14,000 KRW
- Observatory: ~16,000 KRW
- Bus: ~1,500 KRW
  Prices may vary slightly.

🌆 Conclusion: If It’s Your First Time in Seoul, Start Here

Namsan Tower isn’t just an observation deck.
It’s like Seoul’s introduction page—the place that shows the city’s character in one glance.
The cable car ride, the sunset, the night view, the walk down… together, they become one of those memories that stay with you for years.

New to Seoul?
Namsan Tower is the perfect place to begin your journey.