When you look up at the wide sky from this grassy hilltop, you will notice dozens of whimsical wooden birdhouses perched on tall metal poles, swaying gently in the breeze. This unique meadow is located in Haneul Park (also known as Sky Park) in Seoul, South Korea. It is a peaceful green escape where the city skyline feels surprisingly far away, even though you are right next to the bustling metropolitan districts.
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A massive mountain of trash turned into a green oasis
It is hard to believe when you look at the lush fields today, but this entire hill was once a massive municipal landfill. During Seoul’s rapid growth in the late twentieth century, millions of tons of waste were piled up here. Instead of leaving it as an eyesore, the city undertook a massive ecological restoration project in the early 2000s, turning the garbage heap into a beautiful park with thriving plant life, walking trails, and wind turbines that generate clean energy.
The quiet rustle of tall grass under an open sky
Walking through the park feels like stepping into a different world. Because the park sits on a high hill, the busy streets below disappear from view, leaving only the sound of the wind rustling through the tall grass. The wooden birdhouses scattered across the fields add a playful, rustic touch to the scenery, making you want to slow down and just enjoy the open air.
Dozens of tiny wooden homes floating above the green
The tall birdhouses are more than just a cute photo spot. They were installed as part of the ecological restoration efforts to welcome local birds back to the area. Walking along the dirt paths, you can watch these little wooden structures sway slightly in the wind against the backdrop of the blue sky.
The wooden stairs that lead you up to the clouds
Getting to the top of the hill is half the fun. You can climb a wooden staircase that winds its way up the side of the slope, giving you broader views of the Han River and the city with every step you take. It is a great way to stretch your legs before reaching the flat, grassy plateau at the summit.
Best Timing
Late afternoon is the absolute best time to visit. Arriving about an hour before sunset allows you to watch the golden light wash over the grass fields. This timing also means you can catch the sunset over the Han River from the viewing platforms before heading back down. Try to avoid midday during mid-summer, as there is very little shade on top of the hill.
Climate & Best Season
Seoul experiences hot summers with temperatures averaging between 23°C to 30°C, and cold, dry winters ranging from -6°C to 5°C. The best season to visit is autumn, from September to November. During this time, the weather is dry and crisp with temperatures between 8°C to 20°C. October is especially popular for the Silver Grass Festival, when the fields turn a beautiful silver and pink color.
Traveler’s Memo
Access
Take Seoul Subway Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Station and leave through Exit 1 (basic subway fare is around KRW 1,400). From there, walk about 10 minutes to the park entrance. To reach the summit, you can climb the 291-step wooden Sky Stairs (takes about 15 minutes) or buy a ticket for the Maengkkongi electric tram which takes about 5 minutes.
Budget
Entering the park is completely free. If you decide to ride the Maengkkongi electric tram to the summit, it costs KRW 2,000 for a one-way ticket or KRW 3,000 for a round-trip ticket per adult. Tipping is not expected anywhere in the park or tram service.
Recommended Gourmet
For a hearty local meal, head to the nearby Mapo-gu district to find restaurants serving dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken) or bibimbap. Alternatively, you can do what many locals do: buy instant ramen and snacks at the Homeplus supermarket inside the World Cup Stadium subway station, and use the hot water dispensers to eat them at the convenience store tables inside the park.
Nearby Spots
- Seoul World Cup Stadium: A massive sports stadium that hosted the 2002 FIFA World Cup, featuring shopping areas and a massive supermarket inside.
- Noeul Park: Also known as Sunset Park, this neighboring hilltop park is famous for its campgrounds and sculptures.
- Metasequoia Trail: A peaceful walking path lined with towering metasequoia trees located right at the foot of the hill.
FAQ
How do I get to the top of Haneul Park?
You can either climb the 291-step wooden staircase which takes about 15 minutes, or ride the Maengkkongi electric tram for a fast, comfortable 5-minute trip to the summit.
Is there an entrance fee for the park?
No, entering Haneul Park is completely free for all visitors. You only need to pay if you decide to use the electric tram service.
What is the best month to visit Haneul Park?
October is the absolute best month to visit because of the annual Silver Grass Festival, when the grass fields bloom in stunning silver and pink hues under comfortable autumn weather.
