Seodaemun Hongje Waterfall and Oil Reserve Culture Park
Seoul has established itself as a world-class tourist destination, attracting millions of foreign visitors every year. In recent years, not only have traditional tourist attractions remained popular, but hidden gems offering unique experiences have also gained attention. In this article, we introduce Seodaemun Hongje Waterfall and Oil Reserve Culture Park, two must-visit destinations in western Seoul.
1. Healing in Nature at Seodaemun Hongje Waterfall
A Natural Gift You Can Enjoy for Free
Located in Seodaemun-gu, Hongje Waterfall is one of the most beloved natural attractions for foreign visitors. Originally known as the ‘Hongjecheon Artificial Waterfall,’ it was officially named ‘Seodaemun Hongje Waterfall’ in 2023. Standing 25 meters high and 60 meters wide, this magnificent waterfall provides a rare natural spectacle within Seoul’s urban landscape.
Especially on hot summer days, many foreign visitors come here to enjoy the refreshing sight and sound of cascading water. Since there is no admission fee, it is a budget-friendly yet delightful experience.
Social Media Sensation! ‘Café Waterfall’ and ‘Arumin Library’
Directly across from Hongje Waterfall is Café Waterfall, a hotspot among foreign travelers. This café has gone viral on social media, amassing over 20 million views. Visitors can enjoy coffee while admiring the waterfall from the terrace, making it a favorite spot for relaxation.
Adjacent to the café is ‘Arumin Library,’ a perfect place to take a break and enjoy a book during your trip. Open daily from Monday to Sunday, it has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
2. From Oil Reserve to Cultural Landmark: Oil Reserve Culture Park
Transforming Industrial Heritage into an Artistic Hub
Located in Mapo-gu, Oil Reserve Culture Park was originally built as an oil storage facility in response to the 1973 Middle East oil crisis. However, it was decommissioned in 2000 and later transformed into a cultural space, opening to the public in 2017.
This eco-friendly cultural park repurposed five large oil tanks (T1–T5) into exhibition halls, performance venues, and community markets. Another structure, T6, was created by dismantling old steel plates and rebuilt as a community center with a café and rest areas.
Immersive Media Art and Exhibitions
One of the highlights is the T5 Exhibition Hall, which hosts diverse media art displays. For instance, the ‘8 Artists, 8 Colors Brick Art’ exhibition, running until September 2024, features massive LEGO installations that attract many families and art enthusiasts.
Panoramic Views from Maebongsan Observatory
A visit to the Oil Reserve Culture Park isn’t complete without a walk along the Maebongsan Forest Trail. This 1.3km trail leads to the Maebongsan Observatory, where visitors can take in breathtaking views of Seoul World Cup Stadium and the Han River.
Discovering Seoul’s New Charms
Seoul is no longer just a city of traditional attractions; it has evolved into a global travel destination that blends culture, art, and nature. The places introduced in this article—Seodaemun Hongje Waterfall, Oil Reserve Culture Park, and Gangbyeon Seojae—offer both foreigners and locals a new perspective on the city.
Why not explore Seoul’s hidden gems and share your experiences on Instagram? Your journey to discover Seoul’s newest attractions starts now!
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