Jonggak and Boshingak Bell Experience in Seoul

Overview

Jonggak is a representative downtown area in the heart of Seoul's Jongno-gu, and a symbolic place that refers to both Bosingak and the Jongno area. Located at the center of the Jongno and Cheonggye tourist special district, it is known as an area where Seoul's historical character and modern commercial atmosphere coexist. In particular, Bosingak is famous for the New Year's Eve bell and bell-ringing experience, allowing visitors to feel both Korea's traditional culture and the symbolism of the city. It is a highly worthwhile place for foreign travelers who want to understand one of Seoul's major central landmarks.

Highlights

• Bosingak
• New Year's Eve Bell Ringing Experience
• Jongno-Jonggak Central Commercial District
• Insadong-gil
• Cheonggye Tourist Special District

Best Time to Visit

Jonggak can be visited year-round, but the most pleasant seasons are spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, it is neither too hot nor too cold, making it comfortable for walking.

The most recommended time of day is late morning to early afternoon (10:00 to 15:00). It is convenient for getting around and visiting indoor spots, and it tends to be less crowded than in the evening.

Tuesday through Thursday are the most convenient days to visit. Friday evenings and weekends can be relatively crowded as foot traffic increases.

The Jonggak area is accessible 24 hours a day, but if you want a quieter atmosphere, it is best to go during the daytime on weekdays. If you want a lively downtown vibe, evening is good, but it will be busier.

How Long to Stay

Since Jonggak is in the center of the city, 30 minutes to 1 hour is enough if you just want to get a quick feel for the atmosphere, and 1 to 2 hours is suitable if you plan to browse while stopping at restaurants or cafes. If you plan to move on to nearby attractions such as Seoul Station, allowing a total of 2 to 3 hours is convenient since travel time is short.

How to Get There

Jonggak is located in central Seoul, so it is easy to reach by public transportation. For foreign travelers, the subway is the fastest and most convenient option.

Subway

The easiest way is to use Jonggak Station on Seoul Subway Line 1. Depending on your destination, exiting through Jonggak Station Exit 3 or Jonggak Station Exit 4 makes access convenient. During rush hour, the subway is often faster than the bus.

Bus

Several buses stop nearby. Using the Jongno Tower Bus Stop is convenient, and the main routes are 150, 151, 262, 270, 470, 6002, 702B, 741. In addition, buses 103 and 111 also pass near Jonggak Station. If you are coming from the Gangnam Station area, you can take buses 470 and 471.

Walking

Jonggak is in the central Jongno area, so it is also easy to move around on foot. After exiting through Jonggak Station Exit 3 or Exit 4, just head along the main road. If it is difficult to find your way, use "Jonggak Station Exit 3" or "Exit 4" as your reference point.

Photo Spots

• Gyeongbokgung Stone Wall Road Point: Get off at Gyeongbokgung Station and walk along the outer wall of the palace to take photos. It is best to position the camera straight on or diagonally so that both the Gyeongbokgung wall and the road are in the frame. The light is stable from late morning to early afternoon, and even beginners can easily compose the shot.
• Seochon Alley Point: After leaving Gyeongbokgung Station and moving toward Seochon along Gyeongbokgung Palace, you can find alleys that still retain an old atmosphere. If you shoot from a low angle while looking into the alley, the old Seoul mood comes through well. Early morning or around sunset is the most atmospheric time.
• Neighborhood Bus 09 Ride and Residential Area View Point: If walking is too long, take Neighborhood Bus 09 and move toward the hillside. If you shoot downward from a spot where the road slopes below or the alleys overlap visually, you can get photos with strong depth. Visiting in the late afternoon gives the photos a softer light.
• Old Seoul Atmosphere Point: Try photographing in front of old buildings and walls in the Seochon area. Place your subject in front of the building and aim the camera toward the end of the alley or along the wall line to create a neat composition. Morning is good if you want a scene without people, while afternoon is better if you want a more lived-in feel.

Night View

In the Jonggak area, you can enjoy the dazzling lights of the downtown and the lively atmosphere of Seoul's night streets together. The lighting of the surrounding commercial district and the energy of the streets that continue late into the night combine to make it a nice place for a casual walk and night view.

In particular, the period from after sunset until around 9 p.m. is the most atmospheric. The lights are clearly visible, and the evening energy is lively, making it suitable for photography as well. Late at night, the area becomes relatively quiet, allowing for a more relaxed mood.

Jonggak is not so much a large observatory-style night-view attraction as it is a place well suited for enjoying nighttime walks and street scenery in the city. Depending on the season, you can also experience the atmosphere of downtown night events and the late operating hours of nearby businesses, making it a good place to casually explore after dinner.

Using a nearby subway station makes travel convenient, and foreign travelers are recommended to visit in the evening and combine the area with nearby cafes or restaurants as part of a course.

Seasonal Guide

The atmosphere of the Jonggak area changes distinctly with the seasons, making it a great place to enjoy both walking and downtown sightseeing.

Spring

From March to April, cherry blossoms are the biggest attraction. The cherry trees around the Seoul Meteorological Observatory are especially well known, making it a good place to take photos with the quiet buildings. The weather is also mild, making this the best season for strolling along Jongno streets and outdoor activities.

Summer

In summer, daytime temperatures can be high and humid, so morning or evening walks are more comfortable. Jonggak has many indoor cafes, shopping spaces, and restaurants, so it is a good idea to plan more indoor activities during the hotter hours. Bringing a light umbrella or some water is convenient.

Autumn

Between October and November, the autumn foliage is beautiful. Especially when the maple trees turn, the scenery around the Seoul Meteorological Observatory becomes even more attractive. Thanks to the cool weather, it is a great season for walking, taking photos, and visiting nearby attractions.

Winter

Winter is cold, but it is nice for enjoying the city's lights and year-end atmosphere. In the evening, you can feel the lively mood of the Jonggak area together with street illuminations. Since temperatures are low, prepare a warm coat and gloves.

Recommended season: If you want to see cherry blossoms, visit in March or April; if you want to enjoy autumn leaves, visit in October or November.

Local Tips

Jonggak Youth Street is a gourmet street filled with meat restaurants, seafood spots, and wine bars, making it easy to continue from first round to second round in one area.

It is close to Jonggak Station Exit 4, so even first-time travelers can get around easily. When setting a meeting point, it is convenient to use Exit 4 as the reference.

Near the entrance to the alley, there is a small resting space with unique trinkets, making it a nice place to take a short break before or after a meal.