Korea Diaries: Nami Island and Namsan Tower

After being captivated by the French-inspired houses in  Petite France, we headed to Namiseom which is a half-moon-shaped island in Chuncheon. Nami Island is famed for its tree-lined lanes which I’m sure look magical during autumn or winter.
 


Despite the presence of crowds, the place is still serene. Electric wires were placed underground to preserve the island’s tranquility. Instead of walking around, we opted to rent bicycles for 5,000 KRW per hour. Tandem bikes are likewise available for couples who want to make the most out of the idyllic place.
 

Even titas deserve a break.
 

We then visited Namsan Tower by riding Bus No. 5 from Myeongdong (Myeongdong subway, Exit 3). The Namsan or N Seoul Tower is the final stop. From there, you have to take a 5-minute hike. MAKE SURE that you get off at the N Seoul Tower stop.

We were busy crossing out a printout of this bus route so when one passenger went down at the National Theater of Korea, we thought it was the final stop already. Instead of 5 minutes, our hike took half an hour! N Seoul is the home of the infamous Locks of Love. You’ll see all sorts of locks from the utilitarian down to the whimsical ones.




Korea’s fondness for all things romantic is contagious that we eventually gave in.


N Seoul used to have a Teddy Bear Museum which closed in November 2013. There’s still a shop though which sells bears. The ones in hanbok are truly charming.
 

After visiting N Seoul, you may take a bus back to Myeongdong which is Korea’s cosmetics heaven! The shops typically close at midnight so you’ll have lots of time to explore.

You may view my South Korea travel cheat sheet for more details about this trip.