Exploring Seoul

Seoul is divided into two parts by the flowing Han River. The area to the north of Han River is where downtown Seoul is located. Back in Joseon era the administration city was here. This is where old buildings, palaces, secret gardens, and villages full of beautiful hanok houses are located.Most of attractions especially cultural and historical ones are located in the Jongno-gu and Jung-gu districts of Seoul. Palaces and hanok villages, are located here. The shopping districts Namdaemun and Myeongdong are also here. Due to this, most tourists like to find accommodations around this area. Gwanghwamun Square with the statue of King Sejong and Gwanghwamun Gate on the background Myeongdong street before it is filled with people. The Seoul Grand Mosque is located in Yongsan-gu, which is also the place for the US Army base. There are a significant amount of foreigners in this area especially in the neighbourhood of Itaewon-dong. Street in Itaewon Mapo-gu is where new trends and fashions emerge. The area around Ewha Womans' University have a lot of boutiques and stores selling affordable and trendy clothes and accessories. The area around Hongik University meanwhile is known as a clubbing district. Scattered around this area are quirky and unique cafes which also include the famous "Coffee Prince" cafe.