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At a Glance: Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden offers diverse plant species and themed gardens, making it a refreshing escape in the heart of Seoul.
Before visiting Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden (남산 야외식물원), know that it’s completely free to enter. This makes it an ideal spot for anyone looking to unwind without spending a dime. The garden is located at 323 Sowol-ro, Yongsan-gu, right by the beautiful Namsan area, so you can combine your visit with other attractions nearby.
What will you actually see at Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden (남산 야외식물원)?
The garden spans approximately 59 square meters and is divided into 13 themed areas. You’ll encounter around 117,132 plants from a 269 species. Among them, over 60,000 are trees while the rest are diverse grasses. Each garden has its own unique theme; for example, the Rose of Sharon Garden showcases Korea’s national flower, while the Fruit Tree Garden features various local fruit trees.
I have to say, this botanical garden also includes specific areas like the Plant Vine Garden and the Apricot Tree Garden, which offer distinct views and experiences. When you stroll through these gardens, you can appreciate not only the variety of plants but also how they are thoughtfully arranged to enhance the beauty of each theme.
The best and worst parts
One of the highlights here is undoubtedly its accessibility; it’s free and quite easy to navigate. You can spend hours exploring without worrying about entry fees or getting lost among complex pathways. I personally found that taking my time in each section allowed me to connect more deeply with nature.
But here’s the thing: while there is a lot of beauty to behold, some might find that it’s not as expansive as other botanical gardens globally. If you’re used to sprawling landscapes filled with exotic plants, this might feel a bit on the small side. That said, there’s something genuinely calming about its compact nature. And honestly, that makes a big difference.
Practical info: hours, cost, and transport
Namsan Outdoor Botanical Garden is open daily from early morning until sunset. Given that admission is free, you’ll be able to enjoy all that it has to offer without any financial commitment. There’s ample parking available if you’re driving; just keep in mind that it can fill up quickly on weekends.
If you prefer public transport, take Line 4 to Sookmyung Women’s University Station (숙대입구역) and exit at Gate 2. From there, it’s roughly a 15-minute walk up towards Namsan Park — trust me when I say it’s worth every step for those lovely views along the way.
You may also reach out for more information via the 1330 Travel Hotline at +82-2-1330 or call +82-2-798-3771 directly. They provide assistance in several languages including English and Japanese.
