Why Locals Love Namsan Cable Car (남산 케이블카) (And Why You Might Too)

Riding the Namsan Cable Car (남산 케이블카) is worth trying for anyone visiting Seoul. It’s not just about reaching Namsan Seoul Tower; it’s also about the breathtaking views you’ll take in along the way. The cable car has been operating for over 40 years, connecting visitors with one of the city’s most iconic attractions.

What can you see at Namsan Cable Car (남산 케이블카)?

The ride itself offers panoramic views of downtown Seoul. As you ascend, you’ll notice landmarks like the Han River and major buildings appearing smaller beneath you. It’s particularly beautiful at sunset when the city begins to twinkle with lights.

If you’re lucky, you might spot other nearby attractions such as Myeongdong shopping district or even the sprawling greenery of Namsan Park below. Keep your camera ready; you’ll want to capture these unique perspectives of the city! You might feel differently though.

What are the best and worst parts of riding the cable car?

The best part is undoubtedly the view. Honestly, it caught me off guard how expansive and beautiful it was. Just being up there gives a different appreciation for Seoul’s landscape.

But here’s the thing: on busy days or weekends, expect long lines which can detract from your experience. I found that arriving early in the morning or later in the evening helps avoid crowds significantly.

What are the practical details for visiting?

Namsan Cable Car operates daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, which allows plenty of time for a visit no matter your itinerary. Just consider plan accordingly since last admissions are at 10:30 PM for round trips and 10:45 PM for one-way rides.

The round-trip fare is ₩15,000 (about $11 USD) for adults and ₩11,500 (about $9 USD) for children. If you’re considering a one-way trip, it will cost ₩12,000 (about $9 USD) for adults and ₩9,000 (about $7 USD) for children.

For those driving, parking is available near the cable car station at 83 Sopa-ro in Jung-gu. You can also reach it easily by public transport; head to Myeongdong Station on Line 4 and follow signs toward Namsan Park.

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