In Seoul, you will find traditional wooden temples right next to modern skyscrapers made of glass and steel. Almost every corner of Seoul asks for a photo, no matter if you wander through the buzzing streets of Gangnam or enjoy the tranquility of a local library.
Photography has always been undeniably connected to traveling. But the introduction of Instagram simply put the cherry on the cake. Finding the best spots to get a real gem for your Instagram account became almost a sport.
Seoul has a plenty such gems to offer, but here are the ones which stand out from the crowd. No matter what you like to photograph, there should be something on this list for you.
1. Bukchon Hanok Village
Surrounded by palaces and shrines, Bukchon Hanok Village is home to hundreds of hanoks, traditional Korean houses preserved to show a 600-year-old urban environment. Today, many of these operate as cultural centres, guesthouses, and tea houses, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture.
When taking pictures, you have the city center of Seoul as backdrop. This creates a dynamic contrast between the modern and traditional Seoul.
2. Gyeongbokgung Palace
As the largest and the most beautiful of Seoul’s royal palaces, Gyeongbokgung Palace once was the heart of the capital city of Seoul. Having been destroyed during the Japanese rule in the country, it was completely reconstructed in the 1990s.
To complement the traditional surrounding, you can rent a Hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) to step up your photography game. Just remember to schedule plenty of time to explore the grounds!
3. Myeongdong
As one of Seoul’s main shopping districts, Myeongdong is definitely a place that shouldn’t be skipped during a visit to the capital. Here you can shop, pose with the biggest teddy bear in the world at the Line Friends Store or snap a selfie holding a 32 cm tall ice cream cone.
However, pay attention to getting lost in the crowds as it is estimated that almost 2 million people visit the area every day.
4. Bukhansan National Park
If you wish to escape from the narrowness of the city, Bukhansan National Park might just be what you were looking for. Known as the “Big Mountain in the North“, Bukhansan offers a view over the city center of Seoul and the Hangang River, a great place to go for a hike.
With its stunning trails and incredible scenery it is the perfect place to recharge your batteries after traveling around Seoul.
5. Gangnam district (Starfield library)
If you were thinking of skipping the Gangnam district, think again. For sure, its modern and innovative experiences like Starfield Library will take your breath away.
Located right in Asia’s biggest underground shopping mall, COEX Mall, Starfield Library is far from your average library. The two-story well-lit place with 50.000 books and magazines is a wonderful sight to behold and capture in a photograph.
