As the historic first snow falls all over Seoul, let’s take a moment to enjoy the city’s most breathtaking winter views. These are the best places to watch snowfall in Seoul, where the beauty of the snow will create unforgettable memories during your winter trip to South Korea!
Best Places to Watch Snowfall in Seoul, South Korea
There’s something magical about Seoul this winter. The city just had its first snowfall of the season, and it was so record-breaking that it transformed everything into a winter wonderland straight out of the snow globe.
While this may be quite daunting for a lot of people, with a few tips and just a little extra effort, you can turn what might seem like a travel challenge into unforgettable memories. Surrounded by historic landmarks and the dramatic snowfall, walking through Seoul’s quiet, snow-covered streets will make your winter trip truly memorable.
So, let us guide you through some of the best places to enjoy the most exquisite snowfall in Seoul, South Korea.
Jongmyo Shrine
First up, let’s talk about history—and a little bit of winter magic!
If you prefer to be somewhere quiet and insightful, then the Jongmyo Shrine will be one of the best places to watch the dramatic snowfall of Seoul—something that only happens after over a century in South Korea history.
Jongmyo Shrine is one of the oldest sites and home to the spirit tablets of the kings and queens of the Joseon Dynasty. When the snow falls, it creates this peaceful, almost surreal scene. The blanketing snow and stillness around you make this place feel frozen in time.
Jongmyo Shrine
- Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jongno District, Jong-ro, 157 종묘관리소.
- Phone: +82 2 765 0195
- Website: https://royal.khs.go.kr/jm
- Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (Wed – Mon)
Gilsangsa Temple
Secondly, if you’re craving a peaceful, zen-like experience where you can watch the snow from a tranquil setting, then you can head over to Gilsangsa Temple.
This Buddhist temple, tucked away in Seongbuk-dong, feels miles away from the city’s hustle and bustle, even though it’s still in the heart of Seoul. In this place, you can spend all your time in the world sitting in a peaceful garden surrounded by snow-covered trees. The only sound that accompanies you will be the soft crunch of snow underfoot.
As the record-breaking snowfall pours all over Seoul, Gilsangsa will be one of the places to experience the ultimate South Korea temple stay. Take part in a meditation session or just stroll through the temple grounds to clear your mind. It’s like a snow-covered retreat for the soul.
Gilsangsa Temple
- Address: 68 Seonjam-ro 5-gil, Seongbuk District, Seoul, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 2 3672 5945
- Website: http://kilsangsa.info/home/default_in.asp
Mokin Museum (Mokseokwon)
For something a little more off the beaten path, we’ve got a hidden gem for you: Mokin Museum (Mokseokwon).
On ordinary days, the museum focuses on wooden human figures worldwide. But when winter arrives, the outdoor garden takes on a completely different charm.
You will be captivated by the stunning scenery. Watching the snow gently covering the museum’s ancient stone sculptures and surrounding grounds is purely magical!
Mokin Museum (Mokseokwon)
- Address: 46-1 Changuimun-ro 5-gil, Jongno District, Seoul, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 2 722 5055
- Website: http://www.mokinmuseum.com/
- Opening Hours: 10.30 AM to 6 PM (Tue – Sun)
Starbucks The Bukhan Mountain Store
Meanwhile, if you love to sip on a warm drink while watching the snow fall, then Starbucks The Bukhan Mountain Store is your new best friend.
This place opened just last year, and it’s got everything—gorgeous views of Bukhan Mountain covered in snow, cozy indoor seating, and a rooftop that gives you an even better panoramic view.
Plus, there are photo zones set up for the perfect winter Instagram pic (you know you’ll want one). It’s the ideal spot if you’re in the mood for some comfort, coffee, and beautiful snowy views all at once.
Starbucks The Bukhan Mountain Store
- Address: 24-11 Daeseomun-gil, Eunpyeong District, Seoul, South Korea.
- Phone: +82 1522 3232
- Website: Starbucks Bukhan Mountain
- Opening Hours:
- 8 AM to 9 PM (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri)
- 7 AM to 9 PM (Wed, Sat, Sun)
Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon (Secret Garden)
Lastly, if you really want to experience the pinnacle of winter beauty in Seoul, you have definitely got to visit Changdeokgung Palace and its stunning Secret Garden (Huwon).
This UNESCO World Heritage site is gorgeous all year round, but when it snows? It turns into a fairytale, straight from those Korean fantasy dramas!
The palace itself, with its traditional Korean architecture and wooden roofs, is mesmerizing under a blanket of snow. But the Secret Garden? It’s truly something else. The serene ponds, ancient trees, and winding paths, everything looks extra magical, with snow softly settling on them.
Therefore, if you want to experience Seoul’s winter elegance amid the historic snowfall in the city, this is where you’ll want to be.
Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon (Secret Garden)
- Address: South Korea, Seoul, Jongno District, 율곡로 99번지
- Phone: +82 2 3668 2300
- Website: https://royal.cha.go.kr/cdg
- Opening Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM (Tue to Sun)
Celebrate the Historic Snowfall as You Travel to South Korea!
Finally, which spot are you most excited to check out? South Korea—Seoul, in particular—is a whole different world with its historic snowfall. The flawless combination of snowy landscapes and Seoul’s rich history makes for a truly unforgettable experience.
So, don’t let this winter pass by without experiencing the city’s record-breaking snowfall in all its glory. Happy winter travels!
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