Namsan Tower (N Seoul Tower)

As one of Seoul’s most enduring landmarks, Namsan Tower is featured on many sightseeing tours of the city, along with attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Blue House, Jogyesa Temple, and Namsangol Hanok Village. Access to the observation tower requires an admission ticket, though admission is free for diners at the n.GRILL restaurant, where advance reservations are recommended.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding park.

• Book your observatory entrance ticket online to avoid lines at the ticket office.

• Remember to pick up an audio guide in the observation area for commentary on attractions you can see through the windows.

• Both Namsan Tower and the cable car are wheelchair accessible.

Cars are not allowed within Namsan Park, so to reach the tower you’ll have to walk up the hill or ride the cable car. The nearest subway station is in Myeongdong, a 10-minute walk from the cable car station. It’s also possible to ride the Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Bus, which stops at several subway stations throughout Seoul.

Namsan Tower is open 365 days a year, with extended hours on Saturdays. Each restaurant has its own operating hours, so it’s a good idea to call ahead if you’re planning to eat. Though the views from the tower are excellent no matter when you visit, they’re particularly stunning at night when the city is illuminated.

The tower has long been a popular date spot for Koreans, and you’ll notice the railings around the tower are covered in colorful padlocks. These locks are often decorated with names of couples who left them at the tower as a symbol of eternal love.

The best time to visit Namsan Tower is in the evening, just before sunset. You'll be able to catch the daytime panoramic views of Seoul and then watch as the city lights up at night. Try to arrive an hour ahead of the crowds to ensure the ideal vantage point.

Yes, there's a cable car to N Seoul Tower. It provides a scenic and convenient way to access the tower from Namsan Mountain's base. The cable car operates daily from midmorning to almost midnight. To reach the cable car platform, take the Namsan Outdoor Escalator from Myundong Station Exit 5.

Yes, there's an entrance fee to the observatory and N Seoul Tower facilities. You can purchase your ticket online in advance or at the information desk on the tower's first floor. Guests with an advanced reservation at the N Grill or HanCook restaurants enjoy free admission to the tower's observatory.

Yes, N Seoul Tower offers various dining options, including a revolving high-class French restaurant with 360-degree views of Seoul. Guests will also find top-notch Korean cuisine, fine Italian dining, and casual food options. Some restaurants, like N Grill, HanCook, and The Place Dining, may require reservations.

Yes, Namsan Tower is open until late at night on weekends and holidays. It allows visitors to enjoy 360-degree views of Seoul illuminated by city lights, making it a popular spot for evening visits. Keep in mind that the observation deck gets crowded at this time.

You can reach N Seoul Tower by taking shuttle bus 2, 3, or 5. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Myeongdong Station and then walk to the Namsan Oreumi Elevator, which takes you to the Namsan Cable Car. Taxis and cars can only reach the Namsan Cable Car.