Cheonggyecheon

A stream through Seoul to explore with your child, Cheonggyecheon

The history and story of Cheonggyecheon

• Cheonggyecheon is a natural stream that has run through Seoul since the Joseon Dynasty about 600 years ago, and it was located at the heart of Hanyang, the capital.
• Several kings, including King Taejong and King Sejong of Joseon, personally maintained the stream so it could help prevent flooding, secure clean water resources, and serve as a central place in citizens' daily lives.
• The waters of Cheonggyecheon begin in areas such as Bukaksan to the north and Inwangsan to the west, then flow into the Han River.
• For the people of old Hanyang, Cheonggyecheon was a place woven into everyday life, serving as a washing place for women, a playground for children, and a space for markets and exchange.
• Due to industrialization and urbanization, roads and an overpass were built over the stream in the 1960s, and Cheonggyecheon disappeared for a time, but it returned to the public through a restoration project in 2003.

Things to enjoy and special features of Cheonggyecheon

• Cheonggyecheon stretches for a total of 10.8 km and runs through central Seoul, including Changsin-dong in Jongno-gu.
• The walking trail is open year-round, so you can stop by for a walk or outing anytime.
• With green nature in the middle of the city, refreshing sounds of water, and various sculptures and bridges installed throughout, your child can touch, run around, and enjoy many different experiences.
• At night, beautiful views unfold with lighting and digital light shows, making it a popular family destination.
• Traditional bridges such as Majeongyo and Gwangtonggyo, along with waterfalls, photo spots, stone bridges, and benches, are well arranged, so it is also nice for taking a short rest.
• Nearby, you will find Gwangjang Market, traditional markets, an old bookstore alley, and plenty of food and sights, making it a great full-day outing with your child.

Cheonggyecheon exploration points to enjoy with your child

1. Take a walk while listening to the sound of the stream
2. Take photos on the stone bridges
3. Enjoy the rainbow-colored bridges and light shows at night
4. Experience both nature and the scenery of downtown Seoul
5. Rest at benches and shelters set up throughout the area
6. Connect your visit with nearby markets, museums, parks, and other cultural experiences

Good to know before visiting Cheonggyecheon

• The walking trail is flat and wide, making it easy to get around with strollers, bicycles, and wheelchairs.
• As of November 2023, the left-bank trail on the Jongno side is closed due to renovation work on the aging walkway. In the section under control between Gwangtonggyo and Hwanghakgyo, visitors should use the right-bank trail on the Euljiro side during construction.
• "Cheonggyecheon-ro Car-Free Street" operates on weekends from 2 PM to 10 PM, and on public holidays from 10 AM to 10 PM.
• The scenery and experience programs change with the seasons, so each visit can create new memories.
• If you bring portable snacks, water, and a picnic mat, you can create an even more special family picnic atmosphere.

Cheonggyecheon is a special stream where you can experience history, nature, and culture all at once in the heart of Seoul. It is a perfect place to spark your child's curiosity and enjoy an energetic day together.

Fees and programs

• Fee: Free
• Visitor information: Construction period - December 10, 2023, Seoul Light Show - 2022.12.19. to 2023.01.24. (based on 2022 information)