Exploring Seoul

Seoul is divided into two parts by the flowing Han River. The area to the north of Han River is where downtown Seoul is located. Back in Joseon era the administration city was here. This is where old buildings, palaces, secret gardens, and villages full of beautiful hanok houses are located.

Most of attractions especially cultural and historical ones are located in the Jongno-gu and Jung-gu districts of Seoul. Palaces and hanok villages, are located here. The shopping districts Namdaemun and Myeongdong are also here. Due to this, most tourists like to find accommodations around this area.

 Gwanghwamun Square with the statue of King Sejong and Gwanghwamun Gate on the background

Myeongdong street before it is filled with people

The Seoul Grand Mosque is located in Yongsan-gu, which is also the place for the US Army base. There are a significant amount of foreigners in this area especially in the neighbourhood of Itaewon-dong.

Street in Itaewon

Mapo-gu is where new trends and fashions emerge. The area around Ewha Womans' University have a lot of boutiques and stores selling affordable and trendy clothes and accessories. The area around Hongik University meanwhile is known as a clubbing district. Scattered around this area are quirky and unique cafes which also include the famous "Coffee Prince" cafe.

 Array of shops in front of Ewha Womans' University

source: mapsof.net

To the south of Han River is the newer part of Seoul. Here is the location of more trendy and upscale neighbourhood like Apgujeong-dong in Gangnam-gu, the National Assembly building, KBS and MBC broadcasting stations in Yeongdeungpo-gu, 63 Building and COEX Mall among others.

The theme park Lotte World is located in Songpa-gu, in the neighbourhood of Jamsil-dong.

 Streets in Gangnam-gu

Lotte World in Jamsil-dong

This article is short! And you may notice that not all districts of Seoul are discussed here, but I hope I've covered the most interesting ones. :)