Biking the Han River: Seoul’s Scenic Cycling Delight

Discover the beautiful city of Seoul in a unique and active way: biking the Han River. With more than 100km of bike paths along the river bank, this is a great option for both locals and tourists. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, iconic bridges, and peaceful parks while getting some exercise. There are many places to rent bikes nearby or bring your own for a refreshing ride. Don’t miss out on this exciting adventure that combines sightseeing with outdoor fun!

The Han River is of some significance to the large metropolitan city of Seoul, South Korea. So significant the Han River has its own time period named after it, called “The Miracle on the Han River” referring to the period after the Korean War where South Korea moved from being a developing country to a developed country (1950-1953). Since such a large part of Seoul is travelling around the Han River, the views make biking the Han River a must-do activity.

Quick Trip Overview

• Location: Seoul, South Korea
• Time of Year of Trip: Best from September to October when Korea cools down.
• Time: 1 to 2 hours
• Estimated Cost: $3-$6 USD, or 3,000 to 6,000 won.

Why Bike the Han River?

Here are some reasons why biking the Han River should be part of your Seoul Itinerary:

1. The Han River is a signature destination in Seoul.
2. The Han River cuts through the major city meaning it is easily accessible by train.
3. Since it cuts through Seoul, you will see many beautiful photo opportunities of the city from the river banks.
4. Hanging out in the parks by the Han River is the fun thing to do in Seoul on a nice day.

The list can go on, but those are the majority of the reasons. The river location cannot be matched, additionally as you will see everyone goes there to enjoy the weather and the views. If you want to do some other iconic things, learn about things you can’t miss on out on in Seoul!

Facts on the Han River

The Han River or Hangang is a major river in South Korea and the fourth longest river on the Korean peninsula.

The Han River during the Korea War: South Korean Army destroyed the Hangang Bridge  in the first week of the war in a bid to stem the advance of the invading North Korean military. In early 1951 Operation Thunderbolt made the Han River a prime area as there was a fair amount of fighting between Chinese People’s Volunteer Army troops and US-led United Nations forces in the Han River area surrounding Seoul.

After the completion of the Korean War, the Han River raised to international attention as the phrase “Miracle on the Han River” started circulating. The Miracle on the Han River is in reference to the rapid development of Korea following the Korean War. Shortly after the Korean War, South Korea changed from a developing country to a developed country – which is quite a fete following a war. This phrase is a reference to the name West Germany received of “Miracle on the Rhine” following their rebirth after WWII.

How to Rent a Bike

This I found personally challenging. There are a couple of ways to rent bikes in Seoul.

1. The first rental I tried to use, but ultimately did not use, is through Seoul Bike. You buy a voucher online and then you go to a bike stand and input the voucher. While I did not use this service you will see people biking the Han River on the green bikes from Seoul Bike. The reason I did not use this service:
   1. The online website would not take my card. I do not know if it is due to the fact it was an international card, but it kept giving me an error.
   2. I tried to locate a stand-in attempts to perhaps purchase it at the stand. The stand I chose was meant to have 5 bicycles. However, I never found it after a thorough search.
2. The service I did use was the Seoul Stop Banpo Hangang Park Bicycle Rental. This is a bicycle stand located at the Banpo Hangang Park.
   1. You walk down to the Banpo Bridge from the Express Bus Terminal. Turn right following the bike path near the intersection at the bridge. A little bit down you will see the bicycle standoff of the bike path.
   2. It will cost 3,000 won an hour to rent a bicycle there. With 500 won every 15 minutes over. Make sure you account for the time you have to stand in line to turn your ticket back in!

Han River Bike Path

The Han River Bike Path is a must-do activity for both locals and tourists in Seoul. This picturesque path hugs the river for miles and offers stunning views of the city skyline. With easy access to bike rentals, it’s a great way to get some exercise while taking in the beauty of Seoul. The path is divided into four sections, each with its unique features, including parks and famous landmarks like Namsan Tower. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just looking for a leisurely ride, the Han River Bike Path has something for everyone.

If you were like me and rented the bike from the Banpo Hangang Park Bicycle Rental. This bike rental shop is located basically in the centre of the popular routes when biking the Han River. From here you really only have two options: You can opt to travel Southeast or travel Northwest.

The Han river bike path is straight forward, as there is a large walkway and bikepath along the side of the river. If renting a bike, or bringing your own there is no missing the bike path.

Han River Trail Map

Due to the extended walkway along the Han River in Seoul, the Han River Trail is where you make it. If you check out cycling websites, and bike maps, you will see bikers who have done 70kms worth of travel along the river. Then you have those like me who picked the main center area, and just did a small loop around.

Do a map scan over before heading to the Han river and create your own Han River trail map. There are plenty of things to see along the Han River so do not limit it to what I have listed below.

Travelling Northeast

Travelling Northeast, which would be leaving the bicycle stand and travelling away from Banpo Bridge. This route will take you along  some great views of the city so perfect for those looking to do some photography on this trip.

The N Seoul Tower and Namsan park will be in view most of the bike ride this way. Additionally, if you have the time, or can bike quickly, you can make it up to Jamsil Bridge which is located near World Cup Noeul Park  which is called Sunset Park. “Noeul” means “sunset” in Korean. One trip to Sunset Park for a Sunset in Seoul will be all the explanation you need. If you don’t add this to your itinerary biking on the Han River, then make sure to save it for another day.

Traveling Northeast you will also pass by numerous bridges, and Seoul is known for having a variety of bridges to pass over the Han River.

It took me roughly 30 minutes round trip to bike from the stand and to the Seongsu Bridge (three bridges away). It’s an easy ride with two very small hills. I stopped for a couple of photos of the N Seoul Tower and the Nannam Bridge, and Dongho Bridge.

Travelling Southeast

Travelling Southeast you will be taking a left out of the bicycle stand, or travelling back towards the Banpo Bridge. This route will take you through a flower garden that is right past the Banpo Bridge.

Additionally, a lot of people enjoy this route because you will ride past the Han River Islands travelling this route. There are seven islands along the Han River: Sebit islets, are the artifical islands found along the Han River in Seoul. These islands have the different cultural centers, restaurants, and beautiful architecture. Seonyudo is another island on the Han river, and features a park for guests to explore. 

Yeouido is another large island on the Han River and is Seoul’s main finance and investment banking district.

I personally only biked this route for about 15 minutes making it to the Dongjak Bridge (one bridge away).

What to Bring for Biking the Han River

Some items to bring for biking the Han River:

• Some cash to rent the bike.
• Camera or phone to take those sweet Instagram shots.
• Layers – depending on the season you may want to dress up or dress down. The bikes at the rental shop had baskets so you can just throw them in there.
• Picnic basket backpack / travel picnic blanket – if you want to do what the crowd is doing, then bring a picnic and blanket and find a patch of grass in one of the parks along the way. Or you can order some take out to be delivered to you!

Han River Activities

Looking for some fun and exciting activities to do with family and friends in Seoul? Look no further than the Han River! With a variety of options like kayaking, paddle boating, cycling, and even camping, the Han River has everything you need for a great day outdoors. Take in the stunning views of the city skyline while you get active and enjoy some fresh air. Don’t forget to pack a picnic or grab some snacks from one of the many food trucks along the riverbank. Whether you’re a local or visiting Seoul for the first time, don’t miss out on all that Han River has to offer! Want to make more out of your Han River trip? There are a couple of other activities to add to your Han River trip.

• Dynamic water sports. Windsurfing. Kayaking. Boating. Waterskiing and wakeboarding. Flyboarding.
• Camping.
• Picnic.
• Visiting Han River Park.
• River Cruises.
• Visiting Apgujeong Graffiti Tunnel.

Han river activities are pretty expansive. While biking along the Han river you will spot some of the activities above. Most water sports can be enjoyed on the Han river – to include sailing.

During the summer, you will find people with tents set up to shelter from the sun, or enjoying picnics. You can check out other Seoul parks here.

Han River Bridge at Night

Behold the stunning Han River Bridge illuminated by colorful lights that shine bright against the night sky – a true marvel of their engineering and architectural design. Connecting both banks of the Han River, this iconic landmark serves as a vital transportation artery for locals and visitors alike.  Let yourself become captivated by the tranquility and beauty of this breathtaking sight. A picture-perfect moment captured that will surely leave a lasting impression.

Can you go to the Han River at night to bike? Yes. The rental stores will be closed, but if you own a personal bike you can travel along the river at night time.

So why visit the Han River bridge at Night? Because the bridges are sparkling neon colors at night.  18 Han River bridges are lit up colorfully at night. There are 5 “storytelling” bridges and the 13 “outstanding landscape” bridges.

Viewing each of the bridges at night is an achievement in itself. Just make sure to check each of the bridges light times, as the times change based on season.

Eat Along the Han River

Indulge in the beauty of Seoul’s skyline while savoring authentic Korean cuisine as you eat along the Han River! From grilled beef and squid to kimchi fried rice and bibimbap, there is something for everyone on this food adventure. With riverfront seating, take in the views of some of Seoul’s most iconic landmarks such as Namsan Tower, Jamsil Olympic Stadium, and Banpo Bridge Fountain.

Biking the Han River is bound to build up some thirst or appetite. You’ll find plenty of floating restaurants along the way or the very popular Korean option: convenience stores.

I personally went to the beer garden at the floating island next to the Banpo Bridge!

How to Get to the Han River

There are numerous ways to get to the Han River, with options of subway locations along the river. However, the most popular location seems to be the Banpo Bridge.

Subway Station: Bus Terminal Express, Exit 8-1. Follow the signs for Banpo Hangang Park. You will walk up the street towards the bridge and take an underpass to the park.