Jung Travel Guide

Explore the rich culture, natural beauty, and exciting outdoor adventures in Jung, South Korea with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Jung

Jung is a district located in Seoul, South Korea’s capital city. It is situated in the heart of the city, covering an area of 9.96 square kilometers with a population of approximately 136,000. Jung is home to a rich history and culture, with several attractions that highlight the district’s heritage, including museums, palaces, and temples. In addition to its cultural offerings, Jung is also a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails, scenic parks, and vibrant nightlife.

List of Places to Visit in Jung

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jung is home to several culturally significant attractions, including museums and historical places, that highlight the district’s history and heritage. Here are some of the most popular cultural attractions in Jung:

  • Gyeongbokgung Palace - A historic palace built in 1395 that served as home to several kings of the Joseon dynasty. It features traditional Korean architecture, gardens, and artifacts on display.
  • Namsangol Hanok Village - A historic village showcasing traditional Korean houses, courtyards and gardens, and cultural performances.
  • National Museum of Korean Contemporary History - A museum showcasing Korea’s modern history and culture through interactive exhibitions and events.
  • Myeong-dong Cathedral - A neo-Gothic church built in 1898 that stands as a landmark of Christianity in Korea.

Natural Attractions of Jung: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Jung is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, with plenty of parks, trails, and scenic views. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions in Jung:

  • Namsan Park - A park situated on the slopes of Namsan hill, featuring hiking trails, gardens, and a panoramic view of the city.
  • Cheonggyecheon Stream - A creek that runs through the heart of the city, offers walking trails and an urban oasis for visitors to enjoy.
  • Seoul Tower - A tower situated on Namsan hill, offers 360-degree views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jung

Jung is also a fantastic destination for those who love outdoor adventures, with plenty of hiking and biking trails that cater to different fitness levels. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Jung:

  • Namsan Park Trail - A popular hiking trail in Jung that offers wonderful views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
  • Cheonggyecheon Stream Trail - A trail along the Cheonggyecheon Stream that offers a pleasant, easy walk for visitors of all ages.
  • Bugak Skyway - A scenic road and hiking/biking trail in northeast Seoul that offers fantastic views of the city and the mountains.

Best Things to Do in Jung: Activities and Tours

Jung offers plenty of exciting activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in Jung:

  • Night Tour of Seoul City - A night tour of Seoul City that offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s nightlife, including night markets, restaurants, and street performers.
  • DMZ Tour - A tour of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea. It is a unique opportunity to learn about the history and the ongoing conflict between North and South Korea.
  • Han River Cruise - A leisurely cruise along the Han River that offers visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s skyline and the scenic views of the river.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jung

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Jung:

Day 1 - Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and Namsangol Hanok Village.

Day 2 - Explore the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History and Seoul Museum of Art.

Day 3 - Take a hike at Namsan Park and visit the Seoul Tower.

Day 4 - Go on a night tour of the city and explore the vibrant nightlife of Seoul.

Day 5 - Take a DMZ tour and learn about the history and conflict between North and South Korea.

Day 6 - Rent a bike and ride along the Cheonggyecheon Stream Trail, followed by a relaxing Han River Cruise.

Day 7 - Shop for souvenirs at Myeong-dong and enjoy the local food scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Jung

Jung is known for its vibrant food and drink culture, with plenty of local eateries and street food vendors offering a wide range of delicious dishes and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Jung:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bibimbap - A popular Korean dish made with rice, sautéed vegetables, and chili pepper paste.
  • Jokbal - Braised pig trotters in soy sauce that are tender and savory.

Local Beverages

  • Soju - A clear and colorless alcoholic drink that is a staple of Korean drinking culture.
  • Makkoli - A traditional Korean rice wine that is often characterized by its slightly milky appearance.

Where to Stay in Jung: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jung offers several accommodation options for visitors, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Jung:

  • Four Seasons Hotel Seoul - A luxury hotel situated in the heart of the city, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
  • L7 Myeongdong by Lotte - A stylish hotel situated in the heart of Myeong-dong, offering easy access to shopping and dining venues.
  • Seoul Backpackers Hostel - A budget-friendly hostel situated near downtown Seoul, offering clean and comfortable beds for backpackers and travelers.

What to Buy in Jung: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Jung offers plenty of souvenirs and local products that visitors can take home as a reminder of their trip to Korea. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in Jung:

  • Korean Traditional Handicrafts - Traditional Korean handicrafts such as pottery, textiles, and paper products are excellent souvenirs to bring back home.
  • Korean Beauty Products - Korea is famous for its skincare and beauty products, which are highly popular among visitors.
  • Korean Food Products - Korean food products, such as snacks, sweets, and tea, make excellent gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Jung

Koreans are known for their rich culture and customs, which visitors should learn about and respect during their trip to Seoul. Here are some important aspects of Korean culture and customs to keep in mind during your trip to Jung:

  • Respect for Elders - Koreans have a deep respect for elders and expect visitors to show the same level of respect.
  • Removing Shoes - When entering traditional Korean houses and some modern establishments, visitors are expected to remove their shoes.
  • Bowing - Bowing is a sign of respect in Korean culture, and visitors should learn how to bow properly.

Best Time to Visit Jung

The best time to visit Jung is during spring and fall, from March to May and September to November, respectively. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds during these seasons. Winter can be quite cold, and summers can be hot and humid, with more tourists visiting the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jung

When traveling to Jung, visitors should be aware of the following Do’s and Don’ts:

Do:

  • Respect Local Customs and Culture - Learn about the local customs and culture to respect and appreciate the local way of life.
  • Be Polite and Courteous - Koreans value politeness and courtesy, so visitors should be polite and courteous during their trip.
  • Try Local Food and Drinks - Korean cuisine is renowned worldwide, and visitors should try local food and drinks during their trip.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect Elders - Elders are highly respected in Korean culture, and visitors should avoid disrespecting them.
  • Disrespect Public Places - Littering and damaging public places, including parks and temples, is considered disrespectful and can lead to legal consequences.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Jung should take precautions to ensure their safety and health during their trip.

Safety in Jung

Jung is generally a safe district to travel, with low crime rates. Visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or when traveling at night.

Health in Jung

South Korea has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors should take out travel insurance before traveling. It is also essential to take precautions against air pollution and traffic-related illnesses.

Getting to Jung: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Jung by air, train, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider when traveling to Jung:

Airports Near Jung

  • Incheon International Airport - Located approximately 50 kilometers from Jung, the airport is the primary gateway to Seoul and South Korea.

Bus Stations Near Jung

  • Central City Bus Terminal - Located in the heart of Seoul, the bus terminal provides connections to various parts of the country.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Jung by train or car. The city has an extensive railway network, connecting Seoul to various parts of the country. Taxis and rental cars are also available for visitors to get around.

How to Get Around in Jung

Jung is a compact district, making it easy to navigate on foot or by public transportation. Visitors can use the subway, buses, or taxis to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Jung: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jung is an excellent base to explore other parts of Seoul and South Korea. Here are some destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Myeong-dong - A lively commercial district famous for its shopping and dining venues.
  • Itaewon - A multicultural district known for its international cuisine and nightlife.
  • Suwon - A city near Seoul known for its UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress and Korean Folk Village.

Conclusion

Jung is a fantastic destination for those who love culture, nature, and outdoor adventures. With its rich history, vibrant food and drink scene, and picturesque natural attractions, it is no wonder why Jung is one of the most popular districts in Seoul. We hope this tour guide has inspired you to plan your trip to Jung and explore all that this district has to offer.

Location of the Jung area in Seoul Location of the Jung area in Seoul Deoksugung Deoksugung Sungnyemun Gate, also known as Namdaemun Gate or South Gate Sungnyemun Gate, also known as Namdaemun Gate or South Gate View of Seoul Station, Culture Station Seoul 284 from the Seoullo 7017 View of Seoul Station, Culture Station Seoul 284 from the Seoullo 7017 Namdaemun, the southern gate, at night Namdaemun, the southern gate, at night A shopping street of Myeongdong by night A shopping street of Myeongdong by night Namdaemun Market at night Namdaemun Market at night