Seoul—a city where ancient traditions dance with futuristic innovations—is a treasure trove of popular attractions, bursting with energy and excitement. Yet, beyond the well-trodden paths lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: the enchanting Hwarangdae Railroad Park.
Imagine stepping into a world where history and nature seamlessly blend, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. In this article, we take you on a joyful journey through the fascinating features of Hwarangdae Railroad Park, one of Seoul’s best-kept secrets that promises an unforgettable experience. Keep reading to uncover why this delightful spot is a must-visit for every curious traveler seeking unique adventures.
Hwarangdae Railroad Park: A Nostalgic Gateway
One of the beautiful and romantic parks is Hwarangdae Railroad Park. It is located in the last station of the historical Gyeongchun Line, Hwarangdae Station. The park combines the charm of old railway cars with modern attractions, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and history enthusiasts alike.
Historic Trains on Display
At the heart of the park are the old trains that once ran along the Gyeongchun Line. These steam locomotives and streetcars are well preserved and displayed, bringing visitors a step back into the past, conceiving of the era when these trains worked.
Light Garden
Light Garden is a special night attraction at Hwarangdae Railroad Park and it features ten themed areas lighted with thousands of LEDs. Visitors will be able to stroll through the Secret Flower Garden, Light Tunnel, Music Garden, and much more, all uniquely presented in their own styles of delight.
A Walk in the Light Tunnel
The Light Tunnel is among the dazzling attractions in the feature of the Light Garden. Walking in the tunnel, one is overwhelmed by a perception of brilliant colors and out-of-the-world lights. It’s a very good place for couples and families, as a lot of people take pictures to keep the beautiful background in memory.
Walking through The Music Garden
The basic idea of this garden is visual beauty with illumination sculptures and musical harmony. While walking, you will experience different pieces of music with changes in the environment that are harmonious to the ears.
Innovative Attractions at Hwarangdae Railroad Park
The Train Cafe and Time Museum, the park, also has some innovative attractions, which make the park unique.
Landscape with the Train Cafe
It is yet another innovative attraction within the park. It is a family-friendly café with a large diorama in the center of the interior with model space shuttles, mini trains, and superhero figures to entertain visitors. However, what really sets this café apart is its mini train delivery system. For this reason, ordering a drink in this café resembles something of a funfair ride.
The Time Museum
Located inside six cars of an old Mugunghwa that was out of service, this museum displays the history of time measurement. Each car has a different theme and has clocks and time artifacts from antiquity to modern times. It has an item from a medieval clock to the watches and so on from today, that will give you an overall view of how mankind had measured and valued time.
How to get there
Hwarangdae Railroad Park is open 24 hours every day of the year, so anyone can visit it. It is very accessible; just alight at Hwarangdae Station on Subway Line 6, Exit 4.
Address and Getting There
- Address: 608, Hwarang-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01802
- Traffic: Hwarangdae station line 6, Exit 4
Other Visitor Facilities
The Hwarangdae Railroad Park is facilitated with temporary restrooms, parking spaces for vehicles. Inclusive and fit for people of all ages and abilities, the design of the park is all-inclusive.
Tips to Enjoy Your Visit
- Best Time to Go: The park looks beautiful during the day, but the light garden is best seen at night with light all around.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenes, especially in the Light Garden and around the historic trains.
- Comfortable Shoes: Park premises are wide, so comfortable shoes and the stamina to walk is what visitors will need.
- Family-Friendly: The mini train café, Time Museum, etc. are worth exploring even by kids, making this as a perfect family park.
Conclusion
Hwarangdae Railroad Park is a hidden place of Seoul that combines traces of history with culture and presents itself in the modern manner. Whether you reside in this nation or are coming from another nation, touring around this park will surely make you grab a better understanding of the rich heritage of Seoul, combined with contemporary culture.
FAQs
Where is Hwarangdae Railroad Park located?
Hwarangdae Railroad Park is in Nowon-gu, Seoul, close to Hwarangdae Station on Subway Line 6.
What are the main attractions at Hwarangdae Railroad Park?
The major attractions are historic trains, Light Garden, Time Museum, and the “Scenery with the Train” cafe.
When would be the best time to visit Hwarangdae Railroad Park?
The park is open 24/7, but the Light Garden is best experienced at night when the LED lights are turned on.
Is Hwarangdae Railroad Park family-friendly?
Yes, the park is very family-oriented and offers a long list of attractions such as the mini train cafe and the Time Museum.
How can I get to Hwarangdae Railroad Park?
Hwarangdae Station is accessible by Subway Line 6. Exit at Exit 4 and you will be a short distance from the park.
What is the entrance fee to Hwarangdae Railroad Park?
Entrance to the park in itself is free. However, some of the facilities and attractions within its grounds, such as the Time Museum, charge entrance fees.