Trying to figure out the best way to get to Namsan Tower and hop on that iconic cable car? It can seem a little tricky with all the different options, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Getting to N Seoul Tower, whether by its famous cable car or other means, is a must-do for anyone visiting Seoul. It offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset or night, and the journey up can be an adventure in itself. We’re going to break down every step, from subway stops to walking paths, so you can pick the perfect route for your visit.

N Seoul Tower isn’t just a pretty view. it’s a cultural landmark. Standing at 236 meters about 774 feet on Namsan Mountain, it actually rises to 480 meters about 1,575 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest points in Seoul. Originally built in 1969 as a broadcasting tower, it opened to the public in 1980 and has been a favorite spot ever since, especially after its renovations in 2005. You’ll find everything from the famous ‘Locks of Love’ to various restaurants and even an observatory at the top, making it a fantastic experience for everyone. So, let’s get you there!

Table of Contents

Getting to the Namsan Cable Car Station The Base

The Namsan Cable Car is usually the quickest and most scenic way to get up to the tower once you’re at the base of Namsan Mountain. It’s a short, roughly three-minute ride that whisks you up, offering incredible views of downtown Seoul as you ascend. But first, you need to get to the cable car’s lower station. The easiest place to start your journey to the Namsan Cable Car is often from the Myeongdong area, a bustling hub in Seoul.

From Myeongdong Station: Your Main Gateway

Myeongdong Station Subway Line 4 is probably the most common starting point for tourists heading to the Namsan Cable Car. You have a few options from here, depending on how much you like to walk or if you prefer a smoother ride.

1. Walking to the Cable Car Station from Myeongdong Exit 3

This is a popular choice if you don’t mind a bit of an uphill stroll.

Step 1: Myeongdong Station Exit 3. Come out of Myeongdong Station at Exit 3.
Step 2: Head towards Pacific Hotel. Once you’re out, you’ll want to walk straight, keeping to your left. You’ll soon see a 7-Eleven convenience store. Walk past it, through the alley, and stay to your right.
Step 3: Uphill Walk. Continue walking uphill. You’ll pass between the Pacific Hotel and a GS25 convenience store. Keep going for about 7-8 minutes. The Namsan Cable Car station will be at the top of this hill, near the Chinese Consulate.

This walk is about 10-15 minutes and can be a bit steep, so make sure you’ve got comfy shoes on!.

2. Using the Namsan Oreumi Outdoor Inclined Elevator from Myeongdong Exit 4

If you’d prefer to save your energy for the tower itself, the Namsan Oreumi is a fantastic, free alternative to the uphill walk. It’s an outdoor inclined elevator that takes you directly to the Namsan Cable Car station. How to Get to N Seoul Tower: Your Ultimate Guide

Step 1: Myeongdong Station Exit 4. Head out of Myeongdong Station at Exit 4.
Step 2: Walk towards Shinsegae Department Store. Walk straight for about 300 meters. You’ll be heading towards the Hoehyeon Intersection, where you’ll see the Shinsegae Department Store diagonally to your right.
Step 3: Turn Left and Find the Elevator. At the main junction, turn left. Walk another 200-300 meters, and you’ll spot the Namsan Oreumi elevator.
Step 4: Ride Up! This inclined elevator takes you straight up to the cable car station in about 2 minutes. It’s super convenient and offers some initial views.

Important Note: The Namsan Oreumi operates from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily, but it’s usually closed on Mondays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM for maintenance, so plan accordingly!.

3. Free Namsan Cable Car Shuttle Bus from Myeongdong Exit 1

Believe it or not, there’s even a free shuttle bus that takes you right to the Namsan Cable Car station.

Step 1: Myeongdong Station Exit 1. Go to Exit 1 of Myeongdong Station.
Step 2: Catch the Shuttle. Look for the shuttle bus service with a “Namsan Cable Car” sign.
Operating Hours: This free shuttle service usually runs hourly, typically from 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Check the latest timetable on-site or online, as schedules can change.

This shuttle is great if you’re not in a rush and want to avoid both walking and the elevator.

From Other Subway Stations to the Namsan Area

While Myeongdong is super convenient, you might be starting your day from a different part of Seoul. Here are some other common ways to get into the general Namsan area, from where you can then consider walking or taking another shuttle bus to the cable car station or even directly to the tower.

Chungmuro Station Subway Line 3 & 4

Exit 2: From Chungmuro Station Exit 2, you can catch the Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 02 or No. 05. These buses will take you towards the Namsan Tower area, though not directly to the cable car station. They’ll get you close enough for a short walk. The No. 02 bus, for example, comes every 15 minutes and costs around ₩1,100 with a T-money card.

Seoul Station Subway Line 1 & 4

Exit 9: If you’re coming from Seoul Station Exit 9, you can take Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 03, which goes to N Seoul Tower. The bus journey from Seoul Station to Namsan Tower is about 40 minutes.
Subway to Hoehyeon Station: Alternatively, you can take the subway from Seoul Station to Hoehyeon Station Line 4, which is just a 2-minute ride. From Hoehyeon Station Exit 4, it’s about a 5-minute walk to Baekbeom Square, a good starting point for a walk up Namsan. From there, you could walk towards the cable car station, which is roughly a 15-minute walk from Hoehyeon Station.

Itaewon Station Subway Line 6

Exit 4: From Itaewon Station Exit 4, you can take the Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 03. This bus route will also take you up to Namsan Tower. The ride is about 25 minutes.

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The Namsan Cable Car Experience

Once you’ve made it to the Namsan Cable Car station, you’re ready for the actual ride! This isn’t just transport. it’s part of the experience, giving you some truly memorable views.

Operating Hours

The Namsan Cable Car operates daily, typically from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM KST. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, they might even extend operations depending on demand, especially during peak seasons. It’s a year-round attraction, so you can enjoy it in any season.

Pro Tip: If you want a quieter experience with fewer people, try to visit before noon. For those stunning city lights, definitely go in the evening!.

Ticket Prices Namsan Tower Cable Car Price

Here are the general ticket prices for the Namsan Cable Car. Prices are in Korean Won KRW and are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Namsan Cable Car website for the most current rates.

Individual Fares as of recent information: How to Improve SEO for Your New Website and Actually Get Noticed

Adult Round-Trip: ₩15,000
Adult One-Way: ₩12,000
Child ages 36 months to 12 years old Round-Trip: ₩11,500
Child One-Way: ₩9,000

There are also discounted rates for seniors 65 and older, permanently disabled individuals, and national honorees.

Where to Buy Tickets

This is a CRUCIAL UPDATE you need to know:

On-Site Purchase for Foreigners After October 10, 2024: According to Namsan Cable Car’s internal policy, online sales for foreigners will be suspended starting October 10, 2024. This means that if you’re a foreign visitor, you will need to buy your tickets on-site at the ticket counter located on the 1st floor of the Namsan Cable Car station the bottom station.
Before October 10, 2024: If you’re traveling before this date, you might still find options to book discounted Namsan Cable Car tickets online through platforms like Klook or KoreaTravelEasy, often as part of packages that include N Seoul Tower Observatory tickets or other attractions. However, even with these, you typically need to redeem a mobile voucher for a physical ticket at a designated counter.

My advice? Just plan to buy your tickets directly at the station when you get there. It simplifies things and ensures you have the most up-to-date information.

The Ride Itself

The Namsan Cable Car has a capacity of 48 people, and the one-way trip takes about 3 minutes, traveling approximately 600 meters. As you ascend, you’ll get fantastic views of Namsan Mountain, the city skyline, and as you get higher, glimpses of iconic landmarks. It’s especially magical at night when the city lights twinkle below.

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How to Get to N Seoul Tower Without the Cable Car

Maybe you’re on a budget, prefer to walk, or just want to try a different route. Good news! You absolutely don’t have to take the cable car to reach N Seoul Tower. There are excellent alternatives, including convenient shuttle buses and scenic walking paths.

1. Namsan Sunhwan Shuttle Buses Circular Buses

These green shuttle buses Nos. 01A, 01B, 02, 03, 05 are a popular and affordable way to get up Namsan Mountain. They circulate around the mountain, making stops at various points, including right at the N Seoul Tower Plaza. Taxis, by the way, are generally prohibited from entering the park, so these buses are a great option for vehicle access.

Fares: A ride on these shuttle buses typically costs around ₩1,200 cash or ₩1,100 with a T-money card.
Operating Hours & Intervals: Most buses run from around 7:00 AM to 11:30 PM and operate frequently, usually every 15-20 minutes.

Here’s a quick rundown of the main routes and where you can catch them:

Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 01A and 01B formerly 01 & 8001

Note on Naming: As of November 25, 2023, Bus No. 01 was renamed to 01A, and Bus No. 8001 was renamed to 01B.
Route 01A: This bus runs frequently every 6-9 minutes from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM daily. It’s a cashless bus, so you’ll need a T-Money card. It connects Namsan Seoul Tower with various points including the Namsan Park bus stop.
Route 01B: This bus starts from Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Parking Lot about a 4-minute walk from Myeongdong Station Exit 1 and goes to Chungmuro Station Exit 2 before heading to N Seoul Tower.

Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 02

Connections: This bus is super convenient if you’re coming from Chungmuro Station Lines 3 & 4, Exit 2 or Myeongdong Station Line 4.
Route: It loops from N Seoul Tower to Namsan Library, Seoul Education Research & Information Institute, Seoul Animation Center, Teogyero 3-ga Hanok Village, Korea House, Chungmuro Exit 2, and then back up to the tower.
Intervals: Runs about every 15 minutes.

Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 03

Connections: Ideal if you’re starting from Seoul Station Lines 1 & 4, Exit 9, Itaewon Station Line 6, Exit 4, or Hangangjin Station Line 6, Exit 2.
Route: Connects Namsan Tower with Seoul Station, Itaewon Station, Yaksu Station, and Dongguk University Station.
Intervals: Operates roughly every 20 minutes.

Namsan Circular Shuttle Bus No. 05

Connections: Handy for those coming from Myeongdong Station Line 4, Exit 3 or Chungmuro Station Exit 2.
Route: This bus goes from Namsan Seoul Tower to Namsan Public Library, Baekbeom Square, Hilton Hotel, Namdaemun Market, Myeongdong, Teogyero 3-ga Hanok Village, Korea House, Chungmuro Station Exit 2, and then back up.
Intervals: Runs approximately every 15 minutes.

Remember: These buses don’t go to the cable car station directly, but they drop you off at the Namsan Park Bus Stop, which is right near the N Seoul Tower Plaza.

2. Walking and Hiking Paths

For the active adventurers out there, hiking up Namsan Mountain is a rewarding experience, offering beautiful views and a chance to enjoy nature right in the heart of the city. There are several well-maintained paths, some involving more stairs than others. Supercharge Your Next.js Website: The Ultimate SEO Playbook for 2025

Difficulty: The hikes are generally considered moderately challenging due to the uphill sections and stairs, but they’re accessible to most fitness levels. You’ll see everyone from young couples to elderly locals enjoying the trails.
Time: A typical hike from the base to the summit takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and the specific route you choose.

Here are a couple of popular starting points for a walk:

From Baekbeom Square / Namsan Park

How to Get There: You can reach Baekbeom Square from Hoehyeon Station Line 4, Exit 4 in about 5 minutes, or from Myeongdong Station Line 4, Exit 3 in about 10 minutes.
The Hike: Baekbeom Square is considered a major entrance to Namsan Park and is a widely recognized starting point for the hike. From here, you’ll find clear signposts guiding you towards N Seoul Tower. This route often involves paved paths and wooden walkways with stairs.

From Dongguk University Station Line 3, Exit 6

This is a great option if you want to experience the Namsan Northern Circuit Entrance. From Exit 6, you can take a short bus ride to the course entrance or start hiking directly. This path is known for its beautiful autumn foliage.

From Myeongdong Walking All the Way

You can actually walk directly from Myeongdong Station all the way to N Seoul Tower. Starting from Myeongdong Station Exit 2 or 3, head towards the Pacific Hotel and continue uphill. This longer walk can take over an hour and covers between 2.2 to 3.3 kilometers, depending on your exact route. You’ll pass through colorful streets and enjoy some pretty views along the way.

Tips for Visiting N Seoul Tower and the Cable Car

To make your trip to N Seoul Tower even better, here are some insider tips:

Best Time to Visit

Day vs. Night: During the day, you get clear, expansive views of Seoul. At night, the city lights are absolutely magical, creating a romantic atmosphere. Many people recommend visiting in the late afternoon to experience both daylight and sunset views, then staying for the night skyline.
Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends and holidays. If you can swing it, a weekday morning or early afternoon will offer a more peaceful experience. Weekends, especially in the evening, can see long queues for both the Namsan Oreumi and the cable car.

What to Bring

Comfortable Shoes: Seriously, whether you’re walking, taking the elevator, or just exploring the tower plaza, you’ll be on your feet a lot.
T-Money Card: This rechargeable card is essential for public transport in Seoul subway, buses and makes paying for the Namsan Shuttle Buses super easy.
Camera: You’ll want to capture those incredible views!
Warm Layers: Even on a mild day, it can be windier and cooler at the top of Namsan Mountain, especially in the evening or during colder seasons.

At the Top: What to Expect

Locks of Love: One of the most famous attractions is the “Locks of Love” where couples attach padlocks to fences and trees, symbolizing their enduring affection.
N Seoul Tower Observatory: For the absolute best panoramic views, head up to the observatory deck inside the tower. There’s an additional entrance fee for this, so consider buying a combined ticket if available though remember the shift in foreigner ticket sales for the cable car after Oct 2024.
Restaurants and Cafes: You’ll find a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, perfect for a meal with a view.
Gift Shops: Pick up some souvenirs to remember your visit.

Booking Tickets

Namsan Cable Car: As mentioned, after October 10, 2024, foreign visitors will need to purchase Namsan Cable Car tickets directly on-site at the bottom station. Don’t count on pre-booking online after this date.
N Seoul Tower Observatory: You can often buy tickets for the observatory on-site or through various travel platforms like Klook if you want to secure them in advance. Sometimes, you can find combo deals for the cable car and observatory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the N Seoul Tower cable car price for a round trip?

For an adult, a round-trip ticket on the Namsan Cable Car typically costs ₩15,000. For children ages 36 months to 12 years old, a round-trip ticket is usually ₩11,500. These prices are subject to change, so always double-check the official Namsan Cable Car website. How to Name Image Files for SEO: Your Ultimate Guide to Boosting Visual Search

How do I get to Namsan Tower without the cable car?

You have a couple of great options! You can take one of the Namsan Sunhwan Circular Shuttle Buses Nos. 01A, 01B, 02, 03, or 05 from various subway stations like Myeongdong, Chungmuro, Seoul Station, or Itaewon directly to the tower plaza. Alternatively, you can hike up Namsan Mountain on one of the well-maintained walking paths, which usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Can I buy N Seoul Tower cable car tickets online?

As of October 10, 2024, online sales for Namsan Cable Car tickets will be suspended for foreign visitors. This means you will need to purchase your tickets on-site at the ticket counter on the first floor of the Namsan Cable Car’s lower station. Before this date, some third-party sites might offer online purchases, but you’d still need to redeem a voucher for a physical ticket.

What are the operating hours for the Namsan Cable Car?

The Namsan Cable Car generally operates daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM KST, year-round. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, operations might be extended based on demand. It’s always a good idea to check their official website for any last-minute changes due to weather or other circumstances.

How long does it take to get to N Seoul Tower by cable car?

The actual cable car ride itself is quite short, taking about 3 minutes to travel from the lower station to the top of Namsan Mountain, near N Seoul Tower. However, the total travel time will depend on how you get to the cable car’s lower station e.g., walking from Myeongdong, taking the Namsan Oreumi elevator, or using a shuttle bus.

Is the Namsan Oreumi inclined elevator free?

Yes, the Namsan Oreumi, the outdoor inclined elevator that takes you from near Myeongdong Station Exit 4 directly to the Namsan Cable Car station, is free to use. It operates from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM but is usually closed on Mondays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM for maintenance. How to Name Photos for SEO: Your Ultimate Guide to Boosting Website Visibility

How much is the Namsan Tower entrance fee?

There is no entrance fee to Namsan Park or the N Seoul Tower plaza itself. You only pay if you choose to ride the Namsan Cable Car or if you want to go up to the N Seoul Tower Observatory, which has a separate ticket fee. The cable car fee is typically ₩15,000 for an adult round-trip.

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