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Cheonggyecheon Stream – Urban Serenity Flowing Through the Heart of Seoul
인생서점 2025. 7. 1. 08:32목차
Explore Cheonggyecheon
A Stream Reborn: History and Urban Renewal What to See and Do Along the Stream Visitor Tips and Seasonal Highlights🌿 Length: 11 km restored stream with 22 bridges
🌉 Key Features: Walking paths, cultural spaces, waterfalls, public art, night lights
A Stream Reborn: History and Urban Renewal
Cheonggyecheon is not just a stream—it’s a symbol of Seoul’s ability to blend modern urban life with ecological awareness and cultural memory. Once a natural waterway during the Joseon Dynasty, the stream was long neglected and covered by roads and an overpass during the post-war industrial boom. By the early 2000s, the city of Seoul began an ambitious project to restore Cheonggyecheon to its natural form. The restoration was completed in 2005, transforming a forgotten underpass into a vibrant green corridor stretching over 11 kilometers. Today, Cheonggyecheon flows gently through the city, offering locals and tourists a space to **breathe, reflect, and reconnect**. The restoration project has been celebrated globally as a model of urban regeneration. It revitalized the local ecosystem, lowered urban temperatures, and increased foot traffic for surrounding businesses. At the same time, it honored historical milestones by preserving traditional bridges, stone markers, and cultural sculptures. The stream now weaves its way beneath skyscrapers, beside palaces, and through some of Seoul’s busiest districts—reminding us that nature can flow even through steel and concrete.
What to See and Do Along the Stream
Whether you’re out for a stroll, looking for quiet inspiration, or seeking a cultural escape, Cheonggyecheon has something for everyone. Here are the top features and activities:
1. Cheonggye Plaza:
Located at the stream’s head near Gwanghwamun, this plaza features a digital waterfall, a spiral sculpture called “Spring” by Claes Oldenburg, and a wide staircase that leads down to the water. It's a perfect starting point for your walk. 2. 22 Bridges:
Each bridge crossing Cheonggyecheon tells a story. Don’t miss Gwangtonggyo and Supyogyo—traditional stone bridges restored to reflect Joseon-era design.
3. Candlelight Fountain:
A dynamic water feature that glows after dark. The fountain area is popular in the evenings for couples, photographers, and children playing in the mist.
4. Wall of Hope:
This mural consists of over 20,000 tiles drawn by citizens, expressing dreams, peace, and happiness. A great example of community art.
5. Cultural Installations:
Seasonal exhibits, paper lanterns, bamboo gardens, light tunnels, and digital projections often appear along the path. During festivals, the stream becomes a stage for modern and traditional art.
6. Wildlife and Nature:
Birds, fish, and native plants now call the stream home. It’s a surprisingly rich ecosystem considering its urban surroundings.
7. Rest Zones:
Wooden decks, shaded benches, and stepping stones let visitors relax close to the water. The sound of flowing water helps melt away city stress. The stream also connects with nearby attractions like Jongmyo Shrine, Gwangjang Market, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), and Seoul Fortress Wall Trail.
Visitor Tips and Seasonal Highlights
Cheonggyecheon is open 24 hours a day and accessible from numerous subway stations. It’s free to visit and offers different experiences throughout the year.
🚉 How to Get There:
- **Line 1/2 City Hall Station**, Exit 4 → 5 mins to Cheonggye Plaza - **Line 5 Gwanghwamun Station**, Exit 5 → directly connected - **Line 2 Euljiro 1-ga**, **Line 1 Jongno 3-ga**, **Line 2/5 Euljiro 4-ga** all lead to midstream access
📷 Best Times to Visit:
- **Spring:** Cherry blossoms and blooming flower beds - **Summer:** Mist sprays and evening water shows - **Autumn:** Gingko and maple leaves line the banks - **Winter:** Cheonggyecheon Christmas Festival with lantern displays
🧍 Accessibility:
Ramps and elevators are located at major entrances. The paths are wheelchair and stroller friendly.
🚻 Amenities:
Restrooms, security patrols, vending machines, and tourist help desks are placed at intervals. Free Wi-Fi available near Cheonggye Plaza.
🌱 Sustainability Tip:
Help preserve the ecosystem by staying on paths and not feeding wildlife. Refrain from throwing items into the stream. 🌙 Night Walks:
Cheonggyecheon is especially romantic after sunset. Bridge lights, fountains, and surrounding skyscrapers reflect off the water for a peaceful, glowing scene. Whether you're seeking a scenic jog, a mindful stroll, or an escape from Seoul’s bustle, Cheonggyecheon provides a rhythm of calm amid the city’s rapid pulse—a quiet companion through Korea’s capital.