Cheonggyecheon Stream (청계천) runs right through the middle of Seoul, from Gwanghwamun down to Dongdaemun. It used to be this forgotten waterway, but after a huge restoration in 2005 it’s now one of the easiest (and prettiest) walks in the city.

During the day, it’s perfect if you want a break between sightseeing since it connects to places like Gyeongbokgung, Jongmyo Shrine, and Gwangjang Market. At night, the vibe totally changes—Cheonggye Plaza lights up with the Candle Fountain and a two-tier waterfall that’s way cooler in person than it sounds on paper.

If you’re here in the fall, the stretch between Gwanghwamun and Dongdaemun is lined with autumn leaves. And depending on the season, you might stumble into a festival—lanterns in May for Buddha’s birthday, thousands more during the Seoul Lantern Festival in November, or holiday lights in December.

👉 My take: it’s worth checking out twice—once during the day, once at night—because it really does feel like two different places.

Address: 📍 서울특별시 중구 태평로1가 ~ 성동구 신답철교 | Taepyeong-ro 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Hours: Open 24 hours

Cost: Free

Nearest stations

• Gwanghwamun Station (Line 1, Exit 5) – 3 min walk

• City Hall Station (Line 1/2, Exit 4) – 6 min walk

• LOTTE Department Store / LOTTE Hotel Seoul – 8 min walk

🌐 www.cheonggyecheon.or.kr