As the weather cools and the mood turns more quieter, Korea welcomes the season with a stunning collage of autumn colours. Here are five locations to experience Seoul’s fiery autumnal hues, as recommended by The Shilla Seoul’s concierge.
- Seoul Forest Park
Open throughout the year, and located by the iconic Hangang River, Seoul Forest Park is popular with nature lovers, especially as the spring cherry blossoms make way for vibrant autumn leaves. The serene ambiance of the park is enhanced by willowy trees, quaint pathways, butterflies, and an ecology forest where deer, elk, and chipmunks can be spotted.
- Changdeok Palace
Seoul is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites and Changdeok Palace is the most well-preserved palace from Korea’s last dynasty. The palace’s sprawling “secret garden” was a renowned recreational venue for the royal family and most of the original greenery has been retained while striking pagodas and fountains are dotted throughout the space. The best time to visit is autumn when the crimson leaves provide an ideal backdrop.
Moonlight tours are also available at Changdeok Palace, where visitors can enjoy a guided stroll through the royal palace under a starry night sky.
- Changgyeonggung Palace
Changgyeonggung Palace was built by the Joseon emperor, Sejong, who created the modern Korean alphabet. The palace features a greenhouse and two ponds at the rear distinguished by arched bridges, each one decorated with carved goblins to ward off of evil spirits. In the autumn, the site is ablaze with trees of changing colors.
Changgyeonggung Palace’s main hall, Myeongjeongjeon, was traditionally the site for state meetings and royal banquets. The oldest hall remaining today, the architecture takes advantage of the mountain slopes while the building was constructed on an elevated stone yard with low roofs, creating a unique vantage point. Another iconic sight is the Punggidae, an instrument once used to check the speed and direction of the wind.
Changgyeonggung Palace is also notable for having weathered Korea’s turbulent political eras. Historic episodes that occurred within this space have inspired many Korean artforms. During the Japanese colonial rule, the palace was converted into a zoo and botanical garden and was only restored to its former glory in 1983.
- Deoksugung Stone Wall Road
Deoksugung Stone Wall Road is Seoul’s first urban space created from eco-friendly materials. Lined with trees and benches, it is famous for being littered with rich yellow gingko leaves during the fall. The leisurely 900m stroll along Deoksugung Stone Wall Road provides the ultimate urban escape.
Within walking distance of the Stone Wall Road, Deoksugung Palace offers a scenic backdrop of traditional royal architecture. A 500-year-old maple tree in the garden has featured in numerous Korean blockbusters. Visitors to this site are also within close proximity to the Seoul Museum of Art, National Museum of Modern Contemporary Art, and Seoul Museum of History.
- Sculpture Park at The Shilla Seoul
Sculpture Garden is ideal for admiring autumn’s changing landscape and colours. Visitors can explore the 1.6km walking trail, which winds through lush forest greenery and The Shilla Seoul’s collection of 60-plus sculptures by celebrated Korean artists. The Garden is also set along the famed Seoul Fortress Wall, dating back to the 13th century.
Guests can alternatively choose to relax at Urban Island, The Shilla Seoul’s outdoor oasis, which has sweeping views of the N Seoul Tower and Seoul’s skyline. Designed in tiered layers for an intimate and exclusive retreat, Urban Island features private cabanas, heated indoor and outdoor pools, Jacuzzis and a Finnish sauna. Guests can soak up the autumn scenery while browsing the dining options from the poolside menu.
The Shilla Seoul’s “Urban Episode” package* invites guests to experience an ultimate getaway at Urban Island. Available from now until October 31st, the package includes accommodation in a Business Deluxe room, two entry passes to Urban Island and complimentary breakfast at The Parkview. Room rates for “Urban Episode” start at USD 293++ per night.
*Terms and conditions apply.
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