Seoul Day 1 – Browsing at Namdaemun Market

As I was really tired the night before from the flight to Seoul, I started my first day a little bit later than usual. I set an alarm for 8:00 am but kept on hitting the snooze button that I actually woke up at 9:00 am. So much for getting up early!

I felt the cold weather instantly creep in when I got out into the streets. To add to that, wind was constantly blowing from the nearby mountains.  Good thing I prepared myself by wearing two layers of jackets. All set to go exploring in the city of Seoul.

Since I’m meeting some friends over at Namdaemun Market, I decided to have this day as the most chill – no stressing to go to many places. 

From where I’m staying, it’s a 15 minute walk to the subway station in Anguk – brisk walk mind you. You’d want to walk fast anyway due to the cold weather.

My friends told me that we are to meet at Hoehyeon Station. So, upon arriving at Anguk station, I scanned the subway map on located on the wall on how to get to my destination. Being a first timer on the Seoul subway system, it took me a while to figure things out.

Here’s what I needed to do: from Anguk Station, it’s a ride on Line 3 – Orange Line to Chungmuro Station where you can interchange to Line 4 - Light Blue Line to Hoehyeon Station.

At Chungmuro Station, someone suddenly approached me to ask for directions. It was a funny encounter! Perhaps she thought I was a local? I tried my best to help – good thing that we were bound for the same direction. The only difference is that she is going to Myeongdong – a station ahead to where I’m headed. We made small talk while waiting for the train. Apparently, she is from Australia and on a business trip here at Seoul. Really cool!

I finally got to Hoehyeon Station and met up with my friends at Exit 5.

We strolled along Namdaemun Market even if it was drizzling a bit. There were so many shops selling all kinds of items – from clothes to fresh produce among others. Going around this market is overwhelming with the numerous items you can see and purchase at very low prices.

courtesy of http://english.visitkorea.or.kr

Map of Namdaemun Market
courtesy of http://english.visitkorea.or.kr

We took our time exploring the area until around lunchtime. Some of the things we were able to buy include cosmetic products, kitchen utensils, and Korean made souvenirs.

How to get to Namdaemun Market: Hoehyeon Station Exit 5 (Subway Line 4 – Light Blue Line)

What do you find interesting about Namdaemun Market? Perhaps you've been here too? Tell me about your experiences by commenting below or by using the Contact button on the right.

Up next, lunch at Saboten located in Shinsegae Department Store.

Want to discover more about my 5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul, South Korea? Just click the link.