If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time and want to experience one of the city’s best panoramic views in the most convenient and enjoyable way, then taking the Namsan Cable Car should be at the top of your itinerary. The Namsan Cable Car is a quick and scenic mode of transportation that takes visitors from the base of Namsan Mountain to the top, where the iconic N Seoul Tower awaits with its breathtaking views and exciting attractions. Instead of hiking up the mountain, which can be physically demanding, the cable car provides a comfortable and time-saving way to enjoy the stunning Seoul skyline, making it an excellent option for tourists of all ages, including families with children and elderly travelers.
📍 Location & How to Get to Namsan Cable Car
Navigating a foreign city can sometimes be challenging, but getting to the Namsan Cable Car Boarding Station is quite simple, as it is centrally located near Myeongdong, one of Seoul’s most famous shopping and dining districts. Depending on your location, you can reach the cable car station by walking, taking public transportation, or using a taxi.
🚇 By Subway (Most Recommended for Tourists)
- Option 1: From Myeongdong Station (Line 4, Exit 3) → After exiting, walk straight for about 5 minutes until you reach the Namsan Ormi Elevator (a free outdoor elevator that takes you up to the cable car station).
- Option 2: From Hoehyeon Station (Line 4, Exit 4) → Walk uphill for about 7–10 minutes to reach the cable car station.
🚌 By Shuttle Bus (Recommended for Those Avoiding Walking)
For visitors who prefer not to walk, the Namsan Sunhwan (Circular) Bus is a great option.
- Bus No. 02, 03, or 05 will take you directly to the Namsan Cable Car boarding station.
- You can board these buses from major subway stations like Chungmuro Station or Dongguk University Station.
🚖 By Taxi (Easiest but More Expensive Option)
- Simply tell the driver: “남산 케이블카 타는 곳으로 가주세요” (“Please take me to the Namsan Cable Car boarding station.”)
- If you’re coming from Myeongdong, the taxi ride will take only 5 minutes, but from Gangnam or Hongdae, it may take 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
📌 Cable Car Boarding Station Address:
83 Sopa-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea (서울특별시 중구 소파로 83)
⏰ Operating Hours & Ticket Prices
Since Seoul is a city that never sleeps, the Namsan Cable Car also operates late into the night, allowing visitors to enjoy both daytime and nighttime views of the city.
🕒 Opening Hours:
- Daily: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Last ride: 10:30 PM (Subject to change on holidays and weekends)
- Round Trip: ₩15,000 (Adults) / ₩11,500 (Children)
- One Way: ₩12,000 (Adults) / ₩9,000 (Children)
- Discounts: Seniors and groups may receive special discounts (check at the ticket booth).
📌 Tickets can be purchased directly at the cable car station or online via travel booking platforms like Klook or Naver Booking.
🌆 What to Expect on the Namsan Cable Car Ride
Once you arrive at the Namsan Cable Car boarding station, you’ll be greeted by the sight of large glass-walled cable cars that can accommodate up to 48 passengers per ride. The ride itself is short but incredibly scenic, lasting around 3 minutes as you slowly ascend Namsan Mountain, offering unobstructed panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline.
One of the best aspects of taking the cable car is that you’ll get a unique perspective of the city’s blend of modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks, all while being surrounded by the lush greenery of Namsan Park. If you visit during spring, you’ll see cherry blossoms lining the mountain, while in autumn, the landscape transforms into a sea of red and gold. If you ride at night, the view is even more spectacular, as the entire city lights up, creating a romantic and unforgettable experience.
Once you reach the top, you’ll arrive at the base of N Seoul Tower, where you can explore a variety of attractions, including:
✔️ 360° City Views from the observatory, offering the best aerial view of Seoul
✔️ Love Locks & Romantic Photo Spots, where couples can attach a love padlock as a symbol of their relationship
✔️ Cafés & Restaurants with a View, including a revolving restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with a constantly changing cityscape
🌟 Tips for a Great Experience
✔️ Visit on a clear day to get the best visibility and enjoy an unobstructed view of the entire city.
✔️ Go in the evening if you want to see Seoul’s skyline sparkle with millions of city lights.
✔️ Avoid peak hours (weekends & holidays, 5-7 PM) to skip long waiting lines.
✔️ Wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to walk around Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower.
✔️ Bring a camera or make sure your phone is fully charged—this is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Seoul!