1. Visit the Heungingjimun (흥인지문)
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The word ‘Dongdaemun’ simply means the Large Eastern Gate. The Heungingjimun (Gate of Rising Benevolence) was the large eastern gate which used to be part of the outer wall of the Seoul Fortress during the ancient times. There are seven other ‘gates’ still standing till date in juxtaposition to the modern urban fabric of today, a clear evidence of its historical significance. Located just outside the Dongdaemun subway station exit 9, this landmark is a good photo-opportunity spot to start off the day!
2. Visit the Ihwa Mural village and Seoul Fortress Wall
Seoul City Wall
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sketch and run
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The several mural paintings on the walls and steps of the Ihwa mural village makes the journey upwards more interesting with pleasant surprises at almost every turn.
3. Visit the Cheonggyecheon (청계천)
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The Cheonggyecheon is a subterranean stream that is sunken below the street level that leads all the way to the Han River. Its lush landscaping helps in creating an intimate recreational and chilling space for couples and families.
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A good time to visit the Cheonggyecheon would be during sunset (timing changes depending on season.) If you’re lucky, there might be small community events and you might get treated to a free amateur Korean concert!
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Take note: although this is a recreational space, cycling along the Cheonggyecheon is discouraged. Instead, one may cycle along the main river with designated cycling paths.
4. Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Robert Koehler
Besides the ancient landmarks, Dongdaemun is also home to new architectural masterpieces. The DDP is a must for the artsy-fartsy and those interested in architecture. For a start, the DDP is designed by world-renowned American Iraqi-born ‘starchitect’ Zaha Hadid.
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This large futuristic complex sits on a historical site of not one but two stadiums side by side! The DDP is a one stop hub for several types of permanent and temporary exhibitions and art installations both indoor and outdoor.
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On top of that, there are souvenir shops and bookshops that sell cool and funky artworks, apparels and books dedicated to the art. Café chains at the basement offer visitors a place to pause to take a break from this (read this: tiring) activity.
5. A sumptuous meal at Samarkand Restaurant
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To end the day off with a proper meal, head southwards to this Muslim-owned Uzbekistan restaurant named Samarkand.
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It serves a mix of Western and Mediterranean food along with traditional local desserts and tea. Prices are affordable, about 10,000₩ for a decent main dish meal. Located deep within the secondary streets, it might be challenging to spot the restaurant’s entrance.
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Operating Hours: 09:00 – 23:00
Address: 120 Gwanghuidong 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Directions: Go to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Subway Station Exit 5, walk about 120m
Contact: +82-2-2277-4261
[caption id="attachment_2641" align="alignnone" width="970"]- The Heungingjimun
- Ihwa Mural Village and Seoul City Fortress Wall (loop path in clockwise manner)
- Cheonggyecheon
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza
- Samarkand Restaurant