Nestled in Seoul’s vibrant Mapo District, the World Cup Park (월드컵공원) hides a natural masterpiece: the Metasequoia Path. This 500-meter tunnel of towering dawn redwoods offers a surreal escape from urban bustle, especially magical in autumn. Here’s your essential guide to experiencing this Instagram-famous wonder.
Why Visit?
The Metasequoia (dawn redwood) trees, planted in 2002 for the FIFA World Cup, soar over 20 meters high. Their needle-like leaves transform through the seasons:
- Spring/Summer: Lush green canopies create a cool, shaded promenade.
- Autumn (October–November): A jaw-dropping golden corridor. Sunlight filters through amber leaves, painting the path in fiery hues—peak photography time!
- Winter: Snow-dusted branches form a stark, fairy-tale silhouette.
How to Get There
- Subway: Take Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Station (Exit 1). Walk 10 mins toward Peace Park (평화의 공원).
- Bus: Routes 271, 571, or 7017 to World Cup Stadium/Sangam Digital Complex.
- Entry: Free! Open 24/7, but visit sunrise/sunset for dreamy lighting.
Pro Tips for Visitors
- Timing is Everything:
- Sunrise (6–8 AM): Crowd-free serenity.
- Weekdays: Avoid weekend crowds.
- Photography:
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the towering perspective.
- For “golden hour,” arrive 1 hour before sunset.
- Comfort First: Wear walking shoes—the path is flat but stretches 500m.
- Extend Your Trip: Combine with:
- Sky Park (하늘공원): Seasonal flowers and panoramic city views.
- Nanji Han River Park: Rent bikes for riverside trails.
- World Cup Stadium: Architecture tours and nearby cafes.
Eco-Notes
These Metasequoia glyptostroboides are “living fossils,” once thought extinct. Thriving in Seoul’s climate, they symbolize resilience—perfect for reflective strolls!
Nearby Eats
Refuel at Sangam-dong Food Street:
- Mapo Mandu: Steamed dumplings (₩5,000).
- Haneul Patjuk: Sweet red bean porridge—ideal in winter!
Final Thoughts
The Metasequoia Path isn’t just a walk—it’s sensory therapy. Whether you’re chasing autumn’s gold or summer’s shade, this tranquil tunnel embodies Seoul’s harmony of nature and urban life. Pack your camera, breathe deep, and step into one of Korea’s most ethereal landscapes.
Pro Tip: Pair your visit with the Seoul Kimchi Festival (November) for a cultural deep-dive! 🌳🍂