Seoul celebrates its 10th year of the Seoul Lantern Festival this November! Illuminated life-size paper lanterns line in the Cheonggyecheon Stream in the heart of Seoul. Last year the lanterns featured Olympic Mascots Soohorang and Bandabi celebrating the 2017 Winter Olympics.
The 2018 the theme, "Seoul Dream, Flowing Light" highlights the accomplishments of Seoul presenting lanterns of the Seoul Tower, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul Station, k-pop and basketball stars and more!
The Cheonggyecheon Stream is 1.2 km long. Normally you can enter the stream at various locations. However, for the Lantern Festival, the access points have been blocked off. Enter the stream at location closest to City Hall.
By subway, Jonggak Station ( Exit 5) on Line 1 is closest to the entrance. Once you exit the station, walk one block straight until you see the stream. Turn right until you see the swirly red and blue tree.
The Koreana Hotel is also close to the entrance of the stream and makes a great marker to enter into Waze.
How Long Does Lantern Festival Last?
The Seoul Lantern Festival begins on the first Friday in November until the third Sunday in November. In 2018, the festival runs from November 2nd through November 18th. The lanterns are lit every day from 17:00 until 23:00. After dark the lanterns are the most stunning.
The lanterns are lit every day of the week as well. Please note, the Cheonggyechenon Stream is extremely crowded on the weekends. However, crowds thin out considerably after 21:00.
Plan on spending an hour and a half to two hours to enjoy the Lantern Festival.
How Much Does the Lantern Festival Cost
Admission to the festival is free.
To decorate a paper lantern and release it into the stream costs 3000 won. The paper lanterns can be purchased along the stream closer to the entrance.
What to Wear
Temperatures in November are quickly dropping, especially after the sun sets. During the day time, expect temperatures in the 40°s and 50°s Fahrenheit (4° to 10°C) . Evening temperatures will be between the 20°s and 40°s Fahrenheit (-7° to 4°C). Most importantly, the winds really whip through the corridor of the stream. Consider wearing layers: a thick coat, hat, gloves, comfortable shoes with a thick sole, and wool socks.
Hotels Near the Festival
Affiliate Link: At no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
The Koreana Hotel is located near the entrance to the Lantern Festival. For a more budget friendly option, the Sleepy Panda Stream Walk is located near the end of the stream. Make reservations early as hotels fill up quickly during the festival.
Visit Booking.com to view availability and the latest rates for:
Koreana Hotel
Sleepy Panda Stream Walk Hotel
Is the Lantern Festival Stroller Friendly?
Many people have taken strollers to the Lantern Festival. Be aware that there are a few rough concrete sections that may be difficult to maneuver with a stroller. Also, the crowds may add a degree of difficulty. Wearing a baby carrier will make it easier to move about. However, some have said that they were extremely thankful they brought a stroller because their child was able to sleep.
Restrooms
Consider using the restroom before entering the stream, especially if you have small children. There are not restrooms along the walkway of the stream. Instead, restrooms can be found on the street level.
Let Us Know!
Share your tips for the Lantern Festival in the comments sections below. Also, which Lantern Festival was your favorite? We would love to hear from you!
Forever by VYEN
Dance of the Uboat by Aakash Gandhi
29 сен 2024
