For a period of time Hanuel Park used to be a landfill due to waste disposal when Seoul was developing their infrastructure into a metropolitan city. It took the city many more years and efforts to transform the land to a beautiful park.

Hanuel Park is one of the 5 parks located in close proximity to the World Cup Stadium. When doing my research I was excited to see the Pink Muhly Grass ~ so pretty and I was hoping I get to see it while I was there.

The nearest train station would be World Cup Stadium Station, exit 1. Once I exit the station I don’t know where to turn. I am not really good at reading still map and it took me a while to figure my way and I did a few additional unnecessary walk / detours just to find my way. At times like this, I just wish there were signage pointing us in the right direction.

When I was looking at the below map I was wondering to myself where should I turn, took a chance and decided to follow the crowd. To be honest I don’t even know where they are going and halfway through the walk I don’t see them anymore.

Took the left turn somehow saw this but it did not specifically point me to the right direction. There I was walking blindly while looking at google map to ensure I stayed on track.

Finally I managed to exit from the stadium and from a far I saw this and decided to take a chance and cross the road. After translation, it confirms that I am at Nanjicheon Park entrance and I am somewhat in the right direction. Hooray!

So from above monument signage walk straight ahead (think 90^o Angle) until you see another signage that will lead you to Haneul Park.

The initial plan was to walk up the 291 wooden steps to Hanuel Park, while we were there the stairs was under upgrading for the upcoming the yearly Silver Grass Festival / Pampas Grass Festival held in October. As such the only way up to Hanuel Park was to take a walk via the main road of the park entrance. If you feel that walking up the slop is tedious, you can also consider opting to take a golf-cart shuttle service for a small fee of 2,000 won (1 Way) or 3,000 won (return).

The weather was beautiful and we decided to take a slow walk up to Haneul Park. The slop is kind of steep and if you feel tired there are benches along the way. It was pretty shady and not too warm. We also see workers setting up the lighting and transplanting potted plants along the roadside which I assume was in preparation for the upcoming event.

I was hoping to see the Pink Muhly Grass, after wondering around I don’t seem to find it. I thought I could at least see shrubs of the grass but nah it’s nowhere to be found. I saw a portion of the field being cordon off as staffs were hard at work transforming that plot of land. Maybe this is where the Pink Muhly Grass is supposed to be based on the map.

There is also a convenient shop where I experience buying packet coffee and pouring it out to the ice cube cup. Haha it feels exciting and the sweet americano tastes good. 🤣 I also couldn’t help myself and purchase a Hershey chocolate ice bar. Absolutely divine.

While exploring Hanuel Park, there are different viewing platforms overlooking the Han River, wind turbo and Bukhansan Mountain. It was really lovely and I spent almost half a day just chilling and admiring the beautiful scenery.

There were several types of grass that are grown in Haneul Park. As their scientific names are too complicated for me I shall refer to them as Lalang – a Malay word which represents weed / wild grass. A term which I’m more familiar with and hit closer to home.

These Lalang are just so beautiful, standing tall against the gorgeous blue skies, swaying gently against the breeze. There are photo zones throughout the park where the Lalang are exceptionally in full bloom. Nice spot to capture lovely photos.

I also think Hanuel Park is where the local would come up to admire the sunset. I saw many families walking up as I was leaving the park. I was planning to visit another place regretfully could not stay any longer than I should.

Before we walked towards the subway station, we decided to walk along the Metasequoia Tree trail leading towards the suspension bridge. It was a lovely walk and we could see locals sitting at the picnic benches chilling and having deep conversations. From the suspension bridge it actually link to Pyeonghwa Park and to the World Cup Stadium! Aiyo ~ If I understand the map better this route was faster to reach Hanuel Park!

We could hear loud music playing and saw many youths. Looks like there is a concert – Idol Radio happening later at night. I could see tentages selling photocards (I think) of bands such as Ikon, Apink, etc. Did not see any signage leading me to the subway; however, I saw a staircase going down one level and just wing it. Somehow, we entered the World Cup Stadium Mall (so many shops, clothes, shoes to see!), and from inside thankfully there are directions to leading to the subway station.

Onwards to my next destination ~ which I am really excited about and so glad I could experience it. See you in the next post!

XOXO