Five best places to enjoy winter activities in Seoul ~ Korean lovers

Senin, 31 Januari 2011

Five best places to enjoy winter activities in Seoul

Do you like this story?

The worst cold spell in years continues to grip the nation. So it’s not surprising for people to keep warm at home rather than going outside. But, a new study has warned that higher indoor temperatures during winter are linked to obesity. According to the study, reduced exposure to cold may affect the body’s ability to maintain a healthy weight by minimizing energy expenditure to stay warm, as well as reducing the body’s capacity to produce heat.

Don't let the weather keep you bored at home and gain some weight. How about heading out and doing some winter activities?

There are some good places to enjoy winter activities in Seoul.

1. Seoul Square Skating Rink

(until Feb. 13.2011)

Seoul Square in front of City Hall is a major symbol of Seoul. And when cold winter winds begin to blow, it transforms into an outdoor skating rink.

Open Hours: Monday~Thursday, Sunday 10:00~22:00

Friday, Saturday, Holidays 10:00~23:00

Admission Fee: 1000 won an hour (Skate and helmet rentals are included.)

** You should wear gloves in the skating rink.

Directions

-Subway Line 1, City Hall station, exit 3

(Walk in the direction of Koreana Hotel past Deoksugung Palace )
-Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung station, exit 6 or 7

(Walk in the direction of Koreana Hotel past Deoksugung Palace)
-Subway Line 5, Gwanghwamun station, exit 1 or 8

Homepage: www.seoulskate.or.kr

2. World Cup Park Skating Rink, Sled-riding rink

World Cup Park Skating Rink is just across the street from World Cup Park in the Mapo district of Seoul and there’re also Sky Park, Park of Peace and themed gardens nearby the skating rink.

Operating Hours: 10:00~22:00

Admission Fee : 1000won (no time limit)

**Age 65 or older : Free

Rental Fees: 1000 won ( 1hour)

Directions: Subway Line 6 World Cup Stadium Station Exit 1

3. Snow Flower Village

(until Feb .20.2011)

Snow Flower Village offers a snow sleigh field, Fun Snow Hill, 3-D movie theater, and air bounce (moonwalk). In the center of the village is a 90m long and 15m wide sledding field. This is a high-energy area for large children and young adults.

Operating Hours: 09:00~18:00

Admission Fee : 8000won (excluding the “Electric Car” experience)

Directions: Subway Line 7 Ttukseom Resort Station Exit 2

4. Seoul Dream Forest Skating Rink & Sled-riding Rink

It is located in the largely residential district of Gangbuk-gu in northern Seoul, which is characterized by a high concentration of apartment complexes. There are pond, a bamboo forest, and a beautiful Korean style pavilion( Woryeongdae) in Seoul Dream Forest. The pond, pavilion, and nearby waterfall are lit up at night and have become one of the most scenic night time locations in Seoul. In the western park of Seoul Dream Forest, visitors will find Dream Forest Arts Center, a beautiful new exhibit and performance space that has been masterfully designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape.

An another famous landmark of Seoul Dream Forest is a 50meter high observatory. It gives visitors 360 degree panoramic views of Seoul Dream Forest and the surrounding peaks, particularly those of nearby Mt. Bukhansan National Park.

Operating Hours: 10:00~22:00

Admission Fee : 1000won

Rental Fees: 1000 won

Directions: Subway Line 1 Wolgye Station Exit 2

(Walk 50m and take bus #147 to the east gate of Seoul Dream Forest)

5. Ice Garden

The central plaza in front of the Garden Five opened ice rink on Dec.4 last year. The Ice Garden can accommodate up to 400 skaters. It is covered with a dome-shaped sky parasol featuring LED lights to create various moods from one that is romantic to one of fantasy.