An ecological oasis in Seoul's Mapo-gu, inside World Cup Park — reborn from a former landfill. Free to enter, it is Seoul's top spot for silver-grass meadows, Han River sunsets and the city skyline. Climb the eco-hill and watch the afterglow spread across the skyline.
Key facts gathered in one place for quick reading and fast decisions.
Location
Mapo-gu, Seoul
95 Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (World Cup Park · Haneul Park).
Highlight
Silver-grass & sunset
An eco-hill reborn from a landfill; in autumn the silver-grass (eulalia) ripples in the wind — Seoul's favorite sunset and skyline viewpoint.
Hours
06:00–22:00 (winter ~21:00)
Adjusted by season and sunset; allow time to descend before closing.
Admission
Free
A public ecological park with no ticket and no reservation needed.
Haneul Park (하늘공원, Haneul Park) sits inside World Cup Park in Seoul's Mapo-gu — an ecological park built atop the former Nanjido (난지도) landfill. '하늘' means 'sky' in Korean, and the park takes its name from the high hill that seems to touch the sky. It is both Seoul citizens' weekend green lung for climbing, reed-viewing and sunsets, and a symbol of 'waste-to-wonder' environmental regeneration — once Seoul's largest garbage mountain, now an ecological oasis where silver-grass sways and migratory birds rest.
Haneul Park is an ecological park in Seoul's Mapo-gu, inside World Cup Park, transformed from the former Nanjido landfill and managed by the Seoul Metropolitan Government as urban green space. Long a public place for citizens to climb, view reeds and watch the sunset, it is also a symbol of 'resource cycling' and 'environmental regeneration' for the city.
Following the landfill closure, ecological regeneration and on-site signs, we present the history of Haneul Park — from garbage mountain to urban oasis.
Nanjido (난지도), where Haneul Park stands, was Seoul's largest landfill from 1978 to 1993, receiving most of the city's household waste in mounds tens of meters high. After closure, the city stabilized the hill with thick soil cover and grass, and leveraged the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup to promote environmental regeneration — opening in 1999 as part of 'World Cup Park' under the name 'Haneul Park'. '하늘 (sky)' refers both to its towering height and to the city's upward transformation.
After closure, soil and vegetation gradually stabilized the hill, and pioneer plants such as silver-grass (eulalia) naturally colonized it into a unique upland meadow. Today it is not only a rare urban meadow in Seoul but also a stopover for migratory birds and a window for stargazing and sunset — the once foul-smelling garbage mountain has become the city's 'green lung'.
Haneul Park forms 'World Cup Park' together with Peace Park, Pyeonghwa (Peace) Park, Nakji (Orchid) Park, Noeul (Sunset) Park and Haneul (Sky) Park — a representative environmental regeneration landmark of Seoul. It weaves 'waste treatment — ecological restoration — public recreation' into a readable urban narrative.
The park reaches the summit via the famous 291 ecological stairs, preserving the ritual of climbing while also serving elders, children and the less mobile — an upper service road carries the eco-shuttle (eco-shuttle). The grass is ringed by boardwalks to minimize trampling, a model of 'low-impact development'.
Today Haneul Park has shifted from a barren hill to an urban green space anyone can reach. Free and open, it draws morning exercisers and dusk sunset-watchers, and during the autumn reed festival becomes a citywide event — a node where Seoul's daily life and tourism meet.
From garbage mountain to oasis, Haneul Park is seen as a spiritual corner of Seoul's urban transformation and sustainable development, echoing the global 'waste-to-wonder' narrative. It reminds us that great urban landmarks often come from a gentler treatment of the land.
Nanjido, where Haneul Park stands, received most of Seoul's household waste from 1978 to 1993, with mounds tens of meters high. Today, covered in soil and greenery, the autumn silver-grass ripples in the wind — few would guess a garbage mountain lies beneath their feet.
When you visit, official signs and maps at the foot and summit are the most authoritative first-hand source on its regeneration history. We translate and explain each one.
The following readings are based on on-site photos of the Seoul Metropolitan Government's regeneration signs, ecological maps and shuttle instructions.
난지도 매립지 · 월드컵공원 조성
Nanjido Landfill & World Cup Park Development
The sign records: Nanjido was Seoul's largest household-waste landfill (1978–1993); after closure it was ecologically restored with soil cover and greenery, and World Cup Park was built for the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup. Haneul Park opened in 1999 as part of it — a public green space for citizens to climb and view the river.
억새 · 철새 · 초지 생태
Silver-grass · Birds · Meadow Ecology
The bilingual eco sign explains: the Haneul Park meadow naturally succeeded after landfill soil cover, with silver-grass (eulalia) as the dominant pioneer plant; in autumn the reeds turn snow-white, and in spring/summer it hosts insects and migratory birds — reminding visitors not to enter the slope and to protect it together.
계단 · 데크로드 · 에코셔틀
Stairs · Boardwalk · Eco-shuttle
The park map marks: 291 ecological stairs to the summit; an upper road for the eco-shuttle (eco-shuttle) with fixed stops and a fare; the grass ringed by boardwalks, with wheelchairs and strollers reaching the summit platform via the upper road. Note last-departure times and suspension in bad weather.
Haneul Park is more than a sunset spot — it is public heritage weaving environmental regeneration, urban design and ecological succession. Two angles to read it.
An eco-park built on a landfill
The park reaches the summit via 291 ecological stairs, with an upper road for the eco-shuttle; the grass is ringed by boardwalks to minimize trampling. The structure follows the hill and wind — plain and practical, harmonizing with the silver-grass meadow into a harmonious urban mountain scene, a vivid example of 'low-impact development'.
A cultural symbol of Seoul's regeneration
'Haneul Park' comes from its sky-touching height, yet its predecessor was Seoul's largest landfill. From foul hill to silver-grass oasis, this transformation made it Seoul's 'waste-to-wonder' urban image and citizens' gentlest sunset memory.
A small hill built on garbage — why did it cross eras to become Seoul's environmental symbol? Behind it are layered narratives of waste, land and city memory.
Nanjido received most of Seoul's household waste, mounds tens of meters high; after closure the city reborn the land most gently, and Haneul Park is the start of that restoration.
As part of World Cup Park, it shifted from barren hill to an urban green space anyone can reach, carrying Seoul citizens' daily life of climbing, river-viewing and rest.
The same hill connects landfill history, meadow ecology, and today's sunset and skyline. It reminds us: great urban landmarks are often where history and reality coexist.
Different visitors each find their best 'way in'.
共鸣点：Free, open and safe urban green space; kids can see reeds, view the Han River and easily summit by eco-shuttle.
建议：Take the shuttle up; combine Peace Park lawn and Nanji Hangang cycling — adjust order by stamina.
共鸣点：Dusk sunset and city nightscape are Seoul's most romantic frames, with high shot rates.
建议：Secure the summit deck 60–90 min before sunset; shoot blue moment for both lights and sky color.
共鸣点：As a meadow sample reborn from a landfill, the silver-grass succession and migratory birds are worth a close look.
建议：Link Haneul Park with Nanji Hangang wetlands into an 'urban ecology tour'.
共鸣点：No need to go far — observe reed meadows and Han River sunsets right in Seoul; also link subway, the World Cup Stadium and local food — the ideal start to understand Seoul's urban transformation.
建议：Take Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Stn, then walk/shuttle.
A structured guide to reaching Seoul, city transfers, walking/cycling, parking and EV charging for Haneul Park.
Haneul Park is inside World Cup Park in Seoul's Mapo-gu. The easiest external link is flying into Incheon (ICN)/Gimpo (GMP) or taking the KTX to Seoul Station, then the subway. In the city, the park is next to Line 6 World Cup Stadium Stn (월드컵경기장); transferring from Line 2/AREX usually takes ~30–50 min. Haneul Park is an ~90 m eco-hill — from the foot you climb 291 stairs or take the eco-shuttle.
The park is an open ecological area with no walls or gates. Plan transport, parking and the summit route together — the shuttle greatly reduces the climb, especially with elders, infants or luggage.
Plane (Incheon / Gimpo)
Common for overseas and domestic long-haul; Gimpo is closer with frequent flights, Incheon has the widest international network.
Train (KTX / high-speed)
From Busan, Daejeon etc. take KTX to Seoul Station, then subway to Mapo.
Public transit (subway / bus)
Easiest for most travelers — subway goes right to the foot of the hill.
Car (parking / charging)
Good with kids/elders, lots of luggage, or touring Seoul; no big dedicated lot at the summit.
Taxi / ride-hail
Easiest with luggage, kids/elders, or early/late arrival.
Bike / walk
The most relaxing way to feel Seoul's green.
Walk (neighborhood roam)
If you are around Mapo/Hongdae, walking is the most natural way to see the city-park transition.
Haneul Park has no large dedicated lot. Below are the nearest main parking and charging options; rates and availability vary by season/time — see on-site signs.
| Option | Distance | Price |
|---|---|---|
| World Cup Park combined parking (Peace Park) | ~1.0–1.5 km (to foot) | Public rates lower, fills in peak |
| Haneul Park foot temporary parking | ~300–500 m | Roadside/small lot, few spaces, easier off-peak |
| World Cup Stadium area parking | ~1.5–2 km | Mall & stadium lots, tight on event days |
| Nanji Hangang Park parking | ~2–2.5 km | Riverside public lot, good for biking |
| Drop-off (foot stairs) | ~200 m | Brief stop only, no space |
Foot roads jam badly on holidays and during the reed festival — do not block bus/fire lanes for long. EV chargers are mostly at the combined parking and some municipal lots; none dedicated at the summit. Rates/limits may change — see posted signs.
Haneul Park is visitable any time, but dusk is typically the best window to observe the sunset, the Han River and the Seoul skyline together. If the morning is cloudy or windy, shift the focus to Peace Park strolls, Nanji Hangang cycling and nearby cultural stops.
No large dedicated lot at the summit, but World Cup Park combined parking and the foot temporary lot are reachable by walk/shuttle. They fill fast on weekends/peak — arrive early or park farther and transfer.
The foot temporary lot is ~300–500 m, the closest; the combined lot is ~1.0–1.5 km with more spaces but tight in peak.
Very little. The foot roads are narrow and congested on holidays — do not park roadside for long; use proper lots and transit.
Unless you need parking, better not. The reed festival and weekends jam badly; walking or transit is smoother. If driving, park nearby and shuttle/walk up.
Strongly. Line 6 to World Cup Stadium Stn, Exit 1 ~15 min walk to the foot, then stairs or shuttle. Address: 95 Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Best by transit: Line 6 World Cup Stadium Stn, walk to the foot then stairs or eco-shuttle; or drive and park nearby then transfer. Address: 95 Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Make Haneul Park the climax and link Peace Park, Nanji Hangang Park and the World Cup Stadium — feel the 'garbage mountain to oasis' miracle in half a day.
[Start] Peace Park gather & lawn warm-up
Rest · ~30–45 min
Walk from World Cup Stadium Stn Exit 1 to Peace Park; warm up and photograph the open lawn, fountains and pond.
[Stop 2] Climb Haneul Park stairs for the reeds
Summit · ~60–90 min
Climb the 291 ecological stairs to the summit; autumn silver-grass and the dusk skyline are best. Take the eco-shuttle if low on energy.
[Stop 3] Nanji Hangang Park cycle or stroll
Riverside · ~45–60 min
Descend west to Nanji Hangang Park; follow the Han River for wetlands, migratory birds and afterglow. Rent a public bike.
[Stop 4] World Cup Stadium & surroundings
City · ~45 min
Return to the stadium area; view the stadium exterior, browse culture and dining — the legacy of the 2002 World Cup.
[End] Hongdae / Mangwon Market dinner
Food · ~60 min
One or two subway stops to Hongdae or Hapjeong for street food and night markets, ending the eco-cultural half-day.
This is a typical pace; season, weather and crowds affect walking speed — adjust flexibly to on-site conditions.
Haneul Park sits on an ~90 m ecological hill; the ascent stairs (the famous 'Haneul Park stairs') are steep. Know these in advance for a safe, smooth climb.
Stairs & gradient
Many steps, steep
About 291 ecological stairs from Peace Park to the summit — physically demanding. Wear comfy shoes, slow down and rest in stages.
Sun & wind
Exposed, windy top
The hill is open with little shade; sunscreen and water in summer, warm layers for the strong river wind in autumn/winter. Light fades after sunset — plan ahead.
Night & descent
Dim lights, mind knees
Some slopes have limited lighting before closing; descents stress the knees — elders and children should use the gentle loop or the eco-shuttle.
The classic route is about 291 ecological stairs and fairly steep. Those with limited stamina, infants or reduced mobility can take the park's eco-shuttle (eco-shuttle) along the service road straight to the upper platform, avoiding the climb.
The park closes around sunset; light drops quickly afterwards and some slopes are dimly lit, plus the descent is hard on the knees. Start going down right after sunset, or take the last shuttle.
The silver-grass slope is a protected zone — no stepping on, sitting on or picking the grass. The area is windy and near flight paths, so drones are prohibited without permission. Use the designated paths and take your trash with you.
This is both a citizen's green space and a habitat we must protect together. Following these rules is basic respect for nature and others.
The silver-grass slope is a protected ecological zone — do not step on, sit on or pick the grass; stay on the paved paths and boardwalks.
Bins at the top and on the slope are limited and the wind scatters litter. Bring a small bag and take everything away when you leave.
Many come specifically to watch the sunset and city nightscape in silence. Before and around sunset, please lower your voice and avoid loud music.
The grass is highly flammable in dry seasons — the whole park is smoke-free; no open flame, BBQ or smoking, to prevent fire.
Seoul is a city 'where river meets city'. We do not recommend specific hotels, but help you read two lodging patterns to choose what fits you.
Best for transit & nightlife
Stay in Hongdae or Hapjeong and Line 6 and AREX are at your door, making Haneul Park, the World Cup Stadium and Yeouido easy; the night street food and craft markets suit young travelers. Best for those focused on 'city roam + eco park' with high convenience.
Quiet river views, family-friendly
Stay along the Han in Mapo or Yeouido; morning riverside walks and cycling, then subway to Haneul Park. Best for those focused on 'river, sunset, slow family trips'.
In Seoul's spring/autumn peak (especially the October reed festival and April cherry season) and holidays, rooms tighten as tourists flood in and prices rise clearly. Book weeks ahead; if booking near a holiday, widen the search to Jongno, Gangnam and other areas, then take the subway back.
95 Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea (Plus Code: HV8P+X5)
Practical info about Haneul Park's facilities, history and visit planning.
No large dedicated lot at the summit, but World Cup Park combined parking (Peace Park underground/surface, public rates) and the foot temporary lot are reachable, then walk or take the eco-shuttle. Rates vary by season; they fill fast on weekends/peak, so arrive early or prefer transit.
The summit platform and upper road are reachable by the eco-shuttle (eco-shuttle), so wheelchairs and strollers can reach the upper viewing area; but the classic 291 stairs are steep with no ramp — the lower-to-upper move needs the shuttle. The boardwalks are gentle and good for pushing.
The summit slope has no shops or food; the nearest water and public toilets are at the foot (Peace Park), Nanjicheon and the combined parking (~10–15 min walk back). Stock up before going up.
'하늘' means sky; the park sits on an ~90 m eco-hill that seems to touch the sky, hence 'Haneul Park'. Its predecessor was Seoul's largest Nanjido landfill — the name and the land together tell a regeneration story from garbage mountain to oasis.
After landfill closure and soil cover, pioneer plants like silver-grass naturally formed a meadow — now a stopover for migratory birds and a window for stargazing and sunset; the stairs-plus-shuttle design is also a model of 'low-impact development' and sustainability.
Haneul Park is a public ecological park, free daily ~06:00–22:00 (seasonal), with no gate, no ticket and no reservation — visit anytime.
A typical summit takes about 1–2 hours (stairs/shuttle plus time at the top); allow half a day if adding Peace Park, Nanji Hangang Park and the World Cup Stadium.
Yes — it is an open park, visitable in any weather. But the summit slope is windy; in thunderstorms or snow it gets slippery with low visibility — wear grippy shoes, watch the weather and closing time; the eco-shuttle may suspend in bad weather.
From Haneul Park you can link Peace Park, Nakji (Orchid) Park, Nanji Hangang Park (wetlands & cycling), the Seoul World Cup Stadium, and farther out Hongdae/Mangwon Market and Yeouido Hangang Park — a half-day 'eco–culture–food' line in western Seoul.
As Seoul's most recognizable urban-nature landmark, a few structured spots and times greatly boost your photos' usefulness and beauty.
📍 Southwest viewing deck
Summit 60–90 min before sunset and wait for the sun to set behind the skyline across the Han. Frame with the meadow as foreground and the city as extension — Haneul Park's classic 'sunset' composition.
📍 Boardwalk-ringed slope
In autumn (usually October) the silver-grass turns snow-white; backlight makes the plumes glow, while frontlight captures the whole meadow's texture.
📍 Viewing deck facing the city
After sunset the sky warms and the city lights turn on; the blue moment (20–30 min after sunset) balances sky and lights — the most atmospheric window.
📍 291 ecological stairs / upper road
Looking back from the foot at the 291 stairs, or along the boardwalk including the meadow and Han River in a wider frame — good for a closing wide shot.
From silver-grass meadows, Han River sunsets and the city skyline to four-season slopes — see the visual beauty of Haneul Park.
Visitor Quotes
“At the summit at dusk, the whole Seoul skyline lit up by afterglow with the scent of reeds on the wind — truly healing.”
“The autumn silver-grass blankets the slope like snow, free and overlooking the Han River — Seoul's gentlest sunset spot.”
“Took the eco-shuttle up with the kids, skipping the 291 stairs — easy even for the elders.”
Visitor feedback is available on Google Maps (external link).
Summited before sunset; the afterglow lit the skyline and the place went quiet — strongly recommend dusk, best light.
Open slope, great views; the shuttle is family-friendly, but the top is windy so dress warm.
Worth it as a free city park; the 291 stairs are a real workout — take the shuttle if not fit.
About 15 min walk from World Cup Stadium Stn; Peace Park on the way is lovely for a half-day stroll.