5 REASONS TO TRY KAYAKING ON THE HAN RIVER

Are you a student, expat or tourist looking to add a new experience to your South Korea bucket list? Why not kayak your way through the heart of Seoul while experiencing one of the most refreshing ways to explore it? Here are 5 reasons why kayaking on the Han River is worth trying!

1.     AN AFFORDABLE AND EASY-TO-BOOK ACTIVITY

The Hangang Kayaking is one of the most affordable water experiences in Seoul, with prices averaging ₩35,000 for a 2-hour session. You can book through various sites such as Trazy, Creatrip or GetYourGuide, with day and evening sessions available. You are advised to book your experience at least 3 days before, as it is a popular activity for tourists and locals, and the spots available get occupied easily. If you want to cancel your booking, you can take advantage of the cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel 3 days before the reserved date, you’ll be able to get a 100% refund, while if you cancel 1-2 days before, the refund will be 50% only. Any cancellation on the reserved day or less is non-refundable, so make sure you take this into account to avoid losing the money you invest. The kayaking tours can be cancelled due to bad weather, so if this happens, you’ll be informed and get a full refund. To avoid losing your reservation, make sure you arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the reserved time, as a refund won’t be possible if you miss the kayaking session. Most tours depart from Yeouido or Ttukseom Hangang Parks, which are easily accessible by subway or bus. Despite being provided with most of the equipment necessary, wetsuits aren’t included, so you need to rent one at ₩10,000 on site. Personal expenses (food, drinks, souvenirs) aren’t included in the price, so make sure you budget wisely!

2.     A PICTURESQUE AND PHOTO-WORTHY VIEW OF SEOUL

Why just walk by the Han River when you can experience it by floating through it? Kayaking can give you a different view of Seoul and its skyline, bridges and popular spots like Lotte Tower or Namsan Tower. If you are keen on taking pictures and posting on social media, kayaking is a photo-worthy adventure impossible to get from land. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for kayaking as the weather and scenery are the most pleasant. Morning paddles are the most relaxing and peaceful, while evening paddles are perfect for photography lovers and romantics at heart.

3.     A PERFECT EXPERIENCE FOR BOTH NEWCOMERS AND ENTHUSIASTS

Don’t worry if you have never gone kayaking before! Newcomers are as welcome as experienced people, so if you have never been in a kayak before, it’s time to try kayaking for the first time. As a beginner, you can request an English-speaking instructor who will guide you through safety tips and techniques. Some services offer a short kayaking lesson before you begin, so if you feel anxious about your lack of experience, this first preparatory lesson will definitely help you feel more comfortable. You are always provided with the necessary equipment before the kayaking experience at the location, so it isn’t necessary to bring your own.

4. AN ESCAPADE SUITABLE FOR BOTH ADVENTURE LOVERS AND TRANQUILITY SEEKERS

Kayaking initially sounds like an adrenaline-rushing activity that only adventure lovers would enjoy, doesn’t it? However, you don’t have to be in search of adventure to go kayaking on the Han River. You can float gently on the surface of the water in your kayak while listening to music, soaking up views, or just letting the rhythm of the water clear your head. It's perfect for solo travellers looking for quiet reflection, couples seeking a romantic twist, or friends chasing unique memories. Whether you seek tranquillity, connection, and relaxation or adventure, adrenaline and action, you should definitely try kayaking!

5.     AN EXPERIENCE THAT’S EARNING EXCELLENT REVIEWS

The kayaking experience on the Han River has received excellent feedback from participants so far, who consider it a unique way to explore Seoul from a new perspective. The instructors’ attentiveness is particularly appreciated, especially by the newcomers who are generally anxious about their first kayaking lesson. Reviewers always recommend booking kayaking tours in the evening because, during sunset, the views are absolutely gorgeous and unforgettable. You're encouraged to leave a review after your experience, as it means a lot to the organisers and helps future participants who are curious about trying kayaking!

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

·  Budget needed: ₩35,000 for a 2-hour session and additional money for personal expenses

· Minimum age: The minimum age requirement is 7 years old, and all minors under 12 have to be accompanied by their legal guardians.

·  Best seasons: Spring and fall offer the best weather and scenery.

·  Book early: Weekend slots fill fast, especially during sunset hours.

·  Time it right: Make sure you are at the meeting point 15 minutes before the session. Most tours end by dusk for safety reasons, so take this into account as well.

·  Necessary equipment: The activity provides participants with kayaks, but wetsuits are available to be rented at ₩10,000

·   Clothing: You might get wet during the kayaking activity, so prepare a towel and a change of clothes. You can use the changing room and the shower room if you need. Moreover, make sure you have the necessary clothing suitable for the season you are in.

·  Personal items: You can leave your belongings in the locker room, but if you have valuable items, it’s better to give them to the staff for increased security.

·  Safety precautions: Life jackets are provided for all participants.

·  Food and drinks: You can go on board with food and drinking water.

Whether you're chasing the perfect photo or just want to escape the city buzz for an hour, Han River kayaking offers one of the most relaxing, scenic, and easy-to-try activities in Seoul. Add it to your weekend plans and you won’t regret it!