Day Photos by: Derek
Night Photos: Randall Riojas
In the heart of the city, the Cheonggyecheon is a cool breath of fresh air in the dense heat of the city. If you visit in May or November, lanterns line the stream in a sea of fire. Any other time of the year though, the stream is just a great place to relax with some kimbab and a beer.
Cheonggyecheon at Night: The summer nights in Seoul are a temporary relief from the unforgiving heat of the day, so be like most Seoulites and head down to the river and cool off. In May and November, the lantern festival is a visual masterpiece and should be visited by all. Beer and lanterns. This is truly the Korean experience.
Who Should Visit the Cheonggyecheon: If you are coming for a short period of time, the Cheonggyecheon should be on your list. The excitement of the city can be maddening, and the Cheonggyecheon is a temporary sanctuary from the insanity. Teaching English for year or two or six? You have to head down during the festivals in May (During the week of Buddha’s Birthday) and November (The first week) for the festivities.
Who Should Avoid the Cheonggyecheon: Tourists who spit in the Cheonggyecheon.
Derek Versus Lonely Planet 
Really good snaps.
Thanks! My photographer is insanely talented.
Gorgeous photos! I love taking some time to walk along Cheonggyecheon whenever I’m nearby. I’m glad I caught the lanterns set up before Christmas but wish I’d known about the ones in May as well! 🙂
It’s a great walk. We love it! The nice part about November is it is usually in the early part of the month and the weather is still quite nice! 😎😎
Wonderful night shots.
Randall is extremely talented. Blessed that he did this night shoot with me.