Cheonggyecheon Stream

Cheonggyecheon Stream in Seoul (청계천)

Cheonggyecheon Stream is a 'revitalized' old stream hidden underneath concrete road and bridges in central Seoul.

Cheonggyecheon was a once a clean stream (of course) before Seoul became so crowded. It was kept hidden and under an elevated highway. The stream keeps flowing under for many years until 2003 when the Seoul mayor decided to ditch the road and re-vitalized and beautify the stream.

The project was controversial, marred with corruption, grumbles from businesses in the area and protests from environmentalists. However, when the project was completed, it looks nice, well-beautified and natural-looking stream. The mayor claimed that the project is a success and said that it is possible to re-vitalize a dead stream, which is not totally true as the water flowing through it comes from the main river – Han River – being pumped into the stream.

Cheonggyecheon is nicely planned for visitors to stroll and spend a relaxing time in the middle of Seoul’s cacophony. It has two concrete pathways – one on each side. Trees, flowering plants, bushes, and other plants are some of the major contributors to its beauty. Since the stream is continually flowing, you can see some living creatures including fish, visiting ducks and other water creatures. The flowing water will calm you down as it dilutes the noise from the cars passing along the road just above it.

Beside the pathways that plank by the stream, you can also walk by the stream through the pathways by the street level. If you head west, you will find exciting sights including the fountains, sculpture, and other works of art. You can also cross back and forth the stream through the stepping stones which somehow creates a semi-barrier blocking the flowing water. You will finally see a piece of modern art which looks exactly like an elongated red-and-blue dog stool, but it seems like a shell to me anyway.

More Features

Sitting Area
By the street level pathway, you can use the sitting area, chairs with tables and parasols which are mostly located in the stream’s source area where you can find the fountain.

The sitting area and tables are for free, and you can bring in food and drinks from the restaurants, bars, and small stores or coffee shops just across the stream.

Seasonal / Events Showcases
Various sorts of interesting decors, artworks, and event materials can be seen depending on the season. For example, a month before Buddha’s Birthday celebration, which falls on May 22, you will discover beautifully created lanterns with fantastic designs, shapes, and colors. It is worth experiencing during the evening time.

During special days, for whatever reason, you will experience lights of various colors and some neon lights shooting out from anywhere by the stream creating dream-like atmosphere and environment.

 

Colorful statue lamps look very attractive

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