Cheonggyecheon with kids : Cheonggyecheon Stream is a safe and delightful walking path right in the heart of Seoul, perfect for families. With gentle ramps for strollers and wheelchairs, it’s completely free for everyone to enjoy. From fun stepping stones to seasonal festivals, it’s a must-visit spot for your family trip to Seoul.
Why Cheonggyecheon(청계천) is a Perfect Walk for Kids
Running through the very center of Seoul, Cheonggyecheon Stream offers a safe and beautiful walkway for you and your little ones. Our own two-year-old loves strolling along in the stroller here, but also enjoys getting out to walk and play.
Especially, holding Dad’s hand to cross the stepping stones feels like a little adventure for them. It’s one of those small, happy moments you’ll remember from your trip!
Stroller & Wheelchair Access Information
Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?
Yes, absolutely! There is a gentle, winding ramp near Mojeongyo Bridge, right by the stream’s starting point at Cheonggye Plaza. Additionally, there’s an elevator at Samilgyo Bridge, which is about a 20-minute walk from the plaza.
Operating Hours:
Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s well-lit at night, making it safe for evening strolls.
Entrance Fee:
Free! You can come and go as many times as you like without any restrictions.
Cheonggyecheon with kids: Our Favorite Walking Course for Little Feet
On a map, Cheonggyecheon Stream is quite long, stretching from Gwanghwamun’s Cheonggye Plaza all the way past Dongdaemun DDP to the Yangnyeongsi Market.
But with kids, the best and most enjoyable route is the short walk from Cheonggye Plaza → Gwanggyo Bridge (Jongno).
- Time Needed: 5-10 minutes one way (about 15 minutes round trip)
- Distance: Approx. 400 meters (0.25 miles)
- Why we love it: It’s perfectly located near other famous tourist spots like Jongno, Insadong, and Myeongdong, making it easy to plan your day.
A Longer, Stroller-Friendly Course with More to See
Feeling like 400 meters is too short? If your little one is happy in the stroller and you want to see more, try walking from Mojeongyo Bridge to Samilgyo Bridge.
Along this route, you can see the impressive “King Jeongjo’s Royal Procession” mural, a long, detailed tile painting depicting a historical parade.
- Time Needed: About 20 minutes one way (about 35 minutes round trip)
- Distance: Approx. 800 meters (0.5 miles)
- Why we love it: This path connects the Gwanghwamun and Jongno areas and is close to Tapgol Park.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants & Cafes Near Cheonggyecheon
After a nice walk, having a place to rest is essential. Here are a couple of spots near the stream that are comfortable for families with young children.
For a Meal: Mad for Garlic This is a popular pizza and pasta restaurant. Despite the name, many dishes use garlic in a sweet, savory way that isn’t spicy. They provide high chairs, kids’ utensils, and sippy cups. It can get busy on weekends, so you might face a wait. Our baby’s favorites are the Gorgonzola Pizza and Carbonara!
For Snacks & Coffee: Starbucks Reserve (Jongno Tower Branch) Located between Cheonggyecheon and Jongno, this is a very spacious Starbucks with convenient elevator access. It’s the perfect spot for parents to enjoy a coffee while the kids relax. The window seats offer great views of the Jongno cityscape, and there are plenty of comfy sofas. The restrooms are clean and accessible, making it an ideal pit stop. Our child loves the sofas here too!
Restrooms & Other Facilities
When you’re traveling with kids, knowing where the nearest restroom is can be a lifesaver! Seoul has an “Open Restroom” policy, meaning you can use restrooms in many private buildings for free. Here are a few accessible ones near Cheonggyecheon.
(Source: Seoul Facilities Corporation https://www.sisul.or.kr/open_content/cheonggye/enjoy/gis.jsp)
| Section | Building Name | Address | Hours |
| Cheonggye Plaza | SK Building | 26 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu | 24/7 |
| Cheonggye Plaza | Seoul Global Center (4F, 5F) | 38 Jong-ro, Jongno-gu | 9am-6pm |
| Gwanggyo Bridge | Youngpoong Bookstore | 41 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu | 10am-10pm |
| Gwanggyo Bridge | KTO Seoul Center (2F) | 40 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jung-gu | 9am-10pm |
- Public Restrooms: You’ll also find public restrooms operated by the city at several points along the stream.
- Diaper Changing Stations: Some of the larger restrooms are equipped with diaper changing tables.
- Convenience Stores: There are several GS25 and CU convenience stores near Cheonggye Plaza and the Jongno entrances for quick snacks and drinks.
👉 Quick Tip: The most convenient restrooms are near Cheonggye Plaza and Gwanggyo Bridge. It’s a good idea to know their location before you start your walk!
Seasonal Events & Highlights
Cheonggyecheon transforms with the seasons, offering something new to see all year round.
- Spring: Walk alongside beautiful forsythia and cherry blossoms. An “Outdoor Library” often opens up.
- Summer: Perfect for dipping your feet in the cool water to escape the heat (swimming is not allowed).
- Fall: The crisp, pleasant weather is ideal for reading and strolling. You might catch small concerts or events.
- Winter: The stream is beautifully illuminated for the Seoul Lantern Festival.
👉 You can check the detailed schedule on the city’s official website: Cheonggyecheon Events Calendar (Official Korean Page)
How to Get There (Stroller-Friendly Routes)
By Subway:
- Line 5, Gwanghwamun Station, Exit 5 → Leads directly to Cheonggye Plaza.
- Line 1, Jonggak Station, Exit 5 → Closest to the Gwanggyo Bridge entrance.
👉 Both stations are equipped with elevators, making them convenient for strollers.
By Bus:
- Main Routes: 173, 7017, 7021, 7018, 101, 7101, 606, 741
Safety Rules & Tips to Remember
Enjoy your time at Cheonggyecheon with these few safety points in mind:
- Always hold your child’s hand when crossing the stepping stones.
- Dipping feet in the water is okay, but swimming is strictly prohibited.
- Pets and bicycles (or any two-wheeled vehicles) are not allowed on the walkway.
- The paths can be slippery right after it rains, so please be careful.
The Memories You’ll Make at Cheonggyecheon
Holding mom’s hand on one side and dad’s on the other, a walk along the stream naturally leads you to the grandeur of Gwanghwamun Square. Or, turn in another direction, and you’ll find yourself in the bustling streets of Jongno or the charming alleys of Insadong.
For kids, it’s an adventure. For parents, it’s a peaceful break in the middle of a vibrant city. In Seoul, there’s truly no other place quite like it.
Need More Seoul Travel Info?
As a Seoul mom, I’ve shared my best tips for enjoying Cheonggyecheon with kids. But every family’s trip is unique!
What are you most curious about for your visit to Cheonggyecheon? Leave a comment below, and I’ll do my best to find the answer for you. Your questions help make this guide better for everyone!
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