Cheonggyecheon Stream, Seoul, South Korea

When I was in my elementary days, my neighborhood friends and I used to scour our street jungle, about 5 streets in radius, for a large “creek”, “canal” (an exposed drainage and a sewer system which will eventually go to a river). At that time the show “Takeshi’s Castle” was very popular. So with our kakulitan and thirst for adventures, we traverse those creeks in an adventurous and fun manner imitating the show Takeshi’s Castle.

My two friends later died in severe diarrhea, one lost his legs in a bacterial infection and I have 10 different species of parasitic worms in my stomach. Joke only, biro lang I have 9, seriously, with all household wastes in our neighborhood flowing in one creek that we enjoyed traversing, lucky that we are still alive and healthy today.

I don’t know if there are still children doing those adventures (aside from making a video of Gwiyomi and snapping a vocal cord for Daniel Padilla).

I told this story because we went to a certain creek (this is my blog and I want to call it a creek hehe) here in Korea, called Cheonggyecheon Stream. It is not chongkeyon stream where chongke (marijuana enthusiasts) gathers, but it is a stream where cheap dates, relaxing music, fantastic shows, wonderful strolls, holding hands while walking, can happen.

Cheonggyecheon Stream - The Starting Point

There is no household waste; a few bacteria of course, only clean (but not drinkable) water, fountains, city scenery above, and few mini bridges, this stream is boring for a Takeshi’s Castle Adventure, but popular for a stress reliever.

If your ass is here in Korea, South of course because the North is still busy crafting nukes, you might want to visit this famous stream, because this stream is connected to other popular attractions like, Insadong, Deoksogung Palace, Seoul Plaza, Changdeokgung Palace, and Changgyeonggung Palace. 

Some of the images you might see if you are planning to visit this site.

The Stream - tourists at the sidelines

Stepping stones to cross the stream from one side to another.

Getting their feet wet.

One of the fountains you will see.

Kids can easily cross, not a problem.

Lovers under the bridge - cheap way to date for the budget conscious couples.

Directions

Seoul Subway
Line 1: City Hall, Jonggak, Jongno 3-ga, Jongno 5-ga, Dongdaemun, Sinseol-dong
Line 2: City Hall, Euljiro 1-ga, Euljiro 3-ga, Euljiro 4-ga, Sindang, Sangwangsimni
Line 3: Jongno 3-ga
Line 4: Dongdaemun History & Culture Park
Line 5: Gwanghwamun