TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
- Go to Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Center near Myeongdong Station Exit 1.
- Take Shuttle Bus No. 01A or 01B (Yellow Bus).
- The fare is just 1,400 KRW! If you transfer from a subway or bus,
it practically feels like a free ride.
Introduction: Rethinking the Namsan Access Strategy
Most people think about hiking or taking other routes to Namsan Seoul Tower. However, the Namsan Shuttle Bus No. 01 is a fantastic way to enjoy the mountain scenery while reaching the top comfortably.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to use the Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Center, which is the most comfortable starting point for this bus.
Competitive Advantage: Why Start at Yejang Center?
While you can catch the shuttle bus at other stops like Chungmuro or Dongguk University, those are often crowded. The Yejang Bus Transfer Center serves as the starting point for the route, meaning you’ll have a much better chance of getting a seat and enjoying a comfortable ride.
[!TIP] The facility is modern, clean, and has excellent public restrooms—a lifesaver before you start your mountain exploration!
Given these geographic and logistical advantages, here is the easiest step-by-step route to reach the tower from the Yejang Center.
Practical Guide: The Easiest 3-Step Route
Myeongdong Station Exit 1
Take the subway to Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and come out of Exit 1. Follow the path below to reach the Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Center.
Walk straight from Exit 1 and follow the arrow to reach Namsan Yejang Park and the transfer center.
While walking through the park, look for the tunnel entrance marked by the red arrow. Inside, you’ll find a clean and modern bus platform.
Catch Bus No. 01A or 01B (Route Details)
The Namsan Yejang Bus Transfer Center is the Starting Point (Origin) for both Bus 01A and 01B. You can wait in a modern and comfortable facility before your journey!
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Bus 01A (Downtown Circular): Origin (Yejang) → Chungmuro Stn (Exit 2) → Dongguk Univ Stn (Exit 6) → National Theater → Namsan Seoul Tower → Namsan Library → Baekbeom Square → Sungnyemun Gate → City Hall → Gyeongbokgung Palace → Anguk Stn → Myeongdong → Return to Origin (Every 7–10 mins)
A circular route passing through Myeongdong, Chungmuro, and major downtown Seoul areas before reaching the tower. -
Bus 01B (Namsan Express): Origin (Yejang) → Chungmuro Stn (Exit 2) → Dongguk Univ Stn (Exit 6) → National Theater → Namsan Seoul Tower → Return to Origin (Every 15–18 mins)
A shorter circular route focusing on Namsan Park and the tower.
[!TIP] Both buses take you to the tower. 01A covers a larger area of downtown Seoul, while 01B is a shorter circular route focusing on the mountain. Take whichever arrives first!
Enjoy the Ride and Arrive
The bus winds up the scenic mountain road. In about 13–18 minutes, you’ll arrive at the “Namsan Seoul Tower” stop. From there, it’s just a short 5-minute walk uphill to the base of the tower.
Essential Info (As of 2026)
- Fare: 1,400 KRW (with transportation card)
- Transfer Benefit: If you use a transportation card (T-money), you can transfer for free (or a very small fee) from the subway (e.g., Myeongdong Stn) to the bus if you board within 30 minutes of exiting the station.
- Operating Hours: 06:30 AM – 11:00 PM (Every day)
- Payment: Cashless Bus. You must use a physical or mobile transportation card like T-money or the Climate Card. Cash is not accepted on the bus. Tourists can buy T-money cards at any convenience store (7-Eleven, CU, GS25).
[!IMPORTANT] Private cars and taxis are not allowed to drive up to N Seoul Tower. You must use the bus, cable car, or your own two feet!
5. Conclusion: Personal Experience and Recommended Course
By taking Bus No. 01, you can enjoy a scenic ride up the mountain for just 1,400 KRW. It’s a comfortable and efficient way to reach the tower, allowing you to save your energy for exploring the peak!
The view from the bus is actually quite lovely as well, and you’ll arrive right at the base of the tower. After your visit, I highly recommend grabbing a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants nearby!
Now, let’s go and enjoy Namsan Seoul Tower together!