Independent, Mapo-gu hotels

MapoGu is a district six kilometres to the west of the downtown area of Seoul, the capital city of South Korea. Mapo is a modern area and headquarters to the nation’s growing K-Pop Industry companies plus government and university buildings.It lies alongside the right bank of the Han River.Sangam-dong is upstream on the Han and a pleasant place for walks in summer.

Mapo is limited on major cultural draws and the two most important ones are the Korean Film Museum and Jeoldu-san Martyrs’ Shrine. The shrine and its attached museum are a memorial to 2,000 Christians killed here in the 1860s. The museum houses ancient torture tools, keepsakes of the dead, statues and documents. There is a chapel onsite where prayers are held two times a day.

One of Mapo’s other key sites is the Seoul World Cup Park. This area is actually five parks in separate zonesplus the national football stadium. Both the South Korean and FC Seoul teams are based at the 67,000-seat stadium. The stadium houses a sports themed museum and a shopping centre. PyeonghwaPeace Park is beside the stadium and its famous fountains.

Of the other four parks, Haneul is a must-visit location. Steps lead up a hillwhich offers lovely views of the parks and their surroundings.Noeul is the place to see deer and other wild animals plus a collection of 21st century sculptures. A bonus of choosing this part of Seoul to stay in is convenient transport links. Three city train lines serve Mapo.

Mapo provides visitors with a nice collection of dining choices. In addition to being able to sample Korean favourites like charcoal-grilled beef and sweet pork ribs there are a few international options. These include McDonald’s, and Spanish and Mexican eateries. Gusto Taco claims it serves the best nachos, tacos and burritos in Korea. The Hongdaearea of Mapo is famed for its bars, clubs and live-music venues.

Mapois not famous for its shopping opportunities. Despite this, there are a few shops where people can buy trendy clothing and souvenirs such as dolls and paintings. 7-11 is among the convenience stores and stocks most of the basic items travellers need. There is a cluster of shops on Seogyo-dong Road.