The rooftop garden at the Seoul Library (previously City Hall) has a great view for urban picnicking. Perched atop a 5-storey
building, the rooftop is divided into two by a glass-walled cafe, which makes for two different rooftop views. On one side is the lush greenery of the square, Gwanghwamunro, and, in the distance, the Blue House and Bukhansan. The other side of the garden gives you views of Sungnyemun and Namsan Tower. Frankly, this rooftop garden isn’t exactly the kind of place to throw down a blanket and crack open a beer, but the tidy set up of benches and the well-maintained garden attracts visitors looking for a quick breath of fresh air. This is a go-to spot for office workers on their lunch breaks. On weekends, families come by for the extensive collection at the library. If you need a break between lunch or happen to be shopping in the area, keep this rooftop garden oasis in mind. 31, Taepyeong-ro, Jung-gu. Tue–Fri 9am–9pm; Weekends 9am–6pm; closed Mondays and public holidays.