Your Complete Guide to the Han River Bus: Tips, Routes, and Real User Reviews
These days, when people in Seoul want to travel in a slightly different way, many are turning to the Han River Bus. At first, I wondered, 'Is a bus on the Han River really convenient?' But after trying it myself, I found it has a unique charm compared to regular buses or the subway. The most impressive part was being able to enjoy the Han River scenery through the window while traveling.
Today, for those using the Han River Bus for the first time, I will summarize how to ride, fare information, the piers, and my actual boarding experience. Please note that operating hours and pier operations may change, so I recommend checking real-time information before your visit.
How to Ride the Han River Bus
The Han River Bus is a water-based public transportation system operating along the Han River in Seoul. Currently, it operates with eastern and western routes centered around Yeouido, connecting places like Jamsil, Ttukseom, Seoul Forest, Oksu, Apgujeong, Yeouido, and Magok. Especially since June 2026, the Seoul Forest pier has been added, making it more convenient to visit Seongsu and Seoul Forest.
If you are a first-time user, the first thing to do is check the Han River Bus operation information on Naver Map or Kakao Map. Since you can check the boat's arrival time and remaining seats, it is better to check in advance rather than just heading to the pier.
How to Board the Han River Bus
The actual boarding process is simpler than you might think. When you arrive at the pier, first get a numbered ticket. Then, check whether your ticket is a standby or confirmed ticket, and wait for your boarding turn.
When your turn comes, follow the instructions to board the Han River Bus, and after boarding, fill out a boarding declaration form.
*** Han River Bus Timetable Information (English Supported)
Checking the timetable on the official page is convenient for international visitors, as key details are provided in English.
- Check the Operating Schedule: You can view the latest departure and arrival times on the official website's "Operating Hours" page.
- English Labels Available: Timetables include English annotations, making navigation easy for foreign travelers.
- How to Check the Timetable: Visit the "Operating Hours" section on the official Han River Bus website to see the up-to-date schedule.
- Pro Tip: Use map apps like Kakao Map or Naver Map to check real-time arrival info and minimize your wait time.
To summarize:
Get a numbered ticket >>>
Check your ticket >>>
Wait for boarding >>>
Board the Han River Bus >>>
Fill out the boarding declaration form
At first, it seemed a bit complicated, but there was guidance on site, so it wasn't difficult. However, on weekends or during busy times, it's best to arrive early.
Where Can You Board
There are several Han River Bus piers. The main ones are Magok, Mangwon, Yeouido, Apgujeong, Oksu, Ttukseom, and Jamsil, and now Seoul Forest pier is also in operation.
For first-time users, I recommend choosing a pier with good accessibility. For example, Yeouido Pier is about a 4-minute walk from Yeouinaru Station on Subway Line 5, and Oksu Pier is about a 5-minute walk from Oksu Station on Line 3 and the Gyeongui-Jungang Line. Ttukseom Pier is about a 3-minute walk from Jayang Station on Line 7, making it convenient to reach by public transportation.
- You must get a numbered ticket before purchasing a boarding pass.
- You can pay with a transportation card, so you don't need to buy a separate ticket.
- Tickets are only valid for the day and can only be used at the pier where they were issued.
- Only one-way trips are available.
- Payment can be made with credit/debit cards with transportation functions. Refunds (about 2 weeks) can be requested at the information desk and will be transferred to your bank account.
- Seoul Senior Citizen Transportation Card: Usable when recharged (discount applies)
- T-money Card: Usable when recharged (can be recharged at the CU convenience store at the pier)
- Climate Pass: Usable when Han River Bus is added as an item
- Other discounts and senior discounts (65+) are not available, and unless you have a child/youth card, the general fare (3,000 KRW) applies.
How Much is the Han River Bus Fare?
The base fares for the Han River Bus by age group are as follows:
Base Fare by Age Group
- Adults: 3,000 KRW ($2.25)
- Teens (Ages 13–18): 1,800 KRW ($1.35)
- Children (Ages 6–12): 1,100 KRW ($0.81)
Payment & Transfer Benefits- Payment Methods: T-money, prepaid/postpaid transportation cards, and Climate Card
How Much is the Han River Bus Fare?
Base Fare by Age Group
- Adults: 3,000 KRW ($2.25)
- Teens (Ages 13–18): 1,800 KRW ($1.35)
- Children (Ages 6–12): 1,100 KRW ($0.81)
- Payment Methods: T-money, prepaid/postpaid transportation cards, and Climate Card
Cash is not accepted
- Transfer Discounts: Metropolitan transfer discounts apply, allowing you to receive transfer discounts when connecting with the subway or buses.
- Pass Options: Using a Climate Card (unlimited transit pass in the 60,000–70,000 KRW/month range) includes unlimited rides on the Han River Bus.
User Review
- Transfer Discounts: Metropolitan transfer discounts apply, allowing you to receive transfer discounts when connecting with the subway or buses.
- Pass Options: Using a Climate Card (unlimited transit pass in the 60,000–70,000 KRW/month range) includes unlimited rides on the Han River Bus.
The best part of using the Han River Bus was definitely the Han River scenery. Usually, when using the subway or bus, getting to the destination quickly is most important, but on the Han River Bus, the travel time itself felt like a journey. The view of Seoul from the river was definitely different from what you see from the road.
Traveling slowly on the water, rather than being stuck in road traffic like on a bus or subway, also felt unique. Of course, I can't say the Han River Bus is always faster than regular public transportation, since you have to get to the pier and check the schedule. So, I think of it not just as a means to get somewhere quickly, but as a way to enjoy both travel and sightseeing.
Tips for Using the Han River Bus
If you're a first-time user, there are a few things you should know in advance:
- Always check the operation times and pier information before you go.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends or during busy times.
- Bring a transportation card for payment.
Han River Bus: Worth Trying at Least Once
At first, I wondered, 'Do I really need to travel by boat?' But after actually using it, it was more fun than I expected. Especially if you visit the Han River often, it's worth experiencing at least once, as you can see Seoul from a different perspective.
It felt like a small trip where you can enjoy the Han River while using public transportation. If you're planning a trip to Seoul or looking for a unique date course, I recommend taking the Han River Bus and enjoying the scenery. Next time, I want to board from a different pier and see another side of Seoul.
If you're planning to use the Han River Bus, be sure to check the operation times and pier information before you go, and visit with plenty of time.
When I tried it myself, it wasn't as difficult as I thought, and above all, the most memorable part was seeing views of Seoul that you can't see from a car or subway.
Major Han River Bus Piers
B. Apgujeong Pier: 380-1 Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam District, Seoul
C. Seoul Forest Pier: Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
D. Oksu Pier: 86 Oksu-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea
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