A number of small parks built around Mapo provide its residents with beautifully-maintained natural surroundings. The largest, Hangang Citizens Park, is a designated ecological protection area of nesting grounds for migratory birds. The Ahyeon area is lined with more than 80 wedding shops, and draws betrothed couples from around the country.
The Hongdae (Hongik University) club district is home to hundreds of bars, restaurants, boutiques and nightclubs that stay open through the night. Charcoal-broiled ribs are a local specialty, and the area draws revelers from a wide range of backgrounds, from university students to expats and tourists.
A famous landmark, The Seoul World Cup Stadium is located in the Sangam area, where a futuristic complex-city is being constructed. Scheduled for completion in 2015, Digital Media City includes a Landmark Building that is slated to become the tallest building in East Asia, and the third-tallest building in the world. Housing the highest observation deck in the world, the building includes high-tech office and residential spaces, a department store, luxury shopping malls, a large convention center, and the world's largest interactive aquarium as well as international restaurants and facilities for media, culture and exhibitions.
Mapo is named after an old ferry that once took locals across the Han River. Today, a boat cruise along the Han is one of the best ways to experience Seoul, and boats leave from the area’s Nanji Pier. Mapo is well-served by public transport, including its Subway Lines 1, 5 and 6.
