Three years ago, I visited the now-famous Café Pokpo in Seoul’s Seodaemun-gu during a lush, green summer. I thought I’d seen its charm at its peak. I was wrong. This winter, I returned with one mission: to see the Hongjecheon Waterfall transform into a frozen spectacle. What I found wasn’t just a beautiful scene—it was pure, quiet magic, right in the heart of the city.
In this post, I’m sharing the stunning winterscapes I captured and all the tips you need to plan your own perfect visit to this urban winter wonderland.
About Café Pokpo & The Hongjecheon Waterfall
Perched uniquely alongside the Hongjecheon stream, Café Pokpo (카페폭포) is named after the “pokpo” (waterfall) it overlooks. This multi-story café is designed almost entirely around the view, with massive windows and an outdoor terrace that bring you face-to-face with nature’s show. The waterfall itself is a serene, cascading feature of the stream, a beloved spot for walkers and photographers that changes dramatically with the seasons.
Why Visit Café Pokpo During Winter?
As someone who constantly chases Korea’s best winter sights, I’ve accepted that epic icy views usually demand a long trek to the mountains or countryside. That’s what made discovering Hongjecheon Waterfall in winter so revolutionary.
When the temperatures plunge, the cascading water freezes mid-flow, creating a magnificent, textured ice wall that looks like something from a storybook. The best part? This fairytale scene is just a short bus ride from Hongdae. No long-haul journey required. Sipping a warm, creamy latte while gazing at this glittering natural sculpture from the café’s cozy interior is an experience that effortlessly blends urban comfort with raw winter beauty. It’s an absolute must-do for your Seoul winter itinerary.
When to Catch the Frozen Waterfall?
While winter in Korea runs from December to March, the prime freezing months are January and February. I visited on February 2nd, the day after a snowfall, and the conditions were perfect. The ice was thick, crystalline, and dusted with a soft layer of white snow—utterly dreamy. For the highest chance of seeing the full “ice wall” effect, aim for the depths of winter, especially after a cold snap.
How to Get There:
Navigating here is simpler than it seems! Here’s the most convenient route from the popular Hongdae area:
- Go to Hongik University Station Exit 4.
- Find bus stop #13144, located in front of the A TWOSOME PLACE café.
- Board the 110A고려대 bus.
- Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at stop #13159 (just before the Seodaemun-gu Public Health Center).
- Walk southeast toward the sound of the stream, and you’ll find Café Pokpo nestled right behind Dongshin Hospital (동신병원).
Still unsure? Simply plug ‘카페폭포’ or the address 서울 서대문구 연희로 262-24 into your Naver Map app—it will guide you right to the door.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Visit:
Timing is Everything for Photos: Visit in the afternoon. In the morning, the sun rises behind the waterfall, leaving it in shadow and making photography challenging. The afternoon light illuminates the ice beautifully.
Stay Until Dusk: Don’t rush off! As the sun sets, Seoul turns on subtle lights that illuminate the frozen waterfall. The blue-hour glow and evening ambiance add a whole new, magical dimension to your photos.
Find the Magic Mirror: As you explore the Seodaemun walking trails along the stream, keep an eye out for the strategically placed mirrors. There’s one section where you can angle a selfie to capture both yourself and the reflection of the gigantic ice wall—it’s a creative and must-try shot!
Pack the Heat: If you want to brave the outdoor terrace for unobstructed views (highly recommended, even for a few minutes!), bring hot packs (핫팩). Your fingers will thank you while you’re adjusting your camera settings.
Café Seating: For the best view, head to the upper floors or snag a seat by the window-wall. The terrace is first-come, first-serve, but even indoor seats offer an incredible panorama.
Final Verdict
Café Pokpo in winter is a stunning exception to the rule that extraordinary nature requires a remote journey. It’s where you can witness the powerful, quiet beauty of a frozen waterfall while never leaving the city’s embrace. Whether you’re a photographer seeking that perfect shot, a couple on a unique date, or simply a traveler looking for a moment of wonder with your coffee, this spot delivers an unforgettable experience. Wrap up warm, charge your camera, and prepare to be amazed by Seoul’s very own icy heart.
Access Map
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