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| Banpo Bridge, The Beauty of Rainbow Fountain Above The Han River |
The Banpo Bridge is a multi-level bridge spanning over the Han River and is one of the most famous landmarks in Seoul, South Korea. What sets this bridge apart from others is its unique feature of a rainbow-colored fountain system that can spout colorful water resembling a rainbow at night, known as the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain. This beautiful fountain is even recorded as the 'longest bridge fountain in the world.'
The Allure of Banpo Bridge Above the Han River
Anyone visiting Banpo Bridge in the capital of South Korea, Seoul, will surely be mesmerized by its beauty. The bridge looks particularly stunning at night, with its beautiful rainbow fountain. Banpo Grand Bridge or Banpo Daegyo is the main bridge in the center of Seoul, South Korea. Built over the Han River, it connects the Seocho and Yongsan districts. Managed by the Seoul Metropolitan Hangang Project Headquarters, the bridge was constructed on January 11, 1980, and completed on June 25, 1982, at a cost of approximately 21,500,000 won. It is 1,495 meters long with a deck width of 28 meters.
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| Banpo Bridge, Seoul, South Korea |
Innovative Design of Banpo Bridge
The Banpo Bridge was designed by Dae Han Consultants Company, while the construction was entrusted to Byucksan Engineering and Construction Company. The Banpo Bridge was built on the Jamsu Bridge, creating a double-deck bridge. It is the first double-deck bridge in South Korea. The Jamsu Bridge was completed in 1976, crossing the Han River at a height of just a few meters above the water surface, allowing the bridge to submerge when the river level rises during the rainy season.
Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, The Main Attraction of Banpo Bridge
Banpo Bridge is famous for its mesmerizing rainbow fountain installed on the bridge. The dancing fountain project began in June 2007 and was inaugurated in April 2009. The fountain system, named the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, is equipped with 38 water pumps, hundreds of nozzles, and lights installed on both sides of the bridge. The water is pumped directly from the Han River, located about 20 meters below the bridge. A total of 190 tons of water are drawn from the river every minute, to be spouted horizontally up to 43 meters.
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| Moonlight Rainbow Fountain of Banpo Bridge |
Advanced Technology Behind The Beauty of Moonlight Rainbow Fountain
A total of 380 nozzles and 10,000 LEDs are installed along the sides of the bridge up to 1,140 meters. Accompanied by beautiful music, the fountain waters dance, illuminated by hundreds of colorful lights, creating a stunning color effect on the fountain. It produces colorful bursts of water like a rainbow against the backdrop of the beautiful Seoul skyline at night.
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| Banpo Bridge Moonlight Rainbow Fountain |
Banpo Bridge, A Dazzling Color Symphony at Night
As the sun sets and the lights come on, Banpo Bridge transforms into an art piece, illuminating the river below with captivating colors. The combination of lights and water jets creates a harmonious color symphony that dances above the water, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere that is truly enchanting. This unique display makes Banpo Bridge a popular spot for photographers, artists, as well as local and international tourists.
Schedule of Moonlight Rainbow Fountain Shows at Banpo Bridge
The rainbow dancing fountain shows take place five to six times a day, every day. The Moonlight Rainbow Fountain presents different shows during the day and night, each lasting about 20 minutes. The Moonlight Rainbow Fountain shows are not performed year-round, the rainbow fountain attraction typically starts from May to October each year. The Moonlight Rainbow Fountain was also recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records on November 7, 2008, as the 'Longest Bridge Fountain in the World.'
Best Places to Enjoy The Beauty of Banpo Bridge And Moonlight Rainbow Fountain
The best time to enjoy the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain show is when the sun starts to set, as the lights begin to blend with the twilight sky. For a maximum experience, here are some recommended places to enjoy the beauty of Banpo Bridge and the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain:
A. Banpo Hangang Park
Banpo Hangang Park is the most popular spot to enjoy the fountain show. From this park, you can get a direct view of the bridge and the stunning fountain. The park also provides plenty of open areas to sit and relax, making it ideal for an evening picnic while enjoying the show.
B. Sebitseom (Floating Islands)
Sebitseom, or Sebit Islets, also known as Some Sevit, is a complex of 3 artificial islands floating on the Han River in Seoul, South Korea. Sebitseom is a 10,421 square meter tourist and entertainment area. Famous for its modern architectural design and spectacular LED lighting, Sebitseom is a fascinating tourist attraction, especially at night. In addition to enjoying the panoramic view of the Han River, visitors can relax in cafes, enjoy delicious dishes at restaurants, walk along the bridges connecting the islands, or take pictures with the changing colorful LED lighting as a backdrop. With its innovative concept and stunning night views, Sebitseom is a unique destination that is a must-visit when in Seoul.
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| Sebitseom or Some Sevit |
The artificial islands were opened in 2014 and were designed as a cultural, entertainment, and recreational center on the riverbank. The three floating islands located at the southern end of Banpo Bridge are based on the theme of 'Flowers of the Han River'. Sebitseom means 'three-light island', derived from the words 'sebit meaning three lights' and 'seom meaning island'. Some Sevit can be interpreted as 'three amazing lights', which comes from the words 'some which means amazing' and 'sevit which means three lights'. Sebitseom or Some Sevit consists of 3 main islands connected by bridges, namely Gavit, Chavit, Solvit, Yevit floating facilities. Each island has its own uniqueness that combines art, cuisine, entertainment, and technology to create an attractive tourist destination.
1. Some Gavit (Gabitseom), Vista
Gavit is the largest artificial island, shaped like a flower in full bloom, symbolizing 'view'. Some Gavit, also known as Gabitseom (Gabit Island) or Vista, is a 4,881 square meter island dedicated to arts and cultural activities. Gabitseom is equipped with a performance hall and a moonlight path. On this island there are also Convention Center facilities for weddings or banquets, a place to enjoy food and drinks on the water called Tubester, cafes, and restaurants.
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| Some Gavit or Gabitseom |
2. Some Chavit (Chaebitseom), Viva
Chavit, the second largest island with an area of 3,477 square meters, is shaped like a flower bud, symbolizing 'life'. Chaebitseom (Chae Island) or Some Chavit or Viva, is an island with cultural and entertainment experience facilities. Here there is an outdoor facility called Beer Garden, a park that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Banpo Bridge Moon Rainbow Fountain and the charm of Sebitseom's colorful lights. The island also has a banquet hall and buffet restaurant.
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| Chaebitseom of Some Chavit |
3. Some Solvit (Solbitseom), Terra
Solvit, or often called Solbitseom (Solbit Island) or Terra, this 1,271 square meter island carries the concept of a water recreation island. This island is equipped with water sports facilities, such as jet skis and boats. For those who want to relax and have a picnic with their family while enjoying the beautiful scenery, Solbitseom has an outdoor park that is suitable for that. On Solvit Island there are also Mood Seoul and Mood Anchor restaurants that serve a variety of delicious seafood dishes.
4. Yevit
Yevit is a 792 square meter floating structure that injects elements of technology and interactivity into the Sebitseom complex. Yebit functions as a cultural art gallery equipped with a giant LED screen for film screenings and interactive digital installations that combine visual art with advanced technology. Yevit is not only an entertainment space, but also an innovation center that prioritizes technological advancements, making it a magnet for digital enthusiasts and seekers of futuristic experiences.
C. Gureum Cafe
Located near Banpo Bridge, Gureum Cafe is the perfect place to enjoy coffee while admiring the beauty of the fountain. The cafe has large windows facing directly towards the Han River and Banpo Bridge, providing a comfortable and soothing experience.
D. Yeouido Hangang Park
Although a bit further away, Yeouido Hangang Park offers a different perspective to enjoy the beauty of Banpo Bridge and the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Han River with Banpo Bridge in the background. The park is also a favorite spot for locals to jog and bike.
E. Han River
One of the most romantic ways to enjoy the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain is by taking a Han River (Hangang) Cruise or E-land Cruise. This cruise takes you along the Han River, providing a direct view of Banpo Bridge and its fountain. This experience is perfect for couples looking to enjoy a romantic evening in Seoul.
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