At night, Cheonggyecheon's lights and running water create a space for walking. The same hours mark final deliveries in the tool district and a shift change between Gwangjang Market's daytime shops and evening food stalls. This route covers roughly 2.3 kilometers in 100 minutes, from Gwangtonggyo through the Supyogyo site and the main streets of Gwansu-dong and Jangsa-dong to Gwangjang Market. Before moving between the waterside path and street level, check stair locations and closing times.
5:30 p.m.: Examine bridge stones and heritage markers while daylight remains
Before dark, study the masonry and arrangement of Gwangtonggyo and the signs at the Supyogyo site. Do not step beyond waterside railings or cross stepping-stones when they have been closed. Water levels can rise quickly after intense rain, so official Seoul access restrictions always take priority over the planned route.
6:10 p.m.: Keep delivery routes clear in the tool district
At the end of the workday, vans, handcarts, and motorcycles move metal and components through the alleys. Do not occupy shuttered lanes as photography sets or film inside illuminated workshops. Even on a sidewalk, watch for materials projecting into the path.
6:40 p.m.: Accept that different parts of the market keep different hours
The textile and hanbok shops may be closing just as the food stalls become most crowded. One closed section does not mean that the entire market has finished for the day, and open restaurants do not mean that every shop is available. Check the market's official guidance and individual business hours according to the purpose of your visit.
7:10 p.m.: Finish the walk without blocking queues or passageways
If you eat, follow instructions about seating and shared tables, and leave cross-aisles open beside long lines. Do not hold up merchants cleaning after closing to place late orders or demand photographs. Exit toward the broad street north of the market and finish by walking to Jongno 5-ga or Euljiro 4-ga Station.