Myeongdong is one ofSeoul’s most accessible shopping districts for tourists. It’s located in theheart of the city and caters to Western tastes, with big-name brands andEnglish-speaking staff. Big malls also stock local labels, but don’t come toMyeongdong looking for traditional Korean culture.

The Myeongdong district isdivided into five distinct areas. The main area of retail outlets is onMyeongdong Street. Sizable shopping malls such as Migliore and U-too Zonemingle with shops stocking well-known brands. Prices aren’t cheap, but you areguaranteed genuine products rather than imitations.

Two side alleys branch offto the east and west halfway up Myeongdong Street. These sell mid-range brandssuch as Club Monaco and Guess.

Continue east to MyeongdongCathedral, a rare example of Gothic-style architecture and the first cathedralin Seoul to be built from brick. The north section of Myeongdong is taken up byCentral Street, home to the National Souvenir Center (another big shoppingmall) and a cluster of fast-food restaurants.

China Street is a smallenclave of Chinese stores, stalls and restaurants. It’s located just behind theformer Chinese Embassy. The street has a retro feel and is popular withSeoulites looking for something out of the ordinary. They also come here toenjoy spicy Shandong dishes. If you prefer to eat Korean, consider dining atone of Myeongdong’s many local restaurants and eateries. Try kalguksu (“knifenoodles”) or donkas (deep-fried pork cutlets).

Myeongdong has its ownsubway station on Line 4. This will get you to the south end of the district.To start from the north, go to Euljiro 1-ga. Stores tend to open mid-morning tolate evening.