01/07/09, 23:36:28 UTC

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Water Taxis to Add Taste to Seoul Tourism

koreatimes.co.kr

Seoul City will be launching this service for the first time ever for commuters and tourists beginning Thursday.

If you want to travel across the Han River but wish to avoid the terrible traffic you might consider taking a water taxi.

Seoul City will be launching this service for the first time ever for commuters and tourists beginning Thursday.

Unlike traditional cruises on the Han, which have only a fixed route, an official at Seoul City Hall said water taxis would prove highly convenient for prospective passengers. But he said the program is more geared toward tourists enabling them to easily access tourist attractions on and near the river.

Sydney in Australia and Venice in Italy are known for their water transport. Especially Venice, traditionally a water city, is a successful case.

Andrea Sama, deputy head of mission of Italian Embassy in Seoul, said water transportation in Venice was highly recognized as a more convenient, fast and appealing alternative for locals and tourists compared to travel on roads in the city. Likewise, `` I think Seoul can take advantage of its river, and I wish Seoul could attract more tourists through this. It could be a very useful tool,'' Sama said.

Taxis will run along the river with 12 stops: Jamsil Ferry, Tkukseom Park, Seoul Forest, Jamwon Ferry, Icheon Geobukseon Naruteo, Yeouido 119, Yeouinaru Station, Yanghwa-Dangsan Station, Yanghwa-do Station, Seonyudo Park, Mangwon and Nanji.

Fares will vary according to distance with a range from 5,800 to 60,000 won per taxi; but not per person. For example, if a group of seven ride between Yeouinaru Station and Seonyudo Park, the fare for each individual, assuming all seven take the ride, is 1,610 won. In other words people traveling on boat taxis will have to make up the cost of the ride between themselves.

For commuters, a one-way ride between Tkukseom Park and Yeouinaru Station will be available during rush hours between seven a.m. to nine a.m., and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. every 10 minutes. The fare is 5,000 won per person.

For more information, call visit the Web site, www.pleasantseoul.com.

 Printable Version  | published Oct 08, 2007