[2025 Seoul ] Travel Guide for Inwangsan Mountain (Updated Jun)

#springitinerary Hiking Irwangsan is the perfect mix of “I’m outdoorsy” and “I still want my weekend nap.” It’s not too intense, just enough to make you feel like you earned your lunch after. The trail is super doable, even if you’re not a hardcore hiker. Trees everywhere, fresh air for days, and birds doing their thing in the background. Kinda peaceful, kinda gives you that main character moment. Once you get to the top? Total payoff. Panoramic views that make you forget you were whining 10 minutes ago. Bring snacks, bring friends, or just solo it for the ultimate head-clearing walk. There’s something super refreshing about getting away from the buzz and just breathing mountain air. No need for fancy gear either, just comfy shoes and good vibes. Would 100% do again, especially for that peak photo.

I never really plan these things in detail. Sometimes, a good hike just starts with a feeling — that itch to get out, breathe different air, and walk somewhere that clears your head. That’s how I ended up on the trails of Inwangsan Mountain, right in the middle of Seoul. If you’re ever in the city and feeling a little boxed in by glass buildings and the hum of traffic, Inwangsan is like an old friend who takes you by the hand and whispers, “Come on, let’s get above it all.” The Start: City to Stone Getting there was surprisingly simple. I hopped on Line 3 to Gyeongbokgung Station, then took a short bus ride (bus 1020, 7022, or 7212) to Jahamungogae stop. From there, you’ll spot signs leading to the trail. What struck me right away was how quickly the city faded — buildings behind me, trees ahead, and the old Seoul City Wall rising like something out of a Ghibli film. I started early, around 6:30 AM. That’s the sweet spot: just me, the birds, and the city still stretching its limbs. The Trail: Where History Meets Sky The trail isn’t too long — around 1.9 km round-trip — but it packs a punch. Stone steps wind up along the ancient wall, leading to a rocky ridge that feels like it’s suspended above the city. Every now and then, I paused, not because I was tired, but because I couldn’t believe the views. Gyeongbokgung Palace peeking out from the trees, the Han River glittering in the distance, and Namsan Tower standing tall on the other side like a sentinel. I passed just a handful of locals — mostly hikers my age or older, quietly nodding as they passed. No tourist buzz here. Just the rhythm of footsteps and the occasional wind chime sound of birdsong. The Summit: Quiet Reflections At the top, it’s not about a grand viewing platform or shops. It’s raw and real — granite rocks, a wide-open sky, and the whole of Seoul laid out like a living map. I sat there for a while, water bottle in hand, letting the city breathe below me while I caught my breath above it. There’s something humbling about being in a place that has seen kings, wars, and centuries pass by — and yet it still offers you peace without asking anything in return. Why I’d Do It Again Inwangsan isn’t just a hike. It’s a reset. A reminder that beauty doesn’t always come with a ticket or a tour group. Sometimes, it’s just a mountain, a path, and a moment to remember who you are. So if you ever find yourself in Seoul, skip the shopping malls for a morning, lace up your shoes, and take that walk up Inwangsan. You might not find souvenirs, but you’ll definitely take something with you.

**🌄 Why Ingwangsan?** Tired of temple crowds and shopping districts? **Ingwangsan Mountain** (익왕산) is your antidote. Just 365 meters tall, this trail packs ancient shrines, forest serenity, and skyline views into a half-day adventure—all within Seoul’s city limits. Think of it as Namsan’s quieter, quirkier cousin, where nature and tradition share the trail. --- ### **🌿 Trail Highlights: More Than Just a Walk** - **Guksadang Shrine**: Start here, where shamans have prayed since the *Joseon Dynasty*. Ribbons tied to fences flutter wishes into the wind—add yours for a dash of local magic. - **The Stone Stairway**: A gentle climb through pines and maples. No scrambling, just photogenic steps lined with lanterns and occasional squirrel sightings. - **Summit Rewards**: At the top, Seoul sprawls below like a living map. Spot N Seoul Tower, the Han River, and the Blue House (yes, *that* Blue House). --- ### **✨ Hidden Gems You’ll Love** 1. **Hyeoljuam Rock**: Touch this sacred boulder believed to radiate healing energy. Even skeptics pause here—maybe it’s the view, maybe it’s the vibe. 2. **Sunrise with Locals**: Arrive at dawn to join ajummas in visors and hikers sipping *sikhye* (sweet rice drink). The city wakes slowly, and you’ll feel like a Seoul insider. 3. **Secret Shrine Offerings**: Spot fruit, rice, or coins left at mini-altars. A reminder that this mountain is still deeply alive in Korean spirituality. --- ### **🍂 Seasonal Magic** - **Spring**: Cherry blossoms frame the shrine; picnic under pink clouds. - **Summer**: Shade-dappled trails offer cool refuge. Listen for cicadas! - **Autumn**: Golden ginkgos steal the show—bring your camera. - **Winter**: Frost-kissed pines and crispy air. Warm up afterward with *hoddeok* (sweet pancakes) from a street vendor. --- ### 🚶♀️ **Trail Tips for Beginners** - **Getting There**: Subway Line 3 to *Gyeongbokgung Station* (Exit 3). A 15-minute walk to the trailhead. No tour bus needed! - **Bring**: Comfy shoes (sneakers work!), water, and a light jacket—summit breezes are sneaky. - **Avoid**: Weekends after 10 AM unless you enjoy “hiker traffic.” --- ### **🌍 Why This Trail Matters** Ingwangsan isn’t just a hike—it’s a **bridge between worlds**. One moment you’re in a forest whispering with ancient rituals; the next, you’re gazing at a metropolis that’s all neon and noise. It’s proof that Seoul’s soul isn’t just in its palaces, but in its peaks. --- **🗺️ Ready to Explore?** Lace up, leave the crowds behind, and let Ingwangsan show you a Seoul where nature and culture hold hands. Whether you’re craving quiet, a spiritual spark, or just a killer Instagram shot, this trail delivers—no hiking boots required.

#favouriteitinerary #inwangsan #seoulhike #korea #love_nature I just completed my first hike up Inwangsan Mountain, and it was nothing short of magical! 🥾✨ This iconic spot, beloved by local hikers, offers a perfect blend of adventure and breathtaking views. The trail, while narrow and often congested, was alive with the spirit of fellow adventurers, each waiting patiently to share the path. After a rewarding two-hour trek, I reached the summit, where the panoramic view of Seoul unfolded before me—a stunning contrast of urban life against the rugged mountain backdrop. I even spotted restricted areas guarded by the army, adding an air of mystery to the landscape. Hiking alongside locals enriched the experience, as their passion and stories brought the mountain to life. If you find yourself in South Korea, don’t miss the chance to hike Inwangsan. It’s an unforgettable journey filled with camaraderie, beauty, and inspiration! 🌄❤️

#mountainhike Inwangsan Mountain, is a 338-meter peak in the heart of Seoul. It is a perfect destination for hikers seeking natural beauty, history, and stunning city views. The hike is accessible for beginners. 🗺 How to Get There Take Seoul Subway Line 3 to Dongnimmun Station (Exit 2). From there, it's about 15 minute walk to the trailhead (you also have buses like 7022 or 7212 that can bring you closer to the mountain entrance). The trail begins near Inwangsan Jarak-gil. 🐾 Trail Information The hike takes around 1.5 hours to reach the summit, depending on your pace. The trail includes well-marked stone steps and dirt paths, with several rest areas along the way. This hike is free and accessible year-round, making it a great budget-friendly activity. ✨️ Bonus You can see and reach sections of the Seoul City Wall and traditional shrines, that will give you glimpses into Korea’s spiritual heritage. The summit rewards hikers with panoramic views of Seoul 🌸 🍃 Tips . Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views. .Wear sturdy shoes, as some parts of the trail can be slippery, especially after rain (i would recommand if you're a beginner not to try on a rainy day) . Bring water and snacks, as there are no vendors or shops on the trail. ☀️ Inwangsan Mountain is more than just a hike; it's a cultural and natural escape right in the bustling city of Seoul. Perfect for a day trip, it’s a must for anyone exploring the city. #seoul #localguides #seoultrip #korea #daytrip

There are lots of hikes in Seoul: tough and easy, short and long, pure forest or along ancient walls... Hike to Inwangsan mountain is probably the most spectacular in terms of seeing Seoul skyline and at the same time it is relatively easy and can be done on a slow pace in less than two hours. I would highly recommend to start around Cheongun park and first go to the summit and then get down via Mae rick and Beom rock - this way you'll get up by the forest path with nothing really to see except for the ancient wall but then you'll be getting down facing spectacular view of Seoul. If you go in the opposite direction - that's your back that will get the best views not your eyes. Hike is pretty easy except of a bit when you have to go up big rocks (nothing too crazy, lots of Korean grannies do it daily but just not really a simple stairs), hike can be done in running shoes, no equipment is needed. Id highly recommend to take something for a picnic and enjoy some snacks while watching scenic views at the summit or Mae rock. Hike is extremely safe and is visited by many people on a daily basis, night hiking is pretty famous as well! At 9pm some people still will be just going up! #koreatrip #hikingtrails #100waysoftravel

#FallHo-kang-seu-event The course from Gyeongbokgung Station passes Beombawi before reaching the peak. Inwangsan seen from Beombawi The peak and surrounding peaks. It is a mountain with a good view and easy difficulty, so it is good for watching the sunrise and sunset, and many hikers come to Inwangsan to see the night view.

#September Travel Support Event It takes about 20 minutes from Gyeongbokgung Station on Subway Line 3 to the entrance of Inwangsan. It takes about 1 hour to reach the summit. It is a mountain with low difficulty, so it is recommended for beginners. If you climb at sunset on a day with good weather, you can see the sunset and night view, so it is a good place for a night hike.

Inwangsan 인왕산 is a mountain with a height of 338 meters, located in Jongno-gu and Hongje-dong, Seodaemun-gu, central areas of Seoul. The mountain covers an area of 1,086,696.50 m2 and has many huge granite peaks which distinguish it from other mountains in Seoul. We took around 2.5 hours to climb up and down. It is a popular spot so you will see some tourist and locals. #mountains #inwangsan #hike #trails #seoul #nature

Even if you have never hiked before, or if you have never exercised at all, this Inwangsan forest trail course is for everyone. There are no slopes or dangerous sections, so it's a path where you can lightly stroll and feel nature. Course Sajik-dong Inwangsan Forest Trail Entrance > Suseong-dong Valley > Sunrise Garden > Gaon Bridge > Cheongun Park > Poet Yun Dong-ju's Hill Total 2.5km Required Time 1 hour 20 minutes (when walking slowly) Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#seoultrip Welcome to the 'Inwangsan Mountain Forest Rest Area,' a serene oasis nestled amidst the lush woodlands The sight of the structure seamlessly blending with nature and the snug ambiance within the wooden confines radiate warmth even during the chilly winter months. Soak in the splendor of winter landscapes from the forest rest area at Inwangsan Mountain. For location of Inwangsan Mountain Forest Rest Area is San 4-36, Cheongun-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.