April hiking program in Korea to enjoy the beauty of hiking
- zone tp
- Mar 25
- 5 min read
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April is a quintessential spring month, characterized by mild temperatures that are not overly hot.
In the mountains of Korea, flowers bloom and display vibrant colors.
Explore the April hiking program by the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center and enjoy the perfect weather!
You can choose from beginner courses to exhilarating ridge courses.
Let's begin😎
On the Bukhansan Jindallae Neungsun Course, you can enjoy the vibrant azalea flowers while taking in the stunning views of the Seoul cityscape and the three major peaks of Bukhansan. Bukhansan is renowned for its trails that ascend Yeongbong and Baegundae, offering expansive vistas of the city below; however, these peaks can be challenging for beginner hikers. In such cases, the Jindallae Neungsun provides a more leisurely alternative, allowing you to appreciate the breathtaking scenery at a comfortable pace. Additionally, in April, the pink azaleas bloom in full splendor along the Jindallae Neungsun, creating a visual feast throughout the ascent. This course begins at the Bukhansan branch of the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center, traverses the Jindallae Neungsun, Daedongmun Gate, and Sogwicheon Valley, and returns to the starting point. We'll have a second break and photo time at the Hanok Cafe Seonungak, which was also the background for Mr. Sunshine and Itaewon Class.
Course: Seoul Hiking Tourism Center Bukhansan → Jindallae Neungseon → Daedongmun Gate → Sogwicheon Valley → Sunwoongak → Seoul Hiking Tourism Center Bukhansan
Time: 12:00 – 4:30PM
Bukhansanseong Fortress was originally built about 1,800 years ago as an earthen fort to protect the capital. After enduring fierce battles, including the Mongol invasion in 1232, and later the Imjin and Byeongja Wars during the Joseon Dynasty, the stone walls of the fortress were completed in 1711. Today, remnants of the earthen fortifications from the Three Kingdoms Period still remain, while most of the fortress, built during King Sukjong's reign in 1711, has been preserved to this day. Daedongmun Gate, located on the eastern side of Bukhansanseong Fortress, has long been considered a strategic point. The gate that stands today was restored in 1993 and renovated in 2022, acquiring its current appearance. Due to its location on a gently sloping plain, Daedongmun Gate has the widest open space compared to the other gates of the fortress. As a result, many hikers take a break under this majestic gate, which dates back to the Joseon Dynasty!
Address: Bukhan-dong, Deogyang-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do
The Inwangsan Hiking Course offers a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Inwangsan right in the heart of the city, visiting its iconic spots. Although Inwangsan is not very high, its proximity to landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Cheongwadae(Blue House) provides beautiful views of downtown Seoul. This trail starts at Exit 1 of Gyeongbokgung Station, passes by Sajikdan Altar, ascends to the peak of Inwangsan, and descends towards Suseongdong Valley. The first stop on the trail is Sajikdan Altar, a shrine built during the Joseon Dynasty where rituals were performed to honor the gods of land and crops. Although tigers are no longer present, you will pass the Inwangsan Tiger Statue, which reflects the mountain's historical association with tigers, a once-famous feature. From here, begin your hike up Inwangsan. Along the way, be sure to visit Beombawi Rock and the summit, which are known for their stunning sunrise and sunset views, and capture the breathtaking cityscape with photos while fully enjoying the mountain experience.
Course: Gyeongbokgung station → Sajikdan Altar → Inwangsan Tiger Statue → Beombawi Rock → Inwangsan Summit → Suseongdong Valley → Gyeongbokgung station
Time: 1:00 – 4:30PM
Beombawi Rock is named after its resemblance to a large tiger crouching. In the past, when tigers roamed Inwangsan, many stories about tigers were passed down through generations. One such story associated with Beombawi is a legend about a male tiger who, after losing his mate to a hunter, mourned so deeply that he slammed his head against the rock and died. Today, Beombawi is known as a popular photo spot, celebrated for its stunning panoramic views and the harmonious shape of the rock. The smooth yet curving surface of the rock is said to resemble the back of a tiger. As a result, standing atop Beombawi and looking down at the city, you'll feel as if you're riding on the back of a giant tiger while enjoying the breathtaking view of Seoul. However, to reach this viewpoint, you'll need to climb many stairs and navigate some steep sections, so be sure to proceed with caution.
Address: Nusang-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
The Gwanaksan Yeonjudae Course offers a hike up Gwanaksan, a rocky mountain that represents the southern part of Seoul. Gwanaksan got its name because the rock at the mountain's peak resembles a hat. Not only the mountain itself, but the natural parks developed around Gwanaksan have also become popular resting spots and tourist attractions. This trail begins at the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center Gwanaksan and follows the famous rock ridge course, Jaunam Ridge, leading to Yeonjudae, one of the most iconic spots on Gwanaksan. Yeonjudae, the peak of Gwanaksan, is a building located on top of a rocky peak. The red lanterns and Yeonjudae perched on the steep cliff create a striking image, and the site is also well-known as a place for prayer. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of Seoul and Anyang, so don’t forget to take a photo to capture the moment!
Course: Seoul Hiking Tourism Center Gwanaksan → Seoul National University(Gwanaksan Park) → Jaunam Ridge → Yeonjudae → Gwanaksan Trail 4th Rest Area → Seoul Hiking Tourism Center Gwanaksan
Time: 11:00AM – 4:30PM
The Jaunam Ridge is a rock ridge course that represents Gwanaksan and is the shortest but most challenging route to Yeonjudae. It features steep slopes and rocky paths, allowing hikers to experience Gwanaksan's unique rock formations while enjoying the thrill of the hike. However, it is also a trail where you must remain cautious. While it might seem intimidating and difficult for beginners, you can hike the Jaunam Ridge more safely and enjoyably with the guidance of the Seoul Hiking Tourism Center! As you climb along the ridge, you'll encounter the Jaunam Flagpole, a popular photo spot with the Taegeukgi (Korean national flag) proudly displayed at 514m above sea level. This area is also home to many interesting rock formations of Gwanaksan. Be sure to look out for Rabbit Rock, which resembles a rabbit, and Thanos Rock, which looks like Thanos, the villain from Marvel Comics, and take some fun photos with them! Enjoy the excitement of rock ridge hiking as you pass through Jaunam Ridge and make your way up to Yeonjudae.
Address: Sillim-dong, Gwanak-gu, Seoul
