Inwangsan Seoul
Hike granite peaks for breathtaking Seoul panoramas, featuring unique rock formations and historic city walls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical sunset and city lights
Inwangsan Seoul
Best Time
Magical sunset and city lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike granite peaks for breathtaking Seoul panoramas, featuring unique rock formations and historic city walls.
"Inwangsan offers an accessible hike with stunning city views, especially magical at sunset."
🎯 Easy & Rewarding Hike
Inwangsan is a great choice for an accessible hike with fantastic city views, often preferred over Bukhansan for its ease.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Time your hike for sunset to witness Seoul transform into a glittering cityscape below.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Inwangsan Summit View
Summit
Panoramic views of Seoul, especially stunning at sunset with city lights.
Tiger Statue Entrance
Gyeongbokgung Station area
An iconic sculpture marking the start of a popular and accessible hiking trail.
Seoul City Wall
Various points along the trail
Walk along sections of the historic Hanyangdoseong, offering a glimpse into Seoul's past.
Planning Your Visit
Best Entrance for Inwangsan
Timing Your Inwangsan Visit
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy & Rewarding Hike
Inwangsan is a great choice for an accessible hike with fantastic city views, often preferred over Bukhansan for its ease. +1
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Time your hike for sunset to witness Seoul transform into a glittering cityscape below.
🚶♀️ Local Favorite Trail
Many locals frequent Inwangsan for its convenience and beauty, making it a popular spot.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning photos of the city skyline and the historic Seoul City Wall.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy & Rewarding Hike
Inwangsan is a great choice for an accessible hike with fantastic city views, often preferred over Bukhansan for its ease. +1
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Time your hike for sunset to witness Seoul transform into a glittering cityscape below.
🚶♀️ Local Favorite Trail
Many locals frequent Inwangsan for its convenience and beauty, making it a popular spot.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning photos of the city skyline and the historic Seoul City Wall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Inwangsan for its stunning panoramic views of Seoul, particularly at sunset, and its accessible hiking trails. Many appreciate the blend of nature and history with the ancient city wall. Some note it can get crowded, and recommend comfortable footwear for the rocky terrain.
"Very beautiful unobstructed views
3/4 of the route are stairs. Very manageable hill at 338.2m which can be completed within 1.5hrs (up and down inclusive)"
Ang Yan Ang
"Lovely view and the climb is really not too bad, I took maybe around 2 hours to get to the top from near the metro station another hour for photos and 2 hours down."
Michelle Teo
"I think this mountain is suitable for both beginner and expert hikers. They have short trails, long trails, rest areas, toilets everywhere, and especially clear direction signs. I took the subway and bus to get here. In the morning, it was okay, but in the afternoon, the buses were always full of people. However, it is just a 10-minute bus ride, so I think it was okay."
Trân
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular starting point is near Gyeongbokgung Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 3. Follow signs towards the Tiger statue sculpture, which marks the Inwangsan entrance. Another accessible option is Seodaemun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), Exit 4. +1
Yes, Inwangsan is very well-connected by Seoul's subway system. Gyeongbokgung Station and Seodaemun Station are the primary access points for different trailheads.
Many recommend starting from the Gyeongbokgung Station side to see the Tiger statue. For a potentially less crowded experience, consider the Seodaemun Station entrance. +1
Yes, it's possible to connect Inwangsan with nearby Ansan Mountain, though it requires some navigation and walking between trailheads.
From the Gyeongbokgung Station entrance, the hike to the summit and back typically takes around 1.5 hours, making it a great option for a shorter outing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking Inwangsan Mountain is free and does not require any admission tickets. It's a public park accessible to everyone.
Inwangsan is generally accessible during daylight hours. While there are no strict official closing times for the trails, it's advisable to start your hike well before sunset for safety.
There is no entrance fee for Inwangsan. The trails are open to the public for free, making it an excellent budget-friendly activity in Seoul.
While some visitors enjoy evening hikes for sunset views, it's generally recommended to complete your hike before it gets completely dark for safety reasons.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for entering Inwangsan. However, always be mindful of park rules and regulations, especially regarding safety and environmental protection.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
Inwangsan is considered an easy to moderate hike. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, including older hikers. +1
The summit offers incredible panoramic views of Seoul, especially at sunset. The Seoul City Wall sections and unique rock formations like 'Train Rock' and 'Worm Rock' are also popular photo opportunities.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Dress in layers as the weather can change, and bring water, especially during warmer months.
Restroom facilities are available at certain points along the trail, particularly near the main entrances and shelters. It's always a good idea to check for their availability before you start.
Inwangsan can get crowded, especially on weekends and during peak sunset hours. Visiting on a weekday evening might offer a more serene experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is highly recommended for photography, offering a magical view of Seoul's skyline. Golden hour before sunset also provides beautiful lighting.
The summit view, the historic Seoul City Wall, and the unique rock formations are prime photography locations. The Tiger Statue entrance is also a popular spot.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and sensitive areas. It's best to check the latest regulations with the local authorities before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the cityscape. A tripod can help with low-light photography during sunset.
Capturing the vastness of Seoul from the summit and the intricate details of the ancient city wall can be rewarding photographic challenges.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Starting from the Gyeongbokgung Station side offers a clear and engaging path. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure comfort for younger hikers. The relatively short duration of the hike also means kids won't get too tired.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your hike with a picnic at the summit or pack your own snacks and water to keep costs down. The accessibility via public transport also means you save on transportation expenses. It's a perfect way to get a high-value experience for free.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss capturing the historic Seoul City Wall, which adds a layer of texture and history to your shots. The distinctive rock formations also make for interesting compositions. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive city views and a tripod for low-light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Inwangsan's Summit Views
+1Many travelers recommend timing their ascent to coincide with the golden hour or sunset. The changing light paints the sky in vibrant hues, creating a dramatic backdrop for the city. This makes Inwangsan a popular spot for both casual hikers and photography enthusiasts looking to capture iconic Seoul vistas.
+1While the summit is the main attraction, the journey itself is also rewarding. The trails are generally well-maintained, and the unique granite formations add to the natural beauty of the mountain. The combination of accessible hiking and stunning city views makes Inwangsan a must-visit for many exploring Seoul.
Exploring the Historic Seoul City Wall
The wall winds its way along the mountain ridges, and its presence adds a layer of historical significance to the natural beauty of Inwangsan. It's a reminder of the city's defensive past and the enduring legacy of its rulers. Many visitors find this blend of nature and history particularly captivating.
Sections of the wall are well-preserved and offer excellent opportunities for photos. The contrast between the ancient stone and the modern cityscape in the background is a striking visual. It's a testament to Seoul's ability to integrate its rich history with its dynamic present.
Inwangsan vs. Bukhansan: A Hiker's Perspective
Inwangsan is often described as a 'big hill' that can be conquered in a few hours, offering a rewarding experience without requiring a full day commitment. This makes it a perfect choice for a morning or afternoon activity, allowing visitors to explore other parts of Seoul. The views from Inwangsan are also highly regarded, with many finding them comparable to, or even preferred over, those from Bukhansan.
For those looking for a challenging, multi-day trek, Bukhansan might be the better choice. However, for a scenic, accessible, and relatively quick hike with stunning city views, Inwangsan stands out as an excellent option. It's a testament to Seoul's ability to offer diverse outdoor experiences within its urban landscape.
Social
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