Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong), Seoul - a building with a gate in the middle of it
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Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong) Seoul

4.6
·692 reviews·, South Korea

Walk through history along Seoul's ancient fortress walls, offering breathtaking city views and a unique blend of nature and heritage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong), Seoul - a building with a gate in the middle of it

Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong) Seoul

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Walk through history along Seoul's ancient fortress walls, offering breathtaking city views and a unique blend of nature and heritage.

4.6
(692 reviews)

"A must-do for history buffs and hikers seeking stunning cityscapes!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Many sections involve stairs and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are essential for a comfortable hike.

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water. Some parts of the trail have limited facilities.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bugaksan Mountain Section

Bugaksan Mountain Section

Bugaksan Mountain

Offers panoramic city views and a sense of historical grandeur. A must-see for photographers and history buffs.

TikTokInstagram
Heunginji Gate (Dongdaemun)

Heunginji Gate (Dongdaemun)

Dongdaemun

A beautifully reconstructed gate, especially stunning when lit up at night. A popular starting or ending point.

Instagram
Naksan Park Section

Naksan Park Section

Naksan Park

A more accessible and relaxed part of the wall, perfect for a leisurely stroll with lovely city vistas.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Seoul City Wall

The Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong) offers a unique blend of history and nature. Plan for a hike, as some sections are challenging. Consider which segment best suits your time and fitness level, as the full trail can be extensive. Reddit+1

Timing is Key for Views

To avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Some sections, like Bugaksan, have specific opening hours, so check in advance. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
City lights, less busy
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Seoul City Wall 🌆🇰🇷 #seoul #seoulcitywall #citywall #hanyangdoseong #koreatravel #koreaview_4u #서울 #한양도성 #서울성곽
@koreaview_4u
53.9K likes • 679.6K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Many sections involve stairs and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are essential for a comfortable hike. Reddit+1

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water. Some parts of the trail have limited facilities. Reddit

A nice afternoon walk at Seoul City Wall 서울 한양도성, Dongdaemun. Loving the view and the cool breeze~ 🍃
allanddharmawan
183 likes • 5K views
Walking along the Seoul City Wall and enjoying the views of Seoul from up high! #seoulcitywall #hanyangsoseong #citywall #exploringseoul #exploringkorea #trip #trippin #explorerbabes #koreanhistory #t...
kaytravelsd
114 likes • 0 views

🗺️ Download a Map

Info can be sparse on the trail. Having a map or offline navigation is highly recommended. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The Seoul City Wall offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone! InstagramReddit

reddit.com

Seoul City Wall: Recommendation for Mountain and History Lovers

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Many sections involve stairs and uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are essential for a comfortable hike. Reddit+1

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, carry plenty of water. Some parts of the trail have limited facilities. Reddit

🗺️ Download a Map

Info can be sparse on the trail. Having a map or offline navigation is highly recommended. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The Seoul City Wall offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera or phone! InstagramReddit

🏅 Earn a Certificate

Complete the full trail and take selfies at specific markers to earn a badge and certificate! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(692 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Seoul City Wall for its historical significance and stunning panoramic views, particularly from the Bugaksan section. The hike is described as rewarding, though some find certain parts challenging. The accessibility and beauty of sections like Naksan Park are also frequently highlighted.

"Amazing views of the city all along the trail. Not a ton of people some parts of the trail are less maintained than others so expect some uneven ground and dirt paths in some areas although many sections are paved. FREE and open all days of the week."

Victor Wang

"Had a wonderful time walking along this trail on a beautiful Sunday morning. The hike gets pretty steep near the top, but if you go at a slow pace on a mild day, it’s very doable. There are also some rest spots along the way. Make sure you bring water!"

Mi

"Beautiful place for a gentle sloping walk with breathtaking views of the city. Several cafes along the way so if you want to have a break, you can get tasty bread and drinks too."

Wing Yee Choo

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Rich historical context
Rewarding hiking experience

What People Dislike

Challenging terrain in parts
Inconsistent signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access points vary by section. For Bugaksan, take the subway to Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3) and then a bus. Dongdaemun (Heunginji Gate) is easily accessible via Dongdaemun Station (Lines 1 & 4). TikTokInstagram

Yes, most sections are well-served by Seoul's extensive subway and bus network, making it easy to reach various starting points. Reddit

Yes, the entire Hanyangdoseong trail is walkable, though it's a significant undertaking. Many visitors choose to hike specific, scenic sections. Reddit+1

While not as common as for other attractions, some local tour operators offer guided walks focusing on the history and significance of the wall. Reddit

It depends on your interests. Bugaksan offers the best views, while Dongdaemun is iconic. Naksan Park is a good option for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, walking along the Seoul City Wall itself is free. However, some specific areas or historical sites within the vicinity might have separate admission fees. Reddit

Opening hours vary by section, especially for mountain areas like Bugaksan, which has specific access times. Always check the official website or local information before visiting. Reddit

The Hanyangdoseong trail itself is free to access. You can walk along the wall without purchasing a ticket. Reddit

Yes, you can earn a certificate and badge by completing the entire trail and submitting proof (selfies at designated spots). Check the official Seoul City Wall website for details. Reddit

Some sections, particularly Bugaksan, may have security checkpoints or require identification. Always be aware of local regulations and opening times. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Walking the entire 18.6 km (11.6 miles) Hanyangdoseong trail can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop. Reddit

Many visitors rave about the Bugaksan section for its stunning panoramic views of Seoul. The Naksan Park section is also highly praised for its city vistas. TikTokReddit

Some sections are challenging with steep stairs and inclines, while others are more gentle. It's a moderate to challenging hike overall. Reddit+1

Facilities are available at major access points and some rest areas, but they can be sparse on certain stretches. It's best to be prepared. Reddit

Look for elevated points with clear city views, especially around Bugaksan and Naksan Park. The gates like Heunginji are also photogenic. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for cityscapes. Early mornings can provide a less crowded experience with soft light. Instagram

You can capture panoramic city views, historical architecture of the wall and gates, and the surrounding natural landscapes. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in many parts of Seoul, especially near sensitive areas or historical sites. Check local regulations before flying. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for cityscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light shots. Instagram

The Bugaksan section is renowned for its breathtaking, sweeping views of Seoul. Naksan Park also offers excellent vantage points. TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Seoul City Wall can be a fantastic adventure for families, offering a blend of history and outdoor activity. The Naksan Park section is particularly family-friendly due to its gentler slopes and beautiful park surroundings, providing plenty of space for children to explore. Reddit Consider focusing on shorter, more accessible segments like Naksan or parts of Dongdaemun to keep younger ones engaged. Instagram

While the full trail can be strenuous, breaking it down into manageable portions makes it feasible. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and make it a treasure hunt by looking for historical markers or unique viewpoints. The certificate program for completing the full trail might be a fun motivator for older children. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers

For solo travelers and avid hikers, the Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong) offers an incredible opportunity to explore Seoul's history and natural beauty at your own pace. The Bugaksan section is a highlight for its commanding views and sense of accomplishment after a challenging hike. TikTokReddit Many solo travelers enjoy the meditative aspect of walking the wall and the chance to capture stunning photographs. Instagram

Consider tackling the full trail if you have the time and fitness, as it's a rewarding experience that allows for deep immersion. Reddit+1 The Hanyangdoseong Passport can add an extra layer of engagement, and you'll likely encounter other hikers and history enthusiasts along the way, making it a social yet independent adventure. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Seoul City Wall is a photographer's dream, offering diverse subjects from panoramic cityscapes to historical architecture. The Bugaksan section is a prime spot for capturing breathtaking vistas of Seoul, especially during the golden hour. TikTokReddit Don't miss the iconic Heunginji Gate (Dongdaemun), which is particularly photogenic when illuminated at night. Instagram

Experiment with different lenses to capture both the grand scale of the wall against the urban backdrop and the intricate details of its construction. Early mornings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide dramatic shadows and warm hues. Instagram Remember to check for any drone regulations if you plan on aerial photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Hanyangdoseong

The Seoul City Wall, known as Hanyangdoseong (한양도성), was originally constructed in 1396 during the Joseon Dynasty to protect the capital city of Hanyang (modern-day Seoul). It stretches for approximately 18.6 kilometers (11.6 miles) and was built using stone, wood, and earth. The wall has been rebuilt and restored multiple times throughout history, with significant renovations occurring in the 15th and 18th centuries. It served as a crucial defensive structure for centuries, witnessing numerous historical events. Reddit+1

Today, walking along the Seoul City Wall offers a tangible connection to this rich past. Different sections of the wall showcase varying architectural styles and preservation levels, reflecting its long and complex history. The wall is divided into four main sections: Bugaksan, Namsan, Nakasan, and Ihwa. Each segment provides a unique perspective on Seoul's historical landscape and its evolution into a modern metropolis. Reddit+1

Exploring Hanyangdoseong is more than just a hike; it's an immersive journey through Seoul's heritage. The Hanyangdoseong Passport program, where visitors can collect stamps at various points, adds an interactive element, encouraging a deeper engagement with the historical significance of the wall. Reddit

Navigating the Seoul City Wall Trail

The Seoul City Wall is not a single, continuous path but rather four distinct sections that can be hiked individually or combined. Bugaksan is the highest section and offers the most dramatic city views, but it also has stricter access controls and can involve more challenging climbs. Namsan is another popular section, known for its iconic N Seoul Tower, though parts of the wall here are less intact. TikTokReddit

Naksan Park provides a more relaxed and accessible walking experience, with beautiful city vistas and a pleasant park atmosphere, making it ideal for a casual stroll. Ihwa connects Naksan to Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun) and offers a mix of historical remnants and urban scenery. Many visitors opt to hike specific sections based on their interests and available time, rather than attempting the entire 18.6 km. InstagramReddit

When planning your hike, consider the terrain and accessibility. Some parts involve steep stairs and uneven paths, requiring good physical condition and appropriate footwear. Reddit+1 It's also advisable to check the opening hours for each section, particularly Bugaksan, which has specific access times and may require identification. Reddit Having a map or using a navigation app is highly recommended, as signage can be inconsistent in some areas. Reddit

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