Bukhansan National Park is huge and there are many trails that you can choose, but I’m just going to introduce one of my favourite ones.

Start by taking the subway to Suyu Station (Line 6) and then catch a public bus to the foot of the mountain. (Directions from the official Visit Korea website) At the final bus terminal, lots of hikers will get off the bus so just follow them and you’ll find yourself on a proper road heading up towards Dosonsa temple. Look out for a gate on the left leading up a steep slope into a forested area with a dirt track.

We leave the crowd behind here and take the Jindalle Ridge (진달래능선), which gives us a cool breeze and great views of the surrounding peaks. After an hour or so, you’ll reach a fortress gate which you can pass through and then turn right towards the triple peaks of Bukhansan.

After scaling the peak (if you wish), there’s a restaurant where you can grab a bite. They serve ramyeon (instant noodles) and some other noodle, and also cold drinks.

Instead of heading back the same way, I usually make a quick hike down to Dosonsa temple, where there is a free shuttle bus that brings me back to the bus terminal. Leave a 1,000 won donation at the temple if you like.

Read about other hiking places in Seoul (including easier ones!) here.

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