Bukhansan National Park, Seoul (must see)

Bukhansan National Park, founded in 1983, spans nearly 80 km² along the northern fringe of Seoul and into Gyeonggi Province. Its name translates to "mountains north of the Han River" and reflects its position as a natural boundary for the city. With around five million visitors annually, it holds a Guinness World Record as the most visited national park per unit area.

The park’s most prominent features are its three major peaks: Baegundae, the tallest at 836.5 meters; Insubong, reaching 810.5 meters and popular with rock climbers for its steep granite cliffs; and Mangyeongdae, around 799 meters high. Each summit provides expansive views across Seoul.

Bukhansan National Park features a wide variety of hiking trails, from easy woodland walks to challenging ridge routes. Among the most well-traveled paths are the Bukhansanseong trail, the Uiryeong-gil circuit, and the picturesque Dulle-gil trails, which meander through forested valleys and pass by historic royal tombs and observation points.

Nature lovers will delight in the park’s remarkable biodiversity: more than 1,300 species of plants and animals thrive there, including deer, wild boar, Korean goral, squirrels, and abundant birdlife with woodpeckers, jays, and songbirds. Seasonal blooms and autumn foliage transform the landscape, making each visit uniquely picturesque.

Moreover, visitors can explore remnants of Bukhansanseong Fortress, a 12.7 km long Joseon‑era defensive wall built in 1711, which includes gates, sentry posts, and a 120‑room royal retreat. Scattered among the wooded slopes are more than 100 Buddhist temples and hermitages, offering peaceful rest spots and insight into Korea’s mountain‑spirit traditions.