Seoul seamlessly blends hyper-modernity with ancient traditions, and nowhere is this more palpable than the Hanyangdoseong Trail – an 18.6km walk along the 14th-century city walls that once guarded the Joseon Dynasty’s capital. For history buffs, photographers, and nature lovers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views and cultural immersion. Here’s your detailed guide:
🌄 Why Walk the Wall?
Built in 1396 under King Taejo, the stone-and-earth fortress wall snakes over four mountains (Baegak, Naksan, Namsan, and Inwangsan) encircling old Seoul. Walking its restored sections reveals:
- Panoramic cityscapes juxtaposing hanok (traditional houses) with skyscrapers.
- Historic gates like Heunginjimun (Dongdaemun) and Sungnyemun (Namdaemun).
- Tranquil escapes just minutes from urban chaos.
🗺️ Trail Sections & Highlights
The trail is divided into six manageable courses. Pro Tip: Tackle 1–2 sections per day!
-
Baegak Section (Bugaksan):
- Route: Changuimun Gate → Waryong Park (2.3km, 2hrs).
- Key Sights: Secret Garden views, Blue House (presidential residence), dense forests.
- Note: Requires ID (passport) for security checks. No photos near military zones.
-
Naksan Section:
- Route: Hyehwamun Gate → Heunginjimun Gate (2.1km, 1.5hrs).
- Key Sights: Mural-lined paths, Ihwa Art Village cafés, sunset vistas over Dongdaemun.
- Difficulty: Gentle inclines – ideal for beginners.
-
Heunginjimun Section:
- Route: Heunginjimun Gate → Jangchung Gymnasium (1.8km, 1hr).
- Key Sights: Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Cheonggyecheon Stream access.
- Culture Stop: Dive into Dongdaemun’s 24-hour shopping post-walk!
-
Namsan Section:
- Route: Jangchung Gymnasium → Baekbeom Square (4.2km, 2.5hrs).
- Key Sights: Namsan Cable Car, N Seoul Tower, pine forests.
- Night Magic: Lit pathways for evening strolls.
⏰ Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–May): Cherry blossoms and mild temps.
- Autumn (October–November): Golden foliage and crisp air.
- Avoid: Summer humidity and monsoon rains (July–August).
Start Early: Gates open at 9–10 AM; aim for sunrise/sunset views!
🎒 Essential Tips
- Footwear: Sturdy sneakers or hiking boots – some paths are steep/rocky.
- Supplies: Water, sunscreen, portable charger. Limited shops en route!
- Free Guide Apps: Download “Seoul City Wall” for offline maps and AR history guides.
- Respect Rules: No smoking, littering, or drones. Stay on marked paths.
🚇 Getting There
- Start Points:
- Baegak: Gyeongbokgung Station (Line 3), Exit 3 → Walk to Changuimun.
- Naksan: Hyehwa Station (Line 4), Exit 2 → 10-min walk to Hyehwamun Gate.
- T-Money Card: Use Seoul’s rechargeable transit card for buses/trains.
💡 Why This Trail?
Walking Hanyangdoseong isn’t just exercise – it’s a journey through 600 years of Seoul’s soul. You’ll witness prayer ribbons fluttering at shrine walls, elderly Koreans practicing tai chi at dawn, and the city’s heartbeat from serene heights. As one hiker aptly said: “It’s where Seoul whispers its secrets.”
Ready to conquer history? Lace up, grab your camera, and walk the spine of old Seoul. 공원에서 만나요 (See you in the park)! 🥾🇰🇷
Note: Trail sections may temporarily close for maintenance. Check Seoul City Wall Official Site before visiting.