Seoul Mountain Hike: Temples, Folklore & Traditional Meal
Overview
Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
Explore Korea’s iconic mountains on this guided hike, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. Begin at Gupabal Station before trekking serene pine forests, crossing scenic mountain passes, and discovering hidden Buddhist temples steeped in history and shamanic traditions. Hear captivating tales of monks, spirits, and folklore, including ghostly legends said to haunt these mystical peaks.
End your adventure with hasanju—Korea’s beloved hiking tradition—at a local mountainside restaurant. Enjoy a hearty chicken stew with mountain roots and fresh vegetables, or a vegetarian bibimbap, paired with makgeolli (traditional rice ale), beer, or non-alcoholic options.
Highlights:
Hike Seoul’s beautiful mountain trails with stunning views.
Discover hidden temples and shamanic sites.
Hear captivating stories of Korea’s history and folklore.
Enjoy a traditional post-hike meal with drinks.
✅ Small group | ✅ Moderate difficulty | ✅ Expert guides
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Minimum age is 18 years
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Professional guide
Alcoholic Beverages
Lunch
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
What To Expect
The hike itself is generally 4-5 hours. It's medium-grade, and the guide can adjust the trail to various skill levels. There is one long steep ascent near the beginning, but no special equipment like ropes and harnesses are necessary. • Meet the tour guide at Gupabal Subway Station, gate 1. Then board a brief bus ride to the trail head. Bus fare is included. • Stretch with the guide before walking. • The hike starts with a steep ascent, but no special equipment is necessary. • Go up an afforested valley. • Cross a path with spectacular views. • Descend towards and visit Buddhist temples nestled in rugged mountain nooks. • The guide relates stories of legends, history, and folklore related to Korea's age-old mountain heritage. • Finish at a local restaurant catering to hikers with unique mountain food and drinks. Food and drinks are included in the price. Guide Phone Number/WhatsApp: +82 10-5595-6099
Sample Menu
main
Traditional post-hike lunch
One of the joys of hiking is the food and drinks to rejuvenate.
Options
Seoul Mountain Hike: Temples, Folklore & Traditional Meal
Reviews
50 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Awaresome hiking experience. Highly recommend 👌
Martina B,
Jul 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing hiking experience. Our guide Shawn was so knowledgeable about the history and places along the trail. We visited the following places. Guknyeong-sa (temple), Yongchul-bong (“Dragon Ascending Peak”) , Muryeong-sa Seonbong-sa (2nd temple) this was all in the bukhansan National Park. A dinner was also included and visited a family owned restaurant. They made an amazing homemade noodles with vegetables and hot broth plus some Korean pancake. Highly recommend this tour if your interested in doing a hike in Seoul 😀
Amazibg guide, spectacular views and even greater stories
Ryan B,
Mar 26, 2023
- Viator
5.00Shawn is ab amazing tour guide who is very experienced on this trail. Taking this tour you can expect a fun climb, spectacular views, interesting heritage sites and absolutely amazing stories told in a great way by Shawn.
Magnificent views and great cultural experience
J H,
Apr 30, 2022
- Viator
5.00Giant mountains, giant Buddhas and secretive shamanic caves. A spectacular hike on less busy trails of the park. I learned a great deal about Korean folklore and religion
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