Private Tour
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
This tour offers a rare and immersive window into Korea’s traditional culture and spiritual heritage—through the lens of rituals, legends, and customs still alive today. On the sacred slopes of Inwangsan, guests are guided through hidden shrines and story-rich trails that reflect deeply rooted beliefs. This isn’t a reenactment, but a walk through living history
Discover meanings behind ritual objects, hear tales passed down for generations, and learn how traditional beliefs shaped daily life—past and present. The tour includes a rare opportunity to witness or take part in a real fortune reading session—not as a show, but as cultural insight into how these practices coexist with Confucianism, Buddhism, and modern life.
Led by a passionate interpreter, this small-group experience encourages thoughtful reflection. Whether you're drawn to Korean folklore, religious traditions, or ancestral customs, this tour unveils Seoul’s unseen layers and lets you walk the line between myth and reality.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Inwangsan Mountain
Join this unique Korean shamanism experience at Inwangsan, one of Seoul’s most mystical sites. You’ll explore the roots of Korean shamanism, its history, and its role in modern life. Visit sacred sites like Guksadang, meet a real Korean shaman, and receive a personal fortune-telling session. During the tour, your guide will explain the meaning behind rituals, deities, and talismans. You’ll witness authentic ceremonies with candles, chants, and offerings, giving you rare insight into this ancient tradition. You can ask personal questions about love, health, or career and even purchase or request a custom talisman. The experience also includes time for photos and a Q&A session, making it both educational and unforgettable. This small-group tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path cultural experience in Seoul. Discover the spiritual heart of Korea and connect with its fascinating folk beliefs!
(Optional)
Public transportation
Bottled water
No shaman reading included: This is for people who would like to experience korean culture through a shamanic village on the sacred mountain.
Private divination with shaman: Designed for participants who wish to receive a small divination session after the regular hiking tour
The Divination Session Only: A 30mins of intense, fully focused 1:1 shamanic fortune-telling session with full English interpretation.
36 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Brittany L,Mar 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I recently did this tour on my trip to Korea and this is the most unique experience I have ever done and if you actually want to learn about Korean culture, you definitely need to do this tour. Ethan is an absolute gem! He’s kind, welcoming, knowledgeable and super passionate about sharing Korean culture and spiritual heritage. Yep, you hike at the start and yes there is a lot of stairs- but don’t let it turn you off this tour. Ethan is very good at ensuring everyone is getting regular breaks! (Definitely make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes) It was amazing to hike through Inwangsan mountain. Ethan talks about the significance of the mountain, shares stories, it was all so fascinating and such an eye opening experience into Shamanism. Other than the group that was on the tour, there was no other tourists. The Sharman I met was amazing. Super kind and genuine and takes his time with everyone. Ethan translates everything and then he even texts you a copy of your reading. I even organised to go back for a private meeting with the Sharman and Ethan organised it all and was there again to translate. Thank you Ethan, for a wonderful and memorable experience and well done on creating such a unique tour!
Veronica O,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
It is a highly recommended experience. A very different way of looking at Seoul. The mountain, the stories, the shaman and especially our guide, you could tell that he enjoyed explaining and making the experience much more authentic. Fully recommended!
Shirley d,Mar 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
The tour was amazing; you don't usually delve into spirituality that easily, but you do after experiencing the tour. Ethan, our guide, was so engaged again; I can attest to that because I took a similar tour with him. He shows a completely different side of Korea. A very educational and beautiful side of Korea. You simply get immersed in Ethan's story and everything connected within the tour. It is truly worthwhile.
OnAir9408,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Ethan was an awesome guide! Our 13 year old son was mesmerized by his storytelling and relaying of the historical and spiritual significance of the Inwangsan mountain and community. The architecture, art and nighttime views of Seoul were incredible We highly recommend this unique tour!
Christozinho,Mar 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Ethan has been an incredible and very knowledgeable guide with an great sense of humor. Thank you
yuef2026,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I was worried that climbing the mountain was going to be tough, but Ethan showed me around slowly, and personally I was totally physically comfortable. The night view from Mt. Nio was also wonderful. They taught us many valuable stories, from myths to the rituals and prayers that are performed today, which are hard to find in museums. I really appreciate that. I would like to study Korean properly and then sign up for this tour again to teach me a lot. If you are interested in the folk that are still cherished in your daily life, please join the tour.


Corrin H,Feb 17, 2026
- Review from Viator
I did this very last minute as it came up on my Facebook feed. Really interesting tour on a very sacred mountain. Lot's of folk stories and history about Korean shamanism. We were lucky that it was a very clear night and the views were stunning. There's a short but steep path up part of the mountain, so good footwear is a must. Along the route we stopped at various sacred points. I opted for the shaman visit after, which was a profoundly moving experience. Overall I really recommend this tour and the shaman visit, if you want to experience a different and much older side of Korean culture. Shout out to Ethan, the tour guide who was very knowledgeable, interesting and kind.
E1711OYpatrickg,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Best experience in Seoul to be honest. Ethen is so great, so much passion about the mystic and shamanism. Thanks for taking the time in the cold with us. This place is truly something to feel. Was zero tourists. This wasn’t a joke. Real shamans were there doing the work. Then the visit to a local shaman for a divinination was great. We got useful imputs for our lives. Highly recommended ✨


Heng Y,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
Ethan’s knowledge and willingness to share was excellent. The tour was just the right length of time to keep us engaged and not feel rushed or overwhelmed. He goes above and beyond to keep everyone comfortable and safe. Thanks for the unique experience. Definitely a welcomed change from the usual urban sights and sounds.



eewkrom,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Ethan’s knowledge and willingness to share was excellent. The tour was just the right length of time to keep us engaged and not feel rushed or overwhelmed. He goes above and beyond to keep everyone comfortable and safe. Thanks for the unique experience. Definitely a welcomed change from the usual urban sights and sounds.



Operated by Mystical seoul tour