Mount Bukhansan in Seoul – how to get there, photo, description, map
Have you ever touched the clouds with your hands? Have you heard the breath of God behind you? If not, then you haven't been to Bukhansan Mountain in Seoul yet. It is here, looking from a height at the dizzying landscapes and panorama of the city, you can feel like a particle of the whole beautiful universe and feel the amazing harmony inside.
Pride of Seoul
Seoul is surrounded on all sides by mountains, the peaks of which can be admired from many areas of this metropolis. Bukhansan is one of these mountains and is located in the vicinity of the capital. Its name speaks of its geographical location. “A mountain located north of Han.” This is true, because at a distance of 10 km from here, the Han River flows in the city.
Previously, Bukhansan served as a natural defense for the city's northern border. So it was during the reign of the Joseon Dynasty from 1392 to 1897. And now it is a kind of “green lungs” of Seoul.
This granite mountain looks like a trident because it has three main peaks. Its historical name Samkaksan in translation sounds like this: “three horned mountains”. The highest peak reaches 836.5 meters. The Seoul mountain range was formed 170 million years ago, stretching for 78 km to the province of Gyeonggi-do. Therefore, in the mountains there is always a feeling of the greatness of nature, because these stone giants have stood and will still stand for many centuries.
Every guest of the capital of South Korea considers it his duty to visit Bukhansan. From this mountain, you will have a panoramic view of the entire city at a glance. And who among the tourists does not like observation decks and views from above?
Pristine nature near the metropolis
But what else attracts Bukhansan? Why is this place visited by more than 5 million tourists every year? It turns out that despite the close proximity to the metropolis, virgin nature, untouched by man, has been preserved on the mountain. The temperate climate favors the fact that 1300 representatives of flora and fauna can be found on Bukhansan. Therefore, on the winding mountain paths, the voices of dozens of birds are heard among various trees and shrubs, in the waters of mountain rivers one can see how fish frolic and crayfish crawl, the aromas of many wild mountain herbs are simply intoxicating.
In 1983, the territory of this mountain was recognized as a national park. It became so popular that it even entered the Guinness Book of Records. Both residents of Seoul and guests of the capital come here to get away from the city noise, retire in nature, admire the beautiful views of the mountain landscape, and also draw strength and inspiration.
At any time of the year, walking on Bukhansan is beautiful and intoxicating. In every season, nature changes picturesque landscapes beyond recognition. Summer is fragrant with the smells of mountain herbs, flowers and surprises with the brightness of colors. Autumn paints the trees in extraordinary colors, against which Buddhist temples look especially beautiful. In winter, snow-capped peaks attract the eye. Spring awakens everything around, covering with fresh greenery, and the branches of sakura and azaleas burst into bright pink.
What's up there?
Bukhansan is attractive for both climbers and people without any sports training. There are many trails and climbs of varying difficulty levels. The highest peak of Benkandai at 836.5 meters is not so difficult to conquer. And succumb to you, even in the absence of climbing skills, you just need a little perseverance. But for Insubong with a height of 810.5 meters, it is necessary not only to have special equipment, but also to be able to climb the rocks. If you have both, then go ahead. You will need to conquer the smooth cone of this peak, which is so loved by local climbers. It is very convenient for them to train here, because they do not have to go far out of town.
If you are going to the mountains for the first time, then this place is just for you. Choose the path that suits your difficulty and follow to the peaks, where you will find a feeling of deep satisfaction and a sense of freedom. This is something that can only be felt up there. After all, why do people go to the mountains, despite the fact that sometimes you have to climb the rocks, wade through the branches of trees, knock down your legs? What is it that attracts you to the mountains so much?
It is there at the top, far from civilization, that a person feels the harmony and beauty of his soul and the whole world around him. There it becomes real and consonant with the Universe. There you can hear reverent silence, and even breathe in the whole sky. And in the bustle of the metropolis, this is simply impossible to do. When difficulties are encountered along the way, remember that a gift awaits you in the form of extraordinary experiences that will forever remain in your heart. You will often remember them, returning to your daily activities.
If you go to the right, you will enter the temple; if you go to the left, you will find yourself in a pine forest.
Hundreds of paths go around the mountain and meander between rocks, mountain gorges and trees, opening up new unique views. This variety of trails allows you to organize your walk in such a way that you start climbing in one place and finish in a completely different one. There are 14 routes for climbing Bukhansan, which are officially approved.
According to most, the most picturesque of them is called the Hidden Wall. This route is the second most difficult because you have to climb the rocks. The path passes between the two peaks of Baekunde and Insubong, so you will be rewarded with dizzying landscapes with mountain peaks. It is believed that it is on this trail that you can see the best views of the mountains.
There is also a circular route that covers not only Bukhansan, but also Mount Dobongsan. It runs along both mountain paths and village roads, and is divided into 21 segments. At every site you will enjoy breathtaking views. You will also see how some trees are replaced by others, how wild herbs and shrubs grow, hear how mountain streams murmur. Again, the level of difficulty is different: there are simple trails, and there are steep climbs. Each of them has its own characteristics, which the names speak of, for example, the path of meditation, pilgrims or hospitality. The pine road will take you through the pine forest. There you will enjoy the aroma of pine needles and cleanse your lungs. The sounds of mountain streams will create a unique melody of harmony with nature. It is especially good to go along this route in the summer,
You can take another route through Pyeongchang village to see how rich people live. This village is unusually picturesque and surprisingly harmonizes with nature. Thanks to the beautiful views, many local TV shows are filmed here. There are paths that lead through ordinary villages, traditional for ordinary Koreans, where chickens, ducks and other animals graze in neat courtyards.
On Bukhansan, you can not only enjoy the beauty of nature, but also immerse yourself in the local history and culture. More than a hundred Buddhist temples have been built on the mountain. They are so in harmony with the surrounding landscapes that they give the whole picture a complete look. There are also ancient fortresses. For example, Bukhanseong, which began to be built in the 2nd century, and it acquired its modern look in the 18th century. A walk along the defensive wall will take a lot of time, because its length is 9.5 km.
Useful information for tourists
This place is very convenient to visit. Here is another reason why so many people want to climb this mountain. You just need to take the subway and get off at the Dobongsan stop. If you have not prepared in advance for the ascent, then everything you need is sold here, including climbing equipment of famous brands. But even if you have chosen an easy-to-climb path, where steps are carved into the rocks and iron handrails are stretched out, do not forget about good shoes. Still, they are mountains.
For your own safety, you can put your name on the list before starting the journey. Only after descending from the mountain, be sure to report that you have returned. Otherwise, they will look for you in the mountains. The lifeguard team works to make everyone feel comfortable. If suddenly you have bruises and abrasions along the way, then do not worry, they will be quickly treated at the foot of the mountain. There are many places where medical care is provided.
Ritual for happiness
When you climb one of the peaks, build a small cairn. According to local belief, this will speed up the arrival of happiness in your life. Although doesn't it already happen to you if you climb the unique mountain Bukhansan, admiring the breathtaking views, virgin nature and breathing in the purest mountain air?