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Uidong Valley, Seoul: A Mountain Stream Below Bukhansan

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Uidong Valley (우이동계곡) is a signature valley of Gangbuk, lying between Dobongsan and Bukhansan in northern Seoul. A clear stream flows down from Bukhansan through Ui-dong, with walking paths along the water. Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1) Ui Gugok: The Nine Bends The stream's nine bends are called Ui Gugok . The name was given by the scholar Hong Yang-ho (pen name Igye), who lived here from 1762. He loved the valley so much that he named nine spots along it and wrote Uidong Gugokgi , a record of the nine bends. It remains Seoul's only work of gugok literature. Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1) Things to See and Do Walks along the stream: Stairs and walking paths run along the valley. Summer by the water: Shady paths and water play make the valley a cool escape from the summer heat. Food by the stream: Restaurants sit along the stream. Chicken porridge (dakjuk) is considered a summer delicacy. Temples up the valley: About 20 min...
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Gwanaksan, Seoul: Rocky Peaks, Temples and Yeonjudae

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Rising south of the Han River, Gwanaksan (관악산, 632.2 m) is a well-known Seoul landmark. Its name comes from the rocks at the summit, which look like a gat, the traditional Korean hat. The mountain is close to the city and easy to visit on a day trip.

Yeonjudae on a cliff of Gwanaksan

Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1)

About Gwanaksan

When Gwanak-gu was separated from Yeongdeungpo-gu in 1973, the district took its name from the mountain. Gwanaksan was designated an urban nature park in 1968 and is now a favorite place for Seoul residents to rest.

Rocky peaks and deep valleys give the mountain a rugged character. It is said that when King Taejo (Yi Seong-gye) chose Seoul as the capital, he built two temples, Yeonjusa and Wongaksa, near the summit to guard against fire.

Temple hall with lanterns on Gwanaksan

Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1)

Things to See and Do

  • Yeonjudae: A spot perched on a steep cliff, where all the mountain's trails meet.
  • Temples and hermitages: Wongaksa and Yeonjuam near the summit, along with other temples large and small.
  • Four seasons: Cherry blossoms at the entrance and an azalea festival in spring; waterfalls in summer; autumn leaves; and snow scenes in winter.
  • Barrier-free forest trail: An accessible forest trail, plus many other hiking routes across the mountain.
Large rock with carved characters on Gwanaksan

Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1)

Rocky ridge near the summit of Gwanaksan

Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1)

Before You Go

  • Gwanaksan is open 24 hours a day. Admission is free.
  • The best-known trail starts at the entrance of Seoul National University in Sillim-dong. Another trail climbs from behind Gwacheon Middle School in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi-do.
Forest trail on Gwanaksan

Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1)

Basic Information

NameGwanaksan (관악산)
AddressGwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul
서울특별시 관악구 관악로
Height632.2 m
HoursOpen 24 hours
AdmissionFree
ContactGwanak-gu Office, +82-2-879-6552

How to Get There

  • Subway: Gwanaksan Station (Sillim Line), Exit 1. The mountain area starts about 70 m from the exit.
Wooden stairs through the forest on Gwanaksan

Photo: Korea Tourism Organization (KOGL Type 1)

Map

Tips

  • The peaks are rocky, so wear hiking shoes with good grip.

Source: Korea Tourism Organization (TourAPI), KOGL Type 1

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