Seoul Mountain Hike: Temples, Folklore & Traditional Meal

5.0
(56 reviews)
Seoul, South Korea

6 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

This hike starts at Gupabal Station and climbs through pine forest and mountain passes to a handful of Buddhist temples with roots in Korea's shamanic traditions. Along the way you'll hear about the monks who lived here, the spirits believed to still watch over the peaks, and a few ghost stories locals still tell about these mountains after dark.

The hike ends the way Koreans traditionally end one: with hasanju, a meal and a drink at a mountainside restaurant once you're back down. Choose between chicken stew with mountain roots and vegetables or a vegetarian bibimbap, paired with makgeolli, beer, or something non-alcoholic if you'd rather skip the drink.

✅ Small group | ✅ Moderate difficulty | ✅ Expert host

Example Menu

Main

Traditional post-hike lunch

One of the joys of hiking is the food and drinks to rejuvenate.

What's Included

Professional guide
Alcoholic Beverages
Lunch
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Gupabal Station - Line 3, Gate 1. Meet inside. Don't pay attention to the address. We use metro stations for locations in Seoul. We recommend using the subway instead of a taxi in order to arrive on time.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

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

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
Supplied by ZenKimchi Experiences
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Tags

Dining Experiences
Hiking Tours
Lunch
Small Group
Excellent Quality

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 56 56 reviews
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