In Seoul, the sheer scale of, well, everything, just completely outdoes every other city.
In Montreal, we have our lovely hill, Mount Royal. But in Seoul, the scale has just been elevated to a whole new level. Literally.
Seoul is a city dominated by its five peaks, each one unique from one another, yet contributing so much to the city's iconic skyline. After nearly 13 months in this city, I am proud to say that I have conquered every single peak, and the journey has been absolutely incredible.
Of course, not every mountain is created equal, and some of Seoul's peaks are just more stunning than others. While I enjoyed climbing each mountain, I feel compelled to rank my experiences with each one and recommend which one you should spend your time climbing if your time in Seoul is limited. Needless to say, pick a clear day for climbing, regardless of the mountain, because if you catch a foggy, or, God forbid, a smoggy day, then you just won't be able to see anything at all.
5. Namsan
This may come as a controversial "last place," as Namsan is the most popular mountain in Seoul and probably the first one mentioned in tourism guides. It isn't a tall as some other peaks surrounding the city, but it's famous for being smack in the centre of the city, and for being home for the N Seoul Tower, one of Seoul's most iconic structures.
Now, don't get me wrong, the views from Namsan are quite stunning, especially for those of you wishing to see some spectacular light displays at night. I didn't personally go up Seoul Tower, due to it the fog when I went, but I'm sure the views are even more stunning.
Due to the touristy nature of this mountain, the atmosphere is actually pretty great. There are people everywhere and lots of merchants selling souvenirs. There are tons of paths leading up the mountain, and it's quite an easy climb to the point where you'll hardly even pull a sweat if climbing on a mild day.
Now, here are my problems with Namsan:
First of all, finding the correct entrance to the mountain has proven to be a nightmare for me on several occasions. At one point, there's a path that looks correct, but actually ends up leading you in the wrong direction.
Secondly, the hill is way too touristy, to the point where it's been blown out of proportion. As a result of Korea's intense couple culture, the top of the mountain is laced with hearts and loved locks everywhere. It's way too crowded with crowds and couples, to the point where getting around seems difficult, and they've built malls everywhere, which are full of shops and restaurants, turning it into more of a couple/mass tourism experience than just a jovial climb up the mountain.
At the end of the day, despite Namsan's pros, it is certainly not the mountain I would return to, given all of the quality on this list.
My ratings (on a scale of1-5)
Views: 3.5
Vibe: 2.5
Hiking experience: 3
Ease/convenience: 3
Total: 12/20
4. Gwanaksan
Already a tragedy that such an amazing mountain has to be placed as low as fourth place.
I had an absolutely amazing time climbing Gwanaksan, and I would be extremely happy to return at any point.
Gwanaksan is not only a single peak, but a full chain with many peaks that could take several hours to visit thoroughly.
This mountain is a little off the beaten path. While the other mountains throughout the city are to the North of the Han River, Gwanaksan is well to the south, though still very accessible from a metro station.
The climb is a little challenging, but actually more fun as a result. There are occasions when you need to bend and use your hands to climb properly. The mountain can also take a couple of hours to climb, but the reward is definitely worthwhile, as the views from atop Mt. Gwanaksan are incredible. The entire city of Seoul sprawls in front of you, while the other side features a scenic mountain lookout.
The only real criticism I can think of with regards to Gwanaksan is its location. There is, overall, less to see and do South of the Han River, and therefore there isn't really much to do before or after the climb in the area. Even though the lookout is spectacular, you don't get the opportunity to overlook some of Seoul's most historic neighbourhoods from a close proximity. This said, the mountain is a fun escape from the city and provides some exciting challenges for those who love to hike.
My ratings (on a scale of1-5)
Views: 4.5
Vibe: 3.5
Hiking experience: 4.5
Ease/convenience: 3.5
Total: 16/20
3. Bugaksan
Already a tragedy that such an amazing mountain has to be placed as low as fourth place.
Bugaksan Mountain is one of Seoul's most unique and historic, as it is lined with these fascinating city walls all the way up, which , in some way, can resemble a sort of mini Great Wall of China. The mountain is perched just above some of Seoul's most historic sites, such as the Bukchon Hanok Village and the Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces, allowing for some incredible views of these areas. There are spectacular views on both sides of the mountain, and it's really conveniently located, as you can get off the metro and walk up quite easily.
The climb is also quite straightforward, as there aren't really any "challenging" parts, and you can be up in about 60-90 minutes. Bugaksan is much less crowded than Namsan, though still benefits from a very pleasant vibe and mix of locals and foreigners.
Overall, I can't really find any criticism for this spectacular mountain, and I highly recommend anyone to give it a chance.
My ratings (on a scale of1-5)
Views: 4.5
Vibe: 3.5
Hiking experience: 4
Ease/convenience: 4.5
Total: 16.5/20
2. Ansan
This choice may come as perhaps another controversial decision, but I believe that Ansan deserves its spot as no. 2 for several reasons.
First off, Ansan is very easy and accessible, but very fun at the same time. Ansan is located within walking distance of the Hongdae/Sinchon neighbourhoods, which are extremely popular among students, foreigners and tourists, making the mountain extremely accessible. Additionally, Ansan is the type of mountain you can climb in a couple of hours, and still have a great experience. In terms of hiking difficulty, it's on par with Namsan, and much easier than the other three entries on this list, however the hike takes you through some very pretty nature and forests, and it isn't nearly as touristy as Namsan or Bugaksan.
Additionally, the views from atop Ansan are quite unique, as the mountain is low enough that not everything below appears to be miniature. What's nice is that you can properly admire the scenery below as well appreciate a clear view of all the other mountains dotting Seoul. The night view is also spectacular. The vibe on the top is also pretty cool.
At the end of the day, Ansan lacks the history of Bugaksan or the height and difficulty of Gwanaksan, but it's the type of mountain you could jog up over and over and over and never get bored of, smack in the centre of town. And that, in and of itself, makes it so worthy.
My ratings (on a scale of1-5)
Views: 4.5
Vibe: 4.5
Hiking experience: 3.5
Ease/convenience: 4.5
Total: 17/20
1. Bukhansan
Without any shadow of a doubt, Bukhansan Mountain is the best hike to go on in Seoul, and perhaps one of the best city hikes in the entire world. Though a little challenging to climb, and kind of distant from the centre of the city, the views from the top make it all worth it.
If planning to climb Bukhansan, make sure to pack lots of water and set aside an entire day. The climb requires you to be in god physical shape and to navigate some rocky terrains. In order to reach the peak, you will need to lean up against a rope and pull yourself up. This said, it makes for an amazing and fulfilling hiking experience, with a great vibe at the top, full of tons of other proud climbers.
The views are absolutely sensational. This is the tallest peak in Seoul, and what makes Bukhansan special is that it's surrounded by tons of other mountains, all just stunning to look at. On all sides, there are things to see and admire, and one can literally spend hours sitting at the top just taking it all in.
My ratings (on a scale of1-5)
Views: 5
Vibe: 5
Hiking experience: 4.5
Ease/convenience: 3.5
Total: 18/20
Conquering all five peaks is no small feat, and impossible to do over the course of a short stay in Seoul. Spend a little longer in this city, and you can indeed see it all.
-Daniele
