Most travelers want to make the most of their limited time and budget. That’s why this blog exists

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Most travelers want to plan the right itinerary using their limited time and budget wisely — dreaming of discovering a new world and enjoying the freedom of a getaway. That’s why I started this blog: to help you design a clear, realistic plan and start your Korean adventure with confidence. 🏙️ Seeing Seoul with Fresh Eyes I was born and raised in Seoul, but after living in Canada for many years, coming back felt like stepping into a completely new world. So much had changed — new buildings, new trends, even new ways of life. As I explored the city again, this time as a returning expat, I started to understand Seoul in a different way. That’s when I decided to share my experience to help people who are visiting Korea for the first time. 🌏 Why So Many People Want to Visit Korea These days, Korea is more popular than ever, thanks to K-pop, K-dramas, and social media. People from all over the world are excited to see the places they’ve only watched on screen. But Korea isn’t just abou...
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Tips for Itinerary 13: Hanyangdoseong, the Seoul City Wall

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A Historic Walk Through Seoul's Mountain Ridges

 

Hanyangdoseong, also known as the Seoul City Wall, is a 600-year-old fortress wall that once surrounded the capital of the Joseon Dynasty. Stretching over 18 kilometers, it connects four major inner-city mountains — Bugaksan, Naksan, Namsan, and Inwangsan — forming a scenic and historical walking trail with panoramic views of the city. It’s not just a hike; it’s a journey through Korea’s history and geography, offering a quiet contrast to the busy city below.

If you enjoy walking outdoors and exploring local history, this is one of the most rewarding experiences in Seoul.

 

How to Explore

You don’t have to walk the entire 18 km. Here are the most recommended segments — from easy strolls to more serious hikes.
Each section includes a clear Entry Point to begin your walk.

 

1. Dongdaemun → Naksan Park → Hyehwa

  • Entry Point: Dongdaemun Station (Line 1 or 4), Exit 1
  • End Point: Hyehwa Station (Line 4), Exit 2
  • Duration: 30–40 minutes
  • Highlights: Well-preserved wall, panoramic city views, Seoul City Wall Museum, Naksan Art Project
    → A short, easy walk with great views, especially at sunset or night

 

2. Daehakro → Ihwa Mural Village → Naksan Park

  • Entry Point: Hyehwa Station (Line 4), Exit 2
  • End Point: Naksan Park trail entrance or Seoul City Wall section near Dongdaemun
  • Duration: 40–50 minutes
  • Highlights: Street art, small cafés, wall trail access, views over rooftops
    → Gradual uphill walk through one of Seoul's most artistic neighborhoods

 

3. Bugaksan Section: Waryong Park → Sukjeongmun → Changuimun

  • Entry Point: Waryong Park entrance (take local bus from Hyehwa Station, Line 4)
  • End Point: Changuimun Gate near Buam-dong or Gyeongbokgung
  • Duration: 1.5–2 hours
  • Highlights: Mountain forest path, stone walls, military checkpoints, views of Gyeongbokgung and the Blue House
  • ID Required: Passport or ARC (due to restricted zone)
    → A scenic and quiet route through forested slopes and historical gates

 

4. Namsan Section: Jangchungdan → Seoul Tower → Baekbeom Square

  • Entry Point: Dongguk University Station (Line 3), Exit 5
  • End Point: Baekbeom Square near Namdaemun or Seoul Station
  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Highlights: Forested slopes, fortress wall remnants, panoramic views of Seoul Tower
    → A family-friendly trail combining nature and history with city views

 

Best Photo Spots

  • Sunset along the curving wall at Naksan Park
  • Rooftop view from Ihwa Mural Village
  • Foggy ridgelines and stone gates on Bugaksan
  • Fortress ruins and forest paths on Namsan

 

Tips for Your Visit

  • Wear proper walking shoes — sections can be steep or rocky
  • Bring water and sun protection
  • Some mountain sections may close during bad weather or maintenance
  • Bugaksan area requires ID and closes by 5 p.m. (last entry around 4 p.m.)
  • Visit the Seoul City Wall Museum near Dongdaemun for historical context

 

What to Combine with This Itinerary

  • Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) – Across the street from the wall's eastern section
  • Ihwa Mural Village – Connected to the Naksan section
  • Changgyeonggung Palace – Walkable from Naksan Park or Daehakro
  • Namsan Seoul Tower – A great addition to the Namsan section
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace – Easy to combine with the Bugaksan trail

 

How to Get There

  • Dongdaemun Section: Dongdaemun Station (Line 1/4)
  • Ihwa/Naksan Section: Hyehwa Station (Line 4)
  • Bugaksan Section: Hyehwa Station → Bus to Waryong Park entrance
  • Namsan Section: Dongguk Univ. Station (Line 3) or Seoul Station (Line 1/4)

 

Nearby Neighborhoods Worth Exploring

🛍️ Hyehwa (Daehakro)
Seoul’s performing arts district, full of small theaters, art shops, and cafés. Perfect for a lunch stop or coffee before starting your walk toward Naksan Park.

🎨 Ihwa-dong
An artistic neighborhood famous for its mural village, stair art, and rooftop views. A unique mix of urban creativity and historical access.

🌿 Jongno
Known for its blend of tradition and modernity — hanok alleys, calligraphy shops, and quiet cafés. Conveniently located between the Bugaksan and Naksan sections.

🗺️ Namdaemun & Seoul Station
A busy commercial area perfect for ending your walk on the Namsan section. Offers street food, local goods, and easy transit access.

 

Final Thoughts

Walking Hanyangdoseong isn’t just a hike — it’s a step into Seoul’s layered past. Whether you’re following the wall through bustling markets or along silent mountain ridges, you’ll gain a new perspective on the history and topography of Korea’s capital.

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