Seoul Mountain Hike with a Folklorist: Temples & Korean Meal

5.0 (57 reviews) 6 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

57 reviews

5.0

Venture to secluded outposts — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Catching some autumn foliage — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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

Dining Experiences Hiking Tours Lunch Small Group Excellent Quality Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 6 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 6 people
People per booking: 1–6
Guide: English
Operated by: ZenKimchi Experiences

Ages: Adults (18–65 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Professional guide
Included: Alcoholic Beverages
Included: Lunch

Not included

Not included: Gratuities
Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary

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

Stop 1
Bukhansan National Park

Traditional post-hike lunch — One of the joys of hiking is the food and drinks to rejuvenate.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

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

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.

Using your ticket

Meeting location: Gupabal Station - Line 3, Gate 1. Meet Outside.

(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.*

Guide Phone Number/WhatsApp: +82 10-5595-6099

Appropriate hiking footwear (sneakers, cross trainers, hiking boots) is recommended
Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
Minimum age is 18 years
Not recommended for participants with back problems
Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
Not recommended for pregnant women