If you're new to Korea and looking to explore its famous mountains, there are five top spots you shouldn't miss.
In this guide, you'll learn about why these mountains are recommended, their unique highlights, and tips on how to get there so you can make the most of your first hiking experiences in Korea.
Let’s dive in!
Contents
- Seoraksan
- Odaesan
- Chiaksan
- Taebaeksan
- Bukhansan
- Conclusion
1. Seoraksan – The Majestic Landmark of Korea’s Mountains
Why visit?
Seoraksan, located in Gangwon Province, is one of Korea’s most iconic and scenic mountains.
Known for its dramatic cliffs and vibrant fall foliage, it’s breathtaking all year but is especially famous for autumn colors and winter snow.
The mountain’s rugged beauty, with popular sites like Ulsanbawi Rock and Biryong Falls, offers visitors panoramic views that are truly unforgettable.
How to get there
From Seoul, take an intercity bus to Sokcho, which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
From Sokcho, local buses can take you directly to the Seoraksan National Park entrance.
2. Odaesan – A Mountain of Tranquility and Spiritual Retreats
Why visit?
Odaesan is a peaceful destination, well-known for its lush, forested trails and serene temples like Woljeongsa.
This mountain is an ideal escape for those seeking a quieter hiking experience, with relatively gentle slopes that are beginner-friendly.
Odaesan is especially beautiful in autumn, with vibrant foliage adding to the tranquil atmosphere of the mountain and its temples.
How to get there
From Seoul, take an express bus to Jinbu or Gangneung, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to Odaesan National Park. The journey takes around 3 hours in total.
3. Chiaksan – A Hidden Gem of Rich Forests and Diverse Trails
Why visit?
Chiaksan, located in Wonju, is known for its beautiful and diverse landscape, offering trails of various difficulty levels, making it suitable for both beginner and intermediate hikers.
The Guryongsa Temple to Birobong Peak trail is particularly scenic and filled with vibrant colors in autumn.
This mountain is less crowded than Seoraksan, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature more privately.
How to get there
From Seoul, take an intercity bus to Wonju, which takes about 1.5 hours. Local buses or taxis can then take you to the Chiaksan National Park entrance.
4. Taebaeksan – A Unique Blend of History and Nature
Why visit?
Taebaeksan is renowned not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural significance.
The mountain is home to historical sites such as the Cheonjedan Altar and Dangun Shrine, which add a cultural depth to the hiking experience.
It’s known for its snow-covered landscape in winter, but even in autumn, you can experience Korea’s traditional heritage while enjoying vibrant foliage.
How to get there
From Seoul, take a bus to Taebaek City, which takes around 3 hours. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to the Taebaeksan National Park entrance.
5. Bukhansan – The Perfect Mountain for Seoul Visitors
Why visit?
Bukhansan, located right within the Seoul metropolitan area, offers incredible views of the city and is one of the most accessible mountains in Korea.
Known for its granite peaks and variety of trails, Bukhansan provides both challenging routes and more relaxed options, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
The mountain is also famous for Bukhansanseong Fortress and other historical sites.
How to get there
From anywhere in Seoul, take the subway to Bukhansan or Dobongsan stations. Several public bus routes also go directly to the park entrances.
Conclusion
These five mountains offer diverse and unique experiences, making them ideal for those visiting Korea for the first time.
With stunning views, accessible trails, and cultural sites, these destinations showcase Korea’s natural beauty and history.
Whether you’re drawn to the iconic cliffs of Seoraksan, the peaceful temples of Odaesan, or the historical trails of Bukhansan, these mountains are the perfect places to start your hiking journey in Korea. Enjoy the adventure!