Experience nature in Seoul through scenic mountain trails

A metropolis so captivating that it drew a whopping 8.23 million international visitors in the first half of 2026 alone, Seoul has become a hub for cultural experiences, fuelled in part by the global K-pop, K-drama and K-beauty craze. 

With so much to see, do and shop for, it’s easy to get swept up in the city’s fast-paced energy. But come spring, nature offers a welcome change of pace – and you don’t have to venture far to find it.  

Arrive in South Korea’s capital and you’ll quickly realise that Seoul is surrounded by mountains, with well-maintained trails catering to all levels of experience and endurance. 

Hiking is a year-round pastime here. Whatever the weather, you’ll see locals in full gear heading out in rain or snow. The trails are well equipped, too, with facilities ranging from public restrooms and picnic areas to outdoor gyms. Some even have stations where you can clean the dirt from your shoes after a hike. 

The adventure doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. With Seoul’s summers often hot and humid, night hiking offers a cooler alternative, and several popular trails are illuminated after dark. With the city lights unfolding below, it can also make for a surprisingly romantic way to experience Seoul’s outdoors.  

Walking is already part of the Seoul experience, so why not take it a step further? Climb one of the city’s many hills for sweeping views and a quieter side of the capital. 

Seoul’s best-known mountain rises in the heart of the city, crowned by the unmistakable N Seoul Tower. The “N” refers to Namsan, the mountain on which it stands. There are several ways to reach the top, including trails with wooden staircases that tackle some rather steep inclines.  

Along the way, follow sections of Seoul’s historic city wall and stop by the Seoul City Wall Museum to learn about its construction and the different periods in which it was built. Entry is free, and the surrounding area already offers impressive views across the city. 

Beyond this popular tourist attraction, there are plenty of gentler climbs to discover. Start with a stroll along Hongjecheon Stream, lined with yellow forsythia in early spring, before passing its waterfall and making your way up Ansan Mountain. 

For something with an artistic bent, head to Ihwa Mural Village, where local artists have transformed the small neighbourhood with colourful murals and installations. Its narrow streets and seemingly endlesssteps make for a surprisingly good workout, but there are plenty of cafés where you can stop for a breather and take in views across the city. 

From Ihwa, continue along the city wall towards the shopping district of Dongdaemun. Time your walk for golden hour, when the fading sunlight casts a warm glow over the surrounding parkland and the historic gates and walls.  

For a floral fix, mark spring in your calendar. Cherry blossoms may be the obvious draw, but plenty of other blooms bring splashes of colour to Seoul’s parks and mountain slopes. 

For a sea of yellow Korean forsythia, climb Dalmaji Hill or Eungbongsan Mountain, where you can take in sweeping views over the Han River and towards the upscale neighbourhood of Apgujeong. 

Prefer pink? In April, take a bus to the outskirts of Gangnam and make your way up Cheonggyesan Mountain. On a clear day, you can spot Lotte World Tower in the distance, but the real highlight is the vibrant azaleas blanketing the slopes. On the descent, stop by the colourful Cheonggyesa Temple. 

Your efforts can earn you more than enviable holiday photos, too. Seoul has several walking and hiking routes where you can collect stamps at designated checkpoints, with some offering certificates upon completion – a satisfying souvenir of exploring the city on foot.  

For a shorter stay in Seoul, one of the easiest challenges to tackle is the Seoul City Wall Trail. Pick up a map at designated stamp points, such as Sungnyemun Gate (also known as Namdaemun), or at official tourist information centres.  

The route takes you across several sections of the city, including Namsan and Bugaksan mountains. From the latter, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Seoul’s central palaces and Gwanghwamun Square. 

There’s no need to pack heavy hiking boots or outdoor gear, either. The city offers equipment rental services at selected hiking centres, with facilities such as changing rooms and showers making it easy to gear up before a hike and freshen up afterwards. 

For more of a challenge, take the metro or bus north and set your sights on Bukhansan National Park or Suraksan. Stick to the gentler forest trails or tackle a climb to higher ground for expansive views over Seoul’s lesser-visited northern districts. Either way, it makes for an easy day trip away from the bustle of the city centre. 

Whether you’re after a serious hike, a leisurely walk through an urban park or a quick climb between sightseeing stops, Seoul offers plenty of reasons to explore on foot. Pack a comfortable pair of shoes and leave some space on your camera roll – you’ll need both. 

For more information on Singapore Airlines’ flights to Seoul, visit singaporeair.com