Guryongsan (Seoul), imbued with the legend of nine dragons: Exploring a healing spot in the city center

Have you ever heard the legend from your childhood about how one dragon fell and died, and only nine ascended to the sky after someone shouted upon seeing dragons ascending? The place where this mysterious story comes alive is Guryongsan (Seoul), located right in the heart of downtown Seoul. Not high or rugged, this mountain can be climbed by anyone without burden, making it a perfect natural sanctuary to revitalize your tired daily life.

Guryongsan (Seoul), which connects to Daemosan, spans the areas of Yeomgok-dong in Seocho-gu and Gaepo-dong in Gangnam-gu, and holds a story as interesting as its name. The legend that the one lost dragon became Yangjaecheon and brought abundance to this land makes this place even more special. Why not escape the breathless noise of the city for a moment and experience true rest by strolling through a mythical landscape?

A name created by legend, the hidden story of Guryongsan (Seoul)

Like the legend of the nine dragons ascending to the sky, Guryongsan (Seoul) has long held mysterious and sacred energy. Although it is a low mountain with an elevation of 306m, it harmoniously blends deep history and beautiful nature within its embrace. Guryongsan, which feels more warm and familiar than grand, is a resting place open to people of all ages.

The Secret of Guksubong and Traces of an Old Signal Fire Station

The main peak, located lower than Guryongsan Peak, is called ‘Guksubong’. It is said to have been named so because there was a signal fire station here since before the Joseon Dynasty, meaning it protected the country. The rock cave where the signal fire soldiers resided allows us to glimpse traces of their fierce lives at the time. Why not pause for a moment in this place where past and present coexist and feel the breath of history?

Diverse Charms of Four Seasons, Strolling through Guryongsan (Seoul) Forest Path

Guryongsan (Seoul) presents new感动 to visitors by wearing different clothes each season. In spring, lime green sprouts and wildflowers light up the path, and in summer, dense forests create cool shade. In autumn, red-tinted autumn leaves form a spectacular sight, and in winter, a tranquil snowy landscape calms the mind. Guryongsan is good to visit anytime; which season of Guryongsan do you want to meet?

Into the four-season landscape of Guryongsan

• Spring: Light pink azaleas and cherry blossoms are in full bloom, allowing you to feel the vitality of life. The forest is filled with the fresh scent of grass.
• Summer: The dense forest blocks out the hot sunlight, making it good for enjoying a cool walk. Feel the vitality of nature amidst the green foliage.
• Autumn: Colorful autumn leaves color the entire mountain, creating a fantastic scenery. The view harmoniously blended with the sunset glow creates unforgettable memories.
• Winter: Snowflakes covering every branch in white create a tranquil and beautiful snowy landscape. It is a good season for calm contemplation.

Guryongsan Exploration Courses Suitable for Me

Guryongsan has hiking trails of various difficulties, allowing you to choose a course according to your individual’s physical condition and preferences. From relatively gentle paths that lead to the peak to courses that explore deeper into the forest, there is a wide range of choices.

• With family: It’s good to take a light walk along short and gentle ridge paths and enjoy nature to the fullest. There are many courses that children can easily climb.
• Contemplating alone: It’s good for walking quietly and peacefully along the forest path and meditating. Take a short rest at a hidden spring water well or resting place and feel the relaxation.
• For health: By climbing to Guksubong signal fire station, you can gain a moderate exercise effect. Near the summit, you can overlook the Gangnam area.

Steps towards Guryongsan (Seoul), Information Not to Miss

Guryongsan (Seoul), located close to the city center with excellent accessibility, can be easily visited by public transportation. This is one of the reasons why it’s loved not only by Seoul citizens but also by visitors. After hiking, plan a more perfect day by enjoying various attractions and convenience facilities nearby.

Directions to Guryongsan & Nearby Attractions

Guryongsan is located in the areas of Yeomgok-dong in Seocho-gu and Gaepo-dong in Gangnam-gu, making it easy to access using various public transportation options. You can conveniently arrive at the mountain entrance by using the subway or bus, so it is possible to visit fully even without a personal car.

Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting Together

• Yangjaecheon: A beautiful urban stream that flows from the foothills of Guryongsan. The walking path and bicycle path are well maintained, making it good to explore together.
• Yangjae Citizen’s Forest: A park where wide lawns and dense forests harmoniously blend, perfect for enjoying a picnic or relaxation. Various cultural events are also held.
• Maeheon Yun Bong-gil Memorial Hall: An educational place where historical consciousness can be promoted. It is a meaningful place to stop by before or after visiting Guryongsan.

Checklist for a pleasant hike

1. Comfortable attire and shoes: Although not rugged, it is good to wear comfortable clothes for activity and non-slip hiking boots or athletic shoes.
2. Sufficient hydration: Be sure to bring water or drinks to quench your thirst during hiking. Light snacks are also good.
3. Sunscreen and hat: On sunny days, preparation to protect your skin from UV rays is necessary.
4. Take your trash back: Please show civic consciousness by definitely taking back any trash you brought to preserve beautiful nature.
5. Use of map or navigation: Although the path on Guryongsan is well maintained, it is safer to use mobile map apps, etc., in preparation for unexpected situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How long does the Guryongsan (Seoul) hike take?
It varies depending on the course, but generally, you can go to the summit and back in about 2 to 3 hours round trip. Because the slope is gentle, even beginners can enjoy it without difficulty.

Q2. Is there a parking lot at Guryongsan?
There are several paid parking lots available around Guryongsan. However, because public transportation accessibility is good, using the subway or bus is more recommended.

Q3. Can I find a spring water well at Guryongsan?
Yes, there are spring water wells in various places throughout Guryongsan where you can quench your thirst. However, it is good to check and use them after confirming their drinkability.

Q4. Can I visit Guryongsan with pets?
Pet accompaniment is possible on most walking paths when wearing a leash and carrying poop bags. Please be careful so as not to cause harm to other visitors.

Q5. Is night hiking at Guryongsan also possible?
Because streetlights are not well maintained on Guryongsan, night hiking after sunset is not recommended for safety reasons. It is better to visit during bright daytime hours.