Have you ever touched clouds with your hands? Heard the breath of God behind you? If not, then you haven't been to Bukhansan Mountain in Seoul yet. It is here, looking from a height at the dizzying landscapes and panorama of the city, you can feel like a part of the entire beautiful universe and feel the amazing harmony inside.
Seoul pride
Seoul is surrounded on all sides by mountains, the peaks of which can be admired from many parts of this metropolis. Bukhansan is one of these mountains and is located in the vicinity of the capital. Its name speaks of its geographical location. "A mountain located north of Khan." This is so, because the Han River flows in the city at a distance of 10 km from here.
Previously, Bukhansan served as a natural defense of the northern border of the city. So it was during the reign of the Joseon dynasty from 1392 to 1897. And now it is a kind of "green lungs" of Seoul.
This granite mountain resembles a trident in its appearance, since it has three main peaks. Its historical name Samkaksan is translated as “three horned mountains”. The highest peak reaches 836.5 meters. The Seoul mountain range was formed 170 million years ago, stretching 78 km to the province of Gyeonggi-do. Therefore, in the mountains, there is always a feeling of the greatness of nature, because these stone giants have stood and will remain for many centuries.
Each guest of the capital of South Korea considers it his duty to visit Bukhansan. From this mountain, you will see the panorama of the entire city at a glance. And which of the tourists does not like observation decks and views from above?
Primordial nature near the metropolis
But what else attracts Bukhansan? Why is this place visited by more than 5 million tourists every year? It turns out, despite the close proximity to the metropolis, virgin nature, untouched by man, has been preserved on the mountain. The temperate climate is conducive to the fact that 1,300 flora and fauna can be found in Bukhansan. Therefore, on the winding mountain paths you can hear the voices of dozens of birds among a variety of trees and bushes, in the waters of mountain rivers you can see how fish frolic and crawfish crawl, the aromas of many wild mountain herbs are simply intoxicating.
In 1983, the territory of this mountain was recognized as a national park. It became so popular that it even got into the Guinness Book of Records. Both Seoul residents and guests of the capital come here to escape from the noise of the city, retire to nature, admire the beautiful views of the mountain landscape, as well as draw strength and inspiration.
At any time of the year, walks in Bukhansan are beautiful and delightful. In every season, nature changes picturesque landscapes beyond recognition. Summer is fragrant with the smells of mountain herbs, flowers and surprises with the brightness of colors. Autumn paints trees in extraordinary colors, against which Buddhist temples look especially beautiful. In winter, snow-capped peaks attract the eye. Spring awakens everything around, covering with fresh greenery, and the branches of sakura and azaleas flash with a bright pink color.
What's up there?
Bukhansan is attractive for both climbers and people without any sports training. There are many trails and climbs of different levels of difficulty. The highest peak, Benkandai, at 836.5 meters, is not so difficult to conquer. And it will succumb to you, even in the absence of climbing skills, you just need a little perseverance. But for Insubong with a height of 810.5 meters, it is necessary not only to have special equipment, but also to be able to climb the rocks. If you have both, then go ahead. You will need to conquer the smooth cone of this peak, which local climbers love so much. It is very convenient for them to train here, because they do not have to go far out of town.
If you are going to the mountains for the first time, this is the place for you. Choose a trail suitable for the complexity and follow to the peaks, where a feeling of deep satisfaction and a feeling of freedom awaits you. This is something that can only be felt up there. After all, why do people go to the mountains, despite the fact that sometimes you have to climb rocks, wade through tree branches, knock your legs? What attracts so much to the mountains?
It is there, upstairs, far from civilization, that a person feels the harmony and beauty of his soul and the whole world around him. There it becomes real and in tune with the Universe. There you can hear awe-inspiring silence, and even breathe in the whole sky. And in the bustle of the metropolis, it is simply impossible to do this. When difficulties are encountered on the way, remember that a gift awaits you in the form of extraordinary experiences that will forever remain in your heart. You will remember them often when you return to your daily activities.
If you go to the right, you will find yourself in the temple, if you go to the left, you will find yourself in a pine forest.
Hundreds of paths go around the mountain and meander between rocks, mountain gorges and trees, revealing new unique views. This variety of trails allows you to organize your walk so that you start the climb in one place and end in another. There are 14 routes for climbing Bukhansan, which are officially approved.
According to most, the most picturesque of them is called the "Hidden Wall". This route is the second most difficult, as you have to climb the rocks. The trail runs between the two peaks of Paekunde and Insubong, so it will reward you with dizzying mountain scenery. It is believed that it is on this trail that you can see the best views of the mountains.
There is also a circular route that covers not only Bukhansan, but also Mount Tobonsan. It runs along both mountain trails and country roads, and is divided into 21 sections. At each site, you will admire the breathtaking views. You will also see how some trees are replaced by others, how wild grasses and bushes grow, you will hear how mountain streams murmur. Again, the difficulty level is different: there are simple trails, and there are also steep climbs. Each of them has its own characteristics, which are indicated by the names, for example, the road of meditation, pilgrims or hospitality. The pine road will take you through the pine forest. There you will enjoy the scent of pine needles and cleanse your lungs. The sounds of mountain streams will create a unique melody of harmony with nature. It is especially good to go along this route in summer, because the crowns of these majestic trees provide shade and save you from the heat.
You can take a different path through Pyeongchang Village to see how rich people live. This village is unusually picturesque and surprisingly in harmony with nature. Thanks to the beautiful views, many local TV shows are filmed here. There are trails that lead through ordinary villages, traditional for ordinary Koreans, where chickens, ducks and other animals graze in neat courtyards.
In Bukhansan, you can not only enjoy the beauty of nature, but also immerse yourself in the local history and culture. More than a hundred Buddhist temples have been built on the mountain. They are so in harmony with the surrounding landscapes that they give the whole picture a complete look. There are also ancient fortresses. For example, Buhanseong, which began to be built in the II century, and acquired its modern look in the 18th century. A walk along the defensive wall will take a lot of time, because its length is 9.5 km.
Useful information for tourists
This place is very convenient to visit. Here is another reason why there are so many who want to climb this mountain. You just need to take the subway and get off at the Dobongsan stop. If you are not prepared in advance for the ascent, everything you need is sold here, including climbing equipment of famous brands. But even if you have chosen an easy-to-climb path, where steps are carved into the rocks and iron handrails are stretched, do not forget about good shoes. They are mountains after all.
For your safety, you can add your name to the list before starting the journey.Only after descending the mountain, be sure to report that you have returned. Otherwise, they will look for you in the mountains. The rescue team works to make everyone feel comfortable. If suddenly you have bruises and abrasions along the way, then do not worry, they will be quickly treated at the foot of the mountain. There are many points where medical care is provided.
Ritual for happiness
When you climb one of the peaks, build a small cairn of stones. According to local belief, this will speed up the arrival of happiness in your life. Although doesn't it happen to you anymore, if you climb the unique Mount Bukhansan, admiring the breathtaking views, virgin nature and breathing in the purest mountain air?
