Seoul City Wall Complete Guide 2026: Hanyangdoseong Walking Trail Routes & Tips

In 1396, King Taejo, founder of the Joseon Dynasty, gave an order that would shape Seoul's identity for the next 600 years: "Build a fortress to protect the people."

The result stands today as Hanyangdoseong, Seoul's ancient city wall. Stretching 18.6 kilometers and rising 5-8 meters high, this stone fortress protected the capital for 514 years (1396-1910)—longer than any other city wall in the world continuously served its function.

When you walk atop these stones through modern Seoul, each step connects you to six centuries of Korean history. From Baegaksan's summit, you'll see both Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Blue House. At Naksan, watch the ancient wall cut through downtown as LED-lit skyscrapers tower above. Joseon Dynasty and 21st-century Seoul become one.

History of Hanyangdoseong: 514 Years Protecting Seoul

1396: Building the Wall

Year four of the Joseon Dynasty. King Taejo ordered fortress construction to defend his new capital, Hanyang (old Seoul). Confucian scholars protested—"Too much burden on the people."

But Taejo had witnessed Japanese pirate raids devastate Goryeo Dynasty coastal towns. "Without defense, there is no nation." He mobilized 110,000 workers who completed the wall in just 98 days.

Following pungsu (geomancy) principles, they traced the ridgelines of four mountains: Baegaksan, Inwangsan, Namsan, and Naksan. The natural elevation provided military advantage while creating harmony with the land.

King Sejong's Reconstruction: 1422

In 1422, King Sejong noticed weaknesses—some sections stood too low for effective defense. He mobilized 320,000 workers to rebuild the entire wall to consistent height and strength.

Sejong introduced "section responsibility"—carving each builder's name and region into the stones. You can still see these inscriptions today: "Chungcheong Province, Gongju section," "Pyeongan Province, Pyeongyang section." It prevented shoddy work and created accountability.

Invasions and Decline: 1592-1863

When Japanese forces invaded in 1592 (Imjin War), King Seonjo fled Seoul. The abandoned city fell without a fight. War damage left sections in ruins.

The 1636 Qing invasion (Byeongja Horan) saw King Injo escape to Namhansanseong fortress, leaving Hanyangdoseong empty again. After these wars, the wall's military significance faded. Joseon kings realized fortresses couldn't stop modern invasions.

Japanese Colonial Era: Systematic Destruction

1910 marked the beginning of Japanese colonial rule and systematic destruction of Hanyangdoseong. Under the guise of "modernization," colonial authorities demolished gates and walls to build streetcar lines and roads.

The area around Namdaemun (Sungnyemun Gate) lost most of its wall for tram tracks. By 1945, over 70% of the original wall had vanished.

Restoration: 1975-Present

1975 brought the first step toward recovery—designation as Historic Site No. 10. In 2012, Hanyangdoseong was added to UNESCO's World Heritage Tentative List.

Since 2014, Seoul Metropolitan Government has undertaken massive restoration. Lost sections are being reconstructed based on historical records. The work continues today, slowly returning the wall to its 1396 glory.

Six Walking Sections Complete Guide

1. Baegak Section (Changuimun → Hyehwamun): Summit Challenge

Distance: 4.7km Time: 2.5-3 hours Difficulty: ★★★★★ (Advanced) Highlights: Baegaksan peak (342m), Blue House views, Sukjeongmun Gate

Route Overview

The most challenging and rewarding section. Steep ascent to Baegaksan summit, where all of Seoul unfolds beneath you.

Start at Changuimun (Jahamun Gate), where Joseon Dynasty scholars once passed heading to Bukhansan valley retreats. From here, serious climbing begins.

Near Baegaksan's peak, reach Cheongun-dae viewpoint. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun Square, and the Blue House spread before you—the same view Joseon kings saw. On clear days, you can see Incheon Bay.

Important Restrictions

• Advance reservation required: Security area requires booking through Seoul City Wall website
• ID mandatory: Passport/ID checked at entrance
• Entry cutoff: No entry after 3 PM; must descend before sunset
• Hiking boots essential: Rocky terrain makes sneakers dangerous

Completion Certificate Points

• Baegaksan Cheongun-dae: Take verification photo at summit marker
• Sukjeongmun Gate: Photograph at the northern gate

2. Naksan Section (Hyehwamun → Heunginjimun): Beginner-Friendly

Distance: 2.1km Time: 1-1.5 hours Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy) Highlights: Naksan Park, Dongdaemun wall views, Seoul night scenery

Route Overview

Perfect introduction to Hanyangdoseong. Relatively flat and short, ideal for families and first-timers.

Begin at Hyehwamun. Immediately find the Hanyangdoseong Exhibition & Visitors Center—grab maps, pamphlets, and stamp books here. Restrooms and rest areas available.

Ascend to Naksan Park for spectacular views of Dongdaemun (Heunginjimun Gate) and Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Walking the ancient wall while gazing down at contemporary architecture creates a unique temporal dislocation.

Evening visits reward you with illuminated walls casting golden light across the park. Weekend evenings attract couples for romantic walks.

Tips

• Many stairs: Level terrain but lots of steps—strollers won't work
• Night viewing recommended: Arrive 1 hour before sunset for both dusk and night views

Completion Certificate Points

• Naksan summit marker: Photo at park summit sign

3. Heunginjimun Section: Downtown Heritage

Distance: 0.5km Time: 30 minutes Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (Very easy) Highlights: Heunginjimun Gate (Dongdaemun), urban fortress remnants

Route Overview

Shortest section. Heunginjimun (National Treasure No. 1) to Jangchung Gymnasium, mostly flat terrain allowing stroll-pace walking.

This section's uniqueness lies in its urban setting. Modern buildings and roads border the wall directly, creating striking juxtaposition—600-year history meeting 2026 present.

Tourists constantly photograph Heunginjimun. Daytime offers architectural detail; evening brings dramatic illumination.

Notes

• Traffic caution: Roadside location requires vehicle awareness
• Short duration: Consider connecting to adjacent sections

4. Namsan Section: Spring Blossom Trail

Distance: 4.2km Time: 2-2.5 hours Difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (Moderate) Highlights: Namsan Beacon Mound, Seoul panorama, cherry blossoms (March-April)

Route Overview

Cross Namsan mountain (262m). Uphill but gentler than Baegaksan. Late March through early April transforms this into Seoul's most beautiful spring blossom trail.

Reach Namsan Beacon Mound for close-up views of N Seoul Tower. Joseon-era communication system beside modern telecommunications tower creates fascinating historical parallel.

Japanese colonial era heavily damaged Namsan section. Much of today's visible wall represents post-2000 restoration. New stones mix with ancient stones—visible testimony to preservation efforts.

Warnings

• Spring crowds: Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) brings massive crowds
• Water supply: No convenience stores mid-route—bring adequate water

Completion Certificate Points

• Namsan Beacon Mound: Photo at beacon structure

5. Sungnyemun Section: Remembering the Lost

Distance: 1.8km Time: 1 hour Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy) Highlights: Sungnyemun Gate (Namdaemun), urban historical path

Route Overview

Most wall sections here disappeared during Japanese colonial era and 1960s-70s development. This isn't a wall walk but rather following the wall's original path through downtown Seoul.

Sungnyemun (National Treasure No. 1) remains the only surviving south gate. Following 2008 arson, five years of restoration returned it to original form. Reopened 2013.

Though wall absence is notable, markers throughout indicate "Hanyangdoseong former site"—testament to what stood here.

Notes

• Urban setting: Heavy traffic and pedestrians—avoid rush hours

6. Inwang Section: Mountain Majesty

Distance: 3.5km Time: 2-2.5 hours Difficulty: ★★★★☆ (Advanced) Highlights: Inwangsan peak (338m), granite wall, sunset views

Route Overview

Most beautiful Hanyangdoseong section. Wall winds through Inwangsan's dramatic rock formations creating spectacular scenery.

Begin at Doniuimun site (former west gate). Path behind National Police Agency starts serious climbing. Rocky sections require hands-on scrambling.

Inwangsan summit provides close views of Gyeongbokgung and Blue House. Sunset paints western sky brilliant red—Seoul's finest sunset location.

Warnings

• Hiking boots mandatory: Many slippery rock sections
• Sunset timing: Start 2 hours before sunset
• Physical demands: Second-hardest after Baegak section

Completion Certificate Points

• Inwangsan peak marker: Photo at summit sign

How to Earn Completion Certificate

Stamp Tour Program

Seoul Metropolitan Government issues official completion certificates. Two methods available.

Method 1: Stamp Tour (Offline)

Collect stamps at the four main gates.

Stamp Locations:

• Heunginjimun (East Gate / Dongdaemun)
• Sungnyemun (South Gate / Namdaemun)
• Doniuimun site (West Gate)
• Sukjeongmun (North Gate)

Certificate Collection: Gather all four stamps, then visit Hanyangdoseong Exhibition & Visitors Center (near Hyehwamun) to receive completion certificate and completion badge.

Method 2: Online Verification (Recommended)

Seoul City Wall website (seoulcitywall.seoul.go.kr) offers online verification.

Verification Process:

1. Take verification photos at designated summit locations on the four inner mountains (Baegaksan, Naksan, Namsan, Inwangsan)
2. Upload photos to website
3. After review, receive PDF certificate

Designated Locations:

• Baegaksan: Cheongun-dae or Baengmaru marker
• Naksan: Naksan summit sign
• Namsan: Beacon Mound
• Inwangsan: Inwangsan summit sign

Completion Time

• One-day completion: Starting early morning (7 AM) allows fit adults to complete all 18.6km in 8-10 hours
• Two-day completion: Day 1 Baegak+Naksan (7km, 4-5 hours), Day 2 Namsan+Inwang (8km, 4-5 hours) recommended
• Weekend completion: One section per week = six weeks total. Most relaxed approach.

Seasonal Recommendations

Spring (March-May): Blossoms and New Growth

Best Section: Namsan (cherry blossoms) Peak Time: Late March - early April (full bloom)

Spring makes Namsan section spectacular. Cherry blossoms form tunnels along the wall—Seoul's most beautiful spring flower path.

Naksan section also shines. Spring brings forsythia and azaleas to Naksan Park.

Warning: Yellow dust (hwangsa) severe March-April. Mask recommended.

Summer (June-August): Season to Avoid

Not Recommended: All sections

Skip summer Hanyangdoseong walks. Extreme heat (30°C+) and monsoon season (late July-early August) create dangerous conditions. Risk of heat exhaustion and lightning strikes during mountain hiking.

If summer hiking necessary, go dawn (5-7 AM) or early evening (6-8 PM).

Autumn (September-November): Peak Season

Best Sections: Inwangsan, Baegaksan (autumn colors) Peak Time: Mid-October - early November (foliage peak)

Autumn is prime Hanyangdoseong season. Cool weather (15-20°C), clear skies (minimal fine dust), and excellent visibility create perfect hiking conditions.

Inwangsan section peaks late October. Rocks, autumn leaves, and ancient walls create painterly landscapes.

Baegaksan best early November. Walking summit paths through fallen leaves brings romantic atmosphere.

Winter (December-February): Snow Scenery

Best Section: Baegaksan (snow-covered wall) Peak Time: Day after snowfall (December-February)

Winter Hanyangdoseong brings serene quiet. Fewer tourists allow peaceful historical contemplation.

Visit Baegaksan after snowfall. Snow-covered walls and Seoul views become photogenic magic.

Warnings:

• Don't hike below -10°C
• Slippery snow paths: Crampons (ice cleats) essential
• Early sunset: Sun sets by 3 PM. Start morning.

Essential Preparation & Tips

Must-Bring Items

Clothing:

• Hiking boots (not sneakers): Baegak and Inwang sections have rocky terrain requiring proper footwear
• Layering system: Mountain tops 5°C colder than ground level. Bring light jacket.
• Hat, sunglasses: Sun protection

Supplies:

• Water 1L minimum: No convenience stores mid-route
• Snacks (chocolate, energy bars): Stamina maintenance
• Stamp book or smartphone: Completion verification
• ID: Mandatory for Baegak section entry
• Rain gear: Weather backup

Safety Rules

• No solo hiking: Always hike with at least 2 people
• Descend before sunset: Finding paths after dark becomes difficult
• Emergency contacts: 119 (mountain rescue), 1330 (tourist hotline with English service)

Restroom Locations

• Baegak section: Changuimun (start), Sukjeongmun (midpoint)
• Naksan section: Hyehwamun (start), Naksan Park (midpoint)
• Heunginjimun section: Near Dongdaemun convenience stores
• Namsan section: Jangchung Gymnasium (start), near Beacon Mound
• Inwang section: None near Doniuimun site → Use restroom before starting

Food & Rest Areas

• Hyehwamun area: Visitors Center has rest area and vending machines
• Naksan Park: Surrounding area has many cafes and restaurants (Hyehwa-dong, Dongdaemun side)
• Namsan: Shop near Beacon Mound
• Inwangsan: Summit convenience stand (weekends only)

Transportation & Starting Points

Major Section Access

Baegak Section: Changuimun (Jahamun)

• Subway: Line 3 Gyeongbokgung Station Exit 3 → 15-minute walk
• Bus: 1020, 7022, 7212 → Jahamun stop

Naksan Section: Hyehwamun

• Subway: Line 4 Hyehwa Station Exit 2 → 3-minute walk
• Bus: 110A, 140, 143, 273 → Hyehwa Station stop

Heunginjimun Section: Dongdaemun

• Subway: Line 1/4 Dongdaemun Station Exit 6 → Direct access
• Bus: Multiple routes

Namsan Section: Jangchung Gymnasium

• Subway: Line 3 Dongguk University Station Exit 6 → 10-minute walk
• Bus: 105, 144, 261, 463 → Jangchung Gymnasium stop

Sungnyemun Section: Namdaemun

• Subway: Line 4 Hoehyeon Station Exit 5 → 5-minute walk

Inwang Section: Doniuimun Site

• Subway: Line 5 Seodaemun Station Exit 4 → 3-minute walk
• Bus: 110A, 7016, 7018 → Seodaemun Station stop

Parking

Paid parking exists near starting points but is limited and expensive (₩3,000-5,000/hour). Public transportation strongly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I complete all 18.6km in one day?

Yes, possible for fit adults. Expect 8-10 hours. However, Baegak section closes after 3 PM, requiring 7 AM or earlier start. First-timers should split across 2-3 days.

Q2: Which section for beginners?

Naksan section (2.1km, 1-1.5 hours) recommended. Relatively flat, short, family-friendly. Route: Hyehwamun → Naksan Park → Heunginjimun.

Q3: Is winter snow dangerous?

Baegaksan and Inwangsan sections become slippery in snow. Crampons (ice cleats) mandatory. Below -10°C or after heavy snow, sections may close. Naksan and Namsan relatively safer.

Q4: Can children hike these trails?

Naksan, Heunginjimun, and Sungnyemun sections suit children. Flat and short. Baegak and Inwang have steep grades and rocks—upper elementary age or older recommended.

Q5: How to book Baegak section?

Book through Seoul City Wall website (seoulcitywall.seoul.go.kr). Free reservation up to 7 days advance. Weekends fill quickly. Passport/ID required on visit day.

Q6: Where to get completion certificate?

Offline: Collect stamps at four gates (Heunginjimun, Sungnyemun, Doniuimun, Sukjeongmun), receive certificate at Hyehwamun Visitors Center. Online: Take verification photos at four mountain peaks (Baegak, Naksan, Namsan, Inwang), upload to website, receive PDF certificate.

Q7: Are restrooms available?

Major starting points (Changuimun, Hyehwamun, Dongdaemun, Jangchung Gymnasium, Namdaemun, Doniuimun site) have restrooms. Midway options scarce. Use facilities before starting.

Q8: When are cherry blossoms best?

Late March - early April sees peak bloom. Namsan section most beautiful. Expect massive crowds. Weekday mornings or evenings recommended.

Q9: Can foreigners access Baegak section?

Yes. Bring passport for ID. Book through website. Foreign passports accepted.

Q10: Best sunset spot?

Inwangsan summit. Western sky turns brilliant red with Gyeongbokgung, Blue House, and Seoul cityscape below. Arrive 1 hour before sunset.

Q11: Can I walk at night?

Naksan section has lighting until 11 PM, allowing night walks. Other sections lack lighting—dangerous after dark. Descend before sunset.

Q12: Closed during rain?

Not closed for rain. However, rocky sections (Baegak, Inwang) become dangerously slippery. Heavy rain or typhoons may trigger closure.

Q13: Can I visit Gyeongbokgung same day?

Yes. Walk Naksan section (1.5 hours), visit Gyeongbokgung Palace (2 hours) completes morning-to-afternoon. 30-minute walk from Hyehwamun to palace.

Q14: Are pets allowed?

General sections (Naksan, Heunginjimun, Namsan, Sungnyemun, Inwang) allow leashed pets. Baegak section is security area—no pets.

Q15: How long does completion take?

Fast: 2-3 days (6-9km daily) Leisurely: 6 weeks (one section weekly) Beginner Recommended: 2 months (3-4 hikes monthly)

Final Thoughts: Walking Through 600 Years

Walking Hanyangdoseong stirs something profound. You feel the sweat of workers who built these walls 600 years ago. You follow footsteps of Joseon-era scholars who passed this way 400 years ago. You touch stones that survived Japanese destruction 100 years ago.

With each step, you see the exact landscapes Joseon kings viewed. You physically experience the weight of history.

Standing at summits gazing down at Seoul, watching Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung palaces emerge between modern skyscrapers, seeing the Han River flow eternal—you finally understand. Seoul has stood here for so long.

Hanyangdoseong isn't simple hiking. It's time travel through 600 years experienced with your body. Complete the 18.6km wall circuit, and Seoul transforms before your eyes.

Now lace up your boots tight and take that first step. Hanyangdoseong awaits you.

Sources

• Seoul City Wall Official Website
• Hanyangdoseong Walking Tour Challenge
• Visit Seoul - Naksan City Wall
• Visit Korea - Hanyangdoseong
• Wikipedia - Seoul City Wall