World by City

Nature

Gwanaksan

Open in Maps
Gwanaksan

Gwanaksan

Gwanaksan is a 632-meter granite mountain located on the border of Seoul's Gwanak District and Gwacheon. Travelers visit this site for hiking and to the summit, where the Yeonjuam Hermitage is situated. The mountain is recognized for its silhouette, which resembles a traditional Korean hat.

Getting There

The mountain is accessible from Seoul city centre via the subway system. Depending on the chosen trailhead, visitors typically take Line 2 to Seoul National University Station or Line 4 to Government Complex Gwacheon Station. The journey from central Seoul generally takes 30 to 50 minutes.

Time Allocation

A full hike to the summit and back typically requires 4 to 6 hours. Visitors opting for shorter trails or lower viewpoints should allow at least 2 to 3 hours.

When to Visit

Autumn and spring are the primary seasons for hiking due to moderate temperatures. The trails can become crowded on weekends and public holidays. It is advisable to start the ascent early in the morning to avoid peak crowds and ensure a descent before sunset.

Nearby Attractions

After visiting the mountain, you can combine the trip with other sites in the southern part of the city:

  • Banpo Bridge (8.3km)
  • 63 Building (8.5km)
  • National Museum of Korea (8.8km)
  • Parc1 (9.5km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near Gwanaksan

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Gwanaksan Nearby stays

Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

Pick your dates — we'll search Seoul hotels for you

Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.

Hotel membership

Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer

A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.

Explore the membership

Good to visit alongside