How to Reach Inwangsan's Hidden Ridge Without Speaking Korean
Inwangsan is one of the easier mountains to reach in Seoul, which is exactly why most foreigners end up on the same crowded section near the old fortress wall. There is a quieter ridge — the one I take repeat clients to — that requires almost no Korean at all, but you have to know where to get off the bus. This is the route, step by step. Why Skip the Standard Tourist Approach The "famous" approach to Inwangsan starts near Gyeongbokgung Palace and walks up through Changuimun gate along the city wall. It is fine. It is also packed with tour groups, especially on weekends and any day the cherry blossoms are in. You will spend more time waiting for people to move out of your photos than actually walking. The route I am about to describe gets you to the same ridge from the other side, but you will have it largely to yourself for the first hour. I have driven this route at least forty times for clients. It works in any season, requires no special gear beyond decent shoes, ...