Exploring Seoul City Wall (Mini Great Wall)

We stumbled upon the Seoul city wall by accident on a day we had nothing planned, while scouring the information booth for things to do. We were surprised that there was such a thing right in the middle of the city and have never seen it before. The good thing about exploring the wall is that there are many entrances and exits all around the city. Which makes it convenient and easy to get to as well as allow you to stop or take a break at any time.

The wall was build in 1396 surrounding Seoul. The wall stretches for 18.6km along the ranges of Bugaksan Mountain, Naksan Mountain, Namsan Mountain, and Inwangsan Mountain and is 7 to 8 meter's high.

The walk was pretty enjoyable and interesting as the wall takes you through homes, mountains, forest and commercial areas. There are 6 official trails that you can choose from. And they vary with levels of difficulty. So far i find the easiest is Inwangsan mountain trail. I would say that the best time to walk the City wall is in Autumn, as it's cool and dry. While the summer is definitely a no go. We sweat so much our second time there, and were so dehydrated,no amount of water seemed enough. We also got a little sunburned. 😓

On our first journey we decided on Inwangsan trail, because it was the nearest to where we were at the time (Myeongdong). The trail was pretty easy going and it had a lovely view. I recommend bringing some snacks or even lunch for a picnic. There is a lovely spot on top of the mountain that you can take a break and eat. It's also nice to be able to munch as we walked when we got hungry. Although pls keep in mind to pick up after yourselves and keep the trek clean.

One of the spots to sit and enjoy the view

The different stones shows the era it was built in.

There is a little break in the trail, where you would walk across a park and then cross the road to re-join the trek. This would be a good time to replenish your water or get some food. As there are shops and cafe's along the main road.

The second time we took Sungnyemun Trail and started from Seodaemun station 서대문, then made our way through some houses to get to Donuimun / 돈의문. The trail tends to disappear every now and then, but don't worry just look around a bit and you'll see some signs that would point you to the right direction. Or just carry a map with you to make it easier. There are some maps and info at the gate, though the english one's might have run out.

You'll see this board at the start of the trail, after exiting the train station.

Then we continued on to Inwangsan trail and eventually to Baegak Trail.

If you decide to take the Baegak Trail, remember to bring along your passport. As this trail is a military restricted zone. There are certain areas that prohibit picture taking and it also has a closing time, so make sure you arrive before that. This trail is pretty isolated and it's mostly tree's and lots of stairs and uphill climbs. There are also a lot of military personel standing guard or running around, which was interesting.

The first thing we saw upon entering the Baegak Trail.....we almost turned back.

We couldn't stand the heat after 4 and a half hours of tracking and decided to stop at the only exit on the trail. Thankfully the exit/gate (Sukjeongmun gate/ 숙정문) was not too far from the start. However we found ourselves in a high end housing area with no clue on how to get home. Thankfully we found a restaurant and enquire, turns out you have to walk all the way to the main road and take a bus to the train station. We wanted to explore the neighborhood and so decided to walk to the station (Hansung Station 한숭). What was suppose to be a 20 minute walk turned out to be an hours journey 😭

It was an interesting trek in the neighborhood, seeing expensive houses usually only seen in dramas and embassy accommodations.

In conclusion I strongly advise against tackling this in the summer, but if you just want to have a taste of what it's like try Inwangsan or Sungnyemun trail. As they have a lot of gaps in the wall, which makes it easier to stop when ever you want to and it's also nearer to the tourist areas, making it more accessible.

The third time we started from Dongdaemun, Gwanghuimun 광회문 and stopped after the N Seoul tower near Sungnyemun 숭래문 (Namdaemun) Gate. You will see Hilton hotel in front of you and the continuation of the wall on your right. From there we walked down towards the left to Seoul Station and entered using exit 10. Usually there would be quite a number of people going the same way, so just follow them and don't be shy to ask if your not sure 😊

Where we stopped

we walked towards the left of this wall

Turn right at this junction

Seoul Station across the road

Instead of crossing the bus road, on your right there is an exit that you can take that will lead you to Seoul station.

Hope you have a great time exploring Seoul as you track. And remember to bring some water and snacks..... One day we hope to finish the whole wall..... 😉