Achasan

Achasan sits at the eastern edge of Seoul and is known as the first place in the city to catch the sunrise — on New Year’s Day, thousands of people make the early-morning climb to watch the sun clear the horizon and make a wish for the year ahead.

The mountain’s gentle gradients and well-maintained wooden boardwalks make it one of Seoul’s most family-friendly hikes: no technical sections, no serious scrambles, and wide, clearly marked trails throughout. In the evenings it becomes one of Seoul’s favourite night-hike destinations, with panoramic views of the Han River, Lotte World Tower, and the lit-up city grid spreading out below.

Recommended Route

Giwonjeongsa Temple Route (3 km round trip · ~1.5 hrs)

Achasan Station (Exit 2) → Giwonjeongsa Temple → Goguryeo-jeong Pavilion → Achasan Summit (return same way)

Tip: If time allows, continue past the Achasan summit along the ridge to Yongmasan (348 m) — add approximately 40–50 minutes for this extension.

How to Get There

Subway Line 5 to Achasan Station (아차산역), Exit 2 → 10 min walk to Giwonjeongsa → start of trail.

What to Bring

• Hiking boots (useful for rocky sections near the summit)
• At least 1.5 L of water (no shops at the top)
• Snacks and energy food