70page

Bukhansan, meaning “mountain north of the Han River,” sits in northern Seoul. Its accessibility makes it a top destination year-round for tourists and locals. Tere’s a lot to see and do in Bukhansan Na- tional Park, but don’t leave without seeing Bukhansanseong Fortress, which is designated Historic Site No. 162. It was originally built in the year 132 and was a strategic military stronghold during the period of the Tree Kingdoms (57-668 AD). Later, it functioned as a primary line of de - fense against invading Mongolian troops in 1232. In 1711, during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), it was upgraded to a stone fortress. Currently it is 7 m high and 8 kilometers long. Try the Bukhansanseong Fortress hiking course. It’s 3.4 kilometers in length and takes most people just under three hours to complete. It’s not dif- cult. From the Bukhansanseong Hiking Support Center, you’ll pass Daeseomun and Deungungak before reaching Baegundae. Most visitors to Bukhansan are there for the purpose of going straight to the top — a point known as Baegunbong. Te fastest way there is the Baegundae hiking course. At 1.9 kilometers long, it takes most people about an hour and 30 minutes. Start at Baegundae Hiking Support Cen- ter and pass Harujae and Baegun Shelter before reaching Baegundae. bukhansan national park gyeonggi province B y r o m a i n b o u l e s t e i x getting there On the Seoul subway, take Line 4 to Gireum Station, Exit 3. From there take buses 110B or 143 and get of at the last stop.