Bukhansan, Mountain peak in northern Seoul, South Korea.
Bukhansan is a mountain in northern Seoul with three granite peaks: Baegundae, Insubong, and Mangyeongdae form a natural boundary above the capital. Dense forest covers the slopes, while steep rock faces and narrow ridges mark the upper sections.
During the Joseon Dynasty the mountain marked the northern boundary of Seoul and housed fortifications to protect the capital. Remnants of old fortress walls and gates still stand along the ridges today.
Buddhist monks once regarded the peaks as sacred places for retreat and meditation in secluded valleys. Today families and hikers follow the same paths, often pausing at temples tucked between rock formations.
Trails begin at several entrances reachable by public transport and range from easy paths to demanding climbing routes. Good shoes and enough water matter, as some sections grow steep and rocky.
The park shelters over 3,100 plant and animal species in a relatively small area, making it one of the most biodiverse national parks in the country. Despite its closeness to a city of millions, the wilderness remains surprisingly intact and provides habitat for rare species.
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