Today was focused on exploring a new area of Seoul. Much of this trip was spent in a more urban setting, so it was refreshing to be more in nature today. Despite feeling like we were far from the city, Bukhansan National park is only a short drive away from our hotel in Myeongdong. There are many mountainous regions surrounding and inside of Seoul. The geography of this area is especially interesting because of how close a place like Bukhansan National Park is to a bustling city filled with skyscrapers.

It was explained that Koreans love to hike as a pastime, and they take it very seriously by buying the most expensive and high-quality hiking gear. We hiked as a whole group up the side of the mountain towards Seunggasa temple, which is located along a trail in the national park. The hike was a little difficult in the sense that you had to be extremely careful since it had rained the day before, making the trail slippery. Once we had reached the top of the trail, we saw a Buddhist temple there with intricately designed statues and buildings. The view at the top was also incredible. From a distance, you were able to see Namsan Tower as well as some high rise buildings.

We then went to lunch as a group, and I got to try some new food, acorn jelly. It was an interesting texture, but I’m glad that I had the opportunity to try food like this. Speaking of food, tonight, we will be going to a cooking class where we will be learning how to make bibimbap.

I’m glad to have been able to enjoy a slice of nature in a bustling city. I can see why Koreans enjoy hiking so much now. It was nice to be able to take a break from life in the city, for just a few hours, and take in the views that nature has to offer.