A Healing Time Full of Forest Scents Near Seoul, A Record of Hiking Cheonggyesan (Mountain)

A Friendly Greeting from the Green Forest

On a weekend morning, I opened the window and fresh air suddenly visited me. I wanted to put down the gray routine of the stuffy city for a moment and head somewhere, so I set off for Cheonggyesan (Mountain), located in Wonji-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul. This mountain, with its generous embrace covering both Seoul and the Gyeonggi area, always makes me feel like I am being held warmly. As soon as I entered the entrance, the deep scent of grass tickled my nose. Perhaps because it is a place where the legend of a blue dragon ascending to heaven resides, there was an indescribable mysterious energy in every step I took up the mountain.

I had heard the Feng Shui story that Gwanaksan (Mountain) is called the White Tiger and Cheonggyesan (Mountain) is called the Left Azure Dragon, but the Cheonggyesan (Mountain) I actually encountered was as blue and gentle as its name. The sound of the valley water lingered pleasantly in my ears, and wild chestnuts and acorns falling under my feet conveyed the vitality of nature as it was. It is a very grateful thing to be able to feel the deep atmosphere of the forest even though it is not far from the city center.

The Reverse Charm of the Mountain, Stories of Ongnyeobong (Peak) and Hyeoreupjae (Pass)

Cheonggyesan (Mountain) has a very colorful face. The mountain range viewed from the Gwacheon direction feels gentle and mild due to the abundance of soil, but Manggyeongdae (Peak), viewed from the Seoul Grand Park side, boasts the dignity of rough and imposing rocks. The summit, Manggyeongdae (Peak) (618.2m), cannot be reached directly because there are government facilities, but the path leading up to it is home to Hyeoreupjae (Pass) and Geumjeongsu (Spring), which hold the sad story of Joseon Dynasty scholar Jeong Yeo-chang. As I caught my breath passing through Hyeoreupjae (Pass), where Jeong Yeo-chang is said to have crossed while shedding tears of blood, the silence buried in the traces of history calmed my heart. When I pass the tomb site near Ongnyeobong (Peak), I feel solemn, as if the lives of countless people who have passed through here are breathing together with the forest.

A Healing Journey Through the Forest Walking with Family

Cheonggyesan (Mountain) has very well-maintained trails that anyone can climb without burden. Rather than the tension of climbing steep rocky mountains, the joy of a walk enjoying the sunlight coming through the dense trees is greater. It is loved by hiking enthusiasts, but it is also perfect for families who have set out with a light heart with their children. Walking through the forest bathing area, my complex mind is soon filled with clear winds. If you plan a day schedule in connection with the nearby Seoul Grand Park or the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA), it will be a perfect weekend outing to enjoy both nature and culture at the same time. You don't have to insist on the summit. It was a happy enough time just to focus on the wild grapes, actinidia arguta, and unnamed wildflowers I met while following the path the forest provides.

[Travel Tips]

• Best time to visit: It is most beautiful in spring when the green foliage is lush or in autumn when it is dyed red. If you come early on a weekday morning, you can hear the sounds of the forest much more quietly.
• Preparation: Comfortable sneakers are basic, and since the temperature in the mountains can be low, bring a thin outer garment. A bottle of water for sufficient hydration is essential.
• Nearby attractions: After hiking, try visiting Seoul Grand Park or the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) for a light walk.