Bordering the southwestern edge of Bukhansan National Park, Eunpyeong-gu is one of Seoul’s 25 districts. It was selected as a UNESCO Lifelong Learning City in 2012 and is home to a fascinating history museum, as well as one of the South Korean capital’s four major Buddhist temples.

Things to do

A highlight of visiting Eunpyeong-gu is exploring Bukhansan National Park, which encompasses around 80 square kilometres of granite peaks, forested mountain slopes and historic temples. Its name translates as “Mountains North of the Han River”, with the park’s three main peaks being Baekundae, Insubong and Mangnyeongdae. In addition to its kilometres of hiking trails, the park is home to the Bukhansanseong Fortress, which was built in the middle Joseon period to protect the approach to Seoul.

Also within Bukhansan National Park is Jingwansa, a centuries-old Buddhist temple built by King Hyeonjong after the priest Jingwan saved his life. Marvel at the intricate decorations on the Daeungjeon, Myeongbujeon and Nahanjeon halls and stroll through the tranquil grounds or participate in one of the temple stay programs to experience South Korea’s Buddhist culture firsthand.

Nearby is the Eunpyeong History Hanok Museum, which details the cultural heritage of the district and its traditional architecture. Across three floors, the museum encompasses a history hall, an extensive library and an educational room, as well as a toy library designed specifically for young visitors. Outside the building is a tile kiln representative of the Unified Silla Period.

Getting around

Eunpyeong-gu is around 25 minutes by train from Seoul Station and is connected along Underground Line 3 and Line 6 of the Seoul Metro. Incheon International Airport is just over an hour away by train. Buses travel throughout Eunpyeong-gu and connect most of its attractions.