Gwanaksan

The Gwanaksan is a 632 meter high mountain in the southern outskirts of Seoul, capital of South Korea.

The mountain range extends from the southern suburbs of Seoul and into the province of Gyeonggi -do. On the rocky summit there is a radar station and multiple antenna systems. On Gwanaksan are also the Wongaksa Temple and the Yeonjuam hermitage, which were built by King Taejo of the Joseon Dynasty during the laying of the Korean capital of Seoul in 1394.

The Gwanaksan is shaped like a flame according to Feng Shui principles. For this reason symbols were used in the construction of the capital in several places, which are intended to protect the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the city itself before the fires of Gwanaksans. Examples are the inscription in Chinese characters at the Namdaemun ( South Gate ) and the fire devouring lion like mythical creatures Haetae in the palace grounds itself

The Gwanaksan is a popular and well-developed recreational area for the city's population of Seoul. Because of its beauty it is often named Sogeumgang (small Geumgang Mountain) or Seogeumgang ( Geumgang Mountain of the West ) to the most beautiful mountain in Korea generally considered. Numerous hiking trails lead through the mountain range with its dense and old trees. The starting point for excursions is usually the Seoul National University ( SNU ) at the foot of the mountain. The ascent to the summit takes about 4-5 hours to complete. Also from Gwacheon from, there are several interesting avenues for advancement that are not as crowded as those from Seoul.

• Mountain in Asia
• Mountain in South Korea
• Mountain under 1000 meters
• Seoul