Namsan’s Northern Forest Trail: A Scenic 20-Minute Walk from Myeong-dong to N Seoul Tower

Namsan’s Northern Forest Trail: A Scenic 20-Minute Walk from Myeong-dong to N Seoul Tower

1. Pop Culture and Tourist Boom

Following the international sensation of the K‑pop animation Demon Hunters, interest in Seoul’s landmarks has surged—especially N Seoul Tower, featured prominently in the film. Fans are flocking to the location, making it more popular than ever.

2. What Is the Northern Forest Trail?

Seoul Metropolitan Government has recently unveiled the Northern Forest Trail—a new 0.5 km decked staircase path connecting Myeong-dong via the North Ring Road directly to the Namsan summit. This "forest road" replaces a previously time-consuming walk of about 1 hour with a rapid 20-minute ascent.

Built along existing maintenance paths, the trail is carefully designed with wooden decks that minimize forest damage, blending naturally into the surrounding woodland. Its gentle, zigzagging layout ensures safety even on steep terrain.

3. Scenic Rest Points Along the Way

Three uniquely themed viewing decks offer immersive experiences:

• City View Deck: Panoramic cityscapes including Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Blue House, and high-rise downtown Seoul
• Forest Floor Deck: A bird’s-eye view into the lush undergrowth and forest life
• Water Sound Deck: A peaceful retreat with calming sounds of flowing water
  These points provide both visual diversity and restful highlights along the trail.

4. Collaborative Urban Nature Project

The trail is a joint project between the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Korea Forest Service—the latter providing land access, while the city funded construction. This synergy showcases a public-facing investment in accessible urban green spaces.

5. Why It Matters for Visitors

• Fast, convenient ascent: Ideal for tourists short on time seeking efficient access to N Seoul Tower
• Crowd management: By offering an alternate route, visitor congestion at the summit should ease
• Eco-friendly design: Wooden pathways and minimal disruption to the forest make it a sustainable choice
• SEO Benefits: Keywords like “Namsan hiking trail,” “Northern Forest Trail,” “Myeong-dong to N Seoul Tower walk,” and “Seoul eco trail” are now more relevant than ever

Conclusion

Whether you're tracing the footsteps of Demon Hunters fans or simply want a scenic, sustainable route to N Seoul Tower, the Northern Forest Trail is your new go-to. With its shallow ascent, lush surroundings, and stunning views, this trail transforms the climb into a 20-minute healing journey—truly a modern harmony of nature, culture, and convenience.

Public Transportation to the Northern Forest Trail Entrance at Namsan

If you’re heading to the entrance of the Northern Forest Trail of Namsan (남산 북측 순환로 입구), here’s how to get there using public transportation:

1. Buses that stop near the trail entrance

Several bus routes pass close by:

• Routes 02, 03, 05, 420, and the 90S Tour Bus stop near the trail entrance. This makes them convenient options depending on your starting point.

The nearest bus stop is just a 3-minute walk from the entrance, offering easy access.

2. Subway stations within walking distance

The following subway lines and stations are close enough for a short walk:

• Dongguk University Station (Line 3): approximately 8 minutes on foot
• Chungmuro Station (Lines 3 & 4): around 11 minutes walking distance
• Beotigogae Station (Line 6): approximately 14 minutes on foot

Summary Table