A Walk Along the Seoul Trails: Observations and Reflections
Bukhansan National Park, Jongno-gu, Seoul
서울둘레길 18코스
Exploring Seoul Dulle-gil Course 18(서울둘레길 18코스) is more than just a hike; it is an immersive botanical study and a journey through the historical architecture of the Bukhansan foothills. This course overlaps significantly with the Bukhansan Dulle-gil, guiding walkers through dense pine forests, ancient stone fortresses, and the affluent, steep residential streets of Pyeongchang-dong.
From discovering rare medicinal plants like Chinese sumac galls to tracing the defensive history of Tangchundaeseong Fortress, this trail offers a rich intellectual experience for those who appreciate nature and history. Whether you are a plant enthusiast or a casual walker, Course 18 provides a unique perspective on how nature carves its own territory within the bustling landscape of Seoul.
Botanical Wonders and Forest Observations
The trail begins with a dominance of pine forests and healthy Japanese pepper trees. One interesting discovery was the presence of boxwood trees taller than an average person, suggesting they have been growing in this rocky Bukhansan soil for a very long time. For those interested in plants, the trail is a living museum featuring everything from Chinese sumac (*Obaeja*) used in traditional medicine to Saxifraga growing naturally out of concrete walls.
Tangchundaeseong Fortress: A Defensive Legacy
A major historical highlight of Course 18 is the Tangchundaeseong Fortress. Originally envisioned as a leisure spot for Prince Yeonsan, it was later developed after the Manchu invasion to connect the Seoul City Wall and Bukhansanseong Fortress. Although it was never used in actual combat, the stone structures stand as a testament to the strategic military planning of the Joseon Dynasty.
From Mountain Paths to the Alleys of Pyeongchang-dong
The trail eventually transitions from the rugged mountain path into the residential areas of Gugi-dong and Pyeongchang-dong. This section offers a fascinating look at the steep, grand buildings perched on the mountainside. Here, you can observe how nature interacts with human architecture, such as ferns reclaiming house walls or Euonymus japonicus climbing along garden fences without the help of tendrils.
The Geographical Brilliance of Hanyangdoseong
One of the most rewarding views on this course is the panoramic sight of Bukaksan, Inwangsan, and the interior of the Hanyangdoseong (Seoul City Wall). This vantage point allows walkers to see at a glance why the capital was geographically located in such a strategic and well-defended position. The humidity of the forest path often makes the vegetation, like Persicaria thunbergiana, appear especially lush and vibrant.
Reflections on Walking and Future Projects
Completing Course 18 is a satisfying achievement that ends at the start of Course 19. Walking these trails is not just about the distance; it's about the small projects you can adopt, such as plogging (picking up litter) or identifying at least one new plant species per trip. It’s a way to transform a simple weekend walk into a meaningful contribution to self-growth and environmental care.
Have you ever thought about how plants like ferns and ivy manage to carve out their own territory right on the walls of city houses? If you're planning to walk Course 18, we recommend downloading the latest trail map on your phone to navigate the sections where stickers might be missing. Which plant species would you most like to discover on your next forest walk—a rare medicinal herb or a simple, resilient fern?
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