Perched atop Dobongsan Mountain, what secrets does Sinseondae hold? Sinseondae Peak awaits. It stands opposite Jaunbong. Welcome to a place where the views are as breathtaking as the climb. Sinseondae offers some of the most stunning scenery in Seoul.
Sinseondae is more than just a peak. It’s a de facto summit. Jaunbong Peak may be taller. Access to its steep cliffs is restricted. Thus Sinseondae becomes the coveted destination. Early morning hikers favor it. They seek the perfect sunrise spot.
The journey to Sinseondae is an adventure. The shortest route is 6.3 kilometers. It takes about two and a half hours. The path begins at Dobong Visitor Center. It winds past Dobongseowon Confucian Academy. Then you’ll pass Dobong Shelter. The trail continues to Madangbawi Rock. From there, you’ll head to Seoninbong Peak Side Road before finally reaching Sinseondae Peak.
Let’s talk about Dobongseowon Confucian Academy. It was founded in 1573. It is Seoul’s only seowon. The academy honors Jo Gwang-jo. He was a Joseon-era neo-Confucian scholar. Spirit tablets of Jo and Song Si-yeol are enshrined here. Song Si-yeol was a philosopher and politician. The academy was razed in 1871. This occurred under a decree abolishing all seowon. It was restored in 1971.
Now, about that climb. The ascent from Seonin Shelter to Sinseondae Peak is steep. Exercise caution. Elderly hikers should take extra care. Those with weak knees or ankles should also be careful. On weekends, lines to scale Sinseondae can stretch 50 meters long. A weekday visit is highly recommended.
Before tackling Sinseondae, rest at Seonin Shelter. The climb up the rock face can be exhausting. But the reward is worth the effort. Standing on Sinseondae, you will see Dobongsan Mountain merge with downtown Seoul. Handrails are installed to help hikers.
The peaks of Dobongsan are a sight. Manjangbong, Seoninbong, Jubong, Obong, Uiam and Jaunbong attract many rock climbers. Seoninbong Peak stands 708 meters high. It has a sheer rock face of 200 meters high and 500 meters wide. Its name means “a peak where Taoist hermits undergo spiritual training.” Rock climbing equipment is needed to climb Seoninbong.
Consider Dobong Shelter. It was one of 35 mountain cabins built in the 1970s. It used to be called the “Dobongsan Mountain Cabin.” It is the only civilian-occupied cabin that accommodates hikers. The shelter is also used as a hiking school.
As you stand here on Sinseondae, take in the view. Breathe in the fresh mountain air. Remember the journey. Feel the sense of accomplishment. Sinseondae is not just a place. It’s an experience. A memory etched in your mind. A story you will carry with you.