Inwangsan Forest Rest Area: A Treehouse-Like Escape Along the Seoul City Wall
I’ve had the Seoul City Wall hikes on my to-do list for years now, and I’m finally making it happen before PCS’ing this summer. With very little planning, I decided to start with the Inwangsan section - and ended up stumbling on the best spot for a break when I was desperately in need.
Partway along Inwangsan, I came across signage pointing toward “인왕산 숲속쉼터” or “Inwangsan Forest Rest Area.” If I’m being honest, I almost ignored it. I was done with hiking at that point. Fully D O N E. The thought of more stairs down (and inevitably back up) for something that might not be worth it? Not appealing. And I’d already made that mistake once that morning.
The metal stars and glass railing allow the beauty of the mountain to be the focal around Inwangsan Supsok.
I glanced around to the trail, saw it was flat and made the decision to check it out.
The Inwangsan Forest Rest Area feels like a reward you DEFINITELY have earned.
Set along the slopes of Inwangsan, it’s surprisingly tucked into the trees - less of a wide-open viewpoint of the city and more like stepping into a quiet, glass treehouse.
Surrounded by forest with just glimpses of the mountains beyond and the faintest hint of the city far below, it is removed in the best way. The exterior is made metal railing, faded wood slats and floor-to-ceiling windows, while the interior’s light wood color palette feels modern, chic, and calming.
Grab a chair, pick up a book from the library, and settle in as the mid-day light filters through the trees.
A Bit of History
Following the January 21 Incident (Blue House Raid), 30 military guard posts and security facilities were installed on Mt. Inwang (Inwangsan) and Mt. Bugak (Bugaksan) and access was restricted for citizens until the early 90’s. The site of the Inwang 3rd Guard Post was preserved for its history and was opened with the full reopening of Inwangsan in 2018.
I ended up sitting there much longer than planned, letting my legs recover and just taking it all in. I love architecture and interior design and this beautiful reprieve was exactly what I needed to reinvigorate myself to finish my hike.
Important Information
The sunlight filtering in here is beautiful.
Inwangsan Forest Rest Area is open from 10:00-17:00 Tuesday through Sunday. It is closed during the Lunar New Year and Chuseok holidays.
Both men’s and women’s bathroom facilities are available.
No food or drink allowed inside, however water is allowed.
If you’re hiking the Seoul City Wall from the Site of Donuimun Gate to the Changuimun Gate, this rest area is roughly 30 minutes from the Changuimun Gate. If you’re not in the mood to hike Inwangsan, you can reach it from Yun Dong-ju Hill and Literary Museum and the Jahamungogae bus stop.
