Eungbongsan Viewpoint: Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Views in Seoul

Picture this: You wake up early in Seoul and catch the first train to one of its most beautiful viewpoints. After a short hike up from the subway, you enter the realm of Eungbongsan Viewpoint (응봉산), where a magical sight awaits. It’s the sun rising over the Han River—bathing the city in a warm, golden glow. As the first light breaks across the river, experience Seoul waking up beneath you.

Are you intrigued yet? If so, join us as we take you through a sunrise expedition at Eungbongsan Viewpoint on this IVK guide.

Also Read:

• Eungbongsan Sunrise Festival
• Best 7 Mountains for Hiking in Seoul
• Top 10 Early Morning and Late-night Activities in Seoul

🌄 Why Choose The Eungbongsan Viewpoint For Sunrise?

• 📍 04743 362, Doksodang-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
• 🕛 Open 24 hours, 365 days
• 💸 Free Admission

Away from the busy streets, Eungbongsan Mountain stands tall at 94 meters in Eungbong-dong, Seongdong District. Its main attraction is the Palgakjeong Pavilion, a traditional eight-sided pavilion, where visitors gather for stunning morning and night views. This place is primarily known for its breathtaking nighttime views, when the city lights illuminate the skyline. The pavilion is even regarded as one of Seoul’s best night view spots.

If there is anything that could rival Eungbongsan’s nighttime views, it’s the sight of sunrise. As the sun slowly rises on the horizon, Seoul seems to shift from dream to reality. The soft morning light washes the city skyscrapers in soft pink and gold, symbolizing the beginning of a new day. Catching a sunrise at Eungbongsan Viewpoint is worth waking up before dawn because:

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Sunrise at Eungbongsan is not rushed or crowded—you can see Seoul at its quietest and most beautiful moment.
• Elevated Viewpoint: The Eungbongsan Viewpoint is situated at the confluence of the Han River and Jungnangcheon Stream, offering an overlook of many iconic landmarks, including Namsan Tower, the Hangang River, Gwanaksan Mountain, and Lotte World Tower.
• Stunning Views: Expect to see the beautiful contrast of Seoul’s city lights fading as the sun rises.
• Less Touristy: Compared to Namsan and other popular sunrise spots, Eungbongsan is a hidden gem in Seoul. It is less crowded and perfect for those who enjoy a quiet setting.
• Reflective Experience: The less-crowded setting and breathtaking city views create a serene atmosphere, where one can reflect on their life and journey.

🚆 How To Get To Eungbongsan Viewpoint?

To catch the stunning sunset at Eungbongsan Viewpoint, you will have to start your journey before most of Seoul is awake. Set your alarm for 5 AM to catch your ride; Seoul’s subway usually starts running around 5:30 AM, depending on the season. During the summer, when the sun rises before the subway’s operating hours, you might have to take a taxi or walk to the viewpoint. If you are staying in Seongsu, Wangsimni, or the Seoul Forest area, it’s best to take a morning stroll to the summit.

Getting to the Eungbongsan Viewpoint:

• Take the Gyeongui–Jungang Line to Eungbong Station.
• Use Exit 1.
• Walk straight along the road following the train line.
• Turn right at the first road, then turn left at the next intersection.
• You will soon see a wooden staircase and bright yellow forsythia flowers (if it’s in spring).
• Hike up the mountain, following the signboards or paths marked with yellow or red lines.

This short hike is only 15 to 20 minutes long and features paved and beginner-friendly trails. Expect steep and short inclines, benches to rest, and scenic views along the way. Since you will be walking in the dark, consider carrying a flashlight or using your phone’s torch to navigate the way. After a short climb, you will reach the Eungbongsan Viewpoint.

Also, compare prices of these night tours in Seoul:

🌅 How Is The Sunrise Experience At Eungbongsan Viewpoint?

Watching the sunrise from Eungbongsan Viewpoint will be a cathartic experience. It will offer a break from your busy itinerary, allowing you to pause, think, and reflect. Likewise, witnessing the sun rising on the horizon from the peak offers a unique insight into Seoul. It depicts the city in its calmest state before it gets busy with people, traffic, and everyday activities. The sunrise experience at the viewpoint can be classified into three types:

• Before Dawn: It’s when Seoul is still asleep with city lights twinkling under the night sky. The air is crisp, and occasional sounds of birds are heard.
• The Golden Moment: As the sun slowly rises over the Han River, it paints the sky in pastel, orange, and pink hues. Seoul slowly stirs from its dream for a new day.
• After sunrise: It’s when the city begins to hum—trains start crossing bridges, cars appear on highways, and locals begin their day. This is the perfect time for photos and reflection.

If you travel to Seoul in January, attend the Eungbongsan Sunrise Festival. It is a once-a-year chance to witness the first sunrise of the new year from Eungbongsan Mountain.

⌚ Best Time To Go To The Viewpoint

Eungbongsan is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. You can choose to climb the mountain whenever you like. That said, visitors seeking to see the sunrise should arrive 20 to 30 minutes before dawn. Sunrise times vary depending on the season, with the sun rising earlier in summer and later in winter. Likewise, the best time to visit Eungbongsan Viewpoint is during Spring (March to April). At that time, the cherry blossoms and forsythias are in full bloom. Expect a pleasant temperature, clear skies, and lush grass and flowers along the hiking trail. 💡 Tip: Check the weather forecast before planning your hiking or sunrise expedition to avoid unforeseen circumstances.

📸 Photography Guide To Eungbongsan Viewpoint

Photos, photos, and more photos; the Eungbongsan Viewpoint is a photography hotspot. Offering panoramic skyline views, this viewpoint is a photographer’s dream come true. The golden hour, sunrise/sunset, and night views further confirm its status as one of the best photography spots in Seoul. The seasonal colors, including the spring cherry blossoms, the colorful autumn foliage, and clear winter skies, allow this destination to undergo multiple transformations throughout the year. If you are a first-time viewer, capture the following types of shots:

• Wide-angle panoramas of the Han River + Seoul Skyline
• Close-up seasonal shots, such as flowers framing the skyline
• Candid Shots of locals exercising or jogging in the early morning

📷 Photography Tips

• Arrive Early: To capture the stunning sunrise, arrive 20 to 30 minutes early to set up the camera and other photography equipment.
• Best Photo Spots on the Mountain: Main viewing deck, hidden corners along the trail, and auspicious spots on the pavilion.
• Recommended Photography Gear: A Tripod, a wide-angle lens, a telephoto lens, extra batteries, and memory cards
• Tips for Good Pictures: Experiment with angles to create unique compositions, use foreground elements to frame your shots, and stay for the transitions before and after sunrise.
• Snap Captivating Shots: Try to capture the city, the Han River, and the bridges all in one frame for that one epic picture.

🎒 What To Bring On Your Sunrise Expedition?

Since you will be climbing the wooden stairs to the viewpoint, we recommend packing lightly. Only bring the bare essentials and avoid carrying heavy bags or luggage. These are the must-bring things for a hike up Eungbongsan:

• 1. Water—to stay hydrated throughout the walk
• 2. Thermos with coffee or tea—perfect for enjoying the sunrise at the top
• 3. Light Jacket or Sweater—mornings in Seoul can be chilly
• 4. Camera/Phone with extra battery—to capture beautiful pictures of the sunrise
• 5. Small Blanket or Mat—to sit and watch sunrise from the summit

🌟 Tips For A Peaceful Visit

If you are a first-time visitor to Eungbongsan Viewpoint, remember the following tips:

1. Choose the Right Day

Although the Eungbongsan Viewpoint is a less-touristy spot, it welcomes many locals and foreigners daily. Particularly, weekends and cherry blossom peak days during the spring can draw more people. For a quieter experience, visit the site on a weekday morning. You will only find a handful of early risers, joggers, and photographers.

2. Arrive Early

Early bird catches the worm; similarly, aim to reach the viewpoint at least 20 to 30 minutes before sunset. You will be able to secure the best viewing spot and catch the beautiful pre-dawn glow.

3. Respect the Locals

Don’t disrupt locals who use the trails for morning walks or exercise. Keep your voices low and avoid blocking the paths with your tripods or any other equipment.

4. Mind the Season

Visit the Eungbongsan Viewpoint during the cherry blossom or autumn foliage season for extra beauty. Layer up if you are visiting during the autumn or winter seasons to keep the morning cold at bay.

5. Feel The Moment

Relax, breathe in fresh air, and soak up the atmosphere at the top. Take pictures in the beginning, then leave your camera aside and enjoy the moment.

6. Pair Sunrise With Nearby Activities

Don’t just go for the Eungbongsan; pair your sunrise expedition with nearby attractions. For instance, enjoy a morning walk or a bike ride at Ttukseom Hangang Park.

We can go on and on about how Eungbongsan Viewpoint is a magical sunrise spot in Seoul. But rather than merely reading about it, you’d better experience it. Whenever you travel to Korea’s capital, step off the beaten path to explore this quieter side of the city. Afterwards, grab breakfast or coffee at a local cafe in Eungbong-dong. Once the sun is up, go for a stroll through Seoul Forest.