Seoraksan Cable Car: Reservations, Operating Hours, Fees & Tips for Securing a Spot
If you want to experience the stunning landscape of Seoraksan National Park at a glance, riding the Seoraksan Cable Car is a must. It takes you up to Gwongeumseong Fortress, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Seoraksan Mountain.
What is the Seoraksan Cable Car?
The Seoraksan Cable Car is a gondola system located near Sinheungsa Temple at the base of Seoraksan Mountain. The ride takes you up to Gwongeumseong Fortress, situated 700 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the entire Seoraksan Mountain range.
Seoraksan Cable Car Reservations and Operating Hours
1. How to Reserve Seoraksan Cable Car Tickets
Due to the mountainous terrain and elevation (700m), the Seoraksan Cable Car is highly affected by weather conditions. For this reason:
- Reservations are not available online, and tickets are only sold on-site.
- Operating hours and ticket availability can change daily depending on weather conditions.
On-site ticketing:
- Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and availability is announced a day in advance on the official Seoraksan website.
2. Operating Hours of Seoraksan Cable Car
While weather dictates the exact times, the general operating hours are:
- From 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Check the website for an official update the day before your visit.
Seoraksan Cable Car Ticket Prices
- Adults (12+ years old): 15,000 KRW
- Children (Elementary school age): 11,000 KRW
- Infants (under 36 months): Free
Tips for Using Seoraksan Cable Car
1. Don’t Arrive Too Early
There’s no need to arrive super early and wait. The Seoraksan Cable Car accommodates 50 passengers every 5 minutes. During peak seasons (fall foliage, winter snow), there can be a waiting time of up to two hours after purchasing a ticket. To make the most of your wait time, you can explore nearby Sinheungsa Temple while waiting for your turn.
2. How to Secure the Best Spot on the Cable Car
The cable car ride itself takes less than 10 minutes, but grabbing a window seat ensures the best views of Seoraksan’s spectacular scenery. Even if you arrive early, there’s no waiting area inside, so follow these tips:
- Boarding Pass Timing: Your boarding time will be clearly printed on your ticket. Even if you get a later time, you can comfortably wait for your turn.
- Positioning: Arrive about 10 minutes before your boarding time. If you stand near the back of the boarding line, you have a better chance of getting a window seat.
3. Off-season and Peak-season Considerations
- During off-season periods, fewer people visit, and the cable car may only operate if a minimum number of passengers are gathered.
- During peak seasons, the cable car operates continuously without breaks, with 50 passengers boarding every 5 minutes.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the Seoraksan Cable Car and experience the best views of one of Korea’s most beautiful mountain ranges. Don’t forget to check the weather conditions and official announcements before your trip to ensure a smooth ride!