Goyang-si: Korean Cemetery and Folklore Trek

Join us on a unique hiking tour through an active mountain cemetery where you’ll discover Korea’s rich burial customs, hear haunting ghost stories, and learn about afterlife traditions.
Join us for a unique hiking tour through one of Korea's oldest and most sacred mountain cemeteries. This seasonal tour offers a rare opportunity to delve into Korea’s funeral folklore, burial customs, and the spiritual traditions of the country. The tour takes you through serene landscapes, away from the usual tourist path, where you will learn about ancient burial practices, hear stories about spirits, and explore tombs that have been part of Korean life for centuries.

Led by Folklorist Shawn Morrissey, the tour provides an authentic, deep dive into Korea’s spiritual side. Your guide will explain local traditions surrounding the afterlife, soul beliefs, and how these rituals connect the living with the dead. As you explore the mountain cemetery, Shawn will share fascinating stories of Korea’s spiritual heritage—a side of Korea rarely experienced by travelers.

The hike itself is moderate, offering gentle ascents and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. You will wander through tombs, grave markers, and ancient burial sites, where spirits are believed to roam. These sacred areas are full of untold stories about the history of the deceased, the gods that protect them, and the ancient customs that guide souls to the afterlife.

This tour is a rare opportunity to experience Korea’s spiritual side that is often hidden from mainstream tourism. As you pass by nature-filled paths and breathtaking mountain views, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of local burial traditions and hear tales that tie together Korea’s rich history with its unique beliefs.

The A Walk Among the Graves tour runs only in Spring and Fall, making it a seasonal opportunity to engage with the country’s ancient and evolving burial customs. The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience where you can interact directly with your guide and ask questions about the rich spiritual lore.

Important Information:
This tour is seasonal and operates only in Spring and Fall. It involves moderate hiking, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. The meeting point is Samsong Station, and the tour ends at the cemetery where you will have time to reflect on the day’s experience.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.