10 Things to Do in Jirisan National Park, South Korea
Nestled in the southern region of South Korea, Jirisan National Park is a stunning natural paradise. With its lush landscapes, towering mountains, and tranquil rivers, it’s no wonder why this park is considered one of the country’s most beautiful natural attractions. From hiking and camping to exploring ancient temples and waterfalls, here are 10 of the best things to do in Jirisan National Park.
1. Go Hiking
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Jirisan National Park is to go hiking. The park is home to numerous trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Experienced hikers can tackle the Jirisan Grand Trail, which is a 120-kilometer route that goes around the entire park. There are also shorter trails that take you to some of the park’s most stunning sights, such as the Cheonwangbong peak, the highest peak in South Korea.
2. Explore Ancient Temples
Jirisan National Park is home to several ancient temples that are worth exploring. The most popular is the Hwaeomsa Temple, which was built in the 8th century and is one of the largest Buddhist temples in South Korea. Other temples include the Ssanggyesa Temple, which is known for its beautiful gardens, and the Seonamsa Temple, which is located on a mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
3. Go Camping
Camping is a popular activity in Jirisan National Park, and there are several campgrounds located throughout the park. Most of the campgrounds offer basic amenities such as restrooms and showers, and some even have restaurants and convenience stores nearby. If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, there are also several backcountry camping sites located throughout the park.
4. Visit Waterfalls
Jirisan National Park is home to several beautiful waterfalls, including the popular Cheonwangbong Falls. This waterfall is located near the summit of the mountain and is one of the most picturesque spots in the park. Other waterfalls in the park include the Hwacheon Falls, which is known for its clear waters, and the Seonamsa Falls, which is located near the Seonamsa Temple.
5. Go Birdwatching
Jirisan National Park is home to a wide variety of birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. The park is especially known for its population of black-faced spoonbills, which are a protected species in South Korea. Other birds that can be spotted in the park include the Eurasian sparrowhawk, the white-tailed eagle, and the red-crowned crane.
6. Visit the Jirisan Botanical Garden
The Jirisan Botanical Garden is a great place to explore the diverse plant life of the park. This garden is home to over 1,000 species of plants, including rare and endangered species. There’s also a butterfly garden, which is a great spot to spot colorful butterflies.
7. Try Local Cuisine
Jirisan National Park is home to several restaurants that serve local cuisine. One of the most popular dishes is bibimbap, which is a rice dish that’s topped with vegetables and meat. Other local dishes include jeon, which is a type of savory pancake, and jjimdak, which is a spicy stew made with chicken and vegetables.
8. Go Fishing
Jirisan National Park is home to several rivers and streams, making it a great spot for fishing. The park is especially known for its trout fishing, and there are several spots where you can try your luck. If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent fishing gear from one of the local shops.
9. Go Caving
Jirisan National Park is home to several caves, including the popular Seonamsa Cave. This cave is known for its beautiful rock formations and is a great spot to explore. Other caves in the park include the Hwacheon Cave, which is known for its stalactites and stalagmites, and the Ssanggyesa Cave, which is known for its underground river.
10. Take a Hot Spring Dip
Jirisan National Park is home to several hot springs, which are a great way to relax and unwind. One of the most popular hot springs is the Hwacheon Hot Spring, which is known for its warm waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Other hot springs in the park include the Ssanggyesa Hot Spring and the Seonamsa Hot Spring.
Jirisan National Park is a stunning natural paradise that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike or a thrilling adventure, there’s sure to be something to suit your taste. So why not explore this stunning park and see what it has to offer?