Autumn has arrived in Korea, and as the weather turns cooler, it’s the perfect time to travel there. Recently, the private Korean weather agency WEATHERi released the 2019 foliage forecast for Korea’s eight major mountains. Due to this year’s warmer climate compared to last year, the autumn foliage is expected to start about one day later than last year, with the peak period delayed by about one to two days. There are currently many local one-day tour packages available, so you don’t have to worry about transportation issues at all.
【1】Seoraksan
Located in Gangwon Province, Seoraksan is Korea’s foremost mountain and a favorite hiking destination among locals. Its scenery is stunning in all four seasons, but especially famous for its autumn foliage. Every fall, Seoraksan is the first place in Korea where the leaves begin to change color. By mid-October, during the peak season, the mountains are covered in vibrant red foliage, creating an incredibly beautiful sight.
? Start of color change: September 27
? Peak period: October 16
【2】Odaesan
In addition to Seoraksan, Odaesan is another great spot to enjoy early autumn foliage, with breathtaking fall scenery. Odaesan boasts Korea’s densest forests and picturesque landscapes, along with the serene Woljeongsa Temple, which offers a peaceful atmosphere.
? Start of color change: October 1
? Peak period: October 14
【3】Songnisan
Songnisan National Park is renowned as one of Korea’s Eight Scenic Wonders, earning its name for its otherworldly beauty that seems to be removed from the mundane world. Its autumn scenery is very popular among Koreans. In addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Beopjusa Temple, the park also features unique granite peaks and deep valleys, which are even more striking when set against the backdrop of lush red foliage.
? Start of color change: October 15
? Peak period: October 30
【4】Gyeryongsan
Gyeryongsan, whose name means “Rooster-Dragon Mountain,” gets its name from its ridge that resembles a dragon with a rooster’s comb. Located near Daejeon, you can take a bus to reach the mountain if you prefer not to join a one-day tour. A walk along Gyeryongsan allows you to fully immerse yourself in the crisp autumn air, and the Dragon Gate Waterfall complemented by the red leaves makes for a breathtaking view that’s hard to leave behind.
? Start of color change: October 17
? Peak period: October 27
【5】Gayasan
Gayasan is famed for its beautiful mountain scenery. When the autumn foliage is in full bloom, the entire Hongnyudong Valley is dyed in a sea of red, making it the mountain’s premier attraction. Paired with the ancient thousand-year-old pine trees nearby, the autumn views are truly spectacular.
? Start of color change: October 14
? Peak period: October 27
【6】Jirisan
Jirisan is South Korea’s first national park and, along with Hallasan and Geumgangsan, is one of the country’s three most prominent mountain ranges. It is also one of the most popular mountains among Koreans. The forest is dotted with beautiful waterfalls and valleys, and the scenery where these blend with maple leaves is truly stunning. Visitors can hike along mountain trails toward the peaks while enjoying the red foliage that spreads across the mountains.
? Start of color change: October 11
? Peak season: October 22
[7] Naejangsan
Naejangsan is hailed as South Korea’s premier maple leaf mountain, with a name that means “mountain where endless treasures are hidden.” Every autumn, it attracts large numbers of visitors eager to witness its magnificent scenery. Among the many maple-viewing routes, the Hwahwajeong Trail is the most famous. Additionally, the maple leaf tunnel near the Iljumun Gate of Naejangsan is also incredibly picturesque, forming a breathtaking scene alongside the surrounding waterfalls.
? Start of color change: October 17
? Peak season: November 3
[8] Hallasan
Hallasan is the highest peak in South Korea, offering stunning scenery all year round, but the maple leaf views in autumn are particularly breathtaking. When autumn arrives, the mountains of Hallasan are painted in shades of red, and being surrounded by a forest of maple leaves is an enchanting experience.
? Start of color change: October 15
? Peak season: October 30
Have you planned your autumn trip yet? Don’t miss South Korea’s most beautiful season. Gather your family and friends and hop on this maple leaf tour to South Korea—lose yourself in the red foliage.
This article is republished with permission fromHong Kong 01, originally published in01 Travel / 01 Food..