Seongju is a county in Gyeongbuk Province, South Korea, located in the west of Daegu city, and it’s renowned for its breathtaking and dazzling natural landscapes as well as delicious Korean melons, Chamoe. From stunning mountain ranges, forests to villages, it’s one of the ultimate destinations to escape the busy city life and enjoy a relaxing & nature-healing time.
For those seeking a perfect getaway, check out this Seongju Travel Guide to find out the 4 best ways to revel in the natural wonders of the county!
1. Hike Along the Gayasan National Park
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Gayasan National Park is famous for offering one of the best hiking trails in Korea that has a vast mountain landscape and fresh air. Its highest peak is Sangwangbong Peak at 1,430 meters above sea level and it’s also the home to Haeinsa Temple.
In this hiking tour, you’ll visit the Manmulsang course, which is about a 6km trail of four and half hours of a round trip from the starting point. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to heal yourself while admiring the awe-inspiring scenic views of the mountain ranges and rock formations of Gayasan Mountain.
- Gayasan National Park Address: 1805 Baekun-ri, Suryun-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongbuk
- Join Gyeongbuk Gayasan National Park Hiking Tour from Daegu
- Hiking Level: Intermediate
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
You can also enjoy the view of the mountain at Gayasan Wildflower Botanical Garden that offers countless types of wild plants, which can be an educational place for children. The highlight of the garden is the panoramic view of the mountainous landscape of Gayasan National Park from the building’s rooftop!
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Simwonsa Temple is located in the east of Gayasan National Park, established around the 8th century. It shows the fantastic harmony of nature and traditional architecture, having the beautiful Daeungjeon hall along with the lush pine forest path.
- Gayasan Wildflower Botanical Garden Address: 49 Gayasansikmulwon-gil, Suryun-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongbuk
- Simwonsa Temple Address: 17-56 Gayasansikmulwon-gil, Suryun-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongbuk
- Book Gyeongbuk Seongju Gayasan Wildflower & Simwonsa Temple 1 Day Private Tour from Daegu
2. Pick & Taste Fresh Chamoe (Korean Melons)
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
If you are looking for a fun activity in Seongju, trying out the Chamoe picking experience is a great option. Seongju is well-known for its Chamoe (Korean Melons), comprising about 70% of total Chamoe production in the country. Yellow Chamoe is only available in Korea and it is very sweet and high in Vitamin A and C.
3. Stroll Around the Seongju Lake & Seongbak Forest
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Seongju is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. If you want to fully take in the natural beauty of Seongju, visiting Seongju Lake and Seongbak Forest is a must. Seongju Lake stretches about 6.2km and it has incredible landscapes of gorgeous lush green colors surrounding the lake that will calm your mind and revitalize your body. The tranquility is almost dreamlike.
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Seongbak Forest, literally meaning a forest outside the palace, is where the 300~500-year-old king willow trees lie. It is especially well-known for its jaw-dropping natural scenery that turns into purple color with the maekmundong (lilyturf) plants during August. It’s a picturesque place to take a stroll in a peaceful and calm atmosphere.
- Seongju Lake Address: Bongdu-ri, Geumsu-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongbuk
- Seongbak Forest Address: Gyeongsan-ri, Seongju-eup, Seongju-gun, Gyeongbuk
- Join Gyeongbuk Seongju Lake & Seongbak Forest Healing Tour from Daegu
4. Explore a Tranquil Traditional Village
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
Last but not least, exploring a quiet traditional village is one of the best ways to fully take in the charms of Seongju. Hangae Village is an old traditional village in Seongju with more than 600 years of history, designated as Korea’s national folk cultural property. It was introduced in an article on Lonely Planet as a living museum in Seongju with the stunning Yeongchwisan Mountain as the backdrop. Click here to read the whole article about Hangae Village on Lonely Planet.
Instagram에서 이 게시물 보기
You can feel the tranquil beauty of Korean traditional houses while walking along the winding stone wall paths that stretch about 3km. Capture the cozy ambience as you walk down the roads. If you book a private tour, you can also visit the traditional local market at Seongju downtown and try local delicacies.
- Hangae Village Address: 67 Daesan-ri, Wolhang-myeon, Seongju-gun, Gyeongbuk
- Join Gyeongbuk Seongju & Hangae Village 1 Day Private Tour from Daegu
Did you find this Seongju Travel Guide helpful for your ultimate nature-healing getaway? There are many other beautiful destinations in Gyeongbuk with breathtaking landscapes that you shouldn’t miss out on.
If you want to find out more awesome tours and activities in Gyeongbuk, don’t forget to check out Trazy.com, Korea’s #1 Travel Shop!
[Photo Credits]
- Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organization
- Gyeongbuk Official Blog