Odaesan National Park – Korea's Tranquil Mountain Escape

#cityplaybook Nestled in the heart of Gangwon Province, Odaesan National Park is one of South Korea’s most serene and spiritually uplifting destinations. I visited during late October, and the experience was nothing short of magical. The air was crisp, the leaves painted in fiery reds and golden yellows, and a sense of peace settled over everything like morning mist. Odaesan isn’t just a place you walk through—it’s a place that walks through you. The hike to Birobong Peak, the park’s highest point at 1,563 meters, is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. It took me about five hours roundtrip, but the panoramic views from the summit made every step worthwhile. Along the way, I passed through dense fir forests and tranquil valleys where the only sounds were rustling leaves and distant birdsong. It felt like I had slipped into a Korean landscape painting. What touched me the most was the spiritual energy of the area. Odaesan is home to Woljeongsa Temple, a stunning 1,000-year-old Buddhist temple nestled in the park’s embrace. Walking through its peaceful grounds, I lit incense and took a quiet moment to reflect beside the ancient Nine-Story Stone Pagoda. It’s no wonder that monks have sought refuge in these mountains for centuries. For those less inclined to hike, the Seonjae Trail is a gentle forest path perfect for families and casual walkers. It stretches for 9 kilometers between Woljeongsa and Sangwonsa Temple, offering a peaceful immersion in nature. I saw wild deer and even heard a woodpecker echoing through the trees. Best time to visit? Definitely autumn (mid-October to early November) for the fall foliage, or spring (late April to May) when wildflowers bloom and the forest comes alive again. Helpful tips: The park is accessible from Jinbu Station (KTX from Seoul), and local buses run frequently to the entrance. Dress in layers—weather can shift quickly in the mountains. Location: Odaesan National Park, Gangwon-do, South Korea #odaesannationalpark #woljeongsa #koreannature #fallfoliagekorea #hikingkorea #templestay #hiddengemskorea #gangwonprovince #travelsouthkorea #autumninkorea #koreatripideas #mountainretreats