S. Korea Mountains & Parks Autumn Hikes – The Zen Way

Scenic hiking in 4 awesome national parks & mountains -will also have a Korean cultural homestay style in an ancient temple surrounded by nature & offers amazing scenery year-round especially during the fall. Roughly 70% of the peninsula is covered in mountains, so it’s no surprise that hiking is one of the country’s national pastimes. This is truly an Adventure, Nature, Culture, Education & historical theme. Started in 2017, our only signature autumn hike is always fully booked.

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• tour date: 1 to 7 November 2025
• hike & trek:
  • Mt. Songnisan *Cheonwangbong ^▲1,915m
  • Mt. Chiaksan – Guryongsa upstream hike
  • Ageobong (Crocodile Peak)
  • Inwangsan *sunset hike

Itinerary:

Day 1 (01 Nov): ARRIVAL MEET-UP; WONJU
Our adventure will begin as our group arrives at Incheon Airport, where we will be warmly greeted and escorted to our waiting coach and on our way to Ichon for a delightful lunch. After a satisfying meal, we will depart for our first destination, the ancient Bangye-ri Ginkgo Tree in Wonju. This majestic tree, over 800 years old, stands as a testament to nature’s resilience and beauty. We will spend a peaceful half-hour here, soaking in the serene atmosphere before heading to Sogeumsan Valley.
At Sogeumsan Valley, we will explore the stunning suspension bridge and enjoy the scenic walking trails. As the sun begins to set, we will depart for dinner.
We will settle down for the night at Yeoju City, excited for the adventures to come over the next few days.
L / D; Overnight in Yeoju City; Sun Valley Hotel or similar

Day 2 (2 Nov): HIKE #1 CHIAKSAN – UPSTREAM HIKE
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for Chiaksan National Park, arriving at the park’s entrance where our trek begins. The 6.4 km hike along the river, will lead us upstream to the picturesque Seryeom Waterfall. Along the way, we will enjoy a packed lunch, distributed at the trailhead. We will turn around at the waterfall and return to Guryongsa Temple and after a short tour of the temple, we will head for dinner restaurant.
Yeoju City will host us for a 2nd night, where we will unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.
B / L / D; Overnight in Yeoju City; Sun Valley Hotel or similar

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Day 3 (3Nov): HIKE #2 AGEOBONG – MUNGYEONGSAEJAE PASS & TEMPLE STAY
Leaving Yoeju City for the Ageobong Peak at Chungju-ho Lake. Upon arrival, we will embark on a 2-hour hike to the peak, known for its stunning top views that look like crocodiles lining the coast of the lake. It is a short but testing hike for the beginners. After the hike, we will take a short break at Lazy Caiman Café before departing for lunch.
Our next stop will be Mungyeongsaejae Pass. We will explore the historic pass and its famous filming site and a short hike at the Mungyeongsaegae Pass.
From here, we will begin our Korean ancient temple experience. Arriving at Beopjusa Temple we will check in for the temple-stay and receive a brief orientation. The first delicious temple vegetarian dinner will be served at 6 PM and settle into the tranquil surroundings of the temple. *During your entire stay at the temple, you are free to explore temple complex in your own free time.
B / L / D; Overnight in Beopjusa Temple-stay

Day 4 (4 Nov): HIKE #3 ▲SONGNISAN *CHEONGWANGBONG TRAIL ^▲1,058m
We will rise early for breakfast at 6:00 AM, preparing for a full-day hike on Songnisan. Our trail will start and end at Beopjusa Temple, covering the three peaks of Munjangdae, Cheonwangbong, and Sinseondae. For those who prefer a more relaxed day, there will be options to explore the temple grounds and short trails known as Dulle-gil.
Lunch will be provided at the trailhead, and after a day of hiking, we will return to the temple for a vegetarian dinner. We will spend another peaceful night at Beopjusa Temple, reflecting on the day’s achievements.
B / L / D; Overnight in Beopjusa Temple-stay

Day 5 (5 Nov): BEOPJUSA – SEOUL
Vegetarian temple-stay breakfast. We will check out of the temple stay and depart for Jangtaesan Natural Recreation Forest. Explore the forest’s beautiful trails and capture the Instagrammable autumn foliage shots.
After lunch, we will depart for Seoul, arriving at Haneul Park by late afternoon. You are free to roam the park’s stunning autumn scenery filled with awesome pink muhly and silver grass before heading to dinner. And our next 2 night’s accommodation will be in Seoul.
B / L / D; Overnight in Seoul; Ibis Styles Ambassador Yongsan Seoul Hotel or similar

Meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner; Overnight in Seoul

Day 6 (6 Nov): SEOUL – INWANGSAN
After breakfast at the hotel begin the day with a visit to the Ginseng Learning Center. We will learn about traditional Korean products. And of course, your lunch is the must-have, Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup.
In the afternoon, we will participate in a Temple Food Cooking Experience, guided by a resident monk. We will learn to prepare traditional dishes and enjoy the fruits of our labour. We will then transfer to the trailhead of Inwangsan for a sunset hike. After witnessing the breathtaking sunset, we will have free time at Myeongdong Shopping Street where you will also have the dinner of your choice (own expense).
B / L; Overnight in Seoul; Ibis Styles Ambassador Yongsan Seoul Hotel or similar

Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell
Enjoy free time in the morning before departure transfer leaves for Incheon Airport at 12:30 PM, bringing your incredible Korean hiking tour to a close.
Meals: Breakfast

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About the Trek & Hike Trails

SONGNISAN *CHEONWANGBONG COURSE

Songnisan National Park is a beautiful and serene destination known for its lush forests, scenic views, and historical sites like Beopjusa Temple. The park offers several hiking routes, including a challenging trail that covers three prominent peaks: Munjangdae, Cheonwangbong, and Sinseondae.

Songnisan Hiking Details

• Total Distance: Approximately 16.9km for the full loop covering all three peaks.
• Elevation Gain: Around 928m.
• Average Time: The hike takes about 6 to 8 hours, depending on pace and weather conditions.

Songnisan Cheonwangbong Trail Highlights

• Starting Point: The hike begins at Beopjusa Temple, which is a significant cultural and historical site itself.
• Scenic Views: The trail offers stunning views of Songnisan National Park, including lush forests, rocky cliffs, and serene valleys.
• Flora and Fauna: The park is home to diverse wildlife and beautiful wildflowers, especially during the spring and autumn seasons.

This hiking route is perfect for those looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Songnisan National Park.

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CHIAKSAN & GURYONGSA TEMPLE

Guryongsa Temple is a historic and serene Buddhist temple located in Chiaksan National Park. Here are some key highlights:

• Historical Significance: Founded in 668 AD by the monk Uisang during the Silla Dynasty, Guryongsa Temple is steeped in history and legend. The name “Guryongsa” means “Nine Dragons Temple,” derived from a legend about nine dragons that lived in a pond at the temple site.
• Architectural Beauty: The temple complex includes several notable structures such as the Daeungjeon Hall, which houses the main Buddha statues, and the Cheonwangmun Gate, guarded by the Four Heavenly Kings. The temple’s architecture harmonizes beautifully with its natural surroundings.
• Cultural Assets: Guryongsa Temple is home to various cultural assets, including stone pagodas and ancient relics. It also offers a Temple Stay program, allowing visitors to experience monastic life and meditation.
• Scenic Location: Nestled in a valley north of Birobong Peak, the temple is surrounded by lush forests and a meandering stream, making it a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Seryeom Waterfall is a picturesque waterfall also located within Chiaksan National Park. Here are some details:

• Natural Beauty: Seryeom Waterfall is known for its stunning natural beauty. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere.
• Hiking Trails: The waterfall is accessible via several hiking trails, including a popular route that starts at Guryongsa Temple. The hike offers scenic views of the park’s diverse flora and fauna.
• Wildlife and Flora: Chiaksan National Park, where the waterfall is located, is home to over 30 endangered species, including the flying squirrel. The park’s trails are particularly beautiful during the blooming seasons of azaleas and other wildflowers.

Both Guryongsa Temple and Seryeom Waterfall offer unique experiences that combine cultural heritage with natural beauty, making them must-visit destinations in Chiaksan National Park.

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Ageobong Peak (Crocodile Peak)

• Name Origin: The peak is named “Crocodile Peak” because the peninsulas jutting out into Chungju-ho Lake resemble crocodiles floating in the water.
• Elevation: Ageobong stands at an elevation of 442 meters, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
• Hiking Experience: The hike to Ageobong Peak is considered moderately challenging. It involves a steep ascent, but the trail is relatively short, making it accessible for most hikers. The hike is approximately 2.5 miles round-trip with an elevation gain of 777 feet.
• Scenic Views: From the peak, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Chungju-ho Lake and the various peninsulas that give the peak its name. The scenery is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset.
• Trail Access: The trailhead is located near the Lazy Caiman Café, which provides convenient parking and amenities. The official trail was under construction and expected to open in September 2023.
• Natural Beauty: The area is known for its lush greenery and the serene waters of Chungju-ho Lake, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Ageobong Peak is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and unique landscapes of South Korea.

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Inwangsan Mountain (인왕산)

Inwangsan Mountain is a popular hiking destination in Seoul, known for its stunning views and unique rock formations. Here are some key details about the mountain and the sunset hike:

Mountain Overview

• Altitude: Inwangsan stands at 338.2 meters.
• Location: It is located in the Jongno-gu and Seodaemun-gu districts of Seoul.
• Historical Significance: The mountain is part of the Seoul City Wall (Hanyangdoseong), which was built in 1396 to protect the city during the Joseon Dynasty.

Hiking Route for Sunset Viewing

• Starting Point: The hike typically starts from Dongnimmun Station (Line 3, Exit 3) or Muakjae Station (Line 3, Exit 2).
• Trail Length: The full hiking course is about 3.1 kilometers (1.9 miles) and takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete.
• Elevation Gain: The trail involves a moderate ascent, making it accessible for most hikers.
• Key Features: The hike includes several notable rock formations such as Gichabawi (Train Rock), Chimabawi (Skirt Rock), and Seonbawi (Rock of the Meditating Monk).

Sunset Viewing Highlights

• Panoramic Views: From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Seoul, including landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Mountain, and the Han River.
• Best Time: Early November is a great time for sunset viewing as the autumn foliage adds vibrant colours to the landscape.
• Night Hiking: Inwangsan allows night hiking, so you can stay to watch the city lights come alive after sunset. Just remember to bring a headlamp for safety.

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BEOPJUSA TEMPLE & TEMPLE STAY

Beopjusa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located on the slopes of Songnisan Mountain in Songnisan National Park, North Chungcheong Province. Here’s a brief overview of its history and the temple stay facilities:

History

• Founding: Beopjusa Temple was founded in 553 AD by the monk Uisin during the reign of King Jinheung of the Silla Dynasty. The name “Beopjusa” means “Residence of Dharma,” reflecting its role as a centre for Buddhist teachings.
• Cultural Significance: The temple became a significant site for Maitreya Buddhism, which focuses on the future Buddha, Maitreya. At its peak during the Goryeo Dynasty, it housed around 3,000 monks.
• Destruction and Reconstruction: Many of the original buildings were destroyed during the Japanese invasions in the late 16th century. The temple was rebuilt in 1624, and several structures from this period still stand today.
• Cultural Heritage: Beopjusa Temple is home to numerous cultural assets, including the Palsangjeon, a five-story wooden pagoda, and the Golden Maitreya Statue of National Unification, which is the largest freestanding Buddha statue in Asia.

Temple Stay Facilities

• Programs: Beopjusa Temple offers a variety of temple stay programs designed to provide a deep and immersive experience of Buddhist culture. These programs include meditation, tea ceremonies, Buddhist chanting, and temple tours.
• Accommodation: Participants stay in traditional temple accommodations, which are simple yet comfortable. Rooms are typically shared, and guests sleep on mats on the floor, following traditional Korean customs.
• Activities: The temple stay experience includes activities such as making 108 prayer beads, participating in the early morning Buddhist ceremony, and hiking in the beautiful surroundings of Songnisan National Park.
• Meals: Guests are provided with vegetarian meals, which are simple yet nourishing, reflecting the monastic lifestyle.

Beopjusa Temple offers a unique opportunity to experience Korean Buddhist culture in a serene and historic setting. 

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JANGTAESAN NATURAL RECREATION FOREST

Jangtaesan Natual Recreation Forest is a stunning destination for nature lovers, located in Daejeon, South Korea. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Park Information and Facilities

• Metasequoia Forest: Home to Korea’s largest metasequoia forest, with over 6,300 trees towering up to 38 meters high. This forest creates a unique and serene atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful walk.
• Sky Tower and Suspension Bridge: The Sky Tower offers panoramic views of the forest from 27 meters high, while the suspension bridge provides a thrilling walk among the treetops.
• Ecological Pond and Botanical Garden: The park features an ecological pond with diverse aquatic plants and a botanical garden showcasing various plant species.
• Hiking Trails: There are several hiking trails, including a therapeutic forest walk and reflexology footpaths.

Main Features and Purpose During Autumn

• Autumn Foliage: Jangtaesan is particularly famous for its spectacular autumn colors. The metasequoia trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking landscape.
• Forest Bathing: The forest is ideal for “forest bathing,” a practice of immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere to reduce stress and improve well-being.
• Photography: The stunning autumn scenery attracts photographers and nature enthusiasts from all over Korea.

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HANEUL PARK (하늘공원)

Haneul Park, also known as Sky Park, is one of the five parks that make up the World Cup Park in Seoul. Here are some key facts and highlights:

Facts and Information

• Location: Haneul Park is situated on the highest point of World Cup Park, in the Mapo-gu district of Seoul.
• History: The park was established in 2002 to commemorate the 17th FIFA World Cup. It was transformed from a former landfill site, Nanjido, which was rehabilitated into an ecological park.
• Access: Visitors can reach the park by climbing 291 steps or taking an electric shuttle called “Maengkkongi” (맹꽁이차). The shuttle operates from March to November and costs 2,000 won for a one-way trip.
• Features: The park boasts vast grasslands, a silver grass field, mixed grassland, a rock garden, a sunflower field, and an observatory rest area. It also has a wind power generator, emphasizing its ecological focus.

Highlights During Autumn

• Silver Grass Festival: Haneul Park is famous for its annual Silver Grass Festival held every October. The fields of silver grass (also known as pampas grass) create a stunning, shimmering landscape that attracts visitors from all over.
• Pink Muhly Grass: Another autumn highlight is the pink muhly grass, which blooms from October to November. This fluffy, pink grass provides a beautiful and romantic backdrop for photos.
• Kochia Broom Cypress: In late October, the Kochia Broom Cypress turns vibrant red and pink, adding to the park’s colourful autumn scenery.
• Sunset Views: The park offers breathtaking sunset views over the Han River and the Seoul skyline. The observatories provide perfect spots to capture the transition from day to night.
• Photography: With its picturesque landscapes, Haneul Park is a popular spot for photography, especially during the autumn months when the foliage and grasses are at their peak.

What is the cost per person?

LAND cost only based on twin or triple sharing basis:
Group size discount: SANL works on a cost-sharing basis, meaning the bigger the group size the bigger saving you will enjoy.

• Group size 15 – 24: $ 1,690 per person ^{*twin or triple basis}
• Group size 25 or more $1,485 per person ^{*twin or triple basis}
• Single supplement add S$ 375

Minimum group size of 15 participants for event confirmation/departure.
Required Reservation / Booking Deposit: $500 per person

Important:

1. “Booking Deposit” is non-refundable unless the group is not formed.
2. The “Booking Deposit” will be fully refunded if the event/tour is cancelled due to group size not being formed.
3. When the group size is formed and the tour/event is confirmed, the “Cancellation & Refund” policy is applied.
4. Cancellation & Refund Policy:
   • 50% of land cost applied 60 days before arrival.
   • 100% of land cost applied 30 days before arrival.

What Is Included?

• 6 nights of hotel accommodations
• meals: 6 x breakfast; 6 x lunch; 5 x dinner; *including 1 x hiking lunch box.
• hiking pass & attraction entrance tickets
• 6 days of full-size licensed tourist coach ( 45 seats)
• 1 designated airport transfer on 7 Nov 25 at 12:30 PM

What is excluded?

• The tour begins from Incheon Airport (ICN), air ticket or travel expenses to Incheon, South Korea are at your own expense
• K-ETA or VISA to enter South Korea if required
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Tour guides & drivers’ gratitude (tipping)
• Personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, snacks, soft drinks, optional tour activities, etc.
• Anything not mentioned in the inclusions list above

Is it suitable for me?

1. This is a hiking-focused event. There will be a cut-off time at designated checkpoints. Those unable to reach the checkpoint at a cut-off time will be turned back.
2. You will need to be physically fit and can hike for at least 6 hours or more.

How to make the reservation and booking?

Step 1: Click on the “Meetup.com” event RSVP >> GOING.
This is a controlled RSVP event. Before your RSVP is confirmed and your status is updated to “Going” with a deposit placement, it will remain as “WAITLIST”.

Step 2: Place a Booking Deposit of S$500 to Korea NTC Travel Services Pte Ltd

• PayNow to UEN 201800188RKRN
• Bank transfer to UOB 392-307-442-0
• After placing the booking deposit please email your transfer info to sanl@ntc.travel
• An invoice will be generated and your RSVP will be updated to “GOING”

Step 3: Wait for the event status to be CONFIRMED before issuing your air ticket. You may make a tentative reservation with your ticketing agent or call +65 6226 3286 for assistance.

NOTE: Please ignore the “NO SPOTS LEFTS” on Metup’s event page, as this is a controlled RSVP, confirmation based on the booking deposit received. When the “booking deposit” is received, your RSVP status will be updated to “GOING“. The RSVP function will be disabled when the group is filled or the booking is closed.

Which flight should I book on?

The event will begin at Incheon Airport at 10am on 1 Nov 2025. Your flight should arrive at Incheon Airport no later than 8 AM on 1 Nov 2025.

1. Direct flights: Singapore (SGP) to Incheon (ICN)
   • Tway Air
     • 31 Oct TW162 SIN 23:00 – ICN 06:35 01 Nov
   • Korean Air
     • 31 Oct KE644 SIN 22:30 – ICN 05:45 01 Nov
   • Asian Airlines
     • 31 Oct OZ752 SIN 23:10 – ICN 06:50 01 Nov
   • Singapore Airlines
     • 01 Nov SQ608 SIN 00:10 – ICN 07:25 01 Nov

Departure flights for 07 Nov 2025:

Please book your departure flights on 7 Nov to depart after 4 PM. The departure transfer is scheduled to leave the hotel at 12:30 PM.

We strongly recommend a direct flight from Singapore to avoid complications, however, transit flight options can sometimes be cheaper. The choice is yours.

Our designated meet-up time and location is 9:00 AM on 01 Nov 2025 in Incheon Airport Terminal 1 door 12 of the arrival hall. You may choose whatever flight your preference but you must appear at the designated meeting time and place. We will not be responsible for any delay or cancellation of flight.

Legal Entity Declaration:

This event is organised by SANL and managed by Korea NTC the legal entity for the event and tour fare collection. The agency details are as follows: –
Korea NTC Travel Services Pte Ltd
STB Travel Agent #: 03153
Contact number: +65 6396 6606
Address: #03-05 Sultan Plaza, 100 Jalan Sultan, Singapore 199001

Disclaimer:

Singapore Adventurous Nature-Lovers Meetup is an amateur adventure platform that welcomes all outdoor adventure seekers. By joining the activities, all participants are deemed to have agreed to the terms and conditions contained in this disclaimer and agreed to exonerate the activities leaders, the organizers and any other participants in the trips from any liabilities, claims, including but not limited to liabilities and claims as a result of any injuries or deaths or damages arising thereof.

Disclaimer Terms of Participation as Follows:

1. If the participant does not show up at the meeting point specified on the agreed date and time, the organizer will not wait for the participant. There is no refund of any money paid.
2. It is a fundamental condition that the participant acknowledges that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The itinerary is taken as a guideline only. The organizer can not be held responsible or liable for any delays caused by accidents, strikes, government regulations, weather, natural casualties, or any unforeseen circumstances.
3. The participant understands that during the trip, certain events may occur, including, but not limited to, accident or illness, political instability and the forces of nature. The participant agrees to assume all risks associated with the journey. While safety measures will be in place, the organizer can not be held responsible or liable for any personal injuries to the participants.
4. This trip is arranged in collaboration with Korea NTC Travel & Services. SANL play a co-ordinating party for the benefit of her members. All payment of money must be handled by Korea NTC Travel Services in accordance with the Singapore Tourism Board regulations.
   
   *When you paid up for this event, it is understood that you have read, agreed and accepted the above terms and conditions.