Gayasan National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Gayasan National Park, South Korea. Learn about the food and drink scene, cultural attractions, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Gayasan National Park

Gayasan National Park is a nature reserve located in South Gyeongsang, South Korea. It features stunning mountain views, serene temples, and historic landmarks. The area is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities, as well as cultural experiences.

In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about Gayasan National Park including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and when to go.

List of Places to Visit in Gayasan National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Haeinsa Temple - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Korea, home to the Tripitaka Koreana, a collection of more than 80,000 wooden printing blocks.
  • Gayasan Fortress Site - A site of military importance from the Joseon Dynasty, it offers stunning views of Gayasan Mountain.
  • Gajisan Provincial Park - Known for its beautiful canyons, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

Natural Attractions of Gayasan National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gayasan Mountain - Offers over 20 hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, and incredible views of the surrounding area.
  • Janggunbong Peak - The highest peak in Gayasan National Park, and offers panoramic views of the park and surrounding region.
  • Jeseokbong Peak - A favorite spot among hikers, it offers stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gayasan National Park

The following are popular hiking and biking trails in Gayasan National Park:

  • Seseok Trail - A circular path around Gayasan Mountain, with hiking options suitable for different fitness levels.
  • Birobong Peak Trail - A challenging trail that leads to the highest peak in the park.
  • Janggunbong Trail - The easiest trail to the summit of Janggunbong Peak.

Best Things to Do in Gayasan National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Templestay - Experience temple life with a stay at Haeinsa Temple, where you can participate in temple activities and learn about Korean Buddhism.
  • Wildlife Viewing - Keep an eye out for wild deer, Korean squirrels, wild boar, and other animals that call the park home.
  • Cultural Tours - Take a guided tour of Gajisan Provincial Park, or explore Haeinsa Temple and learn about its history and significance.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gayasan National Park

Day 1 - Arrival and settle into your accommodation Day 2 - Hike the Seseok Trail Day 3 - Explore Haeinsa Temple Day 4 - Visit Gajisan Provincial Park Day 5 - Mountain biking on the Dokirtong Trail Day 6 - Take a cultural tour of the area Day 7 - Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Gayasan National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Jangjorim - beef or pork that is marinated and boiled in soy sauce and other seasonings
  • Kongnamul-guk - bean sprout soup
  • Jeonbokjuk - abalone rice porridge

Local Beverages

  • Makgeolli - Korean rice wine, known for its slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Soju - A distilled spirit made from rice, barley, or wheat.

Where to Stay in Gayasan National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Haeinsa Convent - Offers traditional Korean housing and temple stay programs, located near Haeinsa Temple.
  • Napoli Pension - A cozy guesthouse located near Gajisan Provincial Park.
  • Jinju Gwangcheol Tourist Hotel - Located a short distance from Gayasan Mountain, this hotel is ideal for those who wish to climb the mountain.

What to Buy in Gayasan National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hanji - Traditional Korean paper made from mulberry bark, used for many decorative items such as lamps, notebooks, and wallets.
  • Hampyeong Noodles - A type of noodle made from potatoes and used in soups and stews.
  • Gajisan Black Soybean - Known for its many health benefits, this bean is used in many traditional Korean dishes.

Local Culture and Customs of Gayasan National Park

  • Temple Manners - When visiting temples, be sure to dress conservatively, remove shoes before entering, and respect the customs and traditions of the temple monks and visitors.
  • Respect for Wildlife - As you explore the park, be sure to leave the area as you found it, and respect the wildlife and natural habitats.

Best Time to Visit Gayasan National Park

The best time to visit Gayasan National Park is between March and November, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gayasan National Park

Do:

  • Respect the customs and traditions of local residents and temples.
  • Keep the park clean and free from litter.
  • Stay on marked trails and paths.

Don’t:

  • Pick any flowers or plants from the park.
  • Feed the wildlife, as it can interfere with their natural habits.
  • Engage in any activities that may harm the environment or other visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gayasan National Park

  • Always carry enough water, snacks, and first aid kit with you.
  • Be aware of snakes and other wildlife that could pose a danger.
  • Familiarize yourself with the park map and trails before embarking on any hikes.

Health in Gayasan National Park

  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Be aware of the risk of tick bites, which can cause Lyme disease.
  • Carry any necessary medication with you, and inform your travel companions of any allergies or medical conditions.

Getting to Gayasan National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gayasan National Park

  • Pusan International Airport - Located approximately 2.5 hours from Gayasan National Park.
  • Gimhae International Airport - Located approximately 2.5 hours from Gayasan National Park.

Bus Stations Near Gayasan National Park

  • Daegu Seobu Bus Terminal - Offers regular buses to Gayasan National Park, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours.

Other Options

  • Rent a Car - Renting a car is an excellent option for those who wish to explore the park and surrounding areas at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Gayasan National Park

The best way to explore Gayasan National Park and the surrounding areas is on foot or by bike. The park offers trails of varying difficulty, which are suitable for hikers of all fitness levels. Bikes can be rented from various suppliers in the area.

Where to Go Next from Gayasan National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gyeongju - A city located just over an hour’s drive from Gayasan National Park, it is known for its many historic landmarks and cultural attractions.
  • Busan - Known for its beautiful beaches and bustling city center, Busan is a popular destination for visitors to South Korea.

Conclusion

Gayasan National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. With its beautiful natural attractions, stunning mountain views, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique travel experience that cannot be found anywhere else. Plan your visit wisely with this comprehensive guide, and enjoy your trip to Gayasan National Park!

The Haeinsa temple The Haeinsa temple