Naejangsan National Park

Designated as the 8th national park in Korea, Naejangsan National Park connects the lower part of the Honam Jeongmaek Mountain Range, which stretches across Jeollanam-do from east to west. Known as one of the four famous mountains of Honam(the southwestern part of South Korea, encompassing Jeollanam-do), alongside Jirisan Mountain and Wolchulsan Mountain, Naejangsan’s name reflects the hidden beauty within. Derived from the Chinese characters “Nae (內)” meaning “in” and “Jang (藏)” meaning “to hide.” Shall we explore the beauty it holds?

Naejangsan Mountain has distinct beauty across the seasons; its autumn foliage is particularly stunning, drawing many tourists and hikers. The dense forest transforms into a breathtaking scene of vibrant colors, making the mountain appear as if it’s ablaze. Each fall, Jeongeup in Jeonllabuk-do, where Naejangsan National Park is located, hosts an annual maple festival to celebrate the fall foliage season.

Naejangsan National Park is home to Baegyangsa Temple, nestled within the Bijarim Forest. The temple boasts a 1,300-year history and houses various heritages, including Daeungjeon Hall, designated as a Jeollanam-do Tangible Cultural Heritage, the Sacheonwangmun Gate, and the Stupa of Buddhist Monk Soyo. Visitors can also explore the lush Bijarim Forest, a designated natural monument with over five thousands trees.

Beneath Seoraebong Peak in Naejangsan National Park, there are several attractions like Gonejang, Janggunsu, and Seokranjeongteo. At 1.9 km from Naejangsa Temple, beneath Bulchulbong Peak, lies a large stone cave with a legend that Buddha emerged from it, giving it the name Bulchulam Rock. This name combines the Chinese characters “bul (佛)” meaning “Buddha” and “chul (出)” meaning “to appear”

Located in Jeongeup, Jeollabuk-do, Naejangsan National Park provides excellent accessibility from Seoul, Daejeon, and even the Gyeongsang region via expressways and trains. Why not spend some time at Naejangsan National Park this fall?