See Korea's stunning foliage before the colors fade
by Korea JoongAng Daily
The Korea National Arboretum opened its “Secret Garden” to the public. [KOREA NATIONAL ARBORETUM]
With global warming gradually shortening autumn, the opportunity to experience the vibrant foliage of red, orange and yellow is becoming more limited each year. Before these rich hues begin to fade, explore some of Korea’s top destinations to fully immerse yourself in the season's scenery.
From expansive forests to intimate garden trails, here are some locations that each offer a unique way to appreciate the season’s stunning colors and natural charm.
Located in Pocheon, Gyeonggi, the Korea National Arboretum has opened its “Secret Garden” to the public. [KOREA NATIONAL ARBORETUM]
Korea National Arboretum 포천 국립수목원
Seoul National University's Gwanak Arboretum is temporarily open to visitors from Oct. 19 to Nov. 17. [ANYANG CITY GOVERNMENT]
Seoul National University's Gwanak Arboretum 서울대 관악 수목원
Seoul National University's Gwanak Arboretum — Korea’s oldest arboretum — is temporarily open to visitors from Oct. 19 to Nov. 17. Established in 1967 for research and education purposes, this 15.5-square-kilometer (6-square-mile) arboretum offers a stunning maple tree-lined path, a water plant garden, guided tours and activities such as forest healing and woodcraft. The Anyang City Government and Seoul National University are currently in discussions to set dates for possible opening of all areas.
Beartree park in Sejong is holding its autumn leaves festival until Nov. 10. During this time only, visitors can stroll along a vibrant foliage-lined trail. [BEARTREE PARK]
Beartree Park 베어트리파크
Beartree park in Sejong is holding its autumn leaves festival from Oct. 19 to Nov. 10. During the festival time period, visitors can stroll along a vibrant foliage-lined trail, which is typically closed for the preservation of the forest. The trail is about a 20-minute walk and features photo zones as well as hands-on activities like woodcraft. A jazz performance by Lee Joo-mi will take place on Nov. 3.
Known for its wide variety of maple trees, Hwadam Botanic Garden is one of Seoul’s prime spots for autumn scenery. Visitors must make online reservations. [KONJIAM RESORT]
Hwadam Botanic Garden 화담숲
Hwadam Botanic Garden is also hosting its autumn leaves festival until Nov. 17. Known for its wide variety of maple trees — around 400 species — the forest is one of Seoul’s prime spots for autumn scenery. During the festival period, entry is limited to 1,000 visitors per hour and 10,000 per day, all of whom must have completed online reservations. Pop-up exhibits will be set up at te newly opened complex cultural space Hwadamchae, where acorn-shaped madeleines and the Korean-style rice cookie jeonbyeong will also be on sale.
A cruise will be available on Nami Island on Thursdays and Fridays until Nov. 8, offering a 50-minute foliage-viewing experience from the water. [NAMI ISLAND]
Nami Island 남이섬
Nami Island in Chuncheon, Gangwon, is a popular destination year-round, but it’s especially beloved in autumn. Among its many trails, the “Songpa Ginko Tree Trail” stands out, with ginko leaves gathered from Songpa District, southern Seoul. The island is accessible only by boat or zip line. Boat hours have been extended until Nov. 17, with the first boat departing at 7:30 a.m. and the last at 9:30 p.m. An autumn leaves cruise will also be available on Thursdays and Fridays until Nov. 8 offering a 50-minute foliage-viewing experience from the water.
Reference Written by WOO JI-WON [woo.jiwon@joongang.co.kr] Provided by Korea JoongAng Daily
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